
Trend predictions: What are they?
A trend prediction is essentially an educated guess on what will be popular in a specific time period. Much of this research is based on what people are searching for on the internet, buying habits, and what themes, colors, and topics, seem to be growing in popularity.
Trend predictions can vary based on who's doing the predicting, the data they use, as well as the field they're predicting trends. For example: Color of the Year. Pantone's color of the year is Mocha Mousse, a light chocolatey tan. Kona Cotton's color of the year is Nocturne, a dark purple. And Etsy's color of the year is Lime Cream, a soft lime.
According to many trend predictors such as Etsy, Pinterest, and the Craft Industry Alliance, these are some of the trendy topics in craft for 2025.
Castlecore- metal work, castle-like decor, gothic inspired clothing, velvet
Sustainability- recycled fashion, gardening, buying less, eco-living
Dollhouse- Doll Inspired, Rococo-themes, cherries, lace, bows
Fisherman- Laid back, cable knit sweaters, sardines, stripes, net bags, bandanas
Sea Witchery- sea shells, mermaid colors, pearls, wet wavy hair looks
Nostalgia- bold primary designs, maximal pattern mixing, playful spaces, murals, celebrating inner childhood
Some of these themes have overlap as designs, colors, and themes can fall into more than one category. While there are many trend predictions out there, they're not always relevant to me and what I create as an embroidery artist. I'm also not one to create a piece of art for the sake of a trend, unless I feel personally connected.
The end of the year is a great time to reflect on the year as a whole and also take a look at the year to come. I love using this time to see what I gravitated towards and what is inspiring me for the new year. It's also a great time to see what other creators in my field have been creating and if there are any themes that stand out as something I think will grow more.
I've been predicting trends in the hand embroidery space, on a personal level for about three years now. I like keeping a Note on my phone and looking back on it throughout the year. Sometimes my predictions are general and others are very specific.
In 2024 I predicted:
3D embroidery/ stumpwork would become more popular as embroidery artists looked to expand their skills
Addition of beads into embroidery
More wearable embroidery
Did any of these predictions come true?
I would say yes! I saw more stitchers incorporating stumpwork into their projects. I think the rise of AI and the 3D looking embroidery it creates has hlped stitchers gain an interest in creating more 3D work. Additionally, there were also more stumpwork embroidery classes being offered by myself, the Royal School of Needlework, Embroiderers' Guild of America, and other well known needlework organizations. Additionally, Stumpwork Embroidery & Thread Painting by Megan Zaniewski was published. And I wrote a third embroidery book (still in the publication process) all about 3D stumpwork plants.
Beads- I also saw more embroidery artists incorporating beads, charms, and found objects to create texture and dimension to their pieces. I even created a Beaded Berries embroidery kit.
Wearable embroidery continues to be popular. This last year it seemed like more people were interested in added embroidered elements to their clothing as well as using embroidery to visibly mend and repair. My second book, DIY Embroidered Shoes, also came out this year, which is all about how to embroider canvas shoes.
What are my embroidery trend predictions for 2025?
Fiber arts are becoming more and more popular as they're starting to be accepted into the mainstream of art. Overall, I predict we'll see more fiber art exhibits and use in fashion.
Keeping in mind the more general trends from Etsy, Pinterest, and the Craft Industry Alliance, along with what I've been seeing, this is what I predict these trends to be popular within the stitching sphere.
Needlepoint I'm already seeing this become more popular, especially with younger stitchers. Needlepoint feels very east coast/coast to me and falls somewhat into the Fisherman aesthetic.
Use of found objects and beads I think storytelling and capturing memories within our work will be more important than ever. Incorporating found objects like sea shells, charms, toys, etc will tie into the predictions of more Sustainability and Nostalgia.

Functional embroidery for everyday use
We only have so much wall space and only need so much embroidered art. As makers are getting more and more into embroidery, I think they're want to start using their work for more practical purposes. This ties into the Sustainable trend as embroidery can be used for mending and upcycling. I think this also ties into the Dollhouse aesthetic, since embroidery is usually pretty feminine and cutesy (not that is has to be!).
BTW, I'm offering this as a hands-on, in-person workshop!
Unconventional creatures like axolotl, snails, and weeds as flowers
Liking unconventional and weird things, is something kids love. As adults we often seem to conform and not want to stand out as much. I think the rise of Nostalgia trend, liking 'weird' things will become cool again.
Goldwork
Goldwork is a type of stitching that uses metal threads, beads, and sequins. It's shiny, beautiful, and a more advanced technique. I can see stitchers continuing to advance their skills and they try goldwork. This also ties into the Castlecore trend.
Applique
Applique patches have become widely popular with sewists and embroidery artists alike in the past year. While this does tie in with functional embroidery, I think applique can be pulled out as it's own thing. Applique leans heavily into the sustainable and reuse trends and I expect to see it grow with more types of applique becoming popular too.
Do any of these trends excite you? Are there any trends you want to see more or less of?
I'm excited to see what 2025 has to offer and if any of my predictions come true.
***Thanks for reviewing my recommendations. This post contains affiliate links. Should you purchase an item listed, I may receive a small portion of the sale.***
I'd love some unconventional creatures as part of your sticker embroidery!