Why Embroidery is More Than Just a Finished Product

Embroidery is a hobby and a craft that goes way beyond just simply creating beautiful designs. It is so much more than a finished piece that you can hang on the wall or prop on the shelf!

In my world of embroidery, it is not just about the destination, but more about the journey. I don’t know about you, but I loveeeee the relaxing, meditative process that comes behind the finished piece. It’s all about savouring the slow progress and finding solace in every stitch.

So, here’s why there is soooo much more to embroidery than just have a finished project at the end.

The joy of slowing down

In our busy world, I often find myself rushing from one task to the next, constantly chasing deadlines and folding clean laundry (amiright?!)

Embroidery on the other hand is like a personal invitation (from me, to me) to take a moment and slow down. It's a way to step away from my never-ending to do list, and just take a little bit of time 'for me'.

You can take a step back, light a candle and savour the meditative process of stitching. Whether you listen to an audiobook, your fave podcast, or binge-watch another Netflix series on repeat; it becomes a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Truthfully, stealing the occasional moment can make all the difference to my hectic day, and it makes me a better partner and mama when I've had that small pocket of me-time!

Embracing the beauty of imperfection

Unlike perhaps other crafts, embroidery has a way of celebrating imperfections! It is called hand embroidery after all, it's not meant to be perfect and machine-made.

Embroidery is not necessarily about creating flawless finished pieces, despite what you may think, and what you may see on Instagram + Pinterest.

Instead, it's about embracing the uniqueness of each stitch, appreciating that every single stitch is hand created, and the overall unique project that you make at the end!

Every stitch tells a story, and the story is that you made it with your two hands. Plus, if you then decide to gift your projects in the future, how beautiful is it to be able to give something cherished? I know when I receive something handmade, I feel honoured that that person spent so much time and devotion making something for me! Imperfections make it so much better.

As well as being a meaningful approach to embroidery, it also teaches something valuable for our life generally, don't you think? We should all embrace our flaws, imperfections, and quirks. We're unique, too!

Creating with + without purpose

Without Purpose:

One of the questions I’m commonly asked is “but what do you do with all the finished hoops at the end?"

Truthfully here, I very rarely do anything with them!! Sometimes I gift them, sometimes I hang them on the wall of my studio, but more often than not, they live in a basket under my desk.

Embroidery isn’t just about creating something for the sake of it, and for the finished project at the end. Not everything you make has to be picture-perfect and worthy of 'being something' at the end.

For me, it's more about the process of the stitching. It's the stitching that I find therapeutic + relaxing. It's the stitching that gives me back that 'me-time'. I get way more enjoyment out of the process than I do the finished result!!

With Purpose:

But, for times I do want to gift my projects, or I do want to hang them on the wall, it’s more about infusing my embroidery with intention and meaning. Creating with purpose in a way that results in the finished piece 'meaning something' to me.

How do I do that?

By slowing down and enjoying the process!

(Are you seeing a running theme, here?!)

Whether you are embroidering for a gift, creating some art to express yourself, or stitching something for the joy of stitching, you can create with intention and purpose, so that each piece is meaningful to you!

Overall, embroidery is sooo much more than the finished product, my friend. The best part of embroidery is the journey; the slow stitching, the relaxation and mindfulness and the joy you get from simply creating.

Here is your reminder to allow yourself to slow down, embrace the imperfections and enjoy the meditative action of needle and thread. Next time you pick up your project, take a moment to appreciate the journey you’re taking!