What springs to mind 
when you think about the benefits of sewing? There are all the obvious practical aspects like repairing and customising your own clothes. However, there are other benefits too, both physical and mental. If you’re thinking about dipping your toe into the world of sewing then reading this article will push you in the right direction!
The Practical Benefits
- Custom made clothes and soft furnishings.
- Refashion last season’s buys.
- Do your own repairs.
- Save money.
- Make great gifts.
- Adjust store bought clothes to fit properly.
- Upcycle old clothes (helps the environment).
You’re getting ready to go out and the 
button falls off your dress, there’s nothing else you want to wear. Get the needle and thread out, sew the button back on, job done! Same scenario only this time the hem is coming undone. A few quick stitches and you’re good to go.
Your friend has had a new baby 
and you’re struggling to think of a suitable gift. You know everyone will have already bought cute tiny baby clothes, half of which won’t get worn before the baby grows out of them! Make this plush baby toy or taggie blanket. a personalised gift that will get used for a long time.
You like that skirt you tried on and it is such a good price but just doesn’t quite sit right on the hips. Just a couple of cms off the side and it’ll be perfect, a simple task for any seamstress.
You have some spare curtains since 
you changed your soft furnishings or someone gifts you a pair. Upcycle into something else like a Christmas dress or a cute summer dress for baby
These are the more practical aspects of the benefits of sewing; however, sewing has other benefits too.
Physical and Mental Benefits
- Hand and eye co-ordination.
- Research commissioned by the Home Sewing Association revealed that sewing can produce a drop in heart rate and blood pressure.
- Exercises the hands, arms and shoulders
- Keeps the fingers nimble.
- Social benefits (joining a sewing group)
- Enhanced focusing skills
- Confidence building
It’s surprising how much 
movement is involved in making a garment from sorting and cutting out the fabric to sewing all together. Stretching, bending and fine motor movements are all used in sewing.
If I started to think about what to 
make for dinner when I’m surrounded with sharp implements (i.e. needles and pins) guaranteed I’ll end up with a bleeding digit! You have to focus when you sew, which has a knock on effect with your physical health. Any form of intense focus is meditation and I’m sure many of you will have read about the benefits, here are just a few:
- Lowers high blood pressure
- Reduce anxiety attacks
- Help with tension-related pain, like back ache and head aches
- Improves mood
- Helps the immune system
- Increases energy levels
In the study by the Home Sewing Association 
a bio-feedback system was used to analyse responses. Participants were given 5 activities to do, which included sewing. The study indicated that sewing was the best activity for relaxing. Page 34 of the Bernina magazine gives more details of this interesting study.
It’s a very satisfying feeling when someone compliments you on something you’ve made and you can say “I made that.” Good self esteem also equals good health!
Sewing has made a comeback in recent years and there are more vocational courses being offered at local colleges, which have led to sewing circles springing up again.
A great opportunity to get out and socialise and also good for your health!
I’ve outlined many benefits of sewing so why don’t you try it and see for yourself? Check out things to make on my blog and when you subscribe you receive a free book. It has 3 simple projects to make, which are suitable for beginners. I’d love to hear about your sewing projects and what benefits you’ve derived from them. Feel free to leave a comment below or contact me.
HAPPY SEWING!