Are you craving a calm and creative escape? Look no further than the soothing art of cross stitching. This time-honored craft has the power to relax your mind and rejuvenate your spirit, all while creating beautifully fun designs. But with the demands of daily life, finding time for your beloved cross stitch project can feel like a challenge.

I'm here to help. Here are five strategies to help you make much-needed time for cross stitching. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned stitcher, these strategies will help you carve out dedicated me-time for cross stitching.

1) Prioritize self-care.  Making time for cross stitching starts with recognizing the importance of pursuing activities that bring you joy and relaxation. It's about shifting your mindset and making you a priority.

To begin, set realistic goals for your cross stitching. Break down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks. This way, you can make progress even if you only have a few minutes to spare. Set aside specific time slots in your schedule dedicated to cross stitching, just as you would for any other important appointment.

Remember, hobbies are not a luxury; they are an essential part of self-care. By making time for cross stitching, you're investing in your mental and emotional well-being, which ultimately benefits every aspect of your life.

2) Have a dedicated space for cross stitching.  This makes a world of difference in carving out me-time. Designate an area in your home where you can set up your stitching supplies and work comfortably. This could be a corner of your living room, a spare room, or even a portable stitching station.  Extra kudos for being able to keep your supplies out and ready to go.

Keep your supplies organized and easily accessible, so you don't waste precious time searching for materials. At a minimum, I would recommend investing in a large basket so you can drop in your supplies quickly.

Having a dedicated space not only eliminates the setup time but also serves as a visual reminder of your commitment to cross stitching. It creates a sense of ritual and makes it easier to transition into your stitching sessions.  As a mom, your dedicated space would also be a signal to those kiddos.

3) Change your mindset that cross stitching is all or nothing.  One of the main challenges that I encounter is the perception that cross stitching is so time-consuming. Many people believe that they need large blocks of uninterrupted time to engage in this craft.  If I have 15 minutes, I've been known to stitch a bit. 

When my boys were young and in organized sports, I would drop my supplies in a tote bag and whip it out in my car while watching their football practice, or while sitting in the bleachers during basketball practice.

4) Make cross stitching a regular part of your life.  I think it's vital to incorporate stitching into your daily routine. By weaving it into your existing habits, you're more likely to stick with it and make progress on your projects.

For example, if you enjoy watching TV in the evenings, consider using that time to stitch while you relax. Or, if you have a morning ritual of enjoying a cup of coffee or tea, use that quiet time to work on your current project. By aligning cross stitching with activities you already enjoy, it becomes an effortless and enjoyable part of your day.

Additionally, you can use cross stitching as a way to unwind before bed. The repetitive motion and focus required can help calm your mind and prepare you for a restful night's sleep. By making cross stitching part of your bedtime routine, you're setting yourself up for a peaceful and rejuvenating night.

5) Encourage your children to take up cross stitching. In a world dominated by screens and instant gratification, it's refreshing to find an activity that can captivate children's attention while fostering their creativity and learning. Cross stitching, is a wonderful hobby for building relationships. This timeless art form not only keeps little hands busy but also opens up a world of possibilities for self-expression as well as helping you indulge in your cross stitching project.

Cross stitching encourages children to concentrate, follow patterns, and develop fine motor skills. As they carefully thread colorful needles through the fabric, they learn patience, persistence, and attention to detail. Plus, the feeling of accomplishment that comes with completing a stitching project boosts their confidence.

Looking for your next amazing cross stitch project?  Check out all my cross stitch kits and digital patterns.