One stitch at a time: Slow Stitching for well-being
This blog will cover what slow stitching is, origins and benefits. I’ll also be sharing my own slow stitched examples, other artists projects and resources to help you get started on your own slow stitching journey.
Image right: Photo of kindness hearts stitched at community workshop in Kogarah Library. Photo by Mary-Helen Daly
What is Slow Stitching?
An intuitive style of hand-stitching that values process over the end product. While conventional sewing & embroidery tends to follow strict patterns, slow stitching invites spontaneity and improvisation. The practice encourages the use of reclaimed materials, like fabric scraps and old clothing or non-traditional fabrics (leaves, cardboard, paper), allowing stitchers to repurpose and reinvent with each project.
Image left: Stitched leaf by Mary-Helen Daly
Origins of Slow Stitching
In many cultures, hand-stitching was a communal and generational activity, where techniques and patterns were passed down, often with a focus on storytelling, symbolism, and the expression of cultural identity. For example
Japanese Sashiko: This traditional form of hand-stitching was used to reinforce and repair clothing, often using geometric patterns and white thread on indigo fabric. It’s rooted in practicality but also has a rich cultural significance.
Kantha from India and Bangladesh: This stitching technique involves creating intricate quilts by layering old saris and sewing them together with simple, repetitive running stitches, often telling stories or depicting daily life.
Boro in Japan: Similar to sashiko, boro involves piecing together worn fabric scraps to extend the life of textiles, particularly in working-class communities. It embodies a philosophy of "wabi-sabi," which appreciates the beauty in imperfection and transience.
Image right: “Wokring on it” slow stitched square using Kantha by Mary-Helen Daly
In the Western world, slow stitching gained traction as part of the slow movement, which emerged in the late 20th century as a reaction to the fast-paced, consumer-driven lifestyle. Over time, artists and crafters began embracing slow stitching as a way to reconnect with the simplicity and mindfulness of handwork.
A note on non-traditional fabrics for slow stitching
You don’t have to just use fabric; almost anything can be fabric. Here’s an example from an Altered book page I created using slow stitching and mixed media. Paper is such an interesting medium to use for stitching as it really captures your senses.
Image right: pages of book with slow stitching by Mary-Helen Daly
Benefits of slow stitching
The repetitive action of slow stitching can help us to access a “flow” state—a state of deep focus where you’re fully immersed in the activity. Flow is often linked to increased happiness and reduced stress. The concept of ‘flow state’ was popularized by psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, who described it as a state where people feel their best and perform at their best. In turn, being in a state of flow can help with reducing stress and anxiety. The steady, rhythmic movement creates a meditative quality that helps to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety e.g. help to quiet the mind and decrease stress. Slow stitching is also a mindful, tactile process that can bring us deeply into our senses by encouraging a slower pace and greater focus on the sensory experience. When we calm our nervous system, we feel more relaxed, opened minded and receptive to world. By using reclaimed materials, we help reduce textile waste and gives us a more eco-friendly approach to crafting. Rather than buying new materials, slow stitchers make use of what is already available, which encourages a shift away from mass production and disposable consumption.
Artist projects that use slow stitching
Kindness hearts by Sarah Dale
The 1000 Hearts Project is a kindness initiative started in 2016 by Sarah Dale, a mental health social worker from Hobart, Tasmania. The project involves making small, hand-sewn felt hearts, which are then given away to offer comfort and promote compassion. These little hearts are intended to be a physical symbol of love, kindness, and support, especially for people going through difficult times. This project continues today.
Image right: Slow stitched hearts crafted by Mary-Helen Daly
Global Community of Kindness…
I had the pleasure of facilitating a Kindness Hearts workshop in my local community in 2022, in collaboration with library programs team at Georges River Library. This cross-generational event was joyful and vibrant; hearts were donated to local hospital via the library team.
I used resources from Sarah’s website, which you can find here: Heartist Resources.
The 100 Day Project is a global art project that happens each year. Each participant choses a art project to do for 100 days.
My project was slow stitching leaves. I found this such a nourishing practice.
I also shared the joy of leaf stitching by facilitating in-person and online workshops. Follow my eventbrite to stay in the loop for upcoming workshop.
See below a video with my daily process of slow sticthing leaves.
Image left: Slow stitch autumn leaf by Mary-Helen Daly
Image right: Slow stitched leaves from City of Sydney Community Cente Open Day event November 2023
I had the pleasure of running an leaf stitching workshop at community centre in Kings Cross and talk about an ice breaker! Participants connected over enjoying crafting with nature, the scents, textures and delight of collaborating with nature and each other.
How to Get Started with Slow Stitching
Image right: Tender Bits, slow stitched square created by Mary-Helen Daly
Gather Materials: Collect scraps, old clothing, or thrifted fabric pieces. You don’t need anything fancy; the beauty of slow stitching is that it can be done with whatever materials are on hand. My favourite place to get matierals is Reverse Garbage. Reduce, reuse, recycle!
Choose Your Tools: At a minimum, you’ll need a needle, some embroidery floss/thread, and scissors.
*Needles: I use these needles in my workshops; they have larger “eyes” so they are easier to thread. Needles can be hard to find, so when you find ones you love, stock up because they break and get lost very easily.
Set an Intention: Decide what you want to get out of your stitching session. Is it a creative outlet, a chance to unwind, or a way to connect with sustainable practices? Setting an intention can enhance the experience. Whatever you do, start small!
Embrace the imperfection: Easy to say, hard to do. However, with practice letting go of expectations becomes easier and allows you to enjoy the practice of slow stitching.
There are so many amazing patterns you can create using one running stitch. Here’s some examples.
Naturally, once you get into slow stitching you may desire to learn more styles of embroidery stitch. Here’s a blog that has more ways you can use basic embroidery stitch to create borders and patterns.
Final thoughts
Slow stitching invites us to pause, reconnect, and create with intention. As we immerse ourselves in the meditative rhythm of each stitch, we not only craft something beautiful but also nurture a deeper connection to our inner selves and to the world around us. We can enjoy the simple pleasure of making with our hands, celebrate the imperfections, and witness our journey. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, slow stitching offers a meaningful way to unwind, express yourself, and find joy in the present moment. So gather some fabric, thread, and a needle, and let the art of slow stitching enrich your creative journey.
About me and Mark and Movement
Hi, I’m Mary-Helen! I’m a Transpersonal Art Therapist and Artist. I help people reclaim joy through creativity. I facilitate creative workshops and groups, online and in-person.
I list all my online creative workshops on my Eventbrite. Follow my page and you’ll be notified when new offerings are announced.
Thanks for reading my blog! If you have any questions feel free to reach out.
