Jacqui McDonald's background lies in the conservation and restoration of antiquities and she spent seven years caring for the contents of some of the most beautiful houses in the National Trust. It was here that her passion for embroidery was born. Having been constantly surrounded by beautiful textile furnishings her artistic nature inevitably led her to recreate items for herself. Soon afterwards she made the decision to join the Royal school of Needlework's three-year apprenticeship. Her plan was to combine her conservation skills with the traditional hand-embroidery techniques she was learning, to preserve textile heirlooms for the future. Jacqui flourished at the school, and graduated top of her class with a triple distinction. She decided to become a freelance embroiderer and now works from her studio in Hampshire as well as attending the RSN in a teaching role where she enjoys passing on her skills to others. Jacqui's designs are still heavily influenced by traditional interiors and historical architecture that she enjoyed during her time with the National Trust.