Fun Frugal Friday: Get a New Hobby!

Everyone needs a hobby. A hobby keeps your hands or mind busy doing something you enjoy. For some, a much-loved hobby is the reason they get up each morning. Spending time on an existing hobby or learning a new one is an excellent fun and frugal way to spend your weekend!

The best hobbies aren’t just enjoyable, they either save you money or make you money. But even if you feel no urge to cash in on your hobbies, they are still a worthwhile pursuit. Unless your hobby is collecting diamonds or Picasso’s, there is also a frugal way to enjoy it! Here are some of my favorite past times, I hope these help inspire you.

Sewing.

I enjoy both machine sewing and embroidery. I recently spent an enjoyable afternoon making 30 red vest for our cub scout pack. This saved the pack and the parents considerable cash. If you don’t have a machine but would like to learn hand embroidery, or are just looking to expand your skills, Japanese sashiko embroidery is simple to learn. Even novice sewers can quickly turn out useful and beautiful pieces. Make a wall hanging, placemats, or jazz up some curtains. All you need is a needle, thread and fabric. The Purl Bee has instructions to get you started.

Reading.

I’m a sucker for a good book. I am a huge sci-fi and fantasy geek, so leisure reading is one of my top pursuits. I also like non-fiction—personal finance, cookbooks, history, homesteading are all right up my alley. Another benefit of non-fiction is may introduce you to a new hobby, such as gardening, woodworking or recipe collecting. Visit your library or join Paperback Swap to get books for free or just the cost of shipping.

Classes and groups.

Maybe you are a social creature like me. Check with your library or look at the community calendar for low-cost or free classes being offered in your area. Everything from languages to cooking is offered around here, and most have a modest fee that primarily covers materials. Another option is to checkout Meetup.com to find local groups that share your interests. I belong and participate in a couple of Meetup groups. Most groups are free though some charge a small fee to cover expenses.

Journaling.

Journals, poetry or even a blog is a frugal and satisfying hobby. Scrapbooking also falls under this but can be expensive if you aren’t careful. Use free online printables instead of expensive store-bought scrapbooking elements. Creating your book is more satisfying and much less expensive than purchasing albums or journals. It is also more attractive. Whip Up has binding instructions for a very nice journal.

Hobbies are an excellent way to have fun, learn a skill and save money all at once. What are some of your favorite hobbies?

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