Finding Joy In Simple Things: Diamond Art
How Diamond Art Helped Me Slow Down Again
There’s something powerful about doing something with your hands. Not something productive. Not something that checks a box. Just something that lets your mind settle and your shoulders drop. Lately, that something for me has been diamond art.
I didn’t set out looking for a new hobby. Several years ago my daughter Kimberley introduced me to diamond art. I was really craving a way to slow my brain down at the end of the day.
Life always feels busy and loud in ways I didn’t even realize until I sat down and felt how quiet this made me feel. One tiny diamond at a time.
What Diamond Art Is (In Real-Life Terms)
If you’ve never done diamond art before, here’s the simplest way I can explain it.
A canvas with a design printed on it and each little section has a symbol. The symbol matches a tiny colored “diamond.” (Similar to cross stitch) You use a pen style too to pick up the diamonds and place them on the canvas, one by one, until the picture comes to life.
It’s part paint-by-number, part puzzle, and part therapy. In my opinion more fun!
You don’t have to be artistic. You don’t have to be fast. You just have to sit down and start.
Why It’s Been So Good for Me
What surprised me most is how calming diamond art is. There’s no pressure to rush. No “doing it wrong.” No screens. No noise. No thinking ahead. Just focus… place… repeat.
I’ve noticed my mind quiets almost immediately. And when I’m done, I feel calmer, lighter, and more relaxed. I had taken a break for months. I’m so glad I picked it back up again It’s become one of the ways I’m caring for myself in this One Day at a Time season.
My Simple Setup
I keep things very uncomplicated. I work at a table with good lighting. I like using rechargeable table lamps but you may like using a light box underneath the canvas to help see the symbols clearly, especially at night. I organize the diamonds in little storage containers.
That’s it. No fancy craft room. No big investment. Just a cozy corner and a little time carved out for me. (And Dave sometimes too because he enjoys them)
My Favorite Tools, Kits and Frames
I get all of my diamond art kits, tools and frames on Amazon.
Here’s what I’ve found works best for me:
• kits with clear symbols (my favorites are Disney but there are so many themes available!)
• a comfortable pen with light (it really does make a difference)
• light box helps to see the symbols
• simple black magnetic frames make it easy to switch out finished art
Once a piece is finished, I like framing them in magnetic frames. I like them because I can easily switch out the piece I have displayed. It turns something calming into something beautiful I get to enjoy every day.
Finished Projects I Love
Some of my favorite finished pieces are the ones that make me smile every time I walk past them. Disney scenes, characters, and bright colors have always brought me joy, and seeing them sparkle on the wall feels extra special knowing I created them one tiny piece at a time. They remind me that slow progress still leads to something beautiful.
An Invitation
If you’ve been feeling wound up, tired, or like you’re constantly “on,” this might be something worth trying.
Not to be productive. Not to master it. Just to give yourself a quiet pocket of time that’s yours.
That’s what this season has been about for me. Finding small ways to feel more like myself again.
One day at a time.
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