Stitch by Stitch: Finding Solace in Sewing and Quilting with Chronic Illness

In 2018 I was diagnosed with COPD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. I was 47, and at the time, after all of the tests, I was told that my lungs were the same as a 72 year old. I was gutted, I was so upset. I knew I wasn’t well, and hadn’t been for some time, however I thought it was my asthma that was getting the better of me. It was a huge blow to be honest and one that has taken some time to get used to.

I had been sewing for a few years at this point, and suddenly found myself throwing more of my time into my quilting. It wasn’t a conscious thing, I don’t remember making that decision to spend more time sewing, it just gave me solace. It wasn’t just about the actual sewing or quilting, I found that I was researching more, creating my Pinterest Boards, following more quilters on Instagram and Facebook and watching and learning new sewing techniques from videos. It was a way for me to switch off from my thoughts, and that my health would only deteriorate from now on in.

Now I am being a bit dramatic there, but all of a sudden I felt like I couldn’t cope with it all, and every time I got a chest infection I would lose a bit more of my lung capacity – which you can never get back. So throwing myself into the world of quilting was probably one of the best things that I could of done.

I want to talk in this blog about the benefits of sewing and quilting for those living with a chronic illness. For many, sewing is more than just a hobby, it provides a creative outlet, a sense of accomplishment and a way to manage our symptoms and stress.

The Healing Power of Creativity

Engaging in creative activities like sewing and quilting can serve as a form of meditation. I have found that the repetitive motions of chain piecing or trimming blocks help me focus, reducing my stress levels and calming my mind.

Sewing and quilting can provide a sense of purpose and achievement, especially when you are trying to combat feeling of helplessness and low mood or depression. The act of creating something is more powerful than you think.

Creating something with your hands can be incredibly satisfying and provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life, and when I have found myself getting panicky my sewing has helped calm me down.

Managing Chronic Pain Through Sewing

Some sewing requires a high level of focus and attention to detail. I have found that this concentration can serve as a distraction when my breathing is not as good as it should be, and it helps to pull my mind away from the discomfort and into the present moment.

Engaging deeply in a creative project can provide a form of mental escape, reducing the perception of pain, and if you have a chronic illness the mindful motions of sewing and quilting can serve as a form of physical therapy, helping to manage chronic pain.

Building a Supportive Community

There are a lot of social aspects to sewing and quilting, and since the pandemic there are now lots more online sewing groups, sewing at home whilst on Zoom, online workshops etc. It has really opened it up for a lot of people who previously weren’t able to get to meet others in person, and let’s face it, carrying your heavy sewing machine and supplies can take it’s toll on someone with a chronic illness.

There are many quilting groups and online communities that can provide a support network, reducing the feelings of isolation and creating a sense of belonging.

I have my own Facebook Group now, called Made on the Cut, and I want that to be a place that is inclusive, and where people can feel comfortable. I have popped the link just below, and you can join us if you would like to.

Made on the Cut, quilting and sewing group | Facebook

I would recommend finding an on-line community, there are many out there now, either on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Enhancing Cognitive Function

Cognitive functions refer to mental abilities such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Sometimes chronic illness can have an affect on some of these, I know that when I am poorly my attention span is low and solving the simplest of problems feels like too much for me.

Sewing can be a meditative activity that helps reduce stress and increase relaxation, it is great for stress relief. My advice is when you are feeling stressed, try sewing your simpler projects, rather than tackling anything too complicated.

We know that we need fine motor skills for sewing, and it can improve our hand-eye coordination and dexterity, this can be hand sewing, cross stitch, tapestry, sashiko etc. It is a great way to improve our motor skills.

And let’s not forget mindfulness, sewing, knitting, crochet, whatever you are into can really help you get into the moment, concentrate on what you are making and help you sustain attention for longer periods of time.

Combining cognitive techniques with sewing can create a holistic approach to well-being, engaging both your mind and hands in meaningful activities.

Personal Empowerment and Confidence

Sewing and quilting can definitely boost our self-esteem, and I find that it gives me a sense of empowerment. What I mean by this is, starting a project and finishing it gives me that sense of control. I made something when I was not feeling at my best, and I have finished a project, which in turn makes me feel better.

These activities provide a creative outlet for self-expression, allowing us to channel our emotions and thoughts into something tangible and beautiful, and there is nothing more rewarding than that.

To finish off

Sewing and quilting offer more than just a creative escape; they provide tangible benefits for those living with chronic illnesses. From physical pain management to emotional support and cognitive enhancement, these crafts can empower us to take control of our well-being in meaningful ways.

Whether you're an experienced quilter or just picking up a needle for the first time, the therapeutic power of sewing and quilting can instil a sense of accomplishment and price, boosting our self-esteem and confidence.

If you would like to try quilting for yourself then why not have a look at my beginner friendly quilt patterns.