You've earned a break, present pro!
Goodbye, stressful gift shopping! Now that Gift Mode is here and has made finding the perfect presents for your loved ones faster and easier than ever, you probably aren't sure what to do with all those extra hours not spent shopping for others. Well, it's finally time to dust off those long-tabled hobbies or find some fun new ones to try—and to help get you started, we've curated a list of activities so you can make the most of your new life of leisure. Ready to dive in?
1. Complete a needlepoint project
SHOP: Needlepoint kit from Anette Eriksson Design, $25
If you're not sure where to start when it comes to picking up a new hobby but know you want something relaxing, needlepoint should be your go-to. This kit comes with everything you need to make your own pillow case, including a tutorial, so once you get the hang of a few stitches, you can settle into the soothing repetitive movements in no time.
2. Make cute keychains for your friends (and yourself!)
SHOP: DIY heart keychain kit from Jill Makes, $30
Psst: You don't have to be in middle school to still want matching keychains with your best friends. Give your pals a sweet surprise for no other reason than to make them smile with these matching keychains. This DIY kit comes with two heart-shaped keychains that you can paint with the colors provided, and a few charms and tassels for decoration. New nostalgic hobby unlocked!
3. Make self-care a spa-like experience
SHOP: Essential oil bath bombs from SALUS, $22
Now that you have more time to focus on yourself, nothing beats winding down from a long day like a hot bath. Elevate your nightly routine with these essential oil bath bombs for those nights when you want to take your sweet time and soak. You can pick from 15 amazing scents or go with a mixed set to try out a few different ones. And if a shower is more your speed, still turn up the relaxation with something like a massage soap bar to work out all those stress knots from the day.
4. Bake homemade treats for your pet
SHOP: Dog bone cookie cutter for pets from Cookillu, from $23
Our pets deserve the world, and that includes making sure they're getting the highest-quality treats around. What better way to do that than by whipping up some yourself? This dog treat cookie cutter comes in three sizes and can be personalized with their name for an extra-special touch. And if you find that you genuinely love baking up a storm in the kitchen, nab something else like this gorgeous decorative stoneware pie set to make yourself a sweet treat, too.
5. Start a treasured family recipe book
SHOP: Blank recipe book from Daisy & Decor, from $26
If your family hands down delicious recipes from generation to generation, you need a special place to put them all. Spend time filling this blank recipe book with those cherished recipes (including some new ones from you!) and you'll soon have an heirloom-worthy book that can stay in the family for years to come.
6. Create a paint-by-number masterpiece
SHOP: Paint-by-numbers heart cake kit from Ember Pearl Co., $26
If you want to create stunning art that you can hang on the wall to enjoy every time you walk by it, a paint-by-number kit is the perfect thing to get you started. Great for beginners who need a little guidance, this design featuring a heart cake with cherries on top will brighten up any space with a fun pop of color.
7. Try your hand at pottery
SHOP: DIY pottery kit from Mora Approved, $37
Always wanted to give pottery a go? Try it at home with this air dry clay kit. Pick between two clay colors, off white and terracotta, to create a small bowl and/or a small vase that you can then proudly display when it's done.
8. Paint with a new palette
SHOP: Ceramic paint palette and brush rest from Tramai Ceramics, from $26
Whatever brings you joy, whether it's painting a blank canvas or just a piece of paper with your kiddos, this adorable mushroom paint palette and brush rest will help take your new hobby up a notch.
9. Create your own paper
SHOP: DIY pressed leaves paper kit from Mano Monai, from $51
Make good on your sustainability resolution by creating decorative paper using found materials like pressed birch leaves. This kit includes everything you need as well as instructions from the sellers regarding the unique process. You can then go on to use the paper for everything from greeting cards to thank you notes and more.
10. Jump into punch needling
SHOP: DIY punch needle kit from Made Laine Studio, from $55
If you're a true beginner to needle crafts, punch needling might be perfect for you. Described by many as being quite forgiving, you don't need to stress about small mistakes with this easy-to-use kit. Complete with an adjustable punch needle and threader, wool yarn, a bamboo hoop, and detailed instructions, this kit will let you bring a little bit of the mountains right to your living room (or wherever you decide to hang the finished product!).
11. Make your own candles
SHOP: Scented candle making kit from Studio Akiyo, $35
Candles help set the vibe of any room and instantly give things a cozier feel, but what if you could make some yourself to proudly display throughout your home? Perfect for beginners, this DIY candle making kit takes no more than 30 minutes to complete and comes with more than eight scents to choose from, including vanilla and raspberry, sea salt and sage, cypress and fig, and more.
12. Begin (or finally prioritize) journaling
SHOP: Monogrammed vegan leather journal from Hand + Press, $34
Have you been meaning to start journaling or make it more of a priority this year? We got you. Even if it's just for five minutes at the beginning or end of your day, use this personalized vegan leather journal to house your inner thoughts, feelings, and doodles to turn the relaxing action into a regular habit.
Gift Mode search results will vary. At launch, Gift Mode will be available to shoppers in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia and will only be available in English. We plan to expand to more shoppers in more countries in the future!
