What is Slow Stitching?

Slow Stitching is an emerging technique which is influenced by an era when we wish to recycle/upcycle old fabrics and learn how to enjoy the process as much, if not more than, the outcome. 

It is essentially a new form of mindfulness through sewing and, especially in these difficult times promotes wellbeing and calm

The key point is that there are no right or wrong answers – it is simply what you want it to be. Your stitching does not have to be perfect or follow a pattern – again it is what you want it to be. 

You also don’t have to make anything from it – no rules again – but if you want to, you can – whatever you fancy doing. It is almost like giving yourself permission to relax and let your creativity come through, with no comparison to anyone or anything else.

Your creation can be kept on you all the time as it is very portable and taken out to use when otherwise you might have turned to electronic devices which can make you anxious – so slow sew on the train, the plane, at the doctors, whenever and wherever you want.

Throughout time, people have used pieces of fabric to mend or embellish clothes

In the Indian subcontinent ‘Kantha’ stitching (essentially a running stitch) is used for example to decoratively stitch layers of old saris together. 

In Japan ‘Boro’means ‘rags’ or ‘tattered cloth’ which is patched and often held together with simple running stitches called Sashiko. 

Sashiko also refers to a form of decorative reinforcement stitching from Japan that started out of practical need during the Edo era but is now an art form in itself. 

The Internet can provide you with many examples of all these techniques to choose from as does Pinterest.

So get your Sew in the Moment kit out and start mindfully creating your idea of Slow Stitching. 

I will be very happy to share your work in the gallery on this page