In the Company of Stitches
“Start with where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can” ~Arthur Ashe
While it’s not my first love, hand stitching has become my true love, even as I also sew, knit and crochet, amongst other non-textile activities.
Women and men over the ages have used the mediums of stitching to help us process life in all its seasons and forms, giving our hands something to do while our strained, broken minds and overwhelmed emotions searched for a place to land that didn’t require words.
There are many stitch forms to choose from and with them we create, heal, support, grieve, nurture and live. We transform, transcend, search for truth and find ways to thrive rather than just survive.
We tell our stories, share history and seek community with empathy and fragile hearts. All in the company of stitches.
No matter who you are, where you are,
what you believe, how you live,
or how you love,
YOU ARE WELCOME HERE.
Sit, sip and stitch with me.
The simple Art of Hand Stitching on fabric to calm your mind
Help relieve anxious thoughts
The repetitive motion of simple stitches can calm your mind and your thoughts.
Nervous System Regulation
Can help regulate your breathing and allow your thoughts & emotions to settle.
No technique to learn
Learning embroidery is not required. No productivity guilt. No perfectionism. No pressure.
Non-verbal expression
Can’t find the words for what you’re feeling? Simple stitching works when words don’t.
Grounding
Simple stitching creates space and gives you a way to ground your emotions and thoughts.
Low stakes activity
There are no mistakes. Stitches can be placed anywhere you want. You are in control.
Slow Stitching
Why slow hand stitching?
- Cope with daily stressors
- Helps manage emotional overwhelm.
- Can be done anywhere.
Presence
- Stitch for yourself.
- Stitch in community with like hearts.
- Stitch in remembrance.
