Finding Space for Creativity: My Embroidery Journey

Over the past few months, my embroidery gear had been tucked away, gathering dust in storage boxes while I focused on other aspects of life on the road. When space is at a premium in a motorhome, every item has to earn its place, and at one point, I convinced myself that my creative supplies were taking up too much room. I told myself I’d take a short break, but as weeks turned into months, I realised that something was missing.

The truth is, embroidery is more than just a hobby for me - it’s an essential part of who I am. Creating intricate, hand-stitched pieces inspired by nature and my travels isn’t just about the finished work; it’s about the process, the mindfulness, and the deep sense of fulfilment that comes with it. Without my embroidery, I felt like a part of my identity had been temporarily packed away as well.

The Moment I Knew I Needed to Bring It Back

A few months ago, I found myself standing on a windwept beach in the Algarve, the sun shimmering on the beautiful ocean. It was a moment of clarity - I missed creating. I have since been at my daughter’s house, looking after my granddaughter for a few weeks. This time has given me the opportunity to sort through all of my creative equipment and reflect on what truly brings me joy.

Last year, I bought myself a Cricut Maker 3 and replaced all of my embroidery supplies with a vinyl cutter, a heat press, and boxes of vinyl. As much as I used to love using the laser cutter, the Cricut didn’t give me the same satisfaction. However, I have created some great pieces for friends on the road, which has been rewarding in its own way. But something was still missing.

Decluttering & Prioritizing

I haven’t donated anything, as everything will come in useful, so I have reorganised it all in plastic boxes. The great thing about living in a 9-meter motorhome is the space it affords me. By carefully sorting through my supplies, I’ve been able to make room for my embroidery gear without sacrificing other essentials.

Creating a Space for Embroidery in a Motorhome

Reintroducing my embroidery supplies meant reassessing how I used the available space. Here’s how I made it work:

1. Storage Solutions – My supplies are now packed away in clip-lock boxes in the underfloor storage locker. I keep the essentials inside the van in a drawer, which holds a couple of carry boxes with all my must-haves, as well as my trusty Hand & Lock zip case

   with my initials embossed on it. This case contains my tambour hooks, tools, and scissors. All my beads, sequins, and spare frames live in an outside locker, packed in large plastic clip-lock boxes to keep everything dry in case of leaks.

2. A Flexible Workspace – We’ve found a great solution for our tables. The original table that came with the van was massive and took up too much space, so we replaced it with a functional system that can be packed away when not in use. It has a tripod foot with a detachable leg that fits in the wardrobe when we’re travelling. We have three different-sized table tops, making it incredibly versatile. My trusty metal frame sits down by the side of my chair and comes in three pieces, making it easy to store. Everything is within reach and portable, so I can take my embroidery with me wherever I go.

3. A Daily Creative Habit – To make sure I don’t let embroidery slide to the bottom of my priorities again, I’ve built a small stitching ritual into my day. Whether it’s 10 minutes with a cup of coffee in the morning or winding down in the evening with a needle in hand, creativity now has a non-negotiable place in my routine.

   
   

   

   Undersofa embroidery storage

   
   
   
   

Rediscovering My Creative Flow

Since repacking my embroidery gear and committing to making time for it, I feel like I’ve reconnected with an important part of myself. The joy of stitching, the meditative rhythm of each stitch, and the excitement of seeing a piece come to life have reignited my passion. Creativity and van life don’t have to be at odds - it’s all about finding the right balance and making space for what truly matters.

If you’re a travelling creative who’s struggled with keeping your craft alive on the road, I’d love to hear your tips and experiences. How do you make space for creativity in a tiny home on wheels? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram!