Tell us a little bit about your background. What were you doing before Punch Needle?
I’m a self-taught maker who’s originally from China. I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2015 and I have two little girls. My husband’s work has taken us to a few different countries before coming to the States. I started with leather craft during my stay in South Korea, and I moved onto sewing, illustration, jewelry making, macrame and some other art mediums when I came to the bay area.How did you get started with Punch Needle?
I got into punch needle art because of social media! It seems to be an increasingly popular craft and I was inspired by many great artists, such as Arounna Khounnoraj (@bookhou) and Rose Pearlman (@rosepearlman). It’s easy to get started and it allows me to turn my original design into something cozy and beautiful.
We'd love to hear about your creative process.
I come up with a theme first, which helps narrowing down the design. Sometimes I define the purpose of my project first, such as what it’s going to be turned into and who’s the recipient. Or I start by laying out the yarn that I want to work with, and let the colors and texture speak to me. I like to improvise my design, and I change it as I punch.
How do you stay inspired?
I draw inspiration from people, nature, functionality of the end product, yarn varieties, shapes and colors, or whatever my kids are into, lol. Social media also helps me stay tuned for what people are interested in.
What does creativity mean to you?
It’s one of the most important things of my life. It’s an outlet and a motivation. It brings me such joy to present a piece that I created myself.
How has your work evolved over time?
I started by doing basic punch needle stitches. Now I try to incorporate different textures to many of my pieces, using embroidery, weaving and some innovative punch needle techniques.
What is your favorite part about the work that you do?
I would say the actual punching process. It’s usually very meditative for me.
How would you describe your work?
I would say fun and modern. I don’t repeat much my design, so most pieces are one and only.
What is your favorite piece that you have made?
I must say it’s the basket that I made!
What materials and tools do you use? Do you have any favorite supplier recommendations for tools, material or yarn?
I use a lot the Oxford punch needle #10 regular, #13 and #14 mini. I really enjoy working with wool rug yarn and primitive linen. If I’m using knitting yarn, monks cloth is a great choice. I order my tools and materials from The Oxford Company, the Dorr Mill store, and Seal Harbor Rug Co. I also keep an eye on yarn selections from Knitpicks, lovecrafts, Quince and Co, Michaels.
What advice do you have for other artists or creatives looking to try punch needle?
Try to enjoy the process and don’t overthink! Get a kit if you want to start right away. It’s also fun to do your own research. You get a lot of information along the way.
Where do you see your work going in the future?
I think I will keep exploring and experimenting with new materials and techniques. Maybe I’ll conquer the sewing challenge and make more baskets. Lol!
How can the punch needle community support you and your work?
Keep doing what you do! I love getting all the tips, resources and punch needle knowledge.
What is something that you are excited, or curious about these days?
I’m curious about what other mom artists are doing in order to have some “work time”.
What are 3 other fun facts about yourself that you would like to share with the Punch Needle Community?
2. I can swear in French.
3. I don’t like cilantro.
To see more of Adeline Wang’s work, follow her on Instagram @byadelinewang and be sure to check out her Etsy shop byadeline.etsy.com where you can purchase some of her incredible creations!