Spending winter indoors can often leave us feeling antsy, confined, and longing for warmer days to return. However, rather than simply passing the time watching Netflix under a pile of blankets, consider embracing the winter season to its fullest. Even when faced with bitter cold, howling winds, and icy conditions, there are ways to make the most of being indoors and enjoy this time of year.
To make the winter season more enjoyable, here are some creative hobbies that can help you combat boredom while tapping into your artistic side. These hobbies might even evoke a sense of nostalgia from your childhood crafting days. Regardless of your choice, these creative activities will keep you cozy, entertained, and perhaps surprisingly content with being indoors for an extended period.
1. Take up embroidery
Embroidery, once associated with grandmothers, is now gaining popularity, especially in the fashion industry. Whether you opt for traditional embroidery hoop designs or delve into hand embroidery to add a unique touch to your clothes, this craft is making a comeback.
Where to start
To begin your embroidery journey, gather essential supplies like an embroidery hoop, embroidery floss, needles, fabric (quilting cotton or linen), scissors, and a water-soluble marker. Numerous beginner tutorials are available online, offering guidance on getting started.
8 colors available
2. Develop your photos and start scrapbooking
Revive the early 2000s trend of digital cameras and scrapbooks by printing and designing artistic pages for your photos this winter. Begin by creating a scrapbook for your 2023 memories and continue year by year if this hobby brings you joy.
Where to start
Along with photo prints, gather scrapbook paper, stickers, tape or glue, markers, scissors, and a scrapbook. Explore local hobby stores for additional embellishments and seek inspiration from TikTok under the hashtag #scrapbooking.
3 colors available
3 colors available
3. Make some macramé creations
Macramé, with its resurgence in recent years, offers a creative outlet for those keen on a bohemian, 70s-inspired aesthetic. Whether you prefer classic off-white designs or colorful woven patterns, there’s a macramé project to suit your style.
Where to start
Get started with macramé by acquiring cotton rope, a wood dowel rod, scissors, and a measuring tape. Refer to beginner macramé tutorials on YouTube to learn essential knots and techniques.
10+ colors available
4. Try your hand at candle pouring
For those intrigued by scents and aromatherapy, candle-making offers a delightful pastime. While group candle-pouring sessions can be enjoyable, setting up your at-home candle-pouring station allows for personalized scents and container choices beyond those offered at commercial venues.
Where to start
To begin candle pouring, gather supplies including candle wax, fragrance oils, heat-safe containers, wicks (cotton or wood), a thermometer, double boiler, silicone spoon, scissors, clothespins, and parchment paper. Online tutorials can guide you through the candle-making process.
5. Relax with an adult coloring book
Engage your inner child by spending time with an adult coloring book this winter. Enjoy this therapeutic activity that stimulates creativity while allowing you to simultaneously meditate, listen to music, podcasts, or watch your favorite shows.
Where to start
Explore the variety of adult coloring books available online, catering to different themes such as plants, interior design, or travel. Pair your book with colored pencils, crayons, markers, or a mix of mediums for a personalized coloring experience.
6. Revisit your jewelry-making roots
Rediscover the joy of making jewelry, a nostalgic pastime from childhood that remains fun for adults. With the resurgence of Y2K fashion trends, bead kits are back in vogue. Choose from classic kids’ kits or modern options to craft unique jewelry pieces.
Where to start
Pick a jewelry-making kit that suits your style, whether it’s a throwback design or a contemporary set. Once your kit arrives, you’ll have everything you need to begin creating your own jewelry pieces.
