Paper Crafts and Crafting Hobbies to Inspire You

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Getting back to basics with creative hobbies and paper crafts you used to love as a kid is a great way to keep yourself occupied on days spent inside — without being glued to a screen. If you’ve got some free time on your hands and you’re itching to use it in a new, creative way, we’ve rounded up some of our fave leisure activities that take a cue from the days of all things analog. Like crocheting, at-home pottery, beginner embroidery kits, and more. Netflix's Top 10 who?

Turn your initials into functional art with this coaster-making kit. It comes with enough materials to customize two coasters, so you can keep track of who's drinking what. The kit includes square-shaped blue glass pieces for the initials and accent pieces in all kinds of shapes and colors for decoration. Seal it with the included grout, and you’ve got two new works of art to show off in your home. Brag a little. ($38, Uncommon Goods)

Dip your toes into the world of crochet with this beginner toy set. It comes with everything you need to conquer your first (or second) try at the hooks. This bundle comes with four lil’ animal creations to craft — a penguin, fox, rabbit, and chick. Gift your final product to a special little one in your life or just display these cuties on your shelf. The included yarn has been custom-made to avoid fraying and snagging (helpful for newbies), and the step-by-step video instructions are great for auditory and visual learners alike. ($100, The Woobles)

No kiln or wheel required. This kit is all you’ll need to start on your clay-creation journey. It comes with two bags of eco-friendly air-dry clay, five wooden tools for sculpting, eight premium clay paints, a base coat and varnish for a professional finish, and one quick start guide with step-by-step instructions. All you need to bring are the ideas. ($42.84, PottdPeople via Etsy)

Because big kids need to have fun too, and what better way than with some wholesome crafting hobbies all laid out for you each month? Have this box delivered once monthly for up to 12 months for new projects to complete year-round. The Adults & Crafts Crate comes with all the tools, materials, and instructions needed to complete a unique craft — boxes have included things like woodworking, epoxy resin, and marbling clay. ($32+, Cratejoy)

Learn the fundamentals of watercolor technique with this fun kit. It comes with four pre-stenciled folk-art designs and a couple of blank watercolor sheets so you can branch out with your own designs when you’re ready. It's great for both beginners and experienced painters alike. Note that a brush isn't included — we rec snagging this kit that comes with one brush and 42 colors to boot. ($30, Uncommon Goods)

This one's been designed by a devoted crafter and experienced teacher, with easy-to-follow instructions. The kit explores five different binding techniques and materials to create new patterns in custom-mixed shades. Practice on the included 100% cotton bandana squares, and then move on to your own T-shirts, tote bags, comforters, and more. Groovy. ($38, Uncommon Goods)

If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at embroidery but don't know where to begin, this kit is the answer. It comes with one embroidery hoop, linen fabrics, two needles, cotton threads, and instructions to help you get started. Customers love how easy the pattern is to follow, and rec stocking up on some strings and thread of your own to really customize your piece (and the pieces you’ll inevitably want to create after this one). ($17.09+, TheCherryBlossomUs via Etsy)

This one comes with premeasured materials made from quality ingredients — like grapeseed oil, shea butter, beeswax, and more — so you can feel confident about what you’re putting on your face. It comes with enough ingredients to make 10 balms, so you can keep a few for yourself and gift the rest. ($34.95, UrbanKangaroo via Etsy)

You’ll get a 10-pound bag of natural soy wax flakes, 100 cotton candle wicks, 100 wick stickers, and two centering devices, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to practice if you don't get it perfectly on your first (or second) try. The kit doesn't come with candle jars, so we rec snagging a few to keep handy for when inspo strikes. And if you wanna take things to the next level, add these fragrance oils that help you capture the scents of winter, spring, autumn, and more.($37.02, Amazon)

Jump into the world of origami with this everything-you-need-kit that’ll keep you (and your little ones) occupied for days to come. The set comes with two full-colored 32-page booklets with instructions for creating cranes, sailboats, kimonos, flowers, animals, and much more. We rec adding a large mason jar to your cart so you can keep all your creations where you can see them. Happy crafting. ($11.95, Amazon)

This set includes every tool you’ll need to make felted animals and other adorable figures. It's got over 40 wool colors, all your basic supplies and tools (like felting needles, bells, finger cots, and more), and a carry-all case that's easy to pack away. And pick up this needle felting book for beginners while you’re at it — it’ll walk you through how to craft all sorts of adorable designs. Nailing the gifting game with a personalized felt replica of a loved one's pet, anyone? ($29.96, Amazon)

Looking to get into woodworking but don't know where to start? This book's got 24 simple projects for beginners and pros alike based on timeless Japanese designs. You’ll get notes on the key design elements of each piece, a list of the tools and techniques needed, and step-by-step instructions to help you complete each one. ($20.99, Amazon)

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