125 New Hobbies To Pick Up
1. Figure Drawing
Drawing people is daunting but so much fun. There are a ton of YouTube tutorials to get you started—so you won’t have to deal with the potential awkwardness of working with a nude model.
2. Line Drawing
Whether you’re cartooning or doodling, this is a great place to start an artistic journey.
3. Painting
Whether it’s a virtual painting class or just going along with a Bob Ross video, painting will help you feel both occupied and accomplished, as well as serving as a means of expression.
4. Coloring
Want to get an artistic release without a ton of work? Coloring can be super relaxing.
5. Sculpting
Grab some clay and make something amazing! Or just borrow your kid’s Play Doh and go to town.
6. Pottery
Channel your inner Demi Moorein Ghost and make something amazing at a pottery wheel.
7. Calligraphy
The art of lettering can be incredibly satisfying, and the focus needed makes it great for mindfulness. Another bonus? Duchess Meghanis a fan of calligraphy!
8. Origami
Create amazing folded paper art, which is both soothing for you and can be fun for your kids too. Get cool patterns and origami tips here.
9. Photography
Photography can help you see the world in a new way. That comes in handy when you’re sick of just looking around your own four walls.
10. Photo Editing
There’s more to life than Facetune! Photoshop can bring new life and art to photos.
11. Scrapbooking
Reminisce on your once-active social life and the outside world with some scrapbooking. It will help you look forward to making new memories when this is all over!
12. Make Collages
Whether it’s a vision board or just a bunch of photos you think are really pretty, collages can be super inspiring and also fun to make.
13. Filmmaking
Draft that script you’ve had in your brain for years, learn Premiere or Final Cut, or just record your dog or your kid’s silliest moments on your phone.
14. Animation
Learn stop motion or graphic animation, or just make a flip book of drawings. This is an especially great option if you’re sick of watching the same cartoons over and over with your little ones!
15. Woodworking
Channel your inner Nick Offerman and Ron Swanson.
16. Jewelry Making
Create your own custom pieces for yourself, family and friends, then rock ’em when it’s safe to go out again (or just o your next company Zoom call).
17. Tie-Dyeing
Tie-dye sweats are all over Instagram right now. Instead of spending a ton on them, make your own!
18. Basket Weaving
What’s better than a hobby that gives you pretty storage?
19. Soap Making
A great craft to do with or without your kids, soap making is fun—and you can use your handmade goodies as gifts.
20. Candle Making
Make home feel a little warmer and cozier.
21. Perfume Making
Create your own signature scent.
22. Gardening
Gardening can be super-soothing. Whether you have a huge plot of land or just a few potted plants, nurturing and growing your own flowers, herbs, fruits or veggies is really rewarding. Bonus? Your place will smell heavenly!
23. Flower Arranging
Beautify your space with some floral arrangements, real or faux.
24. Scale Miniature Building
Recreate your home (or your dream home) as a dollhouse using your own creativity and these scale guides. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAI9ZK8p-UT/
25. Automobile Restoration
Got an old classic whip or just want to maintain or soup up your sedan? Now’s the perfect time to learn all about how to do it. https://www.instagram.com/p/B3ly4kyFXgr/
26. Model and Remote Controlled Planes
Can’t fly anywhere on vacation? You can still enjoy aviation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOziFzntXq4
27. Model and Remote Controlled Cars
You can race these or just decorate models to give your scale miniature dollhouse a sweet selection of rides. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAKk2LJoAUd/
28. Model and Remote Controlled Boats
Live near water? RC boats won’t quite replace cruising or yachting, but they’re still a great way to have safe, socially distant fun on at a lake or pond. https://www.instagram.com/p/B-N21kwgBRw/
29. Model Rockets
Your kids will get a ton of fun out of model rockets, too. Just be safe! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6WnAY9Qego
30. Model Trains
These are timeless. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzktN0iAVCQ
31. Theatrical Makeup and Face Painting
There are a ton of tutorials on Instagram and YouTube to help you create stage-worthy looks, be it through extreme contouring or total transformation into a tiger. Your kids will love acting as your canvas, too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2DWKARavMI
32. Special Event Makeup
Though it may be a while before you have somewhere to go when you’re all dolled up, you’ll look stunning when you finally get there, whether you choose a smoky eye, bold lip or both. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daYr9F9QurI
33. Natural Makeup
If you’ve always wanted to learn to contour without looking like your face was stenciled on and spray painted, now is the perfect time to practice a pretty no-makeup makeup look. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9CidglQOt4
34. Playing an Instrument
Not only is music a great distraction, it can also be a form of therapy for many.
35. Singing
You’re doing it in the shower anyway, so why not tune up those pipes of yours? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=322Zi9Q3DkY
36. Music Composition
You might be the next Taylor Swift or Diane Warren in terms of songwriting prowess, but you won’t know until you try. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cdk6-joiTug
37. Garage Band
Want to make music but don’t have room for an actual garage full of instruments? No sweat. GarageBand has a full library of sounds to play with! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFlcLTqzIR8
38. Audio Production
Master audio to create not just music, but also podcasts and other content. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnGauwwtTKw
39. DJing
Be the most popular person at your next party by curating playlists and remixing tunes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-pdaMnOJBQ
40. Podcasting
There is an audience for everything, so whether your thing is comedy, crime, drama, or just talking about cute animals, why not start your own right now?
41. Magic Tricks
You don’t have to be at Criss Angel or Penn and Teller levels to have a good time. Penn and Teller Fool Everyone Magic Kit, $39.99, Kohl’s
42. Sewing
A lot of you are already sewing face masks, why not try your hand at other projects? https://www.instagram.com/p/CAGcYzgJMic/
43. Knitting
Create something comforting and cozy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egp4NRhlMDg
44. Crocheting
Great for mindfulness (and cute bags, scarves, blankets…). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcOzdAzmtNM
45. Cross Stitching
Embroidery and needlepoint can be so relaxing, and you can make anything you want. Beginner Embroidery Kit, $9.90, Etsy
46. Quilting
Get cozy with quilting! These make for great gifts as well, and patchwork quilts can really tell a story. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TyihOEvJ8E
47. Writing
Got a short story in your head? The makings of a killer memoir? The next great true crime drama? Put it to paper!
48. Virtual Book Club
You may have more time to read, why not discuss the works? Get some friends in a video call or find a group online.
49. Comic Books and Manga
Manga is addictive, and comic books can prepare you for the next wave of blockbusters when theaters reopen. Eternals by Jack Kirby: The Complete Collection, $39.99, Barnes & Noble
50. Role Playing Games
Dungeons and Dragons is a great way to keep busy and bond with pals. Dungeons and Dragons Starter Pack Game, $12.49, Target
51. Poetry
It doesn’t have to have rhyme, reason or necessarily even rhythm, as long as it’s yours.
52. Journaling
Get all the stress and dreams in your mind onto paper. You’ll feel so much better!
53. Blogging
Find something you’re passionate about and start a blog. You can even make money this way eventually!
54. Vlogging
Prefer to be in front of a camera over writing? Understandable. Document your life, your dreams and your projects via video. You don’t have to share them, but if you do, take advantage of the possible revenue! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jvmapd07hPc
55. Power Walking
You don’t necessarily need weights for a power walk, but they can help build your, well, power. Explore your neighborhood in a speedy way and don’t forget your mask! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erK4_3OuUlY
56. Running
Was there ever a better time to do Couch to 5K? https://www.instagram.com/p/B6_uw84AD85/
57. Biking
Don’t forget your mask and helmet if you’re outside. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAK24fcjfy_/
58. Yoga
Get fit and stay centered. There is no better time! https://www.instagram.com/p/B_5tdv0joDk/
59. Hiking
As long as you maintain a safe distance and wear a mask, hiking can be quite therapeutic, as well as being a fun way to get some exercise. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAJn2j1FIQh/
60. Bird Watching
Learn to match the breed with the birds in your backyard. When it’s safe, you can expand your reach! https://www.instagram.com/p/CAKoNvhFR7t/
61. Hula Hooping
In addition to being nostalgic and fun, hula hooping is actually great for your abs. Ask January Jones! https://www.instagram.com/p/B--Q1oLlpVA/
62. Hip-Hop Dance
Get your moves in order before clubs open back up.
63. Zumba
Virtual Zumba Fitness classes are having a serious moment around the world right now, with people enjoying “Lawn Zumba” during social distancing.
64. Square and Line Dancing
Country music lovers, get your groove on!
65. Salsa Dancing
If you’re quarantining with a partner, salsa is a great and sexy way to bond, kill time and get a workout in.
66. Pole Dancing
If you don’t have a pole in your house (and let’s be real, most weren’t exactly built with them in mind), you can snag one online. There are a ton of tutorials for beginners, and be warned—this is a workout.
67. Swing Dancing
Grab a partner and get ready to impress everyone at your next outing.
68. Breakdancing
Get ready to blow some minds with your newfound breaking skills.
69. Standup Comedy
Obviously you won’t be able to get in front of a live audience at an open mic right now, but it’s a good time to craft some jokes—and finding humor in a dark time can be soothing. Rather be a spectator? No sweat: There are a ton of free, great comedy specials on YouTube right now in addition to streaming services.
70. Dog Training and Walking
Spend some more time with your pet! If you haven’t gotten around to training your dog, now is a great time to finally teach Fido how to fetch, or to just take him for a long, leisurely walk around your neighborhood instead of heading home right after he finishes his business.
71. Volunteering With Animals
Don’t have a pet? See if your local animal shelter needs fosters or someone to walk dogs.
72. Volunteering With Seniors
Seniors are more vulnerable than almost anyone else right now. See if your community offers help and volunteer!
73. Volunteering With the Needy
Food banks and shelters, among other organizations, can use extra help right now, whether it’s fundraising or dropping off care packages.
74. Cooking
While dining out is still not an option for most of us, why not give your Seamless account a break and whip up something that’s all your own? We have so many amazing recipes for beginners!
75. Baking
Everyone is baking bread right now, but don’t feel the need to limit yourself—no one is ever going to turn down cookies, muffins, scones or cupcakes!
76. Cake Decorating
It’s not too hard to bake something delicious. What can be tricky is making something tasty and pretty. Get the recipe: Carrot Cake Banana Bread
77. Video Games
The options here are pretty endless, from RPGs like Final Fantasy to fighting games like Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter, plus classics like Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros., racing games … you’re pretty destined to find at least one that you like.
78. Learn a Language
There are so many options to learn a new language during quarantine, and lots of deals to do so on the cheap!
79. Coding
Coding is a powerful tool, not just to stay busy and entertained, but also in job hunting.
80. Robotics
Take your coding and put it to work! Robotics is fun and women are woefully underrepresented in it as a hobby and career.
81. Chess
It’s never too late to learn chess, and for many, it takes a lifetime to master—so this will be a great time-killer.
82. Board Games
Monopoly, checkers, Sorry, Pictionary, Scattergories—quarantine is a great time to get versed in the classics.
83. Mah Jong
This tile game is centuries old, and there’s a reason it has so much staying power: It’s addictive!
84. Poker
Perfect your poker face and learn all the different ways to play poker, including five-card draw, Texas Hold ‘Em, HORSE and Razz.
85. Blackjack
If poker is a bit too much to mentally handle, blackjack may be a bit easier—you just have to get yourself close to 21!
86. Bridge
There’s a reason there are so many bridge clubs in the world: The game is easy enough to learn and so much fun to play in groups.
87. Solitaire
Flying solo? Deal yourself a hand at solitaire. There are more versions of it than you realize!
88. Card Tricks
Not into actually playing cards? No sweat. Use them to learn sleight of hand!
89. Juggling
Work on your coordination and teach yourself to juggle.
90. Ping Pong
Ping pong is a great way to pass time and it’s challenging!
91. Tennis, Badminton and Volleyball
If you’re quarantining with a partner and have safe access to a court (or can hook up a net in your backyard), volleyball, badminton and tennis can be fun ways to blow off steam.
92. Jumping Rope
Double dutch or single, jumping rope is super fun and a killer cardio workout to boot.
93 Rollerblading
Feeling the ’90s nostalgia yet? Rollerblading is a great way to get out and about, just don’t forget your mask! Rollerblade Women’s Zetrablade Inline Skates, $99.99, Dick’s Sporting Goods
94. Dominoes
Embrace basic physics in all of its splendor with dominoes. Giant Backyard Dominoes Game, $27.09, Oriental Trading Co.
95. Billiards
Become a pool shark in your downtime!
96. Jigsaw Puzzles
If traditional jigsaw puzzles are falling, er, flat, try a 3D version. Big Ben - 216pc 3D Jigsaw Puzzle By Ravensburger, $32.95, Serious Puzzles
97. Sudoku, Crosswords, Numbrix and Word Puzzles
Sudoku, Numbrix, crosswords, word finds, the Jumble and more and great ways to exercise your brain.
98. Legos
If you’re tired of stepping on these on your kid’s room’s floor, put them to work and build something amazing. Lego International Space Station, $69.99, Lego
99. Geology
Start your own rock collection! Greenland Rocks & Minerals Collection 320 Pieces, $125, Etsy
100. Toy Art
Collecting and posing action figures and toys is a fun way to get creative. https://www.instagram.com/p/B4loKJ9A_OI/
101. Collecting Dolls
Whether you like them for their cuteness or their creepiness, doll collecting can be a soothing, nostalgic activity. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAB6WN4JivR/
102. Music Memorabilia Collecting
Concert tickets, merch and vintage tour posters can make for a rockin’ fun hobby. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAJQIw2J2kN/
103. Movie and TV Memorabilia Collecting
Movie posters, cutouts and merchandise can inspire screening parties at home and keep you happy. https://www.instagram.com/p/CAJEGZFpHiW/
104. Collecting Stamps
Not only is stamp collecting a soothing activity, it will also help support the Postal Service!
105. Vinyl Collecting
Whether you love music, standup comedy or just the aesthetics of the sleeves, a vinyl collection will impress guests when it’s safe for them to come over again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTV42AKb6t8
106. Trivia
Show off your smarts, whether it’s themed (think Golden Girls, sports, music) or general.
107. Beer Brewing
Why venture out to the store when you can start a home brewery in your kitchen or garage? Premium Home Brewing Kit, $249.99, More Beer
108. Wine Making
If you live in the right climate, growing and fermenting your own grapes for wine making can be a rewarding hobby in more ways than one. Master Vintner® Wine Making Starter Kit, $145.99, Northern Brewer
109. Wine Tasting
Learn to spot the actual differences between, say, cabernet, pinot noir and Boone’s Farm with a wine tasting.
110. Cheese Tasting
Get some cheese to go with your wine! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW7epa1F0OE
111. Liquor Distilling
Who needs bars when you can make your own? Whiskey and Rum Making Kit, $75, Uncommon Goods
112. Tequila Tasting
Grab some salt, cue the Dan + Shay and sip away. Tequila Tasting Kit, $33, The Spirit Co.
113. Scotch and Whiskey Tasting
Finally learn the difference (and maybe enjoy some bourbon and rye, too). Flaviar Welcome Box, $41.99, Flaviar
114. Cigar Rolling
To go with your whiskey, or enjoy on their own. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BY1t2rSOpEM
115. Coffee Roasting
Get your java fix at home by roasting your own coffee beans. Home Coffee Roaster Beginners Kit, $49.88, Home Roast Coffee LLC
116. Tea Drinking
Prefer your caffeine without coffee? Tea is having a moment. Teavana Start Steeping Starter Brewing Kit (With Blue Teamaker), $47.99, Walmart
117. Star Gazing
Start with the Big Dipper, then expand. It’s the perfect weather, and the lack of air pollution means the night sky is clearer than it’s been in a long time! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-hAc3n5ROw
118. Prayer
Getting in touch with your spiritual side can help keep you grounded, healthy and happy during turbulent times like right now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYJCYr1I-Sk
119. Astrology
Sure, you know your sun sign—but what about your ascendant, moon sign, Mars, Venus? They can all make a difference! Make a birth chart (here’s a great, free, easy option) and learn why sometimes you feel more Leo even though your birthday is in Scorpio.
120. Genealogy
Climb your family tree while you’re all at home! Ancestry DNA Kit, $99, Ancestry.com
121. Letter Writing
Whether you have a pen pal club or just leave a kind note in a neighbor’s mailbox, writing letters feels good for the sender and the recipient.
122. Massage
Take your comfort into your own hands—literally—by learning massage. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6nwMkTdQLQ
123. Meditation
If meditation ever was having a moment, it’s now. Mindfulness and being present are great ways to cope with the stress of the pandemic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayfe4XWCZdg
124. Reiki
This Japanese form of “energy healing” comes with much less risk than most alternative medicine practices, and it’s relatively easy to learn at home. Just please note that this does not in any way substitute for actual medical help! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thMT8W6qAwg
125. Tarot Card Reading
Get insightful and learn to give yourself (and loved ones) a fun tarot card reading. You’ll find great options with these 20 tarot card decks for beginners. Radiant Rider-Waite Tarot Deck, $21.95, ShamansMarket.com Check out: Easy Origami Ideas 100 CraftsVirtual Games on ZoomHow to Play Houseparty GamesFree Online Courses
