Quilting as Therapy
August 12, 2006 by Mary Emma Allen
Filed under Home & Living
One quilter recently mentioned that she was so thankful for her quilting projects. In a world in turmoil, quilting was her way of finding comfort. When she’s at her sewing machine, all her and the world’s problems slip away for awhile.
My daughter turned to quilting when her husband was undergoing cancer treatments. She could take small hand projects along with her while waiting at the hospital or doctor’s office. Even though he has recovered and her life has become more normal, quilting is her place of refuge. Also, getting together with her quilting group, as she did yesterday, provides a relaxing outing.
When I had hand quilting projects for customers during my years of operating a quilting business from home, I found that hand quilting was very relaxing for me. It also didn’t require such intense concentration that my mind was entirely off my family and their activities. I could sit and chat and still sew a quilting seam.
I’ve often found people taking up some form of needlework during times of stress. Perhaps we have to concentrate just enough on this project that our mind can’t focus exclusively on our problems or situations in the world and give us a few moments or hours to gather our energy again. Often, too, needlework doesn’t require such intense concentration that we don’t have time for family questions or chat if needed.
Quilting was definitely theraputic for me. I first began quilting when my Daddy had a stroke, and I became his private caregiver. I loved him so much and it seemed so natural to sit there and work while I was also taking care of him. When he passed away shortly after, I made my first from start to finish quilt out of his clothing. It made me feel very close to him, and I can still see him wearing many of the items that I used in this quilt. I gave this first project to my MaMa, and we still talk about the shirts and pajamas and him wearing them today. It helped me through a very difficult grieving period.
I relate to your commet.
I ave been doing the same thing. with missiing my grandkids.