With increased awareness of everyday life feeling faster, and often more stressful than ever, there’s a growing trend towards activities that invite us to slow down, be present, and reconnect with ourselves.
Crafts like cross stitch have become much more than hobbies, providing gentle anchors that help us navigate stress, cultivate mindfulness and rediscover joy through the simple act of intentional creation.
There’s something deeply soothing about picking up a needle, threading a vibrant strand of thread and guiding it through fabric. Of course many of us already know that cross stitch is about much more than just the finished piece. It’s about the quiet rhythm of stitching, the focused attention it demands, and the way it gently draws us into the present moment.
This experience is very similar to what psychologists describe as flow - a mindful state where we are completely absorbed in an activity, worries fade and our minds anchored in the here and now.
Mindfulness & Wellbeing in Every Stitch
Unlike activities that pull us towards screens and endless notifications, slow crafts like cross stitch encourage stillness. The repetitive nature of stitching naturally quiets the mind and creates space for mindfulness. Each stitch becomes a tiny meditation, a pause that invites calm breathing, reduced anxiety and a moment of serenity.
There’s also the great sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something beautiful by hand. Watching patterns emerge stitch by stitch, seeing colour and design take shape - it’s an emotional reward that boosts confidence, supports emotional wellbeing and makes everyday stress fade away.
Winter Is The Perfect Time to Slow Down
At this time of year with winter still hanging on strong and spring still a promise, it’s the perfect opportunity to turn inward and nurture yourself.
Winter and early spring naturally invite cosy indoor hobbies, so what better way to mark this time of year than by immersing yourself in slow, creative crafts? Cross stitch fits beautifully here providing an immersive craft that’s tactile, low stress and offers a comforting sense of ritual that aligns with seasonal rhythms and inner wellbeing.
Discover Exciting New Monthly Designs
One of the biggest barriers to crafting is often a lack of inspiration and not knowing what to do next. That’s when a cross stitch subscription becomes so delightful. With a Cotton & Twine subscription box, you don’t have to search for patterns, gather supplies, or plan your next project – we do all that for you!
Your monthly box arrives ready to get stuck into and enjoy. Each box brings a new and exclusive cross stitch design created by our talented in-house design team, as well as frequent collabs with designers from around the world, complete with all the materials you need.
For subscribers, it’s a moment to look forward to, a treat delivered to the door each month that signals time for themselves, creativity and calm. Others love the flexibility of being able to choose between physical kits, gift boxes, or even just a PDF if you prefer to stitch using your own materials. Why not find out how our subscriptions work here.
Whatever your preference, the ease of having something new waiting means your slow craft habit remains a positive experience that doesn’t overwhelm. Plus there’s an added layer of feel-good vibes thanks to the thoughtful little extras tucked into the box - treats or tools that make the experience feel joyful.
To experience our little monthly surprises and the joy of anticipation yourself, take a look at our cross stitch subscription box options.