Embroidery for Wellbeing

Mary Broddle Embroidery

classes | kits | commissions

my mission

To get people to embrace embroidery, so they have another tool to help their wellbeing.

embroidery hoops

wellbeing benefits

Even the briefest time spent being creative has a positve impact on our wellbeing and emotions. 

Studies have shown that partaking in crafts aids wellbeing:

  • reducing cortisol levels in the blood
  • engaging the reward centre in the brain
  • giving one the space to contemplate one’s thoughts without being overwhelmed. 
  • learning new skills boosts self esteem
  • creates new neural pathways, thus helping brain health. 

Find out about Mindful Stitching

"“Embroidery is brilliant for depression because it allows you to have something to show for your time. So even though it could be small, when you hold something in your hand that you have made it is a symbol of value. It says ‘you have value’. It says ‘this is something I have made’.

Emma Kenny - TV Psychologist and Presenter

"In our social media age, as we become more physically distanced from each other, sewing is a safeguard to isolation, a way to stay in touch with each other: hand and mind working in harmony to convey what lies in our hearts. For me and others, it sustains not just a sense of self but of belonging."

Clare Hunter - Threads of Life: a History of the World Through the Eye of a Needle

"The physical act of stitching also means we cannot dither around online, being sucked into social media rabbit holes. Nor are we watching television. This screen-free time is immensely important to our sense of wellbeing. When we employ mindful stitching, we are also making time for ourselves. This is crucial, especially for the perpetually busy."

Laura Turnbull - The Crewel Work Company

My Story

I’m Mary. I am a chartered engineer, mum of two boys and avid embroiderer.

I want to share my love for embroidery and help others find the enjoyment and health benefits it has afforded me.

embroidery hoops

I can't quantify how embroidery has helped my mental health.

I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. I live with chronic pain and fatigue, and have limited mobility.

I have spent many, many hours stitching and it has helped me cope during extended periods of being housebound.

Back in 2004 I gave up smoking and had an epiphany in John Lewis’s haberdashery section. It rekindled a childhood love of embroidery and was my passion hobby.

I love hand embroidery and I have dabbled with all the traditional techniques, taking classes lead by the Royal School of Needlework and renowned textile artists.

I had to leave my successful 20 year career in Rail Engineering as my health declined.

So I started Mary Broddle Embroidery to share my passion for embroidery and provide me with a flexible route to work,

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