If you’re looking for some fun hobbies to do at home, we’ve got you covered! Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you have to be bored. Discovering new hobbies can bring a sense of happiness, calmness, and satisfaction to your life. Whether you’re someone who enjoys alone time or prefers indoor activities, we’ve put together a list of 30 ideas to spark your imagination.

What Are Some Good Ideas for Hobbies to Do at Home?

With lots of indoor hobbies to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Here are 30 ideas to get you started:

1. Painting

Painting is an ideal hobby to do at home.

All you need is a paintbrush, paints and something to paint on. There are a variety of paints to choose from including watercolour, acrylic, gouache and oil. For beginners, I recommend acrylic paints because they are easier to clean than oil paints and more forgiving than watercolour.

The choice is up to you but if you want an easy place to start then try a paint-by-numbers set. You can create beautiful works of art with the paint sets and it is a peaceful and relaxing hobby. Painting is one of my favourite hobbies to do at home and recharge when I feel overwhelmed.

2. Journaling

Journaling is a great way to keep track of how you feel and what you have been up to. It is gratifying to have a record of days and look at your progress. You can journal about dreams, desires, future plans, fitness, food, and everyday occurrences. We have a post all about bullet journalling which is a creative way of journalling.

3. Baking

Baking can bring joy to the whole house. The smell of fresh cookies is irresistible.

Most of the ingredients you need to start baking are already in your cupboard. If you would like to start baking there are a few free ways you can find recipes:

• Cooking shows: watch your favourite chefs and note down any recipes that inspire you. The recipes are usually on their website too if you prefer that format. My favourite baking show is Bake Off!
• TikTok or YouTube: Lots of people share recipes online through video content. It’s a handy way to learn new recipes quickly. Video content is good for visual learners or anyone who struggles with dyslexia.
• Food blogs: another easy way to find recipes is by searching on Pinterest and these link to recipes.
• Recipe books: Have a trip to the library and pick up some cookbooks.

Mary Berry is the queen of baking. This cookbook is a great starting point for your baking hobby. It is beginner friendly and has beautiful photography throughout.

4. Photography

Whether you are interested in capturing breathtaking landscapes, cute pets, or spontaneous moments with your loved ones, photography is a way to express yourself. Unleash your creativity, play with different angles and lighting, and observe as your photography abilities flourish.

You can start with a digital camera or a smartphone. Also, you can experiment with photo editing programs to enhance your photos. There are many apps you can use to enhance your photos using your smartphone.

5. Indoor Gardening

Bring your garden indoors. You can get some beautiful plant pots to match your home decor and grow a variety of plants. Indoor plants can be easy to maintain. Herbs can be used to enhance your cooking whilst filling your house with beautiful aromas.

Trailing plants can transform a room and make it more homely. Some plants have health benefits and improve airflow around the house.

To get started have a look at the plants at your local supermarket or garden centre. Car boots are a great option for budget-friendly plants.

6. Learn an Instrument

Why not grab an instrument and start jamming? Whether it’s strumming on a guitar or tinkling on a piano, making music is super fun. Plus, it’s a great way to unwind and express yourself.

If you’re serious about learning then you could hire an online tutor to help you learn.

Have a look in your local music shop for more information about learning to play an instrument. They will give you advice on where to start and different options for learning.

7. DIY Crafts and Home Decor

If you enjoy adding a personal touch to your home decor and gifts, then I have some great ideas for you. You can create delightful handmade items and upcycle old treasures. The possibilities are endless, and with a little creativity, you can turn everyday objects into unique and beautiful works of art.

8. Puzzle Solving and Brain Teasers

Solving puzzles and brain teasers are fantastic options! You can challenge yourself with crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or even tricky riddles. You’ll get a great sense of satisfaction from solving these puzzles, and you’ll be keeping your mind sharp at the same time.

9. Meditation and Yoga

Take some time to chill, unwind, and get in touch with your inner self. Whether you’re into morning stretches or calming meditation, these practices bring you peace and help you find your balance amidst the chaos of life.

There are many ways to start yoga or meditation at home. These include:

• Joining a virtual class or live lesson: If you are tech savvy then have a look on Instagram or TikTok for live classes.
• Ask a friend: Have a look through your contacts to find a friend who already does yoga or meditation. You could ask them to come round and give you a lesson.
• Books or blogs: if you prefer to read then have a look for yoga and meditation books. There are also plenty of blogs (similar to this one) dedicated to yoga and meditation.

10. Board Games

Gather your family or friends for a fantastic board game session. From classic games like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern favourites, board games provide endless laughter, friendly competition, and quality bonding time.

Buy second-hand board games from charity shops. For a free option, ask family and friends to bring around their board games.

11. Reading

Start by identifying your interests – do you enjoy mysteries, romance, or sci-fi? Once you have an idea of what you like, head to your local library or bookstore to browse the shelves. You can also check out online retailers like Amazon or Book Depository. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from friends or online book communities. And remember, reading is a personal journey, so take your time with this hobby for home.

If you need inspiration then check out our blog post on how to start reading.

Why not try a free trial from Audible? You get the first month free and there’s no contract so you can cancel whenever. My favourite Audiobooks are the Harry Potter books narrated by Stephen Fry.

12. Virtual Learning

Fuel your curiosity with online courses and workshops! Virtual learning offers a wealth of opportunities to explore new subjects and enhance your skills from the comfort of your home. Whether it’s art, photography, coding, or cooking, the world of knowledge is just a click away.

For a free option try YouTube. There are many channels that offer frequent videos on specific subjects.

13. Knitting and Crocheting

Time to get cosy and creative with knitting and crocheting! Pick up those knitting needles or crochet hooks and craft warm scarves, cosy blankets, or adorable amigurumi. This is a good hobby to start if someone in your family or friend group is having a baby.

You can pick up crochet or knitting by reading books or watching videos online. You could video call friends who also crochet or knit and start a monthly club. Yarn and needles or crochet hooks are fairly cheap too so it’s a great low-cost hobby.

Did you know: famous knitters include Krysten Ritter, Tom Daley, Uma Thurman, Katy Perry and Misha Collins.

14. Indoor Exercise and Fitness

Stay active and healthy at home with indoor exercise routines. From yoga flows to high-intensity workouts, you can break a sweat and boost your energy levels without leaving your living room. Feel the endorphins kick in as you stay fit and fabulous.

Engaging in indoor exercise can have a profound impact on mental health. According to a study by Harvard Health Publishing, individuals who regularly participate in indoor physical activities, such as indoor workouts, yoga, or dancing, experience a significant reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety, with as much as a 30% improvement in overall well-being. (Source: Harvard Health Publishing )

Find something you enjoy doing so that you stick to it. It’s meant to be a fun hobby for home and not a chore!

15. Cooking

I know we had baking earlier but cooking is completely different! This fits well with the fitness hobby too. There is a lot to learn about food, nutrients and the psychology behind eating. You can also try different cuisines.

When you do cooking for fun (and not a necessity) then it becomes more enjoyable.

To start make a list of your favourite meals and research different ways to make them from scratch. This could be homemade pizza dough or pasta. Something that you wouldn’t normally make from scratch.

16. Pottery and Clay Modeling

Sculpt unique pieces, from decorative vases to personalised mugs, and let your hands shape something extraordinary. Working with clay is not only therapeutic but also a wonderful way to create functional art for your home.

Pottery is super messy so this is the perfect hobby to do in the shed or outhouse.

Clay is fairly cheap to buy and you can get air dry clay so you don’t need a kiln. Alternatively, you can find a local pottery studio and ask to use their kiln!

17. Calligraphy and Hand Lettering

Discover the art of calligraphy and hand lettering to add flair to your notes and designs. Whether it’s elegant wedding invitations or motivational quote posters, mastering the art of beautiful lettering will elevate your creative projects.

Save money on greeting cards by making your own. This is also a hobby that you could turn into a side hustle if you enjoyed it.

Try a calligraphy set for beginners to get started.

18. Candle Making

Candle-making is such a fun hobby for home. I remember having a candle-making kit as a teenager and it was one of my favourite Christmas presents.

This hobby for home allows you to explore endless combinations of scents, colours, and shapes, making each candle truly unique. Candles are expensive to buy so making your own is a low-cost alternative. If you have a favourite candle then you can re-create it.

Gift your candles to family and friends for birthdays and celebrations.

19. Origami and Paper Crafts

The term origami comes from the Japanese words oru (to fold) and kami (paper). The art of paper folding is fascinating and a perfect hobby for home. It’s amazing how a sheet of paper can be transformed into a beautiful creation. From delicate animals to stunning ornaments, the possibilities are endless.

All you need is paper to get started or you could invest in origami books for adults.

20. Drawing

Learning to draw is a skill that anyone can develop with practice and patience. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience, there are practical ways to get started. One great way is to start with basic shapes and lines, such as circles, squares, and triangles. This will help you understand how to create form and proportion.

Another useful tip is to practice drawing from observation, such as still-life objects or people. This will help you improve your eye-hand coordination and develop your own style. Try a website called Line of Action. It provides a slideshow of reference images to practice quick sketches. Each image is shown for a set time so you don’t get stuck on details.

Additionally, taking online art classes is a great way to learn new techniques and get feedback from experienced instructors.

I have been drawing for a number of years now and it is my favourite hobby.

21. Film or Book Club

The first rule of the film club is you don’t talk about the film club.

Exploring different films or books can be a great way to expand your knowledge and understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and ideas.

One great way is to start with classics and bestsellers, such as “The Godfather” or “To Kill a Mockingbird.” This will help you get a sense of the genre and style of the work. Another useful tip is to practice discussing and analysing the plot, characters, and themes with other members. This will help you develop your critical thinking skills and gain new insights.

Additionally, attending book or film club meetings is a great way to share your thoughts and learn from others. With dedication and participation, you can deepen your appreciation for different works of art and enjoy meaningful discussions with fellow enthusiasts.

22. Interior Design Projects

Get inspiration from design blogs or magazines. Consider working with a professional interior designer for guidance. With careful planning, you can create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your style and enhances your quality of life.

Study design to find your own style and create storyboards for inspiration. Pinterest is a great place to collect inspiring images.

23. Collecting Memorabilia

Begin by deciding what type of items you want to collect and why. You can find inspiration from online forums or collector’s magazines, and seeking advice from a professional collector can be helpful. It could be items from your childhood that give a sense of nostalgia.

By establishing clear objectives and taking the time to research and plan your collection, you can build a meaningful and enjoyable collection of memorabilia.

24. Learning a Language

There are many online resources to help you learn a new language. You can take up a course with an online learning platform or check out youtube videos. There is a mobile app dedicated to languages called Duolingo. You earn achievements and it makes learning a language fun

Alternatively, you could buy or borrow a language book. Another language you could learn is sign language. Sign language is helpful and rewarding to learn.

25. Embroidery and Needlework

When starting embroidery and needlework as a hobby, it’s important to define your goals and priorities for your projects. Think about what type of items you want to create and why. Get inspiration from online tutorials or needlework magazines.

Consider taking a class or working with a more experienced needleworker for guidance. With careful planning and practice, you can create unique and beautiful pieces that bring you joy and satisfaction.

26. DIY Beauty and Skincare

When it comes to DIY beauty and skincare, there are countless resources available online to help you get started. It’s important to consider your skin type and any specific concerns you may have, such as acne or dryness, before diving into a new routine. From homemade face masks to natural remedies for common skin issues, there are plenty of ways to create effective and affordable beauty products at home.

Just like with needlework, it’s important to do your research and practice to find the methods that work best for you. With patience and experimentation, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin without breaking the bank.

27. Movie Marathon

Make a list of your favourite films and get the popcorn ready. If you like action then try watching every film in the Die Hard series. Pick your favourite genre or director and watch every film in that category. If you have a smart TV there are lots of ways to watch films. Either through a subscription app like Amazon Prime Video or Netflix or a free service like Pluto TV.

28. Soap Making

Soap making is a fun hobby for home. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can create your own unique blends of soap that are perfect for your skin type and preferences. There are many recipes and tutorials available online that can guide you through the process step-by-step.

It’s important to take safety precautions when working with lye, a key ingredient in soap making, but with proper care and attention, you can create beautiful and fragrant bars of soap that are sure to impress. Plus, making soap at home is often more cost-effective than buying it from a store, and you can customise it to your liking. Give it a try and see how satisfying it can be to make something from scratch.

29. Linoprint

Lino printing is another fun and creative hobby for home. With the right tools and materials, you can create your own unique prints that are perfect for framing or giving as gifts. There are many tutorials and resources available online that can guide you through the process, from carving your design onto the linoleum block to inking and printing your final image.

Did you know: Lino printing dates back to the mid-1800s.

Be careful when working with carving tools, but with proper care and attention, you can create beautiful and intricate prints that are sure to impress.

30. Video Gaming

Video games can be fun for all ages and it’s a hobby that can keep you enticed for hours.

To get started you can use a gaming console such as a PlayStation or Xbox or your PC. If you prefer casual gaming then you can get a handheld device like a Nintendo Switch or a Steam Deck. Or you could just download some games on your smartphone. My favourite mobile game is Angry Birds Friends.

If you want to try video gaming without any commitment then host a gaming night with your friends. Ask one of your friends to bring their gaming console and a multiplayer game. They can provide the game and you provide the snacks.

Did you know: the first video game was developed in the 1960s, by a group of MIT students, it was called Spacewar. Source: Smithsonian.

People Also Ask – Hobbies to do at Home

What is an Indoor Hobby?

An indoor hobby is any activity you can enjoy from the comfort of your home. It’s a way to express yourself, discover new passions, and unwind while staying indoors. Indoor hobbies offer a fantastic opportunity to explore your interests and dive into activities that bring you happiness.

How Do I Find a New Hobby at Home?

Finding the perfect hobby to do at home is exciting. Start by reflecting on your interests and what sparks joy within you. Consider activities you’ve always wanted to try or things that have piqued your curiosity. From arts and crafts to learning new skills, exploring various options will help you discover the best indoor hobby that suits your personality and preferences.

How Do I Start a Hobby at Home?

Starting a hobby at home is easier than you think! Follow these steps to kick-start your new endeavour:

1. Research: Learn more about your chosen hobby through books, online tutorials, or courses.
2. Gather Supplies: Collect the necessary materials or equipment for your hobby.
3. Set a Schedule: Dedicate specific time slots each week to focus on your hobby to do at home.
4. Create a Workspace: Organise a designated area in your home where you can comfortably pursue your hobby.
5. Practice Consistently: Embrace a learning curve and practice regularly to improve your skills.

What is a Cool Hobby to Have?

Cool hobbies are either unique, interesting or edgy. Try these hobbies and instantly become cooler:

• Learn an instrument and join a band.
• Start doing embroidery and customising your own clothes.
• Design posters to display around your home.
• Learn how to do special effects make up.

Conclusion

You now have plenty of hobbies to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. This is an opportunity for you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and creativity. You can choose to paint, learn to play an instrument, or explore the culinary world.

These indoor hobbies will help you relax, discover your interests, and bring happiness to your life. So, go ahead and have fun. Let your home be the source of your newfound hobbies!

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