About

Hello!

I’m Katie Taylor, the designer and craftsperson behind Bufflehead Crafts!

Bufflehead Crafts is inspired by two coastlines I love: the North Shore of Massachusetts, where I spent most of my childhood, and the South Shore of Nova Scotia, where I live now. My designs draw on lighthouses, regional flora and fauna (Including buffleheads!), and the quiet rhythms of coastal life in New England and Atlantic Canada.

My path here took a few scenic detours. I was born on the shores of Lake Erie, spent most of my childhood on Massachusetts’ North Shore, met my future Haligonian husband at a summer camp in Maine, and eventually moved to Nova Scotia in 2018 after years of a long distance relationship. (I joke that didn’t grow up in Halifax—but I did go to prom here!)

Today, I’m happily settled on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, where the sea, the seasons, and the local scenery continue to find their way into my work.

Why cross stitch

I love cross stitch because it's a lovely way to quiet a busy mind. There’s a simple pleasure in following a pattern, watching an image slowly appear, and letting your hands settle into a steady rhythm.

That’s intentional in my designs. I create patterns with repetition in mind; not to make them boring, but to give your brain a rest. Repeated motifs and familiar stitches create space to slow down, focus on the present, and enjoy the meditative side of making something by hand. 

Ergonomics and Health

 Repetitive motion is amazing for mindfulness, but it's important to balance progress on a craft and taking care of your body. I earned my bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Simmons University (Boston, MA), and I use that background to incorporate ergonomics and injury-prevention strategies into my cross stitch classes.

In my Intro to Cross Stitch classes, we talk about posture, hand position, eye strain prevention, and simple habits to help you stitch comfortably for years to come.

What you’ll find here

Bufflehead Crafts kits are designed to be approachable for beginners, satisfying to complete, and rooted in place. Whether you’re new to cross stitch or have a well-loved collection of finished pieces, I hope my patterns give you a little pocket of serenity. 

Cheers!

Katie