Tapestry-crafting is more than just a hobby – it’s a secret weapon for better mental health. This craft has many surprising benefits for your mind and mood. It’s a therapeutic activity that offers many positive benefits. It is beneficial because it reduces stress levels through the repeated stitching. It boosts your confidence by encouraging creativity. And the focus needed can even make your brain work better! Whether you’re stressed, anxious, or need a mood lift, tapestry-crafting can help. This calming craft is like a meditation you can hold in your hands. As you rhythmically weave the thread over and under, your focus narrows and you’ll become fully immersed in the present moment.

Here are some of the benefits of Tapestry crafting:

Reduction of Stress and Anxiety.

Crafting can be a meditative activity, helping to lower stress hormones and promote relaxation. The repetitive nature of stitching can help you focus on the present moment, promoting mindfulness and reducing stress and anxiety. The focus required for tapestry crafting can help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxious thoughts. 

Improvement of Cognitive Function.

Crafting can stimulate the brain and improve memory and problem-solving skills as you work on the different colour combinations as wool is passed on to the canvas through stitching.

Distraction from Negative Thoughts.

Crafting can act as a distraction from negative thoughts, trauma, and pain. The repetitive nature of stitching can help you focus on the present moment, promoting mindfulness and distracting you from negative thoughts. The repetitive motions and sensory experience can create a safe space for processing trauma. 

Improves Self-Confidence. 

Begin to recognise that you’re good at tapestry crafting as you progress through the skill levels.

Gain a Sense of Identity.

Gain a Sense of Identity by being part of a long-established tradition. The skill of Tapestry Crafting is one of the oldest forms of art. Tapestries have been highly prized status symbols adorning the homes of the powerful and wealthy. Ancient Egyptian fragments of tapestry have been uncovered, but the Western European Tapestries became firmly established in the 14th Century.

Social Connection.

Participating in crafting groups can foster social connections and combat feelings of isolation. Tapestry crafting can give participants a sense of connection, whether through in-person crafting groups, online groups such as the study itself, or just being part of a big tradition of makers.

Emotional Expression.

Crafting can be a way to express emotions and thoughts that might be difficult to articulate verbally.

Fine Motor Skills.

Tapestry Crafting can help to improve fine motor skills as you use the needle to pass the wool through the canvas.

Sense of Accomplishment.

Completing a crafting project can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. You gain a great sense of accomplishment when you have finished your design.