20 Craft Project Ideas for Hibernating Creatives

Winter is the perfect time to do those creative projects you’ve always wanted to try, like sewing, painting, or upcycling, all on a budget.

If you like creative hacks, you’ll love these other ways to use your slow cooker.

creative hibernation

If there’s a creative skill or craft you’ve always wanted to try, winter might be your chance. We’re indoors more often, the garden is asleep, and it’s easier to slow down and create something.

For me, it was time to check off the domestic arts bucket list. A practical creative skill that I’ve always wanted to try.

Historically, sewing, mending, and quilting were everyday necessities, not hobbies. People used what they had, salvaged what they could, and found ways to make things functional and beautiful. Resourcefulness was not an option, it was the norm.

Today, it’s almost the opposite. If we have enough money, we can buy almost all the arts and crafts we want. In a sense, even though we have access to everything, we still feel left out. In a throwaway culture, bringing art back into everyday life requires intention.

If, like me, you want that kind of creative life, the first step is to just start. Let’s try a craft that you’ve been curious about for a long time. When testing something new, I like to start small. Perhaps it’s using kits from indie sellers or getting a little creative with fixing clothes that might otherwise end up in the trash.

Guide it as you like. Maybe you like the sound of a sewing machine or the quiet satisfaction of sewing by hand while watching a movie. Is it the texture of wool felt or the way watercolor paint flows on paper? Long-lasting hobbies are usually ones where you enjoy the process, not just the finished product. There are countless “old school” arts such as tatting (lace-making) and calligraphy that have mostly been replaced by machines, but you might want to learn them, and there are plenty of new ones as well.

There are too many possibilities to list here, so I hope these ideas give you a start.

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sewing and repair

sew an apron

I created this simple pattern to make an apron that can be used both indoors and in the garden. I have so many of them that I have no excuse to get my clothes dirty!

fun repairs

I love how this idea has become popular in recent years. Instead of painstakingly fixing clothes to hide stains and holes, the repairs become a creative expression.

sew a grow bag

After looking at the cost of “real” grow bags, I came up with this method that I could machine sew myself for a fraction of the cost.

Embroidery & Applique

DIY wool felt phone case and DIY earphone case

These are both good beginner projects if you want to try your hand at embroidery or applique or just want to try something useful. We always recommend using wool felt (rather than acrylic) if possible. This is very easy to work with and also comes in beautiful colors.

botanical embroidery

This book, Plant Lady Embroidery, is your go-to resource for creating realistic botanical embroidery and drawings. Each design is easy to recreate, even for beginners, yet looks realistic.

knitting and crochet

If you knit or crochet (but not both), they may bristle when put together. The two are always confused. Knitting is called crocheting and vice versa. Yes, they both use thread and hand tools (needle or hook), but they are separate skills with different rhythms and possibilities.

There is a learning curve to both, and your choice of yarn can make or break your project plan. Synthetic fibers are much more affordable, but for some of us, there’s no substitute for the look and feel of natural fibers. It all comes down to budget, personal preference, and being a self-proclaimed textile “snob.”

Crochet is always hand-knitted. The knitting method can be hand knitted or machine knitted. I eventually switched to an antique circular knitting machine because my wrist pain made hand knitting difficult. You can also find an old machine or buy a new one, although it can be a splurge. I fell in love with crochet last year because it’s been on my bucket list since I was a kid.

First of all, keep it simple. If you find a YouTube tutorial you like, rent a hook and needle (they come in a variety of styles and price ranges), and start with basics like scarves, headbands, and dish towels, it won’t be too much of a financial burden. Or, if you are sure that this is your hobby, get serious about making sweaters.

A quirky and playful project

Beginner’s Guide to Polymer Clay

One package of polymer clay is enough to make all kinds of jewelry, trinkets, and miniatures (including this box of miniature donuts).

DIY shadow box

Turn deep picture frames into 3D shadow boxes filled with your favorite keepsakes. I’ve created summer and winter garden versions, but virtually any subject will work.

art and painting

Watercolor painting for beginners and coloring books for adults

Dip your toes into watercolor with these easy and hassle-free painting books.

Or maybe acrylic or oil paint is calling your name?

painted strawberry rocks

These cute garden stones are painted to look like strawberries and make perfect garden markers or surprise gifts.

painted rock ideas

There are no rules here. Just collect stones and draw a picture. This roundup features all kinds of fun designs to try, from ladybugs to mandalas.

nature craft

DIY pine cone animals

Turn pine cones and walnuts into little forest creatures. You can also use it as a decoration by attaching a ribbon.

beeswax project

If you have beeswax (or want to try it), this collection of project ideas includes food wraps, lotion bars, and candles.

lavender dye recipe

If you like the idea of ​​plant-based dyeing, we’ll show you how to dye with lavender.

Personally, I had a hand-dyed fabric business for many years using a variety of dyes. You can learn all my tips here.

pressed flower project

Dried and pressed flowers can be used as crafts all winter long. This page features ideas for bookmarks, wall art, cards, and more.

upcycled and repurposed crafts

DIY sweater pet bed

Give your old sweater new life as a comfy bed for your cat or dog. It’s soft, washable, and easier to make than it looks.

owl craft project

Make an owl with wide eyes using cardboard. The finish varies depending on the material.

owl wreath craft

A seasonal wreath with an owl as the centerpiece. I used materials I had on hand, like old canning jar lids and zippers.

soda can craft

Empty pop cans can be turned into shiny art to display in your home or garden. This tutorial will show you how to safely cut and shape it.

beginner kit

Etsy craft kits

Don’t know where to start? These craft kits from indie sellers let you try your hand at embroidery, candle making, felt making, and more, all included.

If this has inspired your creative adventure, we’d love to hear what you’re up to!

~Melissa Empress of Dirt ♛