Long gone are the days where scrapbooking was the most sought-after hobby one could reasonably afford and conquer. With the internet, we can now confidently attempt and master an array of creative crafts, some of which have been around for generations.
Which types of crafts should you take up this year? Step out of your comfort zone and give any of these ideas a try. We’ve included some age-old favorites that are quickly regaining popularity.
1. Pottery
Why try it: Pottery is a diverse practice. Most techniques make use of your hands, which can be very relaxing. Try this craft if you are looking to zone out and end up with a functional piece of art as a result.
How to get started: Since pottery equipment is pricey, start by taking a beginner’s class to see if you like the craft. Another inexpensive option is to purchase some clay you can bake in your oven and start molding. As another alternative, try air dry clay, which is an easy material to use for quick at-home projects. You can make small things such as jewelry holders like the one shown above, keychains, and more.
2. Beadwork
Why try it: Beadworking requires decent fine motor skills and good eyesight (or glasses). If getting a knot out of a chain frustrates you, working with beads might as well. However, this craft is also very fulfilling once you get into the swing of it. How to get started: This hobby is perfect for beginners. All you need to get started is some thread, some beads, and a couple of needles. From there, find a simple pattern to follow and get crafting! You can make daisy chains like the ones shown above, keychains, pendants, and more.
3. Woodworking
Why try it: Many people get started with this craft because they see something they want that would be much cheaper to make, like a picnic table or flower box.If you’re a woman, don’t be discouraged. Though this hobby has been dominated by men in the past, it’s time to get empowered and realize you can craft objects with wood, too. How to get started: Woodworking, like many other crafts, can demand a lot of specialized tools. Either start with a simple box or birdhouse that uses basic tools or register for a beginner’s class. A popular creation is planter boxes like the one featured above. this hobby is best learned with a teacher.
3.Miniatures
Why try it: Creating miniatures is a wonderful way to tap into your creativity. The hobby can go in so many directions, from building dollhouses to painting miniatures. Try this craft if you’re feeling uninspired and are looking for something to reinvigorate your whimsical side.
How to get started: First, figure out what type of world you want to create with miniatures. You can collect figures or make them from scratch. Next, start assembling your collection one piece at a time.
4. Candle and Soap Making
Why try it: Not only will you enjoy a slew of aromatherapy benefits with this hobby, coming up with new combinations and recipes for soaps and candles will help flex your creativity muscles. This is also a great hobby to start if you love giving little trinkets to your loved ones or eventually want to start your own business.
How to get started: Start with simple recipes that only require two or three ingredients. Some soaps and candles might even use ingredients you already have in your house.
5. Paper Crafting
Why try it: Working with paper is not just for self-proclaimed artists. In fact, there are dozens of paper crafts just about anyone can complete. Start this hobby if you’re looking for an activity to do with your kids.
How to get started: Since paper is relatively inexpensive, this craft is very easy to start. All you need to do is pick a do-able project, grab some paper, scissors, and glue, then get creating. These can easily turn into some iconic decorations, like this geometric wall art shown above.