100 Days of Trying to Hand Sew Every Day

[@VBirchwood]

I've been working on this video for so many months, and it's finally here! I hope you all enjoy this journey. Do you think you'll try hand sewing for 100 consecutive days?

[@Gypsyblood777]

you are so sexy

[@catherineleslie-faye4302]

I hand sew most of the time the exception being if my hands hurt or when I am in the hospital having a procedure done... Yes I am one of thos folks who takes small sewing projects with me most everywhere and can be found in waiting rooms either hand sewing or reading. Sending you much love and hopes of strong healing in 2024. Please keep honoring your ancestors, it is heartwarming for me to hear of it.♥

[@piccalillipit9211]

Just a follow-up on your post about losing a job / client. Dont let it stress you too much, every setback in life really is an opportunity and Im not just mouthing platitudes. In 2014 I was worth €6 million when I suffered brain damage in a mugging, I lost everything and became homeless. I got myself back together and wrote a book about it, I never tried to regain my wealth, I live a very tiny, very happy minimalist life, I taught myself to tailor men's bespoke historical suits and I am just working on a commission for an Am3ric4n fashion critique who you almost certainly know but I cant name. Tough times are by definition - horrible, but they give us the opportunity to go in the direction we want. When there is nothing to lose its WAY easier to take risks. GOOD LUCK

[@angelanice]

I struggle with consistency and have only committed to doing something daily a few times in my life. Most of the times it was for a month and then I'd completely forget about its existence. The only time it made a huge, lige changing difference was when I committed to organizing a minimum of 5 minutes every day, with no cutoff day to end the challenge. This is because I had read Atomic Habits by James Cleary and was taking a new approach to commitments, rather than saying I want to *be* more organized I adapted the mindset "I am an organized person." Having also struggled with keeping my space clean my whole life, this shift in mindset led to me finding the method of cleaning that works for my brain ❤ I no longer set a timer or commit to organizing every day, but it changed my perspective so much that I've been able to consistently keep my space clean and organized, and turn back to it easily when the chaos of life interrupts my flow.

[@jay_chang]

To me the process of sewing is taking things slowly and stop my mind from running wild, taking a break from the restlessness of modern lifestyle. It is the ability to take control of the pace in life and just not rushing through everything. Recent months the weather is kind of really bringing up chronic pain with all the excessive heat and sudden downpour, which I have been getting into herbal tea and Tibetan incense on sinuses and rheumatic pain on rainy days. It is a feat to stay healthy for a few weeks without days of feeling horrible. Especially with the extreme weather these days.

[@MossyMozart]

Ms Birchwood is, BY FAR, the most philosophical costume historian on KZbin and perhaps the world. She is a special, finely cut and sparkling jewel.

[@annemariegodden]

I was watching another beautiful human being on You Tube the other day, and she said "You strive and strive and strive and think that every failure is because you are a failure as a person, not because you are trying to do the impossible. So you have to give up and then it gets better.” and “We need to give people ways to give up in a healthy way.” Thank you for your lovely film making. You always fill my heart and it's OK to give up on Christmas. It's called freedom. I love that you have remade Christmas as your own, and share it with us. Be well, lovely one.

[@Lovingly_Ashley]

Thank you for sharing that deeply moving quote! I have been thinking about 'failing gently' lately and I am glad to see the practice is being contemplated by others so that the wound productivity culture leaves in us is healed by current and future generations. Take care :)

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you for sharing this lovely quote. Self compassion goes such a long way ♥️

[@esthermcafee5293]

I think it’s very in keeping with the way that our ancestors would have approached sewing - there was probably always mending or preventative maintenance to be done that could be fit in here or there, and then some days everything was perfect for a day of garment making.

[@hanifahibrahim7451]

Sewing to me is like worship, I feel blessed and grateful to have the gift. ❤

[@elziboba]

Such a beautiful message of this video, slowing down finding beauty in little things, thank you for sharing your thoughts and kindness; your videos are very special, bring me so much hope and joy

[@VBirchwood]

Aww thank you so much! 🥰

[@flyingpigfarm1]

I mostly hand-sew every day for at least a few minutes to help pass the time at my job between phone calls. What I make, I wear! Kudos to you for taking on the challenge despite your busy work schedule and your chronic illness - got those both as well. Your videos are always a reminder to me that there are others like myself out there, quietly hand-sewing and wearing the off-beat products of our craft in a fast-fashion world. Thanks for letting me hang out with you!

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@catopig7611]

Such an important message - setting up regular practices and giving yourself challenges are great for supporting your mental health and having the sense of achievement. Giving yourself permission to pause those practices when you need to and not seeing a imperfect result of your challenge as a failure are just as important, learning what is best for you and finding what gives you joy are the best ideas to share with and support others in.

[@VBirchwood]

Agreed! Thank you for sharing 🥰

[@AllTheHappySquirrels]

C-PTSD wounds find unique opportunities to offer healing when we least expect it. I've also found crafting to be an important part of my reparenting and recovery journey. It's hard not to engage with knitting, crocheting, or hand sewing without experiencing mindfulness, gentle failures, and sweet successes. Cheers to battling the lingering beasties with grace and self-compassion 🎉

[@ClamBake7525]

It's always a good day when V.B. is around. 😺

[@bekabell1]

Vasi, you inspired me to try handsewing daily for 2024. I have missed a few days (especially when my youngest grandson was born a couple of weeks ago). There was a point, just under 3 weeks in, when I found it stressful and discouraging - then I recognized that I was putting my emphasis on accomplishment (posting what I finished weekly on my Facebook page) and not the joy of the work. I changed my attitude and the stress left. Presently, I am staying with my daughter who had a baby two weeks ago, to help with the cooking, cleaning, and giving her a break; I have been able to work on a kirtle for my almost 2 year old granddaughter (she gets to go to her first renfair this summer) and some burp cloths for the baby. Both have been a joy and a practice in relaxation. Thank you for your inspiration

[@danielletdg8423]

Congrats on your daily sewing. Also, how exciting for your new grandchild. ❤

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you for sharing this, and congrats on the newly born grandson as well! 🥰

[@Marialla.]

About your reflections at the end of the video: I think you are wonderfully self-aware to recognize what's going on with your own resistance to daily sewing, and I hope you rest easy knowing you gave daily sewing a fair shake. If it had been a particularly good habit for you and your life, it would have stuck more easily without feeling forced. That being said, I think it may have value to look at traditional sewing practice, as it was usually done. Most women seem to have had one day a week that they set aside to focus on sewing or mending. Usually that was right after wash day, when clothes that need fixing would be obvious. Garment sewing takes a lot of mental work to plan and execute patterns and complicated techniques, which if done wrong will result in a bad garment that wasted many hours. So it's pretty high stakes. Mending takes far less mental gymnastics, needing only to salvage something already failing, so there really is nowhere to go but up. It's low stakes, but very satisfying. Then there is sewing just to quiet the mind, which is what most people would use quilts or samplers to do. There are no stakes at all, since it's merely for fun. It's art, so nothing you do can be wrong. And there is no need for anything to fit a body or "perform" in any way other than be fun and beautiful. Also, it's pretty easy to grab your project page or quilt block and stitch for a few minutes of down time, compared to wrangling out a whole dress, and then having to pack it away again. Setup and takedown time, as well as mental concentration needed, must be factored in to the time and effort it takes to "just sew a few stitches" or for "just a few minutes". I love hand-sewing, and often do it in waiting rooms and doctor's offices etc. Scraps of fabric to make a nine-patch quilt block, along with the notions to sew it, are trivially easy to carry in a purse, maybe in a Ziploc bag. For me it's a good way to keep my mind calm and fingers busy during anxious waiting periods. I just wanted to suggest that not all sewing needs to be high-commitment like a historical garment. Light, easy, almost mindless sewing definitely has a place too. Switching between heavy and light projects helps keep our minds engaged at a level that's best for the moment we're in.

[@sewitfits7393]

I appreciate how you share the struggles and the energy management required to be able to carve out time for the things we love.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you 🥰

[@evercuriousmichelle]

“No one tells you how hard it is to sleep at societally acceptable times if you’re a night owl.” Ugh, that’s so me! Next week I’m starting a training program that requires me to get up at 6am and for the past two weeks I have been attempting to wake up at 6am with mixed results. I still am not successfully going to bed earlier though which means I’m just getting more and more sleep deprived.

[@VBirchwood]

Ahhh that’s so rough! I hope it gets a bit easier soon. Being a night owl in our world can be so challenging to navigate 😭

[@evercuriousmichelle]

@@VBirchwood Thank you!! 🥰

[@shutup-gc2yk]

SO HAPPY to hear you're doing better mentally! I felt so full of life when I first started feeling well, it's really a beautiful and healing experience. Here's to always living like that ❤

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you! It truly is such a wonderful feeling 🥰

[@sheshewitchywellnez]

Thank you for being so transparent about your own mental health journey and how you are using hand sewing therapeutically. I find so much joy in watching your videos and really appreciate the inspirational work you’ve put into this space. Both of my grandmothers sewed for their own families and I’m just rediscovering my appreciation for handmade clothes. I recently started to consider getting back to up cycling my own garments for similar reasons but also to reconnect me with my ancestral roots. Peace and blessings to you.

[@alethialovetosew]

Wow! one month ago, I realize that I love to sew because it clears my mind, calms me, relaxes me and allows me to think clearly. I decided that rather than sewing in spurts, that I will sew consistently and make it a priority ( even if I only sew for 30-minutes). Sewing bring me joy and peace and it helps decrease the episodes of me feeling sad or depressed ( for no reason). I love hand sewing of all kind because of the benefits listed above. Thank you for sharing!

[@lianapalumbo8457]

I hand sew pretty much every day. A couple of years ago i became very sick and it really knocked me for six. I couldn't understand why my energy levels were decreasing so rapidly and why i was always falling down and in constant pain. I too have mental health issues and have been seeing someone for 14 years, and i thought it was all in my head. Anyway was diagnosed with a few more auto immune disorders and one needed medicating immediately. I have found sewing and creating to be my saving grace. I opened an Etsy shop and now have been able to combine my love for creating into some pocket money. I hope that you are healing in every way. And thankyou for being so open about your struggles. Love from Australia 🤗 xx

[@EmL-kg5gn]

Do you mind sharing the name of your etsy shop? I don’t have much money spare at the moment but I can note it down for later 💕 I have chronic illness too. I still only have answers for a small part of what I’m going through but I empathise with you xx

[@tinuvianna]

I was going to ask this also :)

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you for being so open about your story as well 🥰 sending love!

[@michellefowlie2188]

I found your channel yesterday, as I sit sewing a 17th century hemp shirt by hand. I love your videos and your approach to clothing. I’ve been sewing for close to 50 years now. My Baba had a needle in my hand when I was 4! But I had to wait until I was taller to use her treadle sewing machine. I have it now ❤️ but I do most of my sewing on a modern machine. Only recently have I really embraced hand sewing as something I want to do, instead of a slow and slightly dreaded part of getting on with the “real” sewing. Now, I am truly enjoying it. I would like to share a tip that changed it for me: prepare 10 or 20 threaded needles before you start. If you wax and iron the thread there will be far less tangling. Thank you for being so open about your health issues. I too have cptsd and other similar diagnoses. I would also encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out for help. It can feel like you’re the only one but you’re definitely not alone. Blessed be.

[@karinkeeble1993]

You are a lovely human being, and have self compassion, which is amazing. Your thoughts and realisations are really helpful to me.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you for such a lovely comment! ☺️

[@sarahogborn8024]

I always respect and admire your intentionality and thoughtfulness that you bring to your craft! Wonderful video as always 💕

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@mrsvickigriffin]

Any type of crafting is great for your mental health! I knit & crochet & sew! But don't feel bad about missing days you're doing a fantastic job!

[@beckyrowe8887]

This video was such a calming reminder to allow yourself to just be. Also I often feel alone in that I process things slowly, so it was nice to hear you talk about it 👍

[@jofoster7926]

Currently participating in crafting 365. I've done these in the past and the most difficult part is remembering to report out!

[@ajnow2063]

I really love watching this video and seeing how you framed this challenge for yourself. I am always overwhelmed, stressed, and scared by the idea of trying a challenge like inktober or other consecutive things. I am often harsh on myself if I don't reach set goals and though I am working to be better about that, these type of challenges still intimidate me. Hearing you frame this as a practice that you are choosing to do, a commitment you are making to yourself and to others, makes it seem much more inviting. Letting your art, your craft be meditative even though you also do it for work is very admirable.

[@teresemarkl8877]

Thank you for sharing your reflections on your hundred days of hand sewing. I think that this can be applied to any goal or craft one loves to do. For me it is knitting, sewing, embroidery and cooking. When the summer comes gardening. So, depending on the time of year each hobby has a front row seat for my attention. I do like all the garments that you have made. Take care and I hope your health improves.

[@tinuvianna]

Gardening, yes! I have to remember over and over again that I do it for the love of the process, not just the results - and that allows me to have grace for my own limitations.

[@kamahskreations1260]

Well done you. You should be pleased with your commitment. I love hand sewing, and embroidery. I also love machine sewing as it has a definite place in my crafting. Crafts have become my life since I contracted/developed/was afflicted by two auto immune diseases about 15 yrs ago (I’m 62 next week). Along the way I’ve developed some other conditions that go hand-in-hand with the autoimmune diseases. The most recent is bursitis in my arms and hands, it’s such a cruel thing. This last two months have been especially painful, and hand sewing, knitting, crocheting etc have been almost impossible some days. Even writing is painful. I’m wearing braces on both hands and wrists to immobilise them so they can heal a little, then I go do some stitching and the pain returns. I had a brainwave that if I taught myself to do all my crafts left handed (I’m right hand dominant) that I’d be able to use the one that hurts the least, but now they are both useless more than useful. I’ve been trying to avoid having the injections, and physiotherapist doesn’t make it go away either, but I will do it so that I regain the strength in my shoulders, arms and hands. Sorry for the rant, I understand your love of the needle, and I also understand being unwell and the depression that seems to come with it. You are a lovely young woman and I really admire your commitment and drive. Keep on stitching.🥰😍

[@BloosSelfReliance]

I love hand sewing I find so much calm in it and a better sense of accomplishment than i ever have when using a machine. I do have machines now but they are manual hand crank machines and i use them to fix my husbands work pants and the zips etc but everything else is all by hand. I find as well that we tend to appreciate and look after the things made by hand more than we do if made using machinery or electrical equipment. Great challenge :)

[@ForestNymph666]

I found your channel recently and really love your style. You are SO sweet, elegant and unique. I also find quite a few similarities between us 🥰 I am trying to start up a mildly sewing related channel and yours is very inspiring for me. I had solidified my love for vintage fashion after finding Rachel Maksy a few years ago, and stand by my love for all the creations i’ve made over the last 2 years. Nothing feels better than finding my style, which I’ve realised to be nurturing over my whole life unbeknown to me. I also love hand-sewing (although I only do this occasionally) and it’s really refreshing to find a like minded individual. I see myself trying to incorporate some more hand sewing in my projects after seeing how much joy and peace it brings you, and the thing you said about it helping you connect to your garments is SO true. I love the process of putting on my clothing, with the linen tent like layers rubbing on my face - it’s like an adventure of it’s own 😁 Thanks so much and have a nice day :-)

[@Lara-oq2se]

Thank you for this, I resonated with so much of your journey. I was brought to tears more than once.

[@catinglasses]

This was absolutely beautiful. Thank you for sharing your reflections and thoughts, I love the peace and self love that you brought to this experiment. I don't find myself wanting to do this 100 day challenge, but I want to bring some of you attitude toward my sewing and give myself space and time for the work to happen in a way that sparks joy.

[@VBirchwood]

thank you so much! 🥰

[@antoinepetrov]

There's nothing better than hearing about your healing and that you are almost fully healthy and ready to live a full life.

[@MommaF8]

Thank you for your beautiful video and wonderful thoughts & insights. While I am a terrible sewer, and gave up on the sewing machine, when I DO sew, it's by hand. Your videos made me look more into hand sewing since I love different types / eras of clothing, & I am actually going to attempt to make some of them. What REALLY struck me about this particular project of yours however, applies to me and my painting, drawing, & sculpting. I have found that I've always considered it just a hobby to do when there was time (I raised 7 children, homeschooled them, and moved around for 22 yrs being an Air Force family!) I am now trying to carve out time daily to work on my various interests. My husband is retired, we live in one spot (first time ever!) and though we have a hobby farm and a grandchild to raise, it's a much slower pace and I can finally do art every day! Now to just STICK with it! :) Thank you & you are in my prayers!

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

As for the medieval food video, I have watched it more than once since it came out. It's so fun!🌞

[@danielletdg8423]

I am so impressed. Congrats on completing a couple things; but like you said, it was more about the process and habit. I haven't been able to sew for about a month now due to health issues (mostly pain and lack of energy), so I even more impressed that you pushed through your health issues even if just for a few minutes. I hope your health issues get easier. ❤

[@VBirchwood]

thank you so much! I hope that your health issues get easier as well ♥️

[@KatieRae_AmidCrisis]

I greatly admire your craft and insights. Looking forward to seeing the completed 1930s evening gown! Wishing you health, peace and contentment ♥️

[@OkieJammer2736]

⚘ What a video AND BEAUTIFUL banner image of you on the fabric.

[@mary5305j]

This video inspired me to make my own commitments and stay steadfast. You always offer a welcoming and cozy feeling on your channel, thank you so much.

[@emeraldoracle8706]

Loving the candles and yes good sleep is soooo important!

[@QueenyCrowley]

That green blouse is absolutely gorgeous .. also the Dress .. I want one bad ;) As for the philosophy of seeking out what was important to our ancestors ... To see where you are going just look where you came from. All the best to you and yours and thank for sharing you inspirational journeys PS. we need more people like you and would not have the mess we have right now

[@Asvoria]

I think I might do this over the summer when my son doesn't have school to work around. I will be opening it up to any fiber craft I do because some are just more practical and portable on days I work.

[@emmawelch]

Thank you for being so open about both your struggles and your wins. I'm so glad you're feeling better, and hope your health continues to improve! I've found that any time money or obligations have been connected to my hobbies they've suffered. I went to school for illustration and some days drawing is almost physically painful due to the anxiety I feel, even though I love it. I don't want those feelings with sewing, weaving, knitting, crochet, etc, so I make sure to listen to how I'm feeling and pick them up when I'm excited (or stubborn!) Wishing you the best!

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much! Wishing you the best as well 🥰♥️

[@LarissaStrijder]

Wow, I usually never comment or uh cry hahah during a video. But what a beautiful video! When I clicked I wasn’t expecting to get emotional. But it really is about much more than needle and thread and I felt that. Also the part about the Holiday’s, just resonated so much. Thank you for your wise words on this and displaying your journey with commitment, it is truly inspiring and motivating.

[@CountryCath]

You have made me think I just how important sewing and crocheting and embroidery are too me I find so much inner peace In them Having PTSD and all the things that come with that On bad days I can sit in the paddock with my horses and do my sewing and remember Life is fluid and tomorrow will be different I have used my hobbies for 50 of my 55 years To help me live a really amazing life Your video where you explained your mental health journey and here Made me see clearly how I have gotten too this point Vasi I am so very happy you are at this stage in your life journey Be proud of you Because you got help and never gave up I am so proud of you ❤ As I know how hard it is

[@pufthemajicdragon]

"It's 3am, who looks good at 3a, right?" You do. If you were fast asleep snoring snot bubbles with drool soaking your pillow you'd still be the prettiest girl I've ever seen! I'm sorry about the months long health challenges. Glad you're on the upswing, but hopefully you make a full recovery :) I've considered making commitments like this for my writing. The trouble is that I feel like when I make a commitment to "Do this thing every day" it stops being a joyful hobby and starts becoming a "job", that thing that I **have** to do rather than the thing I **get** to do. But there's also value in making a commitment and building that self discipline. Some days I have the desire to write but not the "energy" and so I don't write, but maybe a commitment like this could get me over that initial resistance that gets in the way of achieving my goals. Thanks for your videos and your craft and for your cosmic attention to mental and emotional health for yourself and your audience. You're a living embodiment that life is meant to be enjoyed, even when its hard :) Oh, and final thought - I totally feel you on the holiday blues. I have my own grief that comes up that time of year. I'm sorry for you that you have that grief, but I see through these videos that you're navigating it well and is comforting and inspiring :) Thanks again for making my world a better place!

[@Hoot1forever]

There is definitely a glow about you that goes along with your healing. You are amazing and I love your videos. I want to make my own clothes. I love the late 1700’s through mid 1800’s. You’re such an inspiration!

[@elisabethm9655]

Making and keeping a commitment is a major accomplishment. You really showed a way to do this with both grit and compassion for yourself and those around you. Prioritizing a commitment takes courage and perseverance. Thank you for your gentle and deep inspiration. ❤

[@sElfmadecreations]

Your videos often envoke such a strong desire to just cry but smile and be content but furious while absolutely calm does this make sense, I don't know Yet I thank you for sharing your journey. As someone who sews almost daily it needs those reminders to sew for the process, to be there in the moment and not just miles ahead at the expected outcome. Thank you so much for reminding me to slow down

[@stijnvantongerloo9122]

Hello, your mental health advice this video was very soothing & helping for me. Thank you for reminding me to give myself permission to not feel OK during the holidays 💚

[@gracie9658]

The way you think and express yourself is very inspiring. I am glad to know you are doing better and are able to do things you love. I have tried and failed many many times to stick to a daily goal of practicing my hobbies, particularly languages, because I am easily overwhelmed and struggle with concentration. However I have managed to read every single day except 5 this year, which is an "unofficial" challenge as I love reading dearly. I fell in love with handsewing when I discovered costube a few years ago and I only now started sewing actual garments. I find there are few things as rewarding. It's a calming and meditative practice (except for when I tried to sew a zipper haha.)

[@vincentbriggs1780]

Oh dear, I'm sorry to hear about your health troubles! I hope it continues to improve, and I am glad to hear your mental health is good! I definitely relate to putting off a thing until really late in the day, alas. I've been trying to do better at fitting a little hand sewing into smallish amounts of time, but for some reason only certain kind of projects seem right for that. I worked on my braided rug a bit before leaving for work today, but I feel like I'd want a larger block of time to work on hand sewing my jacket lining, even though there's no practical difference in how easy those 2 things are to pick up and put down.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much! ♥️ It’s soothing to hear that I’m not alone in putting things off until late in the day. I’m sure there are many more of us as well! 😂

[@ambivertsorcerer5644]

Hey, I just heard in your other new video that you got C-PTSD and you saying here that your health is strongly improving makes me glad for you. I got similar problems myself, so I know how much of a struggle that is. Keep it going. And thank you for your openness. ~ Greetings from me hand sewing pockets for the first time (it sucks but I like it)

[@defineddisabledlife3463]

I do 100% hand sewing everything, I am severely disabled I am only 32 but bedridden, one of the reasons being severe chronic pain. So for me the best times of day to do anything is in the morning and 5pm as that’s when I have my pain meds so that’s when my pain is at the lowest level. I am also an early bird so I’m usually up at 5am, it takes about an hour for them to start working, So I relax in bed until then. I then go and sit on the couch with a show or video of some kind and sit and sew until I can’t sit on the couch any longer. Then I will often sit in bed and sew. Unless I need to cut out a pattern or fabric in which case I sit at the kitchen table. I can only do that for an hour or so, I am usually in too much pain to sit any longer and return to sitting in bed sewing. I will often also spend a few hours before bed sewing if I am able. I would say I sew 4-5 days out of the week though sometimes I go a week without touching anything sewing related. My goal this year is to learn to use a sewing machine to be able to do the long seams on the machine and the rest by hand. Great job achieving this goal and not throwing everything else out of the window to achieve it, I also really appreciated that you shared the missed days as well.

[@lovelasnow]

I just realized that all of the shots you apologized for are so incredibly cinematic and would be incredible in a documentary or suspense movie

[@TanoxBranar]

This video has inspired so many thoughts in my head that I'll try to get them out in a somewhat legible way. Firstly, so sorry to hear you've been facing some health challenges, I wish you the best! Also, I'd really like to get into learning to make my own garments, historically inspired, and you have been a huge part in inspiring me thus far (it takes me a while to build up the internal momentum to start something new), though I am never sure where to start! I worry that a lot of historical men's fashion is all very tailored, but perhaps research will open my eyes to other avenues. I really admire the wisdom you apply to your self-reflection, I found this video very philosophical and I look forward to pondering upon a lot of what you said over the coming days. Really appreciate the work you do, thank you V.

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so so much!

[@Suebee1988]

Your challenge has really made me start thinking about trying something like this for myself. I'll let you know if I do and how it goes! Thanks for sharing. Love your content.

[@kate-xf3vg]

loved the video, and also, can we talk about how stunning the thumbnail for this video is?!! iconic xx

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much!! I had the idea in my head for about 6 months, so I’m really happy it turned out similar to how I imagined it! 🥰

[@tinuvianna]

Chaotic good, chronic illness, handsewing as soothing and addictive meditation🙋‍♀mmhmmmm. Having grace for myself and my own limitations is a daily challenge - especially when some days are so up and some are so down. Such a beautiful video. Thank you.

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

What a gorgeous thumbnail! It brought me such peace💚🌸 Thank you for another beautiful video To answer your question, I actually have been prioritizing sewing these past few days, but, 100 days of sewing sounds like a potentially achievable ccommitment. In the midst of the chaos of so much else, it can be daunting, tho. To make a record of it, that's 100 days of (v)/logging, tho. Perhaps just 5 minutes? Maybe focus on my mending &/or "wip"s? Knowing I am "allowed" to (hand)sew either after breakfast or before bed every single day, Might bring peace in these upcoming scorching/melting hot days.

[@chophouse404]

I hope you are doing well. I've taken up doing a little hand sewing every evening after dinner. It's been nice taking the slow path. I've been hit pretty hard by depression over the last year, and I feel like I'm finally starting to pull ahead again(the stitching helps). Here's to many new projects and the slower process!

[@mirandaashley]

This has nothing to do with sewing, but I just wanted to say your smile is absolutely radiant! 💗 Thank you for being unfiltered and honest in your feelings, it makes a lot of us feel less alone. I hope you continue to thrive in life, and with your mental health ✨

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you so much! This is such a moving comment to read! 🥰

[@mirandaashley]

@@VBirchwood You’re so welcome, thank you for always being my comfort channel. A place where I feel safe to just be me 💕

[@TheCascadeur85]

What a beautifull, heartwarming video. Thank you!

[@OcarinaSapphr-]

I definitely want to commit to something like this- I have *_so many_* half-completed projects, & I'm a terrible procrastinator. I've felt sad on the holidays ever since 2015- my grandmother died in August of that year- she didn't make it to her December 5th birthday. I've had two extended periods in recent years, where I had to admit I was burning myself out, & just stop- it isn't easy to do that -- it's good to let ourselves rest & recover _before_ we get to the point of burn-out...

[@HosCreates]

Thank you for talking about how the winter solstice. I struggle with the cold winter months,they make me feel depressed . Im looking forward to the sun and warmer days in the coming month.

[@Marialla.]

This is a beautiful video. I appreciate the messages of self-support and kindness along with inspiration to try things. May I say something off topic though? I see your hair is just a bit flyaway around the edges, and since you like hand sewing you might be interested in an ancient method of hair enrichment/smoothing. That is egg yolks. Very simply, you just squish egg yolks (not whites) into your hair, however many you need to coat your thickness and length. Leave it on like a mask for a few minutes, maybe wrapped in an old T-shirt. Then wash it out as if it were shampoo. You won't need conditioner. I found it softened and smoothed my hair, restored shine, and even helped reduce my hair loss. I felt like it really FED my hair! I would recommend trying the egg wash maybe twice a month, just to see if it works for you. Please forgive me if it's rude of me to skew off-topic like that. I just thought you might enjoy the results and it might be fun to try since it's low cost and easy, and historical.

[@VBirchwood]

Hi! Thanks so much for the lovely compliments and the tips about the hair care ☺️ I actually do an egg wash as well (every couple of weeks) and have for a few years now - I have an old video about the technique 🥰 I just have quite a confusing hair texture that I still haven’t quite figured out a strong and consistent system for (sort of between wavy and curly, and it gets really frizzy easily but it’s low porosity). So it’s complex and will continue taking more experimentation to figure out.

[@ScottHebertArt]

just Re: your comment at the end, I have a lot of thoughts about this. I've done at minimum a 1 hour painting livestream for the last 250+ days in a row on my channel. I think mindset is everything. I've done other challenges where it was much shorter duration but I felt so burdened by my commitment. This one has felt very different. I want to paint everyday to see if I can be great at it. I feel very blessed to be in a position where I have created this life where I GET to do it and that I'm physically/mentally healthy enough to have the opportunity to do it. The days that I've had my best work or been the most productive did not correlate with the days when I "wanted" to do it. To be honest I never even ask myself if I wanted to do it, I just put it in my head that this was something I was doing and am steadfastly holding to it. I don't think everyone should do daily, I think most people would do a lot better picking a commitment to do X number of times a week for Y amount hours but at the end of the day having a very strong WHY as to why you're doing it is everything. It doesn't need to be literally every day. There may be seasons of your life where you're not able to do it at all but there's always a reason to NOT do it, but we chase it anyways. I admire the hard chargers, the men and woman who show up to their craft day after day and pursue it with vigor. I don't sew or necessarily want to but I watch because I admire you and your commitment to chasing the things that you want. Excellence is elusive, it's like the Golden Snitch from Harry Potter; nearly impossible to grasp except for a few fleeting moments that require hard work and great risk, but we chase it anyways. Keep going.

[@misskelevra]

I was very touched by this video. I really love the pace of it. It reminded me once again of what is important in my life. Being here for the process. Thank you for it. Lots of love from Århus.

[@landonhall6444]

I've got a basket full of holey socks, torn shirts, pants with split seams and I think k its time to get them handled. You've inspired me. I waste a lot of time daily where I could be productive. I'm going to commit 30 days to try and make a dent in my sewing backlog. Sorry, I don't think I'm capable of doing more. My track record for personal commitment is not very good, but your video has encouraged me to at least give it a shot.

[@kerrie9404]

I just started my sewing journey and I have a sewing machine but I find hand sewing very therapeutic. You can do it anywhere anytime!

[@jckgirlsparkle]

The way you’ve described your recent approach to creative practice reminds me of unschooling-this is exactly the mindset I’d like to approach life with!

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

This was a very nice and thoughtful video. I've committed to doing movement and exercise every day. I have different ones to do so it can be as short as 6 minutes or really long. I find I'm very hard on myself when I miss a day even if it was in my best interest to skip a day. Like when I got sick I couldn't skip all my goals even though it would have been better to just go to bed! So I'm working on cutting myself some slack! I would never say to someone the things that the nasty little voice says. I cut slack for everyone but me! So yeah positive inner voice and allowing myself to miss days or just forget! Thank you for the reminder!

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

After listening to your conclusions & goals about the 100 days, I realized that I don't have any big reasons to do it. I know why I sew and how I feel about it and when and why it is more important to do something else in a given moment, or, on a given day. So, perhaps I should consider this video a reminder to do periodic check ins with my own self and confirm what my current thoughts and feelings are

[@VBirchwood]

I love that idea Catherine! I think that’s a beautiful reflection to have and in general I think self-check ins can be a powerful practice in many areas of life 🥰

[@catherinejustcatherine1778]

@@VBirchwood thank you V. I am happy to hear such wonderfully delineated confirmation.

[@ragnkja]

In German, the last week of the year is “zwischen den Jahren”, literally “between the years”, so you’re not the only one who feels that it’s a liminal time.

[@kateruch7196]

after watching lots and lots of quilt videos and buying a sewing machine, and lots of fabrics (mostly Halloween), I finally decided to do something rather than just watch videos. I am hand stiching a hexi quilt. King size! LOL. I have fear of the next steps, including how to thread the sewing machine. But the quilt top is easy enough. I've been working on it daily since January.

[@ifferl8781]

I'm in bed getting ready to sleep, when you were at a similar point, you decided to sew. I'm gonna play guitar because I'm addicted to this song. I clicked on this video because I love your green dress with a gathered collar. I love linen and wool fabrics. I wish I could learn what kind I want. Anyway. Thanks.

[@KateandBree]

I hope you received a diagnosis when you were feeling very ill and are feeling much better. I have three autoimmune diseases and I understand how you felt on those bad days. It sucks.

[@OutlawDressmaker]

You talk about how important sleep is. It is REALLY important! Being a uni student is difficult. The night before a lesson is SO incredibly stressful for me! Normally, I sleep well...but NOT the night before a lesson. SO FRUSTRATING!!! It is no fun dragging thru a whole day after having so much trouble sleeping. I think it is because I am worried about oversleeping (it happens).

[@secundrabeasley855]

Thank You for this video.

[@charlizebouchard1718]

Thank you V.Birchwood for your sweet and beautiful videos. I’ve just gotten past the into of this video. How it impacted me so!! I’d been having an unusually difficult morning and had a hunch a Quick Look on KZbin might mean finding some good auditory company while cleaning up some of my room. What a great find! I’ve only seen one other video of yours but look forward to sticking around. My best wishes! Charlize.

[@reginaldwelkin]

I really hope you are feeling better. It's amazing how even minimal health/mental issues can impact one's quality of life.

[@lindean2013]

You mentioned CPTSD in your modern wardrobe video- I just wanted to let you know that I completely understand. Sewing and art in general (combined with therapy) is how I’ve been processing and growing into myself through my mental and physical health challenges. My CPTSD is one of the hardest things I have to deal with and having busy hands and thinking of new designs and projects helps combat the more persistent thoughts. You’re not alone in your struggles or in your coping mechanism❤ I’m also a hand sewist and I get so much teasing in a couple sewing circles I’m in. They always ask me for help with hand work, but they’ll also tease me for sewing long seams hand stitching lol

[@nospoonfulofmayonnaiseforme]

wonderful video. I am preparing to start my first ever fully hand-sewn garment, a linen chemise. The biggest thing I have ever entirely hand-sewn is a historical pocket. The patterning is SUCH a hurdle for me, it hurts my brain so much as a beginner. This video is good motivation, I am about to finalize my pattern and try cutting it out. blessings!

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

That was such a beautiful video. I really appreciate that you talked about the struggles with this challenge and that it was not for seeing how much garments you can make, but how can you see deep into yourself. And from disabled person who seems to collect chronic illnesses like Pokemon - I've recently seen something in the lines of 'I live with chronic illness but what's worse, this chronic illness lives with me' and that resonated with me so much, because I'm such a chaos of a person that even my illnesses have to be confused, you seem like kind of that type too, I don't know if it's true, but even you said that you're chaotic good 😂

[@VBirchwood]

Definitely chaotic good! 😂 thank you so much for sharing your thoughts!

[@carolkirkby5197]

I, too, hand-sew and follow no patterns. It's nice to see others who have this passion. Sewing is actually therapeutic and reflective. For what I am about to write, in no way, mean to be offensive. It's just that my heart felt your loneliness so profoundly, I just wanted to share with you what comforts me; bringing incredible solace to my life and my hope is to share it with you. Simply: V. Birchwood, Jesus loves you!

[@habituscraeft]

I recently (34 days ago) had a baby, and it has really made me realize how much one can do in small intervals of time, between the baby’s feedings. Back when I was still pregnant, I had considered setting up some small projects (hats/headdresses, baby clothes, bibs, partlets, aprons, and the like) to take with me to work on while waiting to see the doctors for all those appointments, but I never actually pulled the trigger, because the hardest part of starting any project for me is anxiety around cutting patterns out. But I think I may go ahead and take an interval to just get some baby clothes cut out, so I can just focus on stitching a little, when I am out of the house. I'd like to gradually reach a point where I can do the same thing with bulkier projects at home, but I don't want to put pressure on that until I have become more comfortable adjusting the rest of my self-care around a schedule responsive to the baby's needs, as they arise. I think I would like to be in the position to do a "sewing season" next winter, when my baby is a little older. Learning how to do non-rigid, responsive scheduling is an extremely important life-skill, especially when dealing with unpredictable complicating factors like baby needs or chronic health problems. I can't do rigid commitments like that for a while now, so creating flexible, conditional commitments feels really lovely (and also quite kind to myself).

[@ladylongsleeves3175]

Aww the holidays part made me tear up too, and I really wanted to hug you at that moment. Thank you so much for your beautiful and inspiring insights. I'm doing my finals right now but after that I too will do a challenge like this, but just working on making something every day, not only handsewing. Thank you for your content ❤

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you ♥️ goodluck with your finals!

[@ladylongsleeves3175]

@@VBirchwood Thanks!! ☺️

[@JustAnotherPerson811]

Happy to get to share a piece of your life with you through this video and this challenge

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you 🥰

[@grimnirnacht]

I empathize with you in feeling sad for whatever reason 🖤

[@HealthyandBeautiful]

I loved this video so much! I've only recently discovered your channel but I'm already hooked. I love how you insert your philosophy and musings into whatever project you're doing. It's a very gentle and self reflective way of living. I would love to do a 100 day challenge, but unfortunately my hobbies (metal work) aren't something I can do at home as I don't have an anvil or a forge here. But I think I will commit to planning my projects in advance and making the commitment to get to the forge and the workshop. Thank you for the inspiration! I am looking forward to watching all of your videos!

[@WildflowersCreations]

11:13 The message was so important and meaningful to hear, thank you!!!

[@Ren_Brands]

Great Video i really enjoyed the journey. I hope you are feeling well and wish nothing but the best for you.

[@theartsypixie2771]

When I was a teenager, long long ago in a galaxy far far away. 😂i never finished anything. Once mommyhood happened I realized i needed to fix that. Now at the turn of my century i realize i cant move to a new project until i finish the current one. So i pressure myself to the point it steals the joy from the excitement i had when i embarked on the adventure. 😢

[@SusanDerby-l5o]

you do look quite lovely in your vintage clothes. glad to hear you are feeling better

[@kittyperry]

I love this idea - I think I'm going to use this as an inspiration and commit to hand sewing as well for a length of time. Even darning and mending.

[@Gary-oy1ji]

I just happened to run across this channel by chance..that being said, my hat is off to you for trying to recreate what everyday life was like for people in the past. I'm sure by now that you have a new found respect for the hard work that people of the past, had to endure. By the way...I did Subscribe.

[@ellisburton8733]

Don't forget by hand sewing you are connecting to a rich history and the work of all who hand sew, including people like myself (currently hand sewing a mattress for a camp bed so I can sleep better on the camp bed 🤭) Celebrate that you are also helping to de-stress our poor overworked planet by doing something not reliant on electricity, batteries etc. I'm hand sewing everyday - so I can get a better night's sleep (on my camp bed) 👋🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@ellonblack4165]

I struggle with health as well (mental and physical), so this was a really welcome and beautiful message for me! ❤ I hope things look up for you in the coming days! I'd love to try a similar challenge (both with hand-sewing, since I don't have a machine, and historical sewing, because that's what I like), but as a complete beginner, I have no idea where to start...

[@TanoxBranar]

I am in much the same boat as you! I wish you the best of luck in finding the right method and moment to start your journey, and may it bring you joy :)

[@ireneduncan4538]

I’ve started with historical sewing few months ago with absolutely no previous sewing experience and I found that what worked for me was starting with the undergarments… they’re easier, don’t require much fitting and are very forgiving if you make mistakes… first thing ever was an apron, just start and do it, don’t overthink it, it won’t be perfect, but that’s the beauty of it! Enjoy the process, that’s all you need.

[@ellonblack4165]

@@TanoxBranar Thank you for the kind words! I wish you much luck in your journey as well! 🩷

[@ellonblack4165]

@@ireneduncan4538 Thank you for the advice and the kind words! If you don't mind me asking, which era of historical clothing did you start with first?

[@ireneduncan4538]

@@ellonblack4165 I’ve used black snail 1115 pattern which includes petticoat, split drawers, chemise and bustle (didn’t do the bustle yet) and they are Victorian, using a mix of machine and hand sewing… I’m a total beginner though so with very limited experience but found them absolutely doable… about to embark on my first proper garment now! If you want to go even easier Bernadette Banner made a video on how to hand stitch an apron without even needing a pattern and you can literally use and old bedsheet so won’t waste money in case it doesn’t turn out how you want :-) what historical era are you interested in??? There’s a nice video from fantastical follies costuming which goes through all the eras from easiest to hardest, she recommends to start with Greek/ Roman for total beginners but it’d just be something I’d never wear so 😅

[@raraavis7782]

I wanted to do a little bit of crochet every day this winter. I did not stick with it. Sometimes I wish I was a content creator, for the sole reason, that it would provide me with motivation to actually stick to goals 😅

[@MirA12334]

christmas time is pretty difficult for me. but i also celebrate the winter solstice/yule instead of what society wants me. i do the same for easter and the summer solstice. more calm and quiet in nature than having to force myself to be happy for others

[@VBirchwood]

I love this and can definitely relate! I’m sorry that the holidays are difficult for you too

[@doobat708]

Super cool and admirable that you managed to do this! I have ADHD, and part of that means I am either obsessively stitching, or not at all. This challenge would be too steep for me!

[@VBirchwood]

Thank you!! I’m diagnosed with ADHD as well. It definitely added another layer of complexity to this challenge 😂