Books to Read...When You Need a New Hobby

As I scroll through Pinterest, I am always so amazed at everyone's creativity. I often find myself thinking, "Wow! I wish I could make something like that!" The truth is, if I stopped wishing and actually tried to make something, I could probably create something pretty cool. Here are some books to inspire you to pick up a new hobby and become a maker.

Collage Workshop for Kids: Rip, Snip, Cut, and Create with Inspiration from The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

By Shannon Merenstein

Quarry Books, 2018. Informational. 152 pages.

This book encourages children to use all types of materials to make collages. You can use paper, fabric, wood, pom poms, stickers, yarn, cardboard, tissue paper, etc. This is such a fun art medium because you can get creative with whatever you already have on hand. This book walks you through workshops to try out different collage techniques.

Making Memories: Practice Mindfulness. Learn to Journal and Scrapbook. Find Calm Every Day.

Written by Amy Tangerine

Illustrated by Tracey English

DK Publishing, 2022. Informational. 47 pages.

Reading this book is just as relaxing as the title suggests it will be. It walks you through several crafts that are focused on mindfulness like making mindmaps, vision boards, an emotion wheel, and journaling. If you're looking for a hobby that will enrich your life, then this is the book for you.

Super Simple Sumi-e: Easy Asian Brush Painting for All Ages

By Yvonne Palka

Little Bigfoot, an imprint of Sasquatch Books, 2018. Informational. 39 pages.

Sumi-e is the Japanese art of ink painting. This book shows how to make all different strokes. Even a very beginner could combine the various strokes to make something beautiful.

The Paper Playhouse: Awesome Art Projects for Kids Using Paper, Boxes, and Books

By Katrina Rodabaugh

Quarry Books, 2015. Informational. 144 pages.

The aesthetic of this book is absolutely inspiring. The craft ideas range from simply making a paper garland to more complex projects like a lemonade stand. You don't need fancy paper or supplies to do these projects either. You can use supplies like old book pages, junk mail, and past calendars to make really amazing things!

Sticks and Stones: A Kid's Guide to Building and Exploring the Great Outdoors

By Melissa Lennig

Quarry Books, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 2019. Informational. 141 pages.

Sticks and stones is all about using nature to create. These ideas can be used in your backyard or on your next camping trip. You can make fun things like cairns, stamps from leaves, and a tiny log cabin. This book will get you outside and inspire you to create!

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