Soothing Stitches
We are getting into that crazy time of the year when it feels like everything is go-go-go, money won’t stretch far enough, you are running into everyone (and their second cousin twice removed) that you have ever met, and with only 24 hours in the day you just can’t find time to sit down and do a little relaxing sewing with your sewing machine. So, I recommend you don't stress yourself out further trying to make time with your machine - instead pack up a slow stitching project that you can take with you on the go, and do a few stitches whenever you have time. Once you have everything with you it is remarkable how many places you can actually find a few minutes to place a few stitches - waiting during your kid’s rehearsal or practice (yes, showing up is important, but sometimes so are ear plugs), waiting in line when shopping (those Costco lines get long, this time of year), or even when you are in the car driving to different holiday events (so long as you aren’t the one driving, safety first!).
If you have never done hand stitching before there are a lot of different options to choose from, and they all pack up to different sizes. Below is a list of some choices, along with a link to a video tutorial so you can see if it might be something you are interested in. Go ahead and browse through and see what might appeal to you; I tend to lean towards EPP or counted cross-stitch, but that really is a personal preference.
1. English Paper Piecing (EPP)
This is a great option for using up scrap fabric, is perfect for those who aren’t used to doing hand stitching (you just need to whip stitch), and you can make everything from small pieces that can be appliqued, to full quilts, even three dimensional projects.
2. Counted Cross-Stitch
If you like a really methodical process, and are good at following a chart, this one might be a winner for you. You can find counted cross-stitch patterns ranging from the very traditional to modern and bold. Once finished these can be framed, or used as parts of other projects (I like making my samplers into the center of wall hangings).
3. Hand Embroidery
For those that want the freedom to be more creative and work outside the box, hand embroidery is perfect. You will need to learn a wide range of stitches, but eventually you can use them to either follow different pattern designs or to make your own. Imagine stitching up a New Year’s scene from your own life!
4. Sashiko Stitching
Sashiko is a specific form of hand embroidery that originated in Japan and relies almost exclusively on the running stitch. Minimal colors and basic stitches are used to create elegant and meditative patterns. Sashiko in western culture is heavily associated with the movement to mend and reuse clothing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9UiXZ5f5v0
5. Hand Applique
There are several options for hand applique; if you are comfortable with hand stitching I would recommend working on your skills with a hand turned applique project, but if you are still getting used to applique you may be more comfortable trying wool applique, which uses a very different set of techniques.
Needle Turn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAo4NG53rVs
Wool Applique: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmLej4Khv00
I hope you have the chance to enjoy some slow stitching this season, and find your moment of calm in all of the crazy.
Happy Stitching, Siobhan
