You might think that creating a beautiful piece of art with our kits is a good enough reason but there's more...the process of cross stitch is also really good for you! It helps you wind down after a busy and stressful day, creates a relaxing atmosphere and focusses the mind.
Stitching requires you to be mentally present and concentrate fully on the task in hand, thus clearing the mind of any stress or worries (much like yoga or meditation). Hand-eye coordination is always great for our minds and keeping our hands and fingers flexible.
When our minds are responsive, we naturally feel more alert and being able to create something from scratch provides such a sense of achievement. There is something so wonderful about looking at a finished piece and proudly saying 'I did that.'
Other benefits include an improvement in cognitive, emotional and social wellbeing. Research carried out by the Royal United Hospital Bath concluded that cross stitch has a neurochemical effect on the brain by decreasing stress hormones and increasing feel-good serotonin and dopamine. Overall (in my biased opinion!) a wonderful craft for you to try today! Get your own kit HERE.
Being crafters, we're constantly searching for the next project to satisfy our creative needs. But have you ever stopped and wondered when and how the craft we all love so much began? Elements of cross stitch can be found in history for thousands of years, as far back as sixth century BC. Pieces of needlecraft art have been discovered in medieval churches across the globe, as well as inside ancient Egyptian tombs!
Our splash-tastic Ocean Wonder box comes with all of the fantastic quality supplies needed to create a cross stitch project, along with a 6" Elbesee wooden hoop, a delicious sweet treat and useful cross stitch supplies.
When it comes to cross stitching, there are just two types you will come across: stamped cross stitch and counted cross stitch. The two have similar outputs, but the process will differ in some ways. It can be difficult to know which option to choose, so use this helpful guide to help decide which is best for you!
