Slow Stitching for Beginners

If you’re curious about slow stitching, a meditative and creative textile craft that values process over perfection, you’re in the right place. This beginner’s guide from Forage by LM will help you understand what slow stitching is, what supplies you need, and how to begin stitching mindfully—whether through our online courses, workshops, or curated kits.


What Is Slow Stitching?

Slow stitching is a mindful approach to hand-stitching that invites you to pause, breathe, and embrace imperfection. Think of it as stitching for the soul—not for speed or flawlessness.

Each stitch becomes a moment of presence and reflection.

Common slow stitching values include:

🌿 Sustainability: using repurposed or vintage fabrics
🧵 Visible mending: celebrating the handmade
✨ Wabi-sabi philosophy: appreciating beauty in imperfection


How to Learn Slow Stitching

Ready to start? You have a few wonderful options through The Forage School of Slow Stitching:

1. Slow Stitching 101 Online Course

Perfect for beginners, this online class includes 14 step-by-step video lessons and a complete materials kit. You’ll learn:

  • How to get started with your first stitches

  • How to create your background panel

  • How to embellish with treasured fabrics

  • How to use and display your stitched panel

Learn more or enrol today in the Slow Stitching 101 Course.

2. Join a Workshop or Retreat


Experience slow stitching in person with Lisa Mattock and a supportive community of like-minded creatives. See our calendar of events for upcoming workshops and retreats.


Beginner Slow Stitching Supplies

Must-Haves

  • Fabric scraps or upcycled textiles – old shirts, linens, or muslin make perfect foundations. Shop beginner fabric packs.

  • Needles – choose fine, sharp embroidery or crewel needles that are comfortable to hold and glide smoothly through layered fabrics. Browse our needle range.

  • Threads – embroidery floss, cotton, or linen threads add texture and color. Explore our threads from Alison Glass, Wonderfil, and more.

  • Sharp scissors or snips – for clean fabric edges. See our embroidery scissors.

Nice-to-Haves

  • Embellishments – beads, lace, vintage trims, or buttons for personal flair. Shop notions and vintage fabrics.

  • Project inspiration – keep creativity flowing by following our Facebook and Instagram pages, where we share new products, project ideas, and collaborations with other like-minded artists.


Beginner Project Ideas and Kits

Forage by LM offers a range of slow stitching kits for beginners and experienced makers alike.
Each kit includes:

  • Coordinated fabrics and backing calico

  • Pattern and embellishments

  • Easy-to-follow instructions

✨ Get started today with our free pattern download: Acufactum’s “Fabric Blossom Cushion.”


Start Your Slow Stitching Journey

Whether you’re exploring a creative outlet, seeking mindfulness, or joining a sustainable craft movement, slow stitching is the perfect place to begin.

Join the Forage School of Slow Stitching newsletter to stay up to date with news and events.

Start your slow stitching journey today with Forage by LM — explore our beginner kits, join a course, and discover the joy of mindful making one stitch at a time.