How Crafting Helped Me Understand My ADHD Better

For as long as I can remember, crafting has been a constant in my life. From childhood afternoons filled with colorful beads and glue sticks to my current adventures with clay, resin, crochet, knitting, and sewing, I’ve always had my hands busy with some creative project. But it wasn’t until I was older and diagnosed with ADHD that I realized just how much crafting was intertwined with understanding my own mind.

In fact, I named my business after my ADHD—a playful nod to the beautiful chaos that defines both my brain and my creative process. You see, I don’t just have ADHD; I have ADHD about crafting. I can’t focus on just one activity at a time, which means I’m constantly jumping from one project to another. One day I’m crocheting a blanket, the next I’m experimenting with resin art, and by the weekend, I might be sewing a new tote bag. To some, this might look like a lack of focus, but for me, it’s a testament to how my brain thrives on variety and stimulation.

When I first started to recognize these patterns, it was eye-opening. I used to get frustrated with myself for not sticking to one craft long enough to "master" it. But over time, I realized that this constant shift wasn’t a flaw—it was a reflection of how my ADHD works. Crafting became more than just a hobby; it became a way to understand and embrace my neurodivergence.

The tactile nature of crafting helps ground me. When my mind is racing with thoughts and distractions, the feel of yarn between my fingers or the focus needed to shape clay provides a sense of calm. It’s like giving my brain a much-needed break while still allowing it to engage in something stimulating. Each craft offers a different kind of sensory experience, which keeps my interest piqued and my mind engaged.

Running a business that reflects this journey has been incredibly rewarding. Naming it after my ADHD wasn’t just a quirky branding choice—it was a way of owning my story and sharing it with others. I want people to see that ADHD isn’t just about challenges; it’s also about creativity, adaptability, and seeing the world through a unique lens. My diverse range of crafts isn’t a sign of indecision; it’s a celebration of the many ways my brain likes to create.

Crafting has taught me patience with myself. It’s shown me that progress doesn’t always look linear, and that’s okay. Some projects take weeks to finish, while others come together in an afternoon. Sometimes I abandon a piece halfway through, only to return to it months later with fresh eyes and renewed excitement. This ebb and flow mirrors my journey with ADHD—learning to accept the rhythms of my mind and finding joy in the process, not just the finished product.

So, if you ever feel overwhelmed by the whirlwind of ideas and projects in your own life, remember this: sometimes, embracing the chaos can lead to the most beautiful creations. And in the process, you might just learn a little more about yourself too.