The joy of making something by hand

13 February 2026

The joy of making something by hand

I often talk about the fact that an embroidery project is more than creating a finished product. Instead, focussing on the process itself changes the way I think about and approach a project. Think for a moment about the way you talk about your projects to others, listen to how you describe them. Are you putting yourself down for not finishing sooner? Criticising the quality of your work? This kind of thinking is what happens when we focus on the end-result and look at the process as a means to an end. I hear comments like this a lot when I'm selling at events, people saying: "I'd love to try this but I have a cupboard full of other projects." Or "what would I do with it?"

If you go back 50 years, I think the purpose of sewing and embroidery was more about the function of the end-result or about saving money by making it yourself. Things have shifted though, and I believe that while we may question the validity or purpose of the things we make, being intentional about the value of crafting something with our hands can quiet that inner critic and help us focus more on the joy of making.

one

Create a ritual

Give yourself permission to create a moment for yourself to wind down, switch off the constant stream of (digital) distractions and find comfort in the meditative act of stitching. Maybe start by making a cup of tea, finding a comfortable spot and the right light, gathering all your tools beforehand and then settle into a routine of making, paying attention to where your thoughts lead you.

two

Make something that inspires you

A subject matter or technique that actually excites you goes a long way in keeping you focused for longer and helps you enjoy the moments you take to switch off. For me it also gives something to focus my thoughts on while working, the challenge of a new technique, or a memory the subject matter holds. With this pattern I wanted to hold onto the beauty of the sweet pea blooms in my garden while remembering and paying tribute to the aunt who had given me this beautiful chair.

three

Embrace imperfection

Irregularities make handmade special, each piece is unique. Especially when you're making something by hand or learning a new technique, be intentional about quieting that voice in your head that tells you to be perfect. Remember its about enjoying the process, learning something and slowing down.

four

Let it take time

Remember it's okay if you don't finish a project quickly. It's about enjoying the process, not churning out finished objects. The flip side is that it's also okay to put aside a project for a season if it's not inspiring you. I had the idea for this wallpaper pattern and liked it a lot, but it wasn't working for a larger scale pattern on a wall. That idea sat for a few years before I re-carved the block and printed it for this scale.

Often I hear people critisizing themselves for all their unfinished projects. Sometimes it's okay to reframe how you think about those projects. They could be valuable for practice or spark an idea for another project.