Quilting is an art that combines creativity, precision, and patience. To reach that coveted “flow state”—a mental state where you’re fully immersed and focused on your activity—many quilters find that the right background entertainment can make all the difference. Whether it’s music, TV shows, or podcasts, these elements can help you tune into your work, maintain a steady rhythm, and make the quilting process even more enjoyable.
Music: Finding Your Quilting Groove
Music is a powerful tool for enhancing concentration and boosting creativity. The right playlist can set the tone for your quilting session, helping you to maintain focus and keep a steady pace.
Choosing the Right Genre:
- Classical Music: The complex structures and soothing melodies of classical music can help you concentrate and reduce stress. Composers like Bach, Mozart, and Debussy are excellent choices.
- Instrumental Jazz: For a more relaxed and spontaneous vibe, instrumental jazz can be a great backdrop. Artists like Miles Davis and John Coltrane provide a smooth, engaging soundtrack.
- Ambient Music: If you prefer something more atmospheric, ambient music by artists like Brian Eno can create a calming environment that keeps you centered.
- Upbeat Pop or Rock: When you need an energy boost, upbeat pop or rock music can keep you motivated and lively. Create a playlist with your favorite feel-good hits.
Creating a Playlist: Tailor your playlist to match the length of your quilting session. Include a mix of tempos to keep things interesting and to match different stages of your project—from the initial cutting to the final stitching.
Check out my favorites to listen to while I quilt here in my quilty playlist!
TV Shows and Movies: Visual Companions
Watching TV shows or movies while quilting can provide entertainment without demanding your full attention. Choose content that is engaging, but not too distracting.
Best Types of Shows and Movies:
- Light Comedies and Sitcoms: These are perfect for quilting as they are easy to follow and provide plenty of laughs. Shows like “Friends,” “The Office,” or “Parks and Recreation” and one of my favorites “The Mindy Project” are ideal.
- Nature Documentaries: The soothing narration and beautiful visuals of nature documentaries can be relaxing and inspiring. Look for series like “Planet Earth” or “Our Planet.”
- Classic Movies: Re-watching beloved classics can be comforting and enjoyable. Choose films you know well so you can glance up occasionally without losing track of the plot.
Setting Up Your Viewing Station: Position your screen at a comfortable angle so you can glance up without straining your neck. Use a tablet or laptop for flexibility, or set up a small TV in your quilting area.
Check out my favorites for “watching” and/or background noise for quilting:
- The Mindy Project
- Gilmore Girls
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine
- Parks & Rec
- The Office
Podcasts and audiobooks: Engaging Your Mind
Podcasts are perfect for quilters who enjoy listening to stories, learning new things, or engaging in thoughtful discussions while working. The audio-only format allows you to focus on your quilting while keeping your mind entertained.
Popular Podcast Genres
- True Crime: Dive into gripping true crime stories with podcasts like “Serial,” “My Favorite Murder,” or “Crime Junkie.”
- History: Learn about fascinating historical events and figures with shows like “Hardcore History,” “You Must Remember This,” or “The History Extra Podcast.”
- Interviews and Conversations: Enjoy engaging interviews and discussions with podcasts like “The Tim Ferriss Show,” “How I Built This,” or “WTF with Marc Maron.”
- Storytelling: Get lost in captivating narratives with podcasts like “The Moth,” “This American Life,” or “LeVar Burton Reads.”
Finding the Right Podcasts or Books is best when you explore different genres to find what you like best. Subscribing to a variety of podcasts ensures you always have fresh content to keep you entertained during your quilting sessions. Many libraries also give access to a digital app that will allow you to listen to several free books a month.
Whether you’re grooving to your favorite tunes, catching up on a beloved TV show, or diving into a captivating book/podcast, integrating these elements into your quilting routine can help you achieve a flow state. This blend of entertainment and creativity not only enhances your quilting experience, but also makes the process more enjoyable and productive.
So, set up your quilting space, choose your favorite background entertainment, and let the rhythm of your chosen medium guide you into a seamless flow. Happy quilting!
Ooh, I have to admit podcasts and audiobooks have become a favorite for “background” when sewing. With the books it’s also like muti-tasking as you can finish a book and a project at the same time! Even better are listening to quilt novels (like those of Jennifer Chiaverini, Marie Bostwick or Frances O’Roark Dowell). Nothing like listening to what you’re doing while doing it! I am able to play You Tube on our TV through a gaming console so I’d add to the “TV watching” list videos by my favorite quilter’s or cross stitch Flosstubes as well. Only problem there is the likelihood of picking up inspiration for a new project or quilty purchase, LOL!