This is Liú Yǒumèng (刘有梦), the Chinese embroidery artist currently making waves from her studio in London. Forget everything you thought you knew about embroidery; Liú—who hails from Yunnan Province in China—is transforming thread into delectable, three-dimensional sculptures that are truly a feast for the eyes.

Unlike traditional embroidery, which often involves meticulous front-and-back needlework, Liú employs a fascinating technique known as punch needle embroidery, originally from Russia, but taught to her by the Bai ethnic group in Dali, Yunnan.

This method allows her to create stunning 立体 (lìtǐ – three-dimensional) pieces by continuously punching threads from a single side into a base fabric. It’s a process that gives her work its signature puffy, soft, and remarkably realistic texture.

Using a special hook needle, she builds up vibrant colors before meticulously trimming and sculpting with scissors, crafting intricate layers that bring everything from juicy burgers to fluffy pastries to life. Liú Yǒumèng is certainly redefining what embroidery can be, one delicious stitch at a time.

All images via Instagram/@embroiderycode.