The Art of Slow Sewing; Crafting with intention

In a world filled with fast fashion, disposable garments and accessories , designer bags and purses, the art of slow sewing offers a refreshing alternative. Slow sewing is about embracing a mindful approach to fabric creation, prioritising quality over quantity and savoring every step of the process. 

What is Slow Sewing?

At its core, slow sewing is about taking the time to create thoughtfully crafted pieces with attention to detail. It's about cherishing the journey of making, rather than rushing to the finish line. By slowing down and immersing ourselves in the act of sewing, we can create fabrics that are not only beautiful but also sustainable and meaningful.

Choosing the Right Fabrics

When it comes to slow sewing, the choice of fabric is crucial. Opting for high-quality, natural fibers is key to creating fabrics that stand the test of time. Also using fabrics already in your stash, incorporating loved ones old garments or scouring charity shops can bring you a sense of great achievement.  Here are some fabrics that are well-suited for slow sewing projects:

• Cotton: Soft, breathable, and versatile, cotton is a classic choice for slow sewing projects. Whether you're making a cozy quilt or a lightweight blouse, cotton fabric lends itself well to a variety of techniques.

• Linen: Known for its durability and timeless elegance, linen is a favorite among slow sewists. With its natural texture and beautiful drape, linen fabric adds a touch of sophistication to any garment.

• Wool: Perfect for cooler weather garments, wool is a luxurious choice for slow sewing projects. From cozy sweaters to tailored coats, wool fabric provides warmth and comfort while exuding understated style.

• Silk: For special occasion garments or delicate lingerie, silk is an exquisite choice. With its smooth texture and lustrous sheen, silk fabric adds a touch of luxury to any sewing project.
•  Recycled: fabrics picked up from charity shops and destash markets.
• Slow sewing fabric packs - colour cordinated packs of fabric, lace and cottons.

Techniques for Slow Sewing

In addition to choosing the right fabrics, incorporating certain sewing techniques can enhance the slow sewing experience. Here are a few techniques to consider:

1. Hand Stitching: While sewing machines offer speed and efficiency, there's something special about hand stitching.  Running stitch, back stitch, rice stitch, blanket stitch and french knots can be used to create simple shapes, delicate embroidery or hand-finished seams.

2. Mending and Darning: Instead of discarding garments with minor imperfections, embrace the art of mending and darning. By repairing and reinforcing worn areas, you can breathe new life into old favorites and reduce waste. Try your hand at intentional visible mending..For mending holes in knitting 

 By embracing the principles of slow sewing—choosing quality or recycled fabrics, savoring the process, and incorporating thoughtful techniques—we can create fabrics that reflect our values and stand the test of time. So, the next time you embark on a sewing project, consider slowing down, embracing the journey, and crafting with intention.

 At the beginning of the year I promised myself that I was going to take care of me this year.

I have taken time out to embark on mindful activities, thinking these may help my mental health (well they couldn't harm me). My local village Slaithwaite is great for delivering crafty workshops and finding those that I could throw myself into was easy. 

So what is Zentangling?  I think of it a form of doodling but a bit more structured and yet it isn't. An abstract art form of repetitive patterns drawn on paper usually with a black marker pen. The patterns can be various forms of hash lines, circles, triangles, squares, flowers, spirals, paisleys, etc. The overall image can be something familiar like a bird or a flower, or any geometric or abstract shape.

Today, I wondered whether it was possible to create Zentangled knitting, some mindless knitting that was more abstractly creative than the knitting you do in front of the TV.
I thought about the different knitting techniques and how I would use them in Zentangle designs, for example with Fair Isle patterns I could use simple repeating motifs and geometric shapes working in 2 contrasting colours (ie black and white); lace patterns could be used to incorporate repeating shapes and intricate details. With cables and travelling stitches I could take my knitting off in different directions and the duplicate stitch technique could be used  to add Zentangle-inspired motifs directly onto the surface of the fabric.