Looking for a way to relieve stress, keep yourself occupied, reduce anxiety, and improve concentration? I know just the thing.

Arts and crafts.

And today, we are going to see how crafts help heal the soul! And there’s a YouTube Short of mine that breaks it down nicely.

Let the Crafts Begin!

During some dark days of dealing with PTSD, I was in a shop buying some things we needed and decided to check out the craft section to cheer me up. I clearly remember seeing this loom board and wondering what it was. So, I was standing in the aisle of the shop, phone in hand. I had to go and look on YouTube to see what videos were available to explain what to do. I decided I liked how it looked and decided to buy some yarn along with it so I could have a go. 

When I got home, I watched many different videos to find a YouTuber I liked and understood. I watched that video over and over while practising with the loom board.

The Emotional and Physical Benefits of Crafts

I started with a small loom board making scarves. Then when I was more comfortable, I decided to go for the largest loom board and make a blanket. Once I had learned a simple figure 8 technique, I found it really relaxed me as it kept my hands busy. I didn't have to think about anything! I could just watch TV or listen to music. This was a real blessing because, up until this day, I really struggle to switch off and relax.

Crafts also have extra benefits! Here are 5 known benefits arts and crafts have on us:

Reduce Stress, Relax More.

Whether you’re knitting, painting, or making friendship bracelets, crafting helps melt away stress and brings a sense of calm like a warm cup of tea (or a big slice of cake!🍰).

Mood Booster. 

Getting creative is like a natural happiness potion! It helps kick anxiety and sadness to the curb while filling you with joy and a sense of purpose.

Improves Hand-Eye Coordination.

From sewing to sculpting, crafting gives your hands and brain a workout, improving dexterity and making you feel like a true artisan.

Brain Power Booster. 

Crafting keeps your mind sharp, sparks creativity, and can even help keep memory loss at bay. Who knew DIY projects could be a secret brain gym?

Helps Build Confidence.

Nothing beats the feeling of finishing a craft and thinking, Wow, I made this! That sense of accomplishment gives your self-esteem a well-deserved boost!

Time to grab those craft supplies and get creative! 🎨✨

Want to Try a New Craft? Start Knitting!

As mentioned in the video, I highlighted the long rectangular loom knit board. I got my set from Home Bargains, but they rotate their stock quite a bit. Any craft shop would probably sell them. Also, you can buy them online. There are round circle looms for different types of projects. I find the long and small rectangular ones are good for things like blankets, scarves, granny squares etc. Most sets come with a loom knit hook & plastic needle.

I prefer the chunky chenille wool to make the blankets. It’s very suitable for beginners as it doesn't show up the mistakes so easily and it fills the board, so you don't have to worry about having big gaps. The Range sometimes stocks the chunky chenille wool. You can usually recognise it by its size and thickness. I have bought quite a bit of new wool from eBay as well. However, I personally wouldn't buy any other type of wool online as I like to feel the quality before I purchase.

I have several different loom boards from different places. The affiliate links listed below have good reviews. I haven't personally purchased these, but they look very similar to items that I have purchased before.

There are lots of simple step-by-step loom knit videos on YouTube you can follow. Just choose a person that you like the sound of, watch the video, and then practice.

I watched the videos again and again, pausing and rewinding to fully understand how it all works. The blankets in my video are made with the figure 8 stitch which I personally find the easiest for my neurodivergent brain.

If you have any questions or ideas you want to share please email me

at serena@gigglewhileyoulearn.com or comment on the video. 😍

Some links may be affiliate links. This means that I may get a commission if you click on the link and purchase something. Using these links are optional but they are always appreciated. Thank you 🙏🏽

Recommended loom board

https://amzn.to/4hhZqsQ

Recommended chunky chenille Yarn

https://amzn.to/3WJVA3q