Think You’re Too Busy to Embroider? 7 Ways to Sneak Creativity into Your Day
Hello, my artsy friend! Let me guess—you’ve been eyeing that embroidery hoop on your shelf, dreaming of a quiet moment to stitch… but between the laundry, work deadlines, and tiny humans needing snacks (again), it just never happens. Sound familiar?
Believe me, I totally get it. Life is full. But here’s the good news: creativity doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You don’t need hours of uninterrupted time or a perfectly quiet studio to enjoy embroidery. Sometimes, the smallest moments can bring the biggest joy.
Here are 7 simple ways to sneak creativity into your day—even when your to-do list is a mile long.
1. Start a 5-Minute Stitch Ritual
You’d be amazed what you can do in five minutes. Keep a small hoop, thread, and needle within reach—maybe near your coffee maker or on your nightstand. Even a few stitches a day can add up over time. It’s less about finishing a piece and more about showing up for yourself.
2. Embrace Imperfection
Waiting for the “perfect” time or headspace often means we never start at all. But creativity isn’t about perfection—it’s about play. Give yourself permission to create imperfectly. Stitch a little crooked? Who cares. You’re still making something beautiful.
3. Take Your Stitching To-Go
Keep a portable project in your bag or car—like a stick-and-stitch patch or a mini hoop. It’s perfect for carline, waiting rooms, or sitting through a practice. These tiny windows of time become opportunities to unwind and make something just for you.
4. Swap Scrolling for Stitching
Try this: the next time you instinctively reach for your phone, pick up your needle instead. Just 10 minutes of stitching can be more calming and satisfying than a scroll session. It also helps quiet the mental noise and brings you back into the present moment.
5. Create a ‘Stitch Corner’
Set up a cozy little spot in your home with your embroidery supplies always ready to go. It doesn’t need to be fancy—a basket by the couch or a drawer in your kitchen works. Having everything prepped makes it easier to dive in when a few free minutes pop up. If you have littles, I suggest an organizer with a lock or making sure they fully understand this. is. mama’s—hands off!
6. Stitch With the Kids Around
I used to think I needed silence and solitude to enjoy embroidery, but now I stitch while my kids play nearby or color at the table. It’s not always peaceful, but it’s real. And they love watching, too—creativity is contagious!
7. Use It as a Wind-Down Ritual
Instead of ending your day with Netflix, try a few stitches before bed. It’s meditative, screen-free, and the perfect way to transition into rest. Light a candle, put on a podcast, and let yourself decompress with needle and thread.
You Deserve This
Life will always be full—but you still deserve something that’s just for you. Hand embroidery doesn’t have to be all-consuming. With a few small shifts, it can fit beautifully into your busy, creative life.
Ready to get started?
I'd love to be part of your journey, so I’ve created a fun practice pattern that lets you learn everything from a back stitch to the french knot. Download your free pattern and guide to stitch along with me! The pattern has 15 different stitches for you to practice. And if you need help, I’ve got you! Hop over to my master stitch list or connect with me on YouTube to watch step-by-step videos for each of the stitches.
Happy stitching, my artsy friend! 🪡✨
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