Vorn Vann is an embroidery artist from Ontario Canada.
How did you get into textiles?
I’m new to embroidery and have only started this year, but my interest in textiles started in early childhood as I grew up watching my very crafty mother sewing and crocheting. I’ve always loved art and clothing design, but wasn’t sure how to incorporate the two. When I discovered embroidery, I fell in love with it instantly. I learned different stitches through YouTube videos and loved how flexible and intricate I can be with just a needle. I then experimented with translating my art onto embroidery and onto clothing.
Tell me about the different textiles you work with?
For my embroidered art pieces, I use muslin. I love the texture, colours, specks and natural look of the fabric. It also goes well with the aesthetic look I’m going for with my art – more muted, natural, earthy tones. The woven cotton fabric is also fantastic to embroider on. With clothing, it’s important to me to use second-hand pieces. Not only is it sustainable, but a lot of older clothing are typically made well and will last longer.
What’s your favourite type of textiles and why?
It’s hard to say which one is my favourite because they all feel like art at the end of the project. And a finished art piece is always so satisfying.
Where do you buy your materials from?
I mainly purchase from Michaels, Amazon, and thrift stores for up-cycled clothing.
What other textiles would you like to work with?
Screen printing and weaving.
I’ve spoken to a lot of textiles designers and many have found it difficult to find jobs in the industry. Has this been the case for you? What kind of job would you like in textiles?
I’m a seamstress by trade and, since I’m new to embroidery, I haven’t really explored my options yet. I would love to work up to embroidering and embellishing haute couture gowns of my own.
Where do you apply your surface decoration? Clothes, interiors etc? What other surfaces would you like to apply your textiles on?
I either keep them in their hoop as art pieces, or embroider directly onto clothing. I’ve also been considering applying them onto furniture.
Who would you like to collaborate with?
I would love to work with designers like Elie Saab and Chanel, embroidering gowns.
How do you feel about promoting your work on social media?
Social media are great platforms to promote your work. It can be intimidating to start off because you’re never sure how people will react to what you put out. Especially when it’s art related and everyone has a different opinion on what they like.
What do you love about textiles?
I love everything about textiles. I love intricate details and working with my hands. I feel like it’s similar to photography, film-making, art, etc. You’re able to emote a story or feeling by creating something physical.
Follow Vorn on Instagram here and shop her Etsy store here