While the majority of my downtime is spent watching the most bizarre shows I can find on streaming, occasionally I like to do some self-care in the form of arts and crafts. If you’ve been struggling to stay busy as you’re stuck indoors this winter, your resident agoraphobe is here to help keep you sane.
The extra time at home makes winter the perfect time to start a new hobby, but the start-up can be costly and time-consuming. Rather than buying all the paints, tools, and instructional books for your new watercolor painting obsession that goes untouched after a month (just as a hypothetical), you can tackle these projects without breaking the bank. From paint-by-sticker books to gorgeous puzzles and LEGO sets that double as artwork, here are 10 indoor activities for adults this winter.
(Bonus: These hand-picked items make perfect holiday gifts for the artsy friend on your Christmas list.)
LEGO Icons Tiny Plants Building Set
I’m a proud plant parent, but I like these adorable LEGO plants better than my real-life plants. I don’t have to water these little pots, and they still look flawless week after week.
Paint by Sticker: Plants and Flowers
I’ve tried the traditional paint-by-number and diamond art sets, but this sticker style is my favorite. The stickers are great because you don’t have to worry about cleaning up paint or finding tiny gems all over your house afterward.
The Woobles Beginners Crochet Kit
In addition to all the supplies you need to crochet an adorable animal friend, this beginner craft set from Woobles provides access to step-by-step video tutorials so you’re sure to nail it.
Rolife DIY Miniature House Kit Greenhouse
My mom bought me this miniature greenhouse kit. Honestly, I found it to be pure torture as I don’t have the patience, perfectionism, or dexterity to craft endless tiny plants and decorations. That being said, it was really cute once completed, and I am sure there are people out there who would find this enjoyable.
Uphome Embroidery Starter Kit
Begin (or continue) your embroidery journey with this adorable floral starter kit. You’ll get stamped embroidery cloth, a plastic hoop, the required thread, and step-by-step instructions.
Temlum Diamond Painting Coasters Kit
Create six sparkling coasters with this crafting kit. There are many other designs, shapes, and colors to choose from, but I’ll always lean into my plant obsession when available.
SoftOwl Premium Soy Candle Making Kit
While this candle making kit is one of the more expensive selections on our list, the completed candles would make an excellent handmade gift this holiday season. You’ll get the wax, scents, colors, tins, jars, and more in this kit to craft candles of your very own at home.
Sticker & Chill Sticker Book
I haven’t tried this sticker book yet, but reviewers love this relaxing option as you can create endless designs. The clinging stickers can be removed from the vinyl pages, so unlike my preferred sticker book, you can use this one again and again.
Galison Wintry Cats 500-Piece Puzzle
My family is obsessed with puzzles during the holidays (or any time really). When I shop for puzzles, Galison is a brand I always look for — the designs are extra cute and the pieces are well-made.
Make Your Own Clay Jewelry Bowls
I haven’t tried this kit out yet, but I did add it to my Christmas wish list because I can never have enough trinket dishes in the house.
