Category: The Joy of Stitching

Why we stitch. The benefits of cross stitch for mind and mood, and the long history behind the craft.

Why Cross Stitch for Relaxation Actually Works (Especially Right Now)
If the world feels heavier than usual right now, you’re not imagining it. Between rising costs, political chaos, and the general hum of uncertainty that seems to follow us into every news cycle, a lot of people are carrying more stress than they used to.
And when everything feels like too much, our instinct is usually to scroll to try to find some reassurance. Check the news. Open another tab. Refresh the feed. It feels productive, but just adds another layer of noise to an already noisy brain.
Cross stitch does the opposite.
It’s one of the most affordable, accessible, screen-free ways to actually relax. And it works whether you’re brand new to it or picking it back up after years away.
Your brain needs something to do with its hands
There’s a reason people reach for crafts during hard times. Knitting surged during COVID lockdowns. Jigsaw puzzles sold out. Cross stitch communities grew faster than they had in years.
It’s not a coincidence. Repetitive, focused, hands-on activities give your brain something to do that isn’t worrying. The rhythm of placing stitch after stitch, following a pattern, counting squares, choosing colours: it draws your attention into the present moment in a way that scrolling your phone simply can’t.
Researchers call this a “flow state,” ( we call it ‘lost in cross stitch’) that feeling of being so absorbed in something that time slips away and your usual mental chatter quiets down. Cross stitch is great at triggering it because the work is detailed enough to hold your focus, but repetitive enough to feel calming rather than stressful. If some of those terms sound unfamiliar, our cross stitch glossary covers everything from aida to waste knots.
We wrote a whole post about the science behind cross stitch and mental health if you’d like to go deeper. The short version: studies consistently link hands-on crafts to calmer brainwave activity, reduced anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improved mood. One survey of over 3,500 crafters found that more than 80% of those experiencing depression reported feeling happier after crafting.
It’s screen-free (and your eyes will thank you)
Many of us spend our working day staring at a screen. Then we “relax” by staring at a different, smaller screen. Cross stitch breaks that cycle completely (if you’re not using an app for your pattern. I’m a big fan of paper patterns for that reason.)
There’s no blue light. No notifications. No algorithm deciding what you should see next. Just fabric, thread, and a pattern. Your eyes get a rest, your posture changes, and your hands do something that isn’t typing or swiping.
Our post on stitching on darker fabrics has some great tips to reduce eye strain.
Small projects are your friend right now
This is something we feel strongly about. When life is stressful, the last thing you need is a 200-hour full-coverage piece staring at you from across the room, barely started.
Small projects give you something big projects can’t: the satisfaction of finishing.
A design you can complete in two or three sessions gives you that lovely “done!” feeling. You chose it, you stitched it, you finished it. When so much feels out of your control, that small act of completion is genuinely powerful.
We started Lost In Cross Stitch with the aim of designing small patterns to get that lost-and-satisfied feeling often. You might find something to suit you in our holiday patterns, or our travel patterns, or our newest (and we think cutest-ever) tiny little fairy tale patterns. Plus some super-cute little dinosaurs.
We like to have a few things going at once. A small quick-finish project for when you want that satisfaction hit. Maybe a stitch-along (SAL) for the community aspect. And if you’re in the mood, a longer project that you chip away at over time with no pressure. That mix keeps stitching feeling like a choice, not an obligation.
And if the idea of starting feels hard right now, setting up a project kit in advance makes it much easier to just sit down and stitch. When everything is already together in one bag, it’s so much easier to get started.
Our Tiny Little Castle Design from our Fairy Tales series
It doesn’t need to cost much
One of the loveliest things about cross stitch for relaxation is that it doesn’t need a big investment. A basic kit from a charity shop can cost a couple of dollars and comes with everything you need to start.
If you already stitch, you probably have enough in your stash right now to start something new tonight. A small piece of fabric, a few floss colours, a simple pattern, and you’re away.
And if money is genuinely tight, there are ways to keep costs down without giving up the hobby. Our budget cross stitch tips post covers practical ways to stretch your supplies further, and we’ve recently written about affordable alternatives to DMC floss that can make a real difference if you’re watching every dollar.
You don’t have to be good at it
Cross stitch isn’t a performance. Nobody is grading your tension or judging your back stitching. If it looks good enough to you from arm’s length, it’s good enough. If the back is messy, so what? As you stitch more often, the back gets tidier. It just does, because you learn about how you prefer to stitch. And if it’s different to literally anyone else you know, that’s fine too!
If you make a mistake, you can fix it, leave it, or learn from it. Perfection was never the point. The point is that for 30 minutes or an hour, your brain got to focus on something quiet and satisfying instead of spiraling through the algorithm-developed feed.
Some of the most experienced stitchers we know deliberately leave small imperfections in their work. It’s a reminder that the process matters more than the product.
It connects you to other people (if you want it to)
Cross stitch can be a beautifully solitary hobby. Just you, your needle, and your thoughts (or a podcast, or a binge watch, or silence, or whatever suits you).
But it can also be a way to feel less alone. Online stitching communities, stitch-alongs, and sharing progress photos can create a sense of connection that doesn’t demand anything from you. You don’t have to be social to benefit. Even watching other people’s projects progress can be delightful. And there’s always someone (usually many someones) in any group who’ll cheer your progress or latest finishes.
And if you finish something you’re proud of, there are so many ways to display or share it that the satisfaction keeps going long after the last stitch.
Getting started (or getting back to it)
If you’re new to cross stitch, our beginner’s guide walks you through everything from choosing your first project to threading your needle. It’s a low-pressure starting point.
If you used to stitch and life got in the way, this might be the nudge to pick it back up. You don’t need to start a big project. You don’t need new supplies. You just need a needle, some fabric, floss and your own permission to sit quietly for a while.
A cross stitch planner can help bring a bit of structure to your stitching if you find that helpful, or you can skip the planning entirely and just stitch whatever feels good today.
The world will still be there when you put your needle down. But you might feel a little steadier when you pick it back up.
If you like the idea of a project you dip into all year rather than racing to finish, a bookshelf reading tracker is a gentle one, a single spine stitched each time you finish a book, no pressure, no deadline, just a shelf that quietly fills up.
Frequently asked questions
Is cross stitch good for anxiety?
Yes. The repetitive, focused nature of cross stitch can help calm anxious thoughts by drawing your attention into the present moment. Studies have linked crafting activities like cross stitch to reduced anxiety, lower heart rate, and improved mood. Many stitchers describe it as a form of meditation.
What hobbies help with stress relief?
Hands-on, screen-free hobbies tend to be the most effective for stress relief. Cross stitch, knitting, crochet, embroidery, jigsaw puzzles, and colouring are all popular choices. The common thread (pun intended) is that they involve repetitive, absorbing actions that quiet mental chatter and create a sense of calm focus.
Is cross stitch an affordable hobby?
Very. You can start with a kit from a charity shop for a couple of dollars. Even building a full supply of materials over time is manageable on a tight budget. Digital patterns are often inexpensive, and a single skein of floss lasts through multiple projects. We’ve written about budget-friendly ways to keep stitching and affordable thread alternatives if cost is a concern.
Can cross stitch help with depression?
An international survey of 3,545 knitters, published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy, found that 81% of those who had been feeling low reported feeling happier after a session. The researchers linked this to the repetitive, focused nature of the craft, which is exactly what cross stitch shares with knitting.
What’s the best cross stitch project for stress relief?
Something small, simple, and satisfying to finish. Avoid starting a massive project when you’re already stressed. A design you can complete in a few sessions gives you a sense of accomplishment without adding pressure. Repetitive patterns, soothing colours, and designs that don’t require constant counting tend to work best for relaxation.
Is cross stitch a form of meditation?
Many stitchers describe it that way. The rhythmic, repetitive motion of placing stitches can induce a state of focused calm similar to mindfulness meditation. It’s sometimes called a “flow state,” where you become fully absorbed in on the most relaxing hobbies, and everyday worries fade into the background. We call it: lost in cross stitch.
March 27, 2026
Hari Kuyo and the tiny tool that shaped civilisation
A look at the surprisingly massive role of the sewing needle in human history, and the Japanese Hari Kuyo ceremony that actually acknowledges it.
You can buy a pack of sewing needles for a couple of dollars. They come in plastic tubes, they roll off tables, they vanish into carpet. Most of us don’t think twice about them.
I’ve been thinking about them a lot lately. And the more I dig into it, the more interesting the story gets.
In this post: A look at the sewing needle’s 45,000-year history, the role it played in human migration and civilisation, how modern needles have evolved from bone to gold-plated titanium, and Hari Kuyo, the Japanese ceremony where stitchers give their worn needles a respectful send-off that modern stitchers could adapt.
Before needles, we couldn’t survive the cold
The earliest sewing needles we’ve found are around 45,000 years old. Carved from bone, found in what is now Siberia and China. They had eyes. They could be threaded. And they were used to stitch animal hides into fitted clothing.
Image credit: Museum of London, via Wikimedia Commons
Before that, you could drape a skin over your shoulders, but you couldn’t make it fit close to your body, couldn’t layer it, couldn’t seal out wind. A draped hide in a Siberian winter isn’t going to cut it.
A stitched one, though? Anthropologists believe the sewing needle may have been one of the key technologies that allowed humans to leave Africa and spread into colder regions. People could move north because they could make clothing that actually protected them. The needle made migration possible.
I don’t know about you, but I’d never really connected “threading a needle” with “the entire pattern of human settlement.” It’s a blinding flash of the obvious, right?
The list of things needles made possible is astounding
Once humans could stitch, the possibilities kept expanding.
Stitched leather became armor. Stitched canvas became sails, which meant boats could travel further, which meant trade, exploration, and eventually the movement of people and ideas across oceans. Stitched fabric became tents, bags, shoes, flags. Surgeons used needles to close wounds. Bookbinders used them to hold pages together.
The Bayeux Tapestry, which records the Norman conquest of England in 1066, was made with needles and woolen thread, almost certainly by women in embroidery workshops (though we know none of their names).
A section of embroidery on the Bayeux Tapestry
And yes, we wouldn’t have undies without needles. Or jeans. Or any garment with a seam, a hem, a button, or a zipper. Every piece of clothing you’re wearing right now exists because at some point, a needle passed through fabric.
In Japan, Sashiko stitching started as a way to reinforce worn clothing so it lasted longer. Everywhere, women turned fabric scraps into quilts to keep their families warm and tell the story of their lives.
In China, Suzhou silk embroidery is so refined that artists can stitch a completely different image on each side of a single piece of transparent silk, working from one side only, holding both designs in their head at the same time. With a needle. The skill!
The wheel gets the glory. Fire gets the glory. The sewing needle? Barely a footnote, despite the massive contribution they’ve made to who we are today as humans.
From bone to gold
The earliest needles were carved from bone, antler, and ivory using stone tools. They were precious. Losing one would have been a genuine problem.
As metalworking developed, needles followed. Copper first, then iron, then steel. The craft of needle-making became an industry. By the 18th century, the English town of Redditch was producing a million needles a year. Its reputation was so well known that a town in Japan reportedly renamed itself “Redditch” so it could stamp “Made in Redditch” on its packaging. (I love that story.)
Today, needles work at industrial scale. Workers in enormous factories run many thousands of sewing machines. Fast fashion depends on it (but let’s not divert into the exploitation of workers in some of those factories, stitching for long hours in poor conditions so the rest of the world can buy cheap clothes).
The industrial revolution made needles cheap and disposable for the first time. A tool that was once guarded like jewellery became something we toss in the bin without a thought.
Black needles?
On the other end of the scale, some hand-sewing and cross stitch needles have become things of beauty! Gold-plated needles glide through fabric with almost no friction. Titanium-coated ones resist wear and last far longer than standard steel.
Have you tried them? If you’re one of those stitchers (like me) whose skin eats through nickel plating in a few sessions, you’ll know the signs: needles going dark and rough mid-project. Gold and titanium hold up much better. Storing your needles in a dry place, like in felt pages, between projects helps too. We have a pattern for stitching your own needle book, all completely by hand.
I think there’s something fitting about coating a needle in precious metal, it’s a kind of recognition of the tool’s value, even if hardly anyone thinks of it that way.
Needles carry symbolic weight in folklore and tradition across the world. In Russian stories, a needle hidden inside an egg, inside a duck, holds the villain’s life force. Finding and breaking the needle is how the hero wins.
In parts of Japan, a needle wrapped in red cloth was placed in a newborn’s clothing to ward off evil. In many cultures, losing a needle was considered a bad omen, a sign that something valuable had been broken. This tells us something about how seriously people once took this tiny tool.
And one culture took it further than any other.
Hari Kuyo: giving your needles a funeral
Hari Kuyo translates to “needle memorial.” It’s a ceremony held every year at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples across Japan, on February 8th in the Kanto region and December 8th in Kyoto and Kansai. Needle makers such as Misuya Chubei in Kyoto hold their own hari kuyo.
The tradition goes back over 400 years. Seamstresses, tailors, embroiderers, and home stitchers gather to give thanks to their needles for the work they’ve done over the past year. Broken and worn needles are brought to the shrine and gently placed into blocks of soft tofu or konnyaku jelly.
The softness of the tofu is deliberate. After a year of piercing tough fabric, the needle is given something gentle to rest in. I find that incredibly moving.
No sewing takes place on this day. It’s a moment to reflect on what was made, and to appreciate the tool that made it possible.
The ceremony comes from an animist tradition where everyday objects are believed to hold a kind of spirit or energy. A needle that has worked hard deserves a respectful farewell. Japan holds similar memorial ceremonies for brushes, knives, dolls, and even chopsticks. But Hari Kuyo is one of the most widely observed.
There’s a piece of folklore connected to this that I love. In some tellings, tools that are used roughly and discarded carelessly may, on their 100th birthday, transform into spirits called Tsukumogami and band together to take revenge on the wasteful. Obviously it’s folklore. But the message underneath it, about caring for the things we use, has stuck with me since I first read it.
Most of those attending are women, though tailors and other professional stitchers of any gender come too. Trades like sailmaking and shoemaking were men’s work, but the everyday stitching that kept families clothed and warm was done by women, mostly without pay or credit. I wonder if a ceremony that honours the needle honours that work too.
What I do with my old needles
I first heard about Hari Kuyo years ago on a blog that’s long since disappeared from the internet. But I’ve never forgotten it.
I don’t have a Shinto shrine nearby, and I don’t follow the Buddhist tradition. But I’ve ended up with my own version.
I keep an empty breath mints tin in my sewing machine cabinet and another in my cross stitch box. When I change a needle, the old one goes into the tin. When it’s full (years worth of sewing!), I dig a small hole in the garden, somewhere deep where I won’t be digging often, and I bury the needles.
Steel needles rust and break down in soil over time. They return to the earth they were mined from. It’s one of those rare things in modern life where the end of something’s usefulness is also a genuinely complete cycle, back to the ground, no plastic, no landfill. We can’t do that with much anymore.
I take a minute while I’m doing it. I think about what I’ve made with those needles. The patterns I’ve stitched, the seams I’ve sewn, the hours of delight and creativity and calm they gave me. I couldn’t get lost in cross stitch, or make anything with my sewing machine, without them.
It’s a small, quiet thing that really only matters to me. But it’s changed how I feel about the tools in my hands.
If you’re not sure which needle type or size suits your stitching, our printable needle chart is a handy reference.
Over to you
Do you have a needle story? A favourite needle that lasted forever, or one that broke at exactly the wrong moment? Or maybe you’ve got your own way of retiring old tools?
We’d love to hear it. Please comment below.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hari Kuyo?
Hari Kuyo is a Japanese ceremony, held annually at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, where stitchers bring their broken and worn sewing needles to be laid to rest in soft tofu or konnyaku jelly. The tradition goes back over 400 years and is rooted in the animist belief that everyday tools deserve gratitude and a respectful farewell. “Hari” means needle and “kuyo” means memorial.
When is Hari Kuyo celebrated?
Hari Kuyo falls on February 8th in the Kanto region of Japan (including Tokyo) and December 8th in the Kyoto and Kansai region. No sewing takes place on this day.
How old are sewing needles?
The earliest eyed sewing needles found so far date to around 45,000 years ago. They were carved from bone in what is now Siberia and China. Anthropologists believe they were used to stitch animal hides into fitted clothing, which may have enabled humans to migrate into colder climates.
Why are needles placed in tofu during Hari Kuyo?
The tofu is deliberately soft. After a year of piercing tough fabric, the needle is given something gentle to rest in. It’s a symbolic act of tenderness and gratitude for the needle’s service.
What are the best cross stitch needles?
Most cross stitchers use tapestry needles, which have a blunt tip and a large eye. For a smoother stitching experience, gold-plated or titanium-coated needles reduce friction and last longer than standard steel. The right size depends on your fabric count. Our beginner’s guide to cross stitch covers how to choose the right needle for your project.
Why do my sewing needles go black or rough?
The natural oils and moisture in your skin can corrode the nickel plating on standard sewing needles. Some stitchers are more prone to this than others, and it can even change over time due to hormonal shifts. If your needles regularly tarnish or roughen while you stitch, gold-plated or titanium-coated needles hold up much better. They cost more, but if you’re burning through standard needles quickly, they can actually work out cheaper in the long run.
July 13, 2024
Cross Stitch for Mental Health: Five Reasons to Make Cross Stitch Your New Obsession
Are you looking for another reason to learn or keep doing cross stitch, or wondering why you’re so obsessed with it? There’s many reasons it’s been popular for hundreds of years, and science is telling us why we love it so much.
Cross Stitch for Mental Health: Our Therapeutic Journey
Back in 1988, Sandy was a young mum with a toddler and a 2-month-old baby, who had just moved to a new city for hubby’s work.
Two days later, with barely any boxes unpacked, her brother was tragically killed in a massive industrial accident. He wasn’t recovered for nearly 6 months.
It was a time of immense trauma. But, just a few weeks later she was lucky enough to find cross stitch.
Or perhaps cross stitch found her. And each tiny stitch helped her cope with the demands of life over the next year. It’s hard to even think about that time without thinking about the pieces that were completed.
Multiple studies link working with your hands to create something, particularly those with repetitive motions, to improved mental health. If you’ve done any crafts, you’ll probably recognise yourself in some of the findings.
Of course, we’ve linked it all to cross stitching because it takes such concentration to place the stitches in the right place and form them evenly. And then do it again and again. And again. Bliss in every stitch 😊
1.      Cross Stitch Helps Improve Anxiety and Depression
Cross-stitch, with its methodical and repetitive nature, helps bring about a sense of calm and happiness.
A study shared by CNN suggests that crafting, including activities like cross-stitch, can significantly alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
The focused attention and repetitive motion involved in cross-stitching can lead to the release of serotonin, a natural mood stabilizer, bringing about a sense of tranquility and joy.
It mentions a study of over 3,500 knitters where “81% of respondents with depression reported feeling happy after knitting. More than half reported feeling ‘very happy.’
2.      Cross Stitch Helps Unravel Stress
Cross-stitch isn’t just a creative outlet; it’s also a form of stress relief.
The process of following a pattern and seeing a design come to life can be incredibly satisfying and therapeutic.
It engages the mind in a positive way, helping to reduce stress hormones and promote a state of well-being.
3.      Cross-Stitch Helps With Flow State and Happiness
A 2019 BBC Arts Great British Creativity Test of around 50,000 people said creativity could help block out stress. More people ‘make’ than use music for their creativity. And longer you ‘make’ for, the more effectively your brain blocks negative emotions.
Repetitive ‘making’ like cross-stitch stands out not only for its beauty and precision but also for its ability to induce a ‘flow state’ in crafters.
This state, often referred to as the secret to happiness is often described as being ‘in the zone’, – a state where time seems to stand still and your worries fade away.
It’s a deeply immersive and meditative experience that can significantly enhance feelings of happiness and mental well-being.
4.        Cross-Stitch Cares for Your Brain
Did you know that cross-stitch can also have cognitive benefits?
It can help in maintaining cognitive functions and protecting against conditions like dementia.
The mental engagement required to follow complex patterns and count stitches helps keep the brain active and healthy.
5.      Cross Stitch Can Grow Community
One of the most beautiful aspects of cross-stitch is its ability to connect people.
Whether it’s through online forums or local crafting groups, cross-stitch can create a sense of community and belonging.
Sharing patterns, tips, and finished projects with fellow stitchers can be a wonderful way to combat loneliness and build meaningful connections. And, often it’s only fellow stitchers who’ll understand the joy of completion! A dozen likes on your new finish can really make your day 😊
What’s Not to Love?
We can personally vouch for everything in this post. So, as you pick up your needle and thread, remember that with every stitch, you’re not only adding to your beautiful design but also enriching your mental health.
We’ve also written about why cross stitch for relaxation beats scrolling every single time, especially when life feels heavier than usual.
References
Crafts Council
CreativeLive
January 2, 2024
11 Ways That Cross Stitch Benefits Your Life
The benefits of cross stitch sneak up on you. You sit down to do a few stitches, then you notice your shoulders drop, your mind settles, and you finish the session with visible progress you can point to.
So if you’re just starting to cross stitch or you’ve been stitching for years, here’s a list of a few benefits stitchers tend to notice over time, from quieter evenings to that steady “I made this” confidence.
Quick answers
- Is cross stitch relaxing? For many people, yes. The repeated motion and clear next step can feel settling.
- Is cross stitching expensive? It can stay affordable, especially at beginner level. It gets pricey when you start collecting lots of supplies.
- What is cross stitch used for? Framed pieces, ornaments, bookmarks, baby samplers, small gifts, patches, home decor.
- Why is it popular again? It’s screen-free (though you can use an app for your pattern), portable, beginner-friendly, and easy to share online.
1. A Calmer Frame of Mind
One of the nicest benefits of cross stitch is how it narrows your attention down to one small job. Count, place the stitch, move to the next square. It’s not “empty your mind” calm. It’s “my hands know what to do next” calm, and that can be a relief when life is loud.
Certainly for me, as a young mother of a new baby and a toddler, and dealing with a significant tragedy in my extended family, it helped me enormously to cope with the stress and grief of the situation. I could settle the family and then enjoy an hour or two of just turning off my mind, getting lost in the perfect little stitches.
We go deeper on this in our post about cross stitch for relaxation and why it works.
Tiny perfect little cross stitches on linen – my little girl’s name
2. Small wins you can see
Cross stitch gives you progress you can literally see. Each stitch builds on the last, and even a short session leaves a visible change in the design.
A lot of our daily effort is invisible. Stitching isn’t. It’s proof that a few minutes of effort can really make a difference, and you can apply that in other areas of your life (decluttering, anyone?).
Those small steps turn into something real that you can enjoy for years, or share with others.
3. A little mood lift
Creative activities with step-by-step progress can give your brain a nudge to release dopamine, a chemical linked to lighter moods. A 2016 paper in Arts & Health looked at a short session of making art and found people’s mood improved afterwards, and that feels very familiar to stitchers too.
There’s a definite uptick for me when I sit back to look at how this session’s stitching has changed the way the design is looking. I can’t help but smile :)
4. Room for Personal Flair
Cross stitch leaves plenty of room to make a piece your own. You can pick colours you love, try quirky patterns, tweak borders, add names, or design your own layout.
Cross stitch is also one of the easiest crafts to customise without needing formal training.
You can mix and match with colours, or pick up one of many thousands of PDF patterns online, or make your own using a cross stitch alphabet from one pattern, a border from another, and a cute puppy from a third.
My needle case is a good example. I made it around 40 years ago, while I was stitching a sampler for my little girl and kept losing my needle. The parrot came from a pattern leaflet I’d picked up somewhere, and the lettering is a font from another pattern altogether. They were never meant to go together, and I still use it every time I stitch.
It’s a little off centre, because I eyeballed it. I didn’t know about planning paper back then. Every time I look at it I think I really should have frogged that, but hey-ho. It reminds me of my younger self and those challenging but delightful days, so it stays exactly as it is.
My parrot needle case, still in use 40 years later.
Our cross stitch planning paper (free) can help you get started.
5. Hands busy, mind settled
Cross stitch needs focus because it is precise work. You’re counting, lining up holes, threading a needle, and placing each stitch neatly, over and over. There’s a lovely rhythm to it that can be very soothing and help to quiet your mind.
After a few projects you’ll notice you’re threading the needle first go and reading the chart without counting twice.
That’s why we say we get lost in cross stitch. It turns off the world for a little while, and leaves you feeling refreshed and comforted.
6. Community Connections
Cross stitchers are a friendly bunch and the sense of belonging is real. Whether you swap tips online or meet up in person, sharing patterns and progress photos, and even troubleshooting mistakes together can be a friendly way to connect with others.
Sometimes the only people who can truly appreciate your new finish are the ones in your online group! I love seeing the comments from stitchers, cheering each other on, congratulating others on their progress and their finishes.
You might even stumble across new friendships through a mutual love of needle and thread.
Needlecraft research also often highlights social connection and belonging as a benefit for many stitchers.
7. Beginner-friendly, even if you don’t feel “crafty.”
The basics of cross stitch are genuinely learnable in an afternoon. The fabric grid keeps you on track, and patterns are easy to follow step-by-step. A small project is enough to build confidence quickly.
I’ve taught cross stitch to my Brownies when I was a Brownie leader, to groups of kids in school holiday classes, and at TAFE many years ago. For the Brownies it was a tiny heart on 11 count Aida in variegated floss. At any age, the fabric guides the needle and helps to form even little crosses, and confidence grows as the pattern fills in.
Start small, keep your colours limited, and you’ll be surprised how fast it clicks.
8. Affordability!
Cross stitch doesn’t cost much to start! You can pick up a kit from a thrift shop for just a few dollars and it will have everything you need to get started.
When I started stitching 40 years ago, it never occurred to me to look in thrift shops. Everything came from Lincraft, our local craft store. I don’t need supplies these days, but whenever I’m in a thrift shop I check the craft section for interesting patterns. I regularly see kits there (some half finished, some never opened), bags of floss and lengths of Aida. They get snapped up quickly, so if you’re still building your stash, it’s worth popping in often.
Our cross stitch temperature project card, printed and loaded with floss
And while it can seem expensive to invest in the hundreds of colours of floss, you can buy them a few at a time. And most skeins will last for years!
Like any hobby, it can also become expensive when you start collecting fabric, floss, organisers, specialty scissors, fancy frames, and “just in case” supplies. That part is optional ;)
9. It’s So Portable
A small hoop, needle, thread, and pattern fit in a pouch and the whole hobby travels with you. That makes it easy to stitch in small pockets of time, at home, on a trip, during appointments, or in a quiet cafe.
Australian alphabet pattern by Jan Skinner for Allura.
The most memorable place I’ve stitched was the maternity ward. I’d been working on a big Australian alphabet kit by Allura, all full cross stitches with no backstitch, and I finished the last letter in hospital a couple of days after my second child was born. I’m still amazed I remembered to pack it in my hospital bag. My favourite letter was X, for the extraordinary frilled neck lizard.
Make a small kit to take anywhere
It’s a lovely “few-minutes-here-and-there” hobby, because you don’t need a big setup to make progress.
10. A workout for your brain
Cross stitch gives your brain a job in a way that feels pleasant instead of hard. Counting, following a chart, and planning ahead a few stitches keeps your mind focussed.
A 2011 study in The Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences found that people who did more mentally engaging activities tended to have lower odds of mild cognitive impairment.
That doesn’t mean cross stitch is a magic brain shield, but it’s a lovely hobby to keep in the mix if you like doing something practical and creative with your hands.
11. A Chance to Share or Earn
Finished cross stitch pieces can be great gifts for friends and family, like a baby name for a new arrival, a small hoop finish for a birthday, or a bookmark ‘just because’. They all carry that “I made this for you” feeling.
Some stitchers also choose to sell their projects or create custom designs, and even a few paid pieces a year can be a nice little bonus if you already love stitching. Be aware though that it’s not a great rate of pay for the time you invest.
Selling finished pieces rarely pays for the hours, but designing worked out differently for me. For many years I made little kits and patterns for craft shops, and eventually I put my patterns online, which is how Lost in Cross Stitch began.
One of our font patterns collection
What can you make with cross stitch?
If you’re new to cross stitch, it helps to picture where this hobby actually goes. Common finishes include:
- framed pieces
- hoop finishes
- ornaments
- bookmarks
- patches
- baby samplers
- small gifts, like mini motifs in cards or gift tags
There are many more ideas in our 20 creative ways to finish cross stitch.
Bonus cross stitch benefits
It nudges you into organisation habits
Cross stitch is easier when your threads, needles, and pattern are easy to grab. Many stitchers naturally end up with a small project system, which makes it simpler to sit down and start.
It links past and present
Cross stitch has been handed down across generations, and there’s something grounding about doing a craft that connects you to other hands and other eras.
Nobody handed it down to me, though. I’d been sewing my own clothes since I was about 12, fascinated by the way flat fabric turns into something 3D. For me it’s always been about the process: taking a picture in my head and turning it into something I can hold. I loved hand finishing, so when I walked past a cross stitch display at Lincraft one day, I was entranced from the first look. I taught myself from that very first pattern leaflet, because I was already at home with fabric, needle, thread and scissors. If you already sew, knit or crochet, you’ve got more of a head start than you think.
Samplers, heirloom patterns, traditional motifs, all sit in the background when you stitch. It’s been done for centuries, and some of the earliest surviving examples date back to around the 6th or 7th century.
Sampler, Jane Bostocke, 1598, England. Museum no. T.190-1960. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
There’s something so reassuring about the continuity: slow hobbies have always had a solid place in our lives, and your stitches are part of a very long line linking us to our past, and hopefully to our future.
It fits any season and any energy level
Some hobbies need perfect weather or a big block of time. Cross stitch can be five minutes or an evening, summer or winter, high-energy day or low-energy day.
It gives you an easy way to contribute
If you like making things for other people, cross stitch can be a good fit. Some stitchers join community projects, stitch for fundraisers, or contribute small pieces that still feel meaningful.
So, is cross stitch worth it?
The best benefits of cross stitch are practical and surprisingly ordinary. You sit down, you make a few stitches, and your brain gets a break and something real starts to appear on the fabric.
If you’re new to it, start with a small design and a short session. The calm usually arrives on its own.
Have you had a “this is why I love stitching” moment? Share it in the comments. I read every one.
December 31, 2023
The Timelessness of Stitching: Tracing the History of Cross Stitch
Welcome to a journey through the rich tapestry of the history of cross-stitch, an art form that has stitched its way through time and cultures. Cross-stitch, a form of counted-thread embroidery, has been a beloved pastime for centuries, transcending geographical boundaries and evolving through various eras. This simple yet versatile craft, known for its characteristic X-shaped stitches, holds a storied past that mirrors the evolution of human civilization itself. From the ancient pyramids to the bustling medieval markets, and onto the walls of modern homes, cross-stitch has been a constant companion to humankind, serving both as a means of artistic expression and a testament to cultural heritage. In this post, we’ll unravel the history of cross-stitch, tracing its origins, its journey through different epochs, and how it has become the cherished hobby it is today. So, grab your needle and thread as we embark on a fascinating exploration of the history of cross-stitch, uncovering the stories woven into the very fabric of this enduring craft. The roots of cross-stitch are as intricate and interwoven as the patterns it creates. While it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact origin of this craft, evidence suggests that it dates back to prehistoric times. The earliest examples of cross-stitch have been found in diverse locations, ranging from ancient China to the Middle East, indicating its widespread appeal and practice.
Early History of Cross Stitch
Archaeological discoveries, such as the remnants of embroidered fabrics in ancient Egyptian tombs, hint at the long-standing presence of this craft. It probably wasn’t a craft then – it was more likely a practical method for tailoring, mending, and reinforcing cloth.
Sampler, unknown maker, 14th – 16th century, Egypt. Museum no. T.326-1921. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Given by G. D. Hornblower, Esq. from https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/embroidery-a-history-of-needlework-samplers
These early examples, remarkably similar to the cross-stitch we recognize today, suggest a profound historical lineage.
Cross-Stitch in Ancient Civilizations
In ancient China, cross-stitch was a refined art form, often featuring intricate designs, symbolizing cultural and religious beliefs. Similarly, in the Islamic world the art adorned everyday items and religious artifacts, frequently featuring geometric patterns and motifs with significant cultural value.
The Gender Dynamics
As cross-stitch evolved, particularly in the European Middle Ages and Renaissance, it increasingly became associated with women in the upper and middle classes who had some leisure time to learn and advance their skills. This association was partly due to the societal roles that women held, where needlework was not only a practical skill but also a marker of social and domestic accomplishment. The proliferation of pattern books during the Renaissance made cross-stitch more accessible, further cementing its popularity among women in domestic settings.
The Spread of Cross-Stitch
The Silk Road played a crucial role in the spread of cross-stitch, as merchants and travelers carried their crafts and cultures, including the art of cross-stitch, along these trade routes. This exchange led to the fusion of different styles and techniques, enriching the craft as it was embraced by different civilizations. In tracing the origins of cross-stitch, we find a craft deeply embedded in human history, a form of expression that transcended language, culture, and, over time, became predominantly associated with women. Its evolution from basic functional stitching to a decorative art form is a testament to its versatility and enduring appeal.
Cross-Stitch in Medieval Europe
As cross-stitch journeyed into Medieval Europe, it began to take on new significance and form, reflecting the artistic and cultural ethos of the era.
A Symbol of Wealth and Devotion
In Medieval Europe, cross-stitch emerged as not just a craft, but a symbol of wealth and devotion. It was extensively used in the decoration of church vestments and religious artifacts, underscoring its significance in the spiritual and artistic life of the times. The intricate designs often featured religious and mythological imagery, created with luxurious materials like silk and gold threads.
Sampler, Jane Bostocke, 1598, England. Museum no. T.190-1960. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
The Rise of Embroidery Guilds
This period saw the establishment of embroidery guilds, which significantly influenced the development of needlework, including cross-stitch. Predominantly run by male artisans, these guilds were responsible for some of the most exquisite works of the time and maintained high standards in the craft. They also functioned as training centers, ensuring that skills were passed down and preserved through generations.
Cross-Stitch as a Domestic Skill
During the Medieval era, cross-stitch also became a valued domestic skill among women, particularly in noble and royal households. It was seen as a pastime and a marker of social grace and education among ladies, further embedding the craft into the fabric of societal norms. The Medieval period marked a significant chapter in the history of cross-stitch. Here, it transcended its utilitarian roots to become a form of artistic expression and a symbol of social status. This era’s legacy in cross-stitch set the foundation for its evolution into a beloved craft, deeply ingrained in European cultural heritage.
The Renaissance and Beyond
The Renaissance, a period of cultural, artistic, and scientific awakening in Europe, marked a significant evolution in the art of cross-stitch, reflecting the era’s innovative spirit and aesthetic refinement.
The Flourishing of Needlework
The Renaissance era saw the needle arts flourish and cross-stitch became hugely popular. This period emphasized beauty, symmetry, and detail in art, which translated into more intricate and elaborate cross-stitch designs.
Introduction of Pattern Books
The printing press meant that pattern books became more common – a pivotal development. These were often illustrated with detailed designs, making patterns more accessible to a wider audience. Pattern books spread throughout Europe, introducting a variety of themes, from floral and fauna to geometric and abstract designs. Very few pattern book survive now, because they were used in daily life, in workshops – put up on walls and carried around in bags, sometimes even pricked and pounced to transfer the images onto the fabric below. It’s interesting that these books were printed from woodblocks, and existed before graph paper was invented around 200 years after the example below.
Pages from the 1529 edition of Johann Schönsperger’s the Younger’s Ein new getruckt model Büchli (Model Book), 1529. Printed at his workshop in Augsburg. Photo: The Met
Cross-Stitch as an Artistic and Social Endeavor
Cross-stitch became a highly regarded artistic endeavor, transcending its earlier domestic and religious confines. It also continued to be a marker of social status and education among women, with proficiency in needlework being highly valued.
Influence on Domestic and Public Life
Beyond the aristocracy, cross-stitch became more common in all homes, with patterns being used to adorn household linens, clothing, and decorations. Public interest in the craft also grew, as seen in the commissioning of works for public spaces and churches. The Renaissance breathed new life into the art of cross-stitch, elevating it to a form of artistic expression and a reflection of the period’s quest for beauty and knowledge. The legacy of this era in cross-stitch can still be seen in the variety and complexity of patterns and techniques used today, a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability.
Cross-Stitch in the Modern Era
The Victorian era and the subsequent centuries witnessed a remarkable revival and transformation of cross-stitch, adapting it to the changing times and tastes. Victorian Revival In the Victorian era, cross-stitch experienced a significant revival. It was embraced as a hobby and a means of beautifying the home, resonating with the Victorian ideals of domesticity and morality. The designs during this period often featured floral motifs, sentimental images, and moral aphorisms, reflecting the era’s values. Cross-stitch initially was done on naturally woven fabrics like linen, which had an evenness suitable for the craft, though not always perfectly uniform. Even Weave Fabrics The growing popularity and complexity of cross-stitch patterns led to a demand for more uniformly woven fabrics. This resulted in the development of even weave fabrics, where the warp and weft threads were spaced more uniformly, allowing for consistent stitch size and spacing. A significant milestone in the history of cross stitch was the release of even weave fabrics, developed around the 1890s by the German fabric manufacturer Zweigart & Sawitzki who designed Aida cloth. It featured a distinctive square-patterned weave that made counting stitches and following patterns much easier. Its uniformity and simplicity made it especially popular among beginners and those working on complex designs. and it’s still the most popular cross-stitch fabric today. 20th Century Transformations The 20th century saw cross-stitch adapt to the rapidly changing world. It moved from being a predominantly female hobby to a more universally embraced craft. Patterns from this era are still hugely popular and are endlessly reprinted. Two World Wars and social changes that followed saw a natural decline in its popularity, but despite women having less leisure time, it still remained a cherished pastime for many. Perhaps because of the immense mental health benefits it offers. The Digital Age and Cross-Stitch The advent of the digital age brought a new revolution in cross-stitch. Pattern design and distribution were transformed by digital tools and the internet, making it easier to create, share, and access designs for every skill level and the most niche of interests. Online communities and platforms emerged, allowing cross-stitch enthusiasts to connect, share tips, and showcase their work globally.
Contemporary Trends
Today, cross-stitch is characterized by a blend of traditional techniques with modern designs and themes, although traditional designs are also hugely popular. The craft continues to evolve, embracing contemporary aesthetics and diverse cultural influences. Modern craft guilds also support the growth of the craft. It has also become a medium for personal expression and activism, with stitchers using the craft to make statements on social and political issues. It’s also proven to be enormously beneficial for mental health. The journey of cross-stitch through the modern era highlights its remarkable adaptability and enduring popularity. It has continuously evolved, reflecting the changing times while retaining its charm and appeal as a meditative and creative craft. From a simple form of embroidery to a diverse and dynamic art form, cross-stitch remains a beloved hobby for many, connecting people across generations and cultures.
December 31, 2023

Browse by topic

Cross Stitch for Beginners

Patterns and Charts

Floss Organization

Cross Stitch Planning

Finishing Cross Stitch

Travel Cross Stitch

The Joy of Stitching