Canvas Conversations: Alyssa Gist

Alyssa Gist is the designer behind Poppy's Designs, named for her Golden Retriever, "Poppy." Alyssa's love for needlepoint began when her mom stitched her first horse belt as a little girl, and from then on she was hooked.  In addition to her work as a needlepoint designer and painter, Alyssa is a part-time NICU Registered Nurse. Her designs are influenced by her love of travel, the East Coast, and her equestrian lifestyle.  If Alyssa isn't at home needlepointing, you can find her at the barn riding, or spending time with her husband and family. You can also shop Poppy's top 40 canvases here all 20% off with the trunk show! 

Follow along Alyssa's preppy and coastal needlepoint designs on Instagram here.

We sat down with Alyssa and asked her 20 questions:

Favorite needlepoint project My Liz Fox Hunt Santa stocking that I haven’t started yet. Waiting to have the perfect stitching plan for it because I love it so much.  

On your needlepoint Wishlist Sara Fitz Nantucket Basket Canvas and the Cooper Oaks Rainbow Sailboat Fleet Observer

Dream stitching spot Nantucket on the beach (even though a lot happens in a golf cart at horse shows lol)

13 or 18 Mesh Canvas I tend to stitch a lot more 18 mesh (even stockings and pillows), but love a 13 mesh for clutches!

Last book you read and liked I’ll read anything by Elin Hilderbrand! 

Favorite flower Hydrangeas and peonies! Both made up my wedding bouquet

Guilty pleasure Oberweis mint chip ice cream on a plain cone

On your nightstand iPad, phone, Burt’s Bees chapstick, and a water.

Currently listening to Always love some Thomas Rhett

Currently watching Below Deck (big Bravo fan), HGTV, and binge watch old school Grey’s Anatomy while painting

If there were more hours in the day I would Get to stitch a lot more!

Favorite places to shop  J. Crew, Lilly Pulitzer, Dover Saddlery, antique shops, and of course local needlepoint stores.  

Can’t leave the house without A small needlepoint project for on the go is always a must and of course my phone

Coffee or tea Starbucks sweet cream cold brew coffee

Favorite holiday to celebrate Absolutely love Christmas

Wardrobe staples  Love a pretty embroidered boho top

Creative inspiration I love coming up with designs based on places I love to travel to, and would want to stitch myself.  I also have a ton of equestrian ideas that I’m itching to get out into the world.

Favorite color Light pink! 

Life mantra If you’re not doing what you love, you’re wasting your time

Beach or Mountains: Love the beach, but love the mountains in the winter