Paraffle: embroidery made for everyone

Modern kits, mindful making and the simple satisfaction of creating something yourself

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making something with your own hands. Learning a new stitch, watching a design take shape and eventually reaching that “I actually made that” moment.

That feeling is at the heart of Paraffle, the independent Edinburgh craft brand making modern embroidery approachable for everyone, whether you’ve never picked up a needle before or have been stitching for years.

Founded by Sammy Bishop, Paraffle began after Sammy rediscovered embroidery while completing her PhD. The methodical repetition of stitching gave her a creative escape from the pressures of studying, while finishing a project brought a sense of accomplishment she could see and enjoy.

Today, Paraffle wants more people to discover that feeling.

Embroidery without the intimidation

Starting a new craft can feel daunting, so Paraffle's kits are designed to give beginners everything they need to have a go. Kits include materials and stitch guides, with step-by-step video tutorials and online tips available for extra support.

There’s no pressure to be perfect. The idea is to learn, make and enjoy the process, with a welcoming community of crafters sharing projects, asking questions and celebrating what they create along the way.

Paraffle also takes a conscious approach to crafting, focusing on quality, more sustainable and ethically produced materials where possible, while being open about where the business can continue to improve.

Ready to give it a go? Here are some Paraffle picks to discover:

Cherry Blossom 6” Embroidery Kit – £25

Available to buy from Paraffle

Inspired by Edinburgh in spring, this colourful botanical design is a beautiful project for anyone ready to develop their embroidery skills. Bright, detailed and made to be displayed once the final stitch is finished.

Mini Bee Embroidery Kit – £15

Available to buy from Paraffle

A little project with plenty of charm. This beginner-friendly bee design is an easy introduction to embroidery and a lovely choice for a relaxed afternoon of summer stitching.

Paisley Puffin 8” Embroidery Kit – £25

Available to buy from Paraffle

Bright, bold and full of character, Paraffle's colourful paisley puffin makes a brilliant beginner-friendly project. A fun choice for wildlife and coastal lovers with an eye-catching finished piece at the end.

Victoria Street 6” Embroidery Kit – £25

Available to buy from Paraffle

Inspired by Edinburgh's famously colourful Victoria Street, this detailed design brings a little piece of Paraffle's home city to the embroidery hoop. Created for improvers, it's a satisfying project with a finished piece worthy of display.

Highland Coo 8” Embroidery Kit – £25

Available to buy from Paraffle

A Scottish favourite given Paraffle's colourful paisley treatment. Designed with beginners in mind, this characterful Highland Coo is a fun way to learn new stitches and create something you'll be proud to hang on the wall.

Circus Lane 6” Embroidery Kit – £25

Available to buy from Paraffle

Inspired by one of Edinburgh's prettiest streets, this detailed design recreates the colourful doors, greenery and character of Circus Lane in stitch. A beautiful choice for improvers and anyone who loves travel-inspired crafting.

Elephant Tote Bag Embroidery Kit – £30

Available to buy from Paraffle

Take your handiwork with you. This beginner-friendly project transforms an organic and Fairtrade cotton tote with Paraffle's colourful paisley elephant design, combining the enjoyment of embroidery with something practical to use afterwards.

Mini Squirrel Embroidery Kit

Available to buy from Paraffle

Small, colourful and full of personality, this little red squirrel makes a manageable project for anyone new to embroidery. A lovely nature-inspired kit for some quiet creative time.

Mini Puffin Embroidery Kit

Available to buy from Paraffle

Bring a little coastal character to your crafting with this miniature puffin. Beginner-friendly and compact, it's an easy project to pick up at home or pack for a creative holiday activity.

And don't lose your needle...

Paraffle's Magnetic Needle Minders – £8.50 are a small but clever addition to any stitching project, using magnets to keep your needle safely in place whenever you stop stitching.

There are 19 designs in the current collection, including the Puffin, Scottish Thistle, Highland Coo, Scottish Terrier, Elephant, Bee and Whale, making it easy to choose one to complement a favourite kit or add a little personality to your sewing box.

Available to buy from Paraffle

Just give it a go

You don't need to consider yourself creative. You don't need to know all the stitches. And you certainly don't need to get everything right first time.

Pick something you love, learn as you go and enjoy being able to say: “I made that.”

For more information and to discover the full collection, visit Paraffle.com