The end of summer often feels like the end of hobbies. However, there are plenty of ways to stay active and have fun during the colder months. Below, we’ve compiled a list of year-round cheap hobbies that you can take up straight away!
What hobby should I start?
Taking up a hobby is a great way to be productive during your downtime. But, with so many options, picking the right hobby can be a daunting task. Here are three questions to consider when deciding on a new hobby:
- Do you want to be active or resting?
- Do you want to make something?
- How much time do you want to dedicate to your hobby?
Whether you’re starting a new hobby or picking up where you left off, the most crucial factor in your decision is whether you enjoy it. Choosing a new hobby doesn't need to be a stressful decision. Remember, if you don't like it, you can choose something else! Once you've made a decision, it's a good idea to research anything you'll need to do your new hobby, like equipment, so you're prepared before you begin.
What are good indoor hobbies?
An excellent indoor hobby can be anything from crafts to exercise. With the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, indoor hobbies are perfect for everyone, whether or not you need to shield during the winter months.
You can find a list of five fantastic indoor hobbies below. You could also do many of these hobbies in the garden when the weather is nice. Let us know in the comments if you have any suggestions you’d like to add to the list.
1. Machine sewing
Cost level: medium
What you’ll need to buy: sewing machine, fabric, comprehensive sewing kit (including thread, scissors, seam ripper, etc.)
Many of us have tried our hand at sewing before. For some, the idea of a sewing machine conjures images of school projects gone wrong. Do you remember accidentally cutting a cushion cover in two or somehow tying a giant knot instead of threading the machine? The good news is, sewing at home is a much more relaxing and rewarding activity!
In recent years, sewing has become an increasingly popular hobby, triggering a wave of helpful blogs and YouTube Videos to guide viewers. There are brilliant free videos for beginners that feature mini-projects to get you started right away. It’s a good idea to have some cheap material to hand so you can practice as you follow each step. You may also be able to find a local sewing class or group that offers support and lessons.
Michelle Peters, from Made By Me Crafts, told Age Times: "My favourite hobby for cooler months is anything involving wool. Whether it's getting to grips with crochet hooks, knitting a scarf or making pom pom animals, you just need wool, hook or knitting needles and willingness to learn. There's a wealth of free tutorial videos online."
2. Online exercise classes
Cost level: low
What you’ll need to buy: dependant on the type of activity
Online exercise can take many forms. Choosing between high and low-intensity classes is a great place to start. Once you’ve determined this, you can try full workouts, yoga, stretching, or even dancing. There are free video classes available on Facebook, YouTube, and many gym websites.
It's essential to research the type of exercise you choose to find out whether you need any special equipment and whether it's suitable for you. The necessary equipment may be relatively simple, such as mats or household items like chairs. Additionally, choosing a professional online teacher will help to ensure that any exercises are beneficial and good for your wellbeing.
3. Cooking like a professional
Cost level: medium
What you’ll need to buy: ingredients, cooking equipment
Many of us find ourselves stuck in a cooking rut. We use the same recipes, ingredients and equipment every day. So, how can you explore new cuisines and create delightful new dishes? There are two main options:
Cook by the meal
Selecting a specific meal or cuisine is a brilliant way to focus your skills. Once you’ve decided what you’d like to cook, you can explore online recipes. You can find fantastic recipes from well-known cookbooks, on websites such as BBC Good Food or by searching the name of the dish on Google. Online recipes often have reviews for each meal and suggestions in the comment section about how to improve your creation.
Cook with a course
Cookery classes are available in a wide range of formats. Prices usually vary from free to £100 for beginners' courses. Many local authorities offer year-round subsidised lessons for residents. At the same time, some restaurants offer cookery schools or one-off classes. If you'd prefer to learn in the comfort of your own home, why not take a look at free YouTube cooking courses?
4. Volunteering from home
Cost level: low
What you’ll need to buy: usually nothing
Volunteering doesn’t have to be an out-of-the-home activity! There is an abundance of opportunities to take advantage of, right from your sofa. Websites such as Do-It.org list openings by region, including at-home projects. Options include online magazine editing, organising virtual events, advocating, and more.
There may also be local opportunities available. During Covid-19, communities around the country came together to support isolated neighbours and shielding groups. Many communities may bring such schemes back into action during a second coronavirus wave, creating a need for telephone support volunteers once again.
5. Becoming a DIY expert
Cost level: medium
What you’ll need to buy: dependant on the project
DIY is an accessible hobby for almost anyone. For novice DIY practitioners, it’s best to begin small and do one task at a time. If you ever look up and find yourself surrounded by half-finished jobs and paint tins, it might be time to call in some help!
Projects don’t have to be large scale to look stunning. You could focus on one area of the house that you’d like to improve and create a list of ideas to see what looks best. Here’s a list of simple DIY projects to get you started:
- Painting your front door.
- Changing the handles on cabinets.
- Creating your own planters.
- Installing new shelves.
- Adding wallpaper to make a feature wall.
Discovering cheap hobbies
The hobbies listed above are all within the low-medium price range. However, hobbies will become as expensive as you make them. As a beginner, you don’t need the best gear or professional standard tools. As long as you have the right equipment to stay safe during your hobby when you start, you can build up your collection as you progress.
Please leave us a comment below with your favourite cheap hobbies. If you’d like to find out about more activities to take up, check out our other lifestyle articles here.
