3 Reasons Why Working with Your Hands Is Good for Your Brain (and Your Mood)

We scroll, type, and click away at a lot during the day. But did you know your hands can—and want to—do so much more? Making something with your hands not only brings peace of mind, it also helps you concentrate better, think more creatively, and feel more positive.

Your brain becomes active in a different way, your body calms down, and you experience the direct results of your efforts. It's not for nothing that education guru Maria Montessori once said: "The hands are the instrument of intelligence."

Whether you're working with leather, painting, or making a notebook, crafts connect the mind and heart. And you'll notice that immediately.

But why is working with your hands so good for your brain?

1. You really get 'into the moment' – and that gives you peace. 

While creating, you're completely disconnected. Your mind doesn't have to resolve anything or think ahead. Just the leather, your hands, and the rhythm of creating. That has a calming effect. It's like taking a break from the hustle and bustle—without having to sit still.

2. Your head gets space.

Working with your hands engages different parts of your brain. This creates space for creativity and relaxation. You'll notice your thoughts becoming clearer. Many people even find that after a workshop, they can start something new with renewed energy.

3. You see results – and that's satisfying.*

A bag, a clutch, or a notebook: what you make is truly yours. You hold something tangible in your hands, crafted with care. And that not only gives you pride, but also the feeling that you've done something valuable with your time.

At SA Design, we believe everyone can experience this. And that it's even more rewarding when you work with leather: a sturdy, natural material that ages beautifully and carries your personal touch. 

Want to try it yourself? Below you'll find our creative workshops with leather—from clutches to bags, from retreats to notebooks.

Workshop making leather bag

In this practical workshop, you'll learn how a bag is constructed. You'll choose the model, leather color, and details that suit your style. Then you'll cut, finish, and assemble. The bag isn't sewn by hand, but assembled using professional tools.

• Duration: approx. 3.5 hours
• Location: studio Vinkeveen
• Choice of various models
• No experience necessary
• Make your own leather bag that you can use every day

Workshop learning to make a clutch (hand-sewn)

During this creative workshop, you'll make a handmade leather clutch or pencil case. You'll choose from various designs and learn how to cut the leather, prepare it for sewing, and sew it with strong thread in your favorite color. A wonderfully compact workshop with a unique result.

• Duration: approx. 3 hours
• Location: studio Vinkeveen
• No experience necessary
• Choice of colours and closures
• Perfect gift for yourself or someone else

Workshop learning to make a notebook (hand-sewn)

In this workshop, you'll handcraft a sturdy leather cover for an A5 notebook. You choose the leather color, thread, and style. A sturdy notebook cover is included, so you can use your new leather cover right away—for writing, drawing, or capturing your dreams.

• Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
• Hand-sewn and reusable
• Creative and practical
• Also available as a workshop in Spain with a sea view

Creative weekend retreat in the Netherlands

Want to truly escape the hustle and bustle? Our multi-day retreat is an all-inclusive weekend of relaxation, nature, and creativity.

In the heart of the Netherlands, you'll stay in idyllic lodgings nestled among apple trees, with creative sessions (learning to make a notebook, painting, soap making), breathwork, yoga, massage, and organic meals.

• For anyone seeking relaxation, inspiration and depth
• All-inclusive care
• Creativity, nature and me-time
• Guided by experienced coaches

Give your brain a break! Discover our workshops or join a retreat: creative, relaxing, and inspiring!