Introducing our Icons and Pioneers collection: a series of kits inspired by the lives of notable women throughout history.
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A notable author of gothic horror, romanticism and science fiction, Mary Shelley was the creative force behind Frankenstein. First published in 1818, Frankenstein has been adapted countless times and has provided inspiration to novelists, thespians and designers the world over. It is widely regarded as the first ever science fiction novel.
Shelley's childhood was fraught with sadness and tension following the death of her mother and latterly the strained relationship with her step mother. Despite this, Shelley was a bright child who soaked up the intellectual atmosphere that surrounded her, finding joy in writing, publishing her first novel at just 11 years old.
In 1816, during a season coined 'the haunted summer' due to a bout of dark and stormy weather, Shelley set about writing a ghost story. Drawing inspiration from vivid nightmares she was experiencing, Shelley wrote a tale about a scientist named Victor Frankenstein whose experiments in creating an artificial human being ultimately brought tragedy to his own life.
Despite the sadness and tragedy that surrounded Shelley, this kit celebrates her life and legacy as a literary pioneer! The kit design features a beautiful yet beastly bleeding rose. The flower shape is inspired by floral embroidery pictured on a famous portrait of Shelley whilst the eye is a key reference throughout the Frankenstein novel, symbolising themes of humanity, judgement and the blindness her characters display of their actions. The blood droplets are a final macabre touch! The design includes padding, threadwork, goldwork and embellishment techniques in a deep palette of dark reds, burgundy and mossy greens.
The kit also includes a printed fabric to work on, needles, wax, thread and an instruction booklet, all housed in our signature H&L tin.
The newest adaptation of Frankenstein, by Guillermo del Toro launches in cinemas on October 17th 2025. Look closely and you may even spot some H&L embroidery featured in the set design!
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Get 10% off your first order when you subscribe to our newsletter. Get exclusive access, notifications and updates on new products, classes and events.
Introducing our Icons and Pioneers collection: a series of kits inspired by the lives of notable women throughout history.
Coming soon - Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when this kit is released
A notable author of gothic horror, romanticism and science fiction, Mary Shelley was the creative force behind Frankenstein. First published in 1818, Frankenstein has been adapted countless times and has provided inspiration to novelists, thespians and designers the world over. It is widely regarded as the first ever science fiction novel.
Shelley's childhood was fraught with sadness and tension following the death of her mother and latterly the strained relationship with her step mother. Despite this, Shelley was a bright child who soaked up the intellectual atmosphere that surrounded her, finding joy in writing, publishing her first novel at just 11 years old.
In 1816, during a season coined 'the haunted summer' due to a bout of dark and stormy weather, Shelley set about writing a ghost story. Drawing inspiration from vivid nightmares she was experiencing, Shelley wrote a tale about a scientist named Victor Frankenstein whose experiments in creating an artificial human being ultimately brought tragedy to his own life.
Despite the sadness and tragedy that surrounded Shelley, this kit celebrates her life and legacy as a literary pioneer! The kit design features a beautiful yet beastly bleeding rose. The flower shape is inspired by floral embroidery pictured on a famous portrait of Shelley whilst the eye is a key reference throughout the Frankenstein novel, symbolising themes of humanity, judgement and the blindness her characters display of their actions. The blood droplets are a final macabre touch! The design includes padding, threadwork, goldwork and embellishment techniques in a deep palette of dark reds, burgundy and mossy greens.
The kit also includes a printed fabric to work on, needles, wax, thread and an instruction booklet, all housed in our signature H&L tin.
The newest adaptation of Frankenstein, by Guillermo del Toro launches in cinemas on October 17th 2025. Look closely and you may even spot some H&L embroidery featured in the set design!
