3 Low-Cost Low-Commitment Creative Projects

Six months into my new nine-to-five job, I started to notice something strange: I was exhausted. Even more than that, I was bored. Before I resigned to a cushy standing desk in a medical office, I was a teacher’s aide in a middle school, and before that, a barista. All day long, I used a part of my brain that just isn’t as useful now that I’m answering phones all day: the creative side.

I needed an outlet, and I needed one that would work with my budget and my schedule. Below are my top three favorite low-cost, low-commitment creative projects that are feasible even if you’re not crafty or only have ten minutes a day to spare.

Embroidery

Cost: $15-$25

Where to find: craft store, Amazon, Etsy

Commitment: Low

If you’ve never busted out a hoop, you’re missing out. Embroidery isn’t just for cross-stitched platitudes in Airbnb kitchens anymore. There’s a huge array of designs available, from simple floral wreaths to motivating phrases laced with profanity. The best way to try out this addicting little hobby is to find a kit, either on Amazon or Etsy, or at your local craft store. These kits will include everything you need to get going: the hoop, the thread, needles, instructions, and the design inked onto fabric to make your first go an easy one. I loved this craft because it’s compact: mine fit in my purse and I ended up taking it along on lunch breaks and even once waiting to pick up a friend in my car. In the end, you have a trendy little hoop to add to your gallery wall (and possibly a new favorite hobby!).

Macrame

Cost: $10

Where to find: craft store, Amazon, Etsy, etc

Commitment: Medium

By now, you’ve probably seen those knotted hanging planters and wall tapestries all over Pinterest or your Instagram feed. Lucky for you, I’m here to report that it’s a lot easier than it looks. To get started with a macrame project, all you’ll need is macrame cord (or even rope or yarn) and a plan. You can find simple macrame projects on Youtube or Pinterest and follow step-by-step tutorials to lead you through learning different kinds of knots. While it is still a relatively low-commitment craft, I will say that I needed a refresher after leaving my tapestry alone for a couple of weeks. All in all, this creative project is one I’ll definitely attempt again.

Paint-by-numbers

Cost: $15-$25

Where to find: craft store, amazon, etc

I’ve always been a fan of paint-by-numbers. This one requires a little more focus than the other projects we’ve talked about so far, but often, it’s more satisfying to see the gradual completion than most other projects. Paint-by-numbers are the definition of low-commitment, as you can devote a couple of minutes here or there and are good for weeks of entertainment. I like to get my paint-by-number kits from Michael’s (usually around $15), but I’ve also gotten them from Target and Amazon and really liked them, too! Pro tip: tape your canvas to a cardboard box to give you a smooth surface to work on and make for easy cleanup later.

Whether it's one of these or another project you find on your own, it's so important to have something creative to work on. Comment below with a project I should try, or pictures of your attempt of one of my favorites! Get creating!