De Touwtjes in Handen

Technological world

In this technological world, we are losing our sense of touch. My generation is completely consumed by social media and always has to be 'on'. We want to make the most of every moment of the day. Many people experience stress and are feeling lost. People try to find a fast way to de-stress. Trying a 10-minute meditation requires too much concentration. Then we end up with our phone in our hands again, hoping that scrolling will offer a form of relaxation. But this constant stream of virtual images over-stimulates your brain and shortens your attention span. We lose the connection with the outside world, but also with ourselves.

A new way of meditating

I was looking for a new way to relax. Less than half a century ago, a knitting or embroidery work in your hand was the most normal thing in the world. Needle and thread instead of a text or a 'direct message'. It was a useful way of working with the hands. I also found out that craft techniques are very good for the mind. The rhythmical movements require your full attention and teach you to live in the moment. It is an active way of meditating.

Patchbinding

Craft techniques are mind-expanding and give the feeling of being useful. When you are busy with your hands, you can concentrate better. This in turn leads to more creativity and less stress. I have completely immersed myself in the world of crafts and by chance developed my own technique: patchbinding. With this technique, I want to show that if you just get started, you can create your own shape and technique. Don't focus on the end product, but on the process itself, then you feel free. By just doing it, it develops naturally. And when we share these processes with each other, we not only connect with ourselves, but also with each other. So put your phone away and take charge, because in these virtual times crafts are more relevant than ever.