Your name/where you're from: Kate Caputo Squyres/Westport, CT
GENERAL
How did you learn to needlepoint? What was your first needlepoint project?
My mom is an avid needlepointer and knitter. When I was seven, she bought me a Fisher Price needlepoint kit of a giant strawberry, which included a 4 x 4 plastic canvas (10 mesh), wool yarn, and a large pink plastic needle. I’ve always loved to color and paint and I remember my mom saying needlepoint is just like coloring, except instead of using crayons or paint, you use yarn (or as we now call it “fiber”). According to my mom, I took to needlepoint like a duck to water (knitting not so much).
What is your favorite stitch? What stitch are you hoping to learn/do next?
I am a basketweave devotee and while I have dabbled in some specialty stitches, I very rarely use them in my own projects. To be honest, I’m often halfway through stitching the background before realizing I should’ve considered a brick or cashmere stitch. This probably explains why I have so many unfinished wips in my stash! I’m in awe of those who so easily incorporate them into their canvases, like Maggie at MHB Studio (her stitch choices for her drinks canvases are so creative!). I am determined to master turkey work and would like to try out some of the simpler scotch stitches.
What are your favorite threads to use?
DMC perle cotton is my go-to fiber because I love the range of color ways. I love the feel of Silk and Ivory and their color palettes are stunning. I’m also a sucker for anything from Rainbow Gallery, especially their metallics, Fuzzy Stuff, and Very Velvet.
ABOUT YOUR DESIGNS
What made you want to paint your own pieces?
My mom worked as a copy artist for Silver Needle back in the 90’s when they had a retail shop in Chappaqua, NY. She taught me how to paint when we opened our own retail shop in Greenwich, CT in 2004. About 50% of our business was custom orders, so I became proficient at stitch painting very quickly! I loved working with our customers and making their ideas come to life on canvas. It pushed me to start my own line of designs inspired by my favorite place on earth, Cape Cod. At the time, only a handful of Cape Cod designs existed, and I felt there was still so much more of the Cape to put on canvas. Harper Noel is a celebration of the Cape and its beloved people, places and things.
Describe your canvases in three words: Endless Summer (on the) Cape
What inspires you most when creating new designs?
I am the most inspired when driving around the Cape and seeing all the landmarks, whether it’s a lighthouse or a restaurant’s wooden sign. Some of my designs, like the Exit Signs, are inspired by bumper stickers. I also wanted to celebrate some of the Cape’s iconic institutions, both past (Liam’s) and present (the Beachcomber). And sometimes I am inspired by a saying (“Call me when you get to the bridge”) or a paper good (the Summer Vibes design was inspired by a paper plate of all things!).
What has been your favorite canvas to paint?
The two Brewster Store rounds. I have such fond childhood memories of sitting on the steps with my friends with our penny candy and other treasures. And nothing is more magical than the Brewster Store at Christmas with all its colorful lights and decorations.
What has been your favorite canvas to stitch?
When my best friend had her first child, I designed and stitched a doorstop for the nursery. It wasn’t a very complex design, but it was very sentimental piece.
What is one piece of advice for painting your own canvas?
If at first your idea doesn’t come together, do not give up. Sometimes a design takes one or two (or 6!) tries before you get it right. Set it aside for a little bit and come back to it another time. And if you’re still struggling, ask another artist for some feedback. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes can provide the solution.
Also, in all my years of painting, I have learned that some days are just not meant for painting. There are days where nothing goes according to plan. Maybe you spilled paint on the canvas you just finished painting or you keep miscounting a design despite many calculations. Do not despair! It happens to all of us. Those painting gods are a mischievous bunch. Just put the paintbrush down and come back to it another time.
ABOUT YOU
Where is your favorite place to stitch? Sitting on the beach either here in Westport or up on the Cape.
If you're not needlepointing you're...listening to podcasts, running, or playing with our dog, Harper.
What three items do you always have in your project bag?
A pair of Peepers, my Gingher scissors, and too much fiber. I am notorious for overestimating how much I will need. I avoid playing Thread Chicken at all costs.
What shows are you currently watching?
My husband and I are huge fans of British crime drama and can’t wait for the new seasons of “Silent Witness” and “Blue Lights” to drop this summer. We are loving the new season of “Mayor of Kingstown.” I am also a Bravo devotee and consume all things Housewives, “VPR,” and “Summer House.”
What is your favorite podcast?
I love the “Watch What Crappens” podcast for their Bravo recaps and hilarious impersonations. I am a massive Rachel Maddow fan and listen to her weekly show as well as her limited series, “Ultra.”
Who is your favorite needlepoint or non-needlepoint follow on Instagram right now?
I have a few favorite needlepoint follows: Stephanie at Spellbound Stitchery, Maggie at MHB Studios, and Erica at Bad Bitch Needlepoint. Favorite non-needlepoint follow is Sarah at Dame Galli and Erica at Beach Cottage Living.
If time and money were no issue, what type of needlepoint project would you want to do?
A Christmas tree skirt, but I should probably stitch a Christmas stocking for my poor husband first!
Where can people find your designs? (website, LNS) Penny Linn or your LNS!!
Where can people follow you on social? @harpernoeldesigns
