Stitch, Watch, Listen, Relax: Making the Most of Your Crafting Time
I often hear people say things like, "I wish I had time to stitch", or "I'd love to, but I have so much going on". And to that, I always say — bullsh*t! Cross-stitching, embroidery, or any kind of handcraft isn't a waste of time or difficult to fit in. In fact, it's one of the few activities that lets you create something beautiful while still enjoying other things you love.
The Art of the Background Show
If you're anything like me, there's nothing better than having your favourite TV show or comfort movie playing while you stitch. It doesn't even need to be something new — I'll often rewatch shows I already know by heart (hello, The Office or Firefly) because I don't have to keep my eyes glued to the screen.
That's the beauty of stitching: it keeps your hands busy but leaves your mind open. You can laugh along, catch the dialogue, and still make progress on your piece — without feeling like you're just sitting in front of a screen.
A Story in Every Stitch
Audiobooks and podcasts are another brilliant pairing for stitching. There's something so satisfying about listening to a great story while watching your own little patch of colour and thread take shape. Whether it's true crime, fantasy, or a smutty story (my current fav 😘), it feels like you're being doubly productive — enjoying a book and working on your art at the same time.
Music [obviously] works, too — especially if you're in the mood for something meditative or calming. You could even go as far as making playlists built around stitching moods: peaceful instrumentals for focus, or upbeat tunes for when you're working on a bright, happy pattern.
Screen-Free and Soul-Filling
We spend so much of our lives staring at screens — phones, laptops, TVs, tablets — that doing something with your hands feels like a small act of rebellion. Stitching is tactile, creative, and grounding. Studies have even shown that handcrafts like cross-stitching can help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve mental wellbeing.
So if you've ever felt guilty for spending time with your needle and thread, remind yourself: this is self-care. You're creating art, calming your mind, and giving yourself a well-deserved screen break.
Making the Most of Your Stitching Time
If you want to make your stitching sessions even more enjoyable, here are a few ideas to try:
- Queue up a playlist, audiobook, or podcast before you start.
- Settle in with your favourite show and a comfy blanket.
- Light a candle or brew a cup of tea to make it feel like a ritual.
- Invite a friend to stitch "with" you over video chat (it counts!).
- And if you can, take a photo of your setup — because honestly, cozy stitching vibes deserve to be celebrated.
Remember: your stitching time isn't wasted time. It's creative rest — the kind that fills your cup and reminds you that art doesn't have to be fast, it just has to be yours.
So I Ask You:
What's your favourite way to multitask while you stitch? Do you have a go-to show, podcast, or album that pairs perfectly with your needle and thread? I'd love to hear about it — share in the comments or tag me on Instagram so I can check it out!
And if you're looking for something new to stitch while you listen, browse my cross-stitch and embroidery patterns for your next project.
