We all know how important it is to be comfortable in our own company - and these hobbies to do alone will make alone time all the more fun. From challenging physical pursuits to mindful hobbies that will help you relax and unwind, there's something to suit everyone on our list of solo hobbies. 

This list of hobbies for women and men has been created with those who can find group situations a challenge in mind. For introverts, social interactions can be somewhat draining and solo hobbies can offer a sense of fulfillment, without any social anxiety. As well as de-stressing our minds and building confidence, hobbies give us the chance to learn valuable skills like endurance, patience and self-respect. Doing them alone means we'll do things at our own pace and fully focus on what we want to get out of it.

We asked experts exactly why hobbies are so good for us, ideas for hobbies to do alone can challenge and develop us, as well as people who have found fulfilment in trying solo hobbies themselves. Most on our list are easy hobbies that you can do at home - starting something new needn't be a hassle or put you under financial pressure. These are our top 22 hobbies to do alone. 

1. Cooking

Cooking may be something we do as a functional part of our day-to-day lives, but that doesn't mean we can't treat it as a new hobby. For me, expanding my knowledge of cooking started as a way to be more conscious of what I was eating and stay away from processed foods, and quickly snowballed. Now with a shelf full of recipe books, neatly organised recipe cards and a habit of binging cooking shows in one sitting, I've developed a more methodical and considered approach to cooking - there's no doubt it's been one of the best hobbies for relaxing for me. 

Cooking is also a great way to explore new cultures. "By stepping into the world of a new activity, we often find ourselves introduced to different cultures, philosophies, and histories, promoting empathy and a broader worldview," Michael Laauwe, life coach and founder of Positive Thinking Mind told w&h. To get started, you could try an online cook along with a local chef through a platform like Diaspo (I made ceviche under the guidance of Medalit, who grew up in Peru) or attend a cooking class with Migrateful, a charity that helps migrants, refugees and asylum seekers by linking them up with budding chefs to host cookery classes showcasing their native cuisine. 

How much does it cost to get started? 

£ Cooking doesn't have to be expensive - there is an endless supply of recipes online, so you'll just need to buy ingredients. As your knowledge of cooking grows, you might want to look into more specialist food and tour local markets to pick up premium produce. But in the initial stages, the local supermarket will do! If you want to focus your efforts, investing in one of the best cook books should help. Initial steps towards expanding your cooking repertoire could be working through each section of your chosen cook book, or following a cooking account on Instagram like @emthenutritionist and trying out a few new recipes each week.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

There's no doubt that cooking is a meditative practice and that for people like Fransceca McKay, cooking enthusiast and founder of Francesca's Wyldflours, spending some time in the kitchen learning new skills has become a favourite pastime. "For me, it’s a time of learning and to practice new skills; a time not distracted by the noise of modern life or being pulled in multiple directions. I can dedicate my focus to something I love - plus, it means that the next time I cook for loved ones, I will be relaxed and can enjoy sharing my passion knowing I know what I’m doing."

Try it yourself: 

• Tom Kerridge Pub Kitchen at Amazon, £13

• Vegetable Medley Recipe Journal at Papier, £29

2. Flower pressing

The art of flower pressing evokes a sense of nostalgia - with many of us first trying the activity in childhood. It's a mindful and artistic hobby that anyone can try at home, with beautiful results. Like foraging for food, foraging for flowers is an equally rewarding way to get back to nature before preserving your bounty. You can use dried flowers to create personalised gift tags, cards or pieces of artwork. It's also a lovely way to preserve a meaningful bouquet - perhaps from a wedding, or a gift from a loved one. If foraging for wildflowers, take a look at the Countryside Act to make sure you're now breaking any rules - or laws! - as it's illegal to trespass or uproot any plants.

How much does it cost to get started? 

£ To get started, you'll need to invest in some parchment paper, then it's simply a case of arranging your chosen flowers between two sheets within a heavy book. Wait two to four weeks for the flowers to fully dry. You could invest in a book like The Modern Flower Press: Preserving the Beauty of Nature, which explores the art of flower pressing as well as offering practical tips on how to get started. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

A creative hobby like this requires skill and focus, which we can often achieve more easily in solitude. As Laauwe explains, "Mastery of a creative hobby demands dedication. This journey teaches us patience and the beauty of being present – two qualities that greatly enhance our mental and emotional well-being."

Try it yourself:

• Silhouette Flower Press Kit at Oliver Bonas, £22.95

3. Walking and hiking

Walking and hiking are often perceived as group activities, but they can also be a great opportunity to have some valuable headspace. Penny Weston, founder of MADE wellness centre and MADE on demand, an online wellness platform, explains, "Walking will release endorphins which will improve your mood; even getting out for just 20 minutes can make a difference to how you feel. I love to head out alone and listen to a podcast. It is the perfect way for me to switch off after work, and have a bit of me time."

How much does it cost to get started? 

£ The beauty of this hobby is that it's completely free! Arm yourself with your favourite tunes, an interesting podcast or - my personal favourite - a gripping audiobook and take advantage of the green spaces near you. If you want to embark on a longer hike, National Trails is a great resource, or you could take a look at our guide to the best walking holidays in the UK. You may also want to invest in a good-quality pair of hiking boots to ensure your footwear is up to the challenge. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Getting out in nature alone can really benefit our mental wellbeing and offer the opportunity to reconnect with our own thoughts. Forest Bathing, a mindful practice where you connect with the sights, smells and sounds of nature around you, comes with a whole host of benefits, from lowering stress to boosting immunity. Not having to make conversation allows you to be more in the moment - it can be a liberating experience and allow you to go at your own pace. 

4. Volunteering with animals

If you're an animal lover who has a little spare time to dedicate to a worthy cause, volunteering with animals can be a rewarding hobby to do alone. UK animal charities such as Guide Dogs and Cats Protection offer volunteering opportunities where you can get involved to support a worthwhile cause. "Volunteering for Cats Protection is the perfect activity for people who like cats and want to try something new," says Zahir White, spokesperson for the charity. "There are a range of exciting volunteering opportunities on offer from fostering kittens to running a fundraising event to sending news stories to your local media." There's a section dedicated to Cats Protection Volunteering opportunities if you want to find out more. 

While Simon Goodwin, Volunteering Development Lead at Guide Dogs commented: “Of course, one of the biggest benefits of volunteering for Guide Dogs, is knowing you are a huge part in changing the life of someone with sight loss. Experiencing the rewarding feeling of seeing the dog you have looked after develop, as they progress through their training, to be a future guide dog provides a sense of achievement like no other."

If you want to try something a bit less involving, signing up to a platform like Borrow My Doggie allows you to take other people's pets out on walks, without the commitment of having a pet yourself. 

How much does it cost to get started? 

£ Volunteering doesn't cost anything generally - the charities will welcome any support you're willing to give. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Sometimes we can all do with taking a break from human interaction, but that's not to say that spending time with animals can't lift our spirits and offer valuable companionship.

5. Découpage

Another craft of a bygone era, découpage is a way of upcycling old objects like bowls, candle holders, ornaments or vases. Put simply, it means glueing paper cutouts alongside painting and using decorative effects such as gold leaf, before finishing with layers of varnish or PVA glue. You could use cutouts from old magazines, newspapers or tissue paper to create artistic effects. There are no hard and fast rules with découpage, so it offers the chance to get creative and hone a new skill, all while creating interior pieces. Plus, it works perfectly with the modern country charm aesthetic - one of our top interior design trends last year. 

How much does it cost to get started? 

£ Chances are that if you look for them, there will be plenty of old objects around the house that would be suitable for this project. Once you've decided on those, you'll need to invest in some varnish (there are plenty available on Amazon with prices starting at around £5.99) or PVA glue to offer protection to your finished piece. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Crafting can be quite a personal experience and we're arguably much more likely to commit to new techniques without the pressure of trying them out in a group setting. Leadership coach and communication expert Kate Davis explains, "When you aren’t influenced by others, and don’t feel that trying something new would risk failure, you can explore more freely and experiment with more confidence. Which then impacts your daily life, too."

Try it yourself:

• Decoupage Kit for Oyster Shells at Etsy, £41

6. Cold water swimming

The benefits of cold-water swimming are pretty convincing - not only is it a brilliant way to keep fit, but it's also been proven to rescue stress and anxiety, releasing endorphins with each icy dip. Wild swimming combines the benefits of swimming with eco-therapy, but if it's a bit of a stretch to get to a lake or the sea to try out this hobby, going to your local lido will still ensure you reap the benefits. 

How much does it cost to get started? 

££ Swimming in the wild in many lakes and the sea costs nothing - but you'll need to invest in the right gear beforehand. You'll need a good-quality wetsuit, neoprene gloves, and boots, as well as a woolly hat. Some lakes, particularly those in parks, may ask for a small fee (the lake I swim at is £5 per session) and a membership to your local lido will set you back around £30 - £50. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

One of the benefits of swimming is that it's a mindful activity where you can fully switch off. For me, swimming at the local lido started as a bit of an endurance test, but soon became an easy way to unwind, particularly during a busy day at work. You'd be amazed at the mental clarity a quick 20-minute dip can provide! 

Try it yourself: 

• SUPERFA 3mm Neoprene Gloves and Socks at Amazon, £21.99

7. Candle-making

Candle-making is a therapeutic, creative and rewarding hobby that can open up numerous possibilities, from creating candles for your own home to original gift-giving and even starting up your own business. We've got a full guide on how to make candles at home, but for those who are just starting out, all you'll really need is the right materials and access to some online tutorials. 

How much does it cost to get started? 

££ Investing in a candle-making kit is also a good first step if you want to try out this hobby alone, but if you want to try the create your own, you'll just need to decide which you'll use (paraffin wax is the most widely used, but soy and beeswax are natural products that also hold scent well), source some candle wicks and then add in the fragrance or essential oils that will scent your candle. While you may have to invest a little to get started, we'd argue this hobby could pay dividends as you'll be able to craft unique birthday or wedding gifts that could save you money in the long run.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

For account manager Bronia Burlinska from London, candle-making became a way to channel her creativity. "I've always been artistic but I can't draw or paint, so invested in a candle-making kit during the 2020 lockdown when we were stuck indoors and I wanted to try a new hobby to take my mind off things," she explained to w&h. "I found it very relaxing to switch off from the chaos around me and learn a new skill and particularly enjoyed experimenting with different scents. While I don't have quite as much time for it now, it's still something I pick up from time to time. to create personalised gifts for friends." 

Try it yourself: 

• Scented Candle Making Kit at Lunar Oceans, £55

8. Yoga

There's so much more to yoga than just perfecting the moves - it can provide the opportunity to learn more about the ancient philosophies that influence the practice, as well as improve your posture and concentration. "Yoga can reduce your feelings of anxiety and stress, increase body awareness, allow you to feel more present, improve your mood and even help you sleep better," Penny told us. 

How much does it cost to get started?

££ Trying yoga from your own home doesn't have to be costly - there are plenty of yoga apps that will help you get to grips with the basics. While many of these apps are free, others start at as little as £9.99 per month. You'll need to invest in a yoga mat before you begin and can add on other accessories like yoga blocks and bolsters, but they're not essential.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

"Group meditation or yoga classes can be great as there will be a teacher to guide you, which can be really useful if it is something you are new to. However, a lot of people feel more comfortable carrying out these hobbies alone, and feel they can connect with themselves on a deeper level. Online classes and guided meditations can be really helpful if trying this as a solo hobby," Penny explains. 

9. Learn to homebrew beer

Chemistry fans, this one is for you. Brewing beer at home takes, practice, dedication and a lot of experimentation - but you can certainly have a lot of fun in the process. At a very top-line level, you'll need to heat water and grain (and/or extract from grain), then boil the mixture with hops (you can buy both from online stores like Amazon). After cooling the mixture, ferment it using yeast and then carbonate. The skill level is high for this one and you'll need to do your research. This guide from Love Brewing is a good place to start.

How much does it cost to get started?

££ Materials for home brewing are relatively inexpensive, but you may want to invest in a home brewing kit like this Home Brewing Starter Kit from Bottle Topped (£42). There's a wealth of research online, so you can get clued up before trying out this solo hobby. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

A laborious solo hobby, home brewing can be a labour of love. But while you may try out the process alone, it can be an enriching experience to enjoy the spoils of your labour at a later date with family and friends.  

10. Rock climbing

Taking on a physical personal challenge can be one of the most rewarding hobbies to do alone - and thrilling fitness pursuits like rock climbing are a great alternative to team sports. As this solo hobby requires some specialist equipment, it's advisable to start at an indoor rock climbing centre, with the view to building up to outdoor rock climbing once you've learned the basics. 

How much does it cost to get started?

££ UK prices generally start at about £12 per session, but you'll also need to factor in shoe hire along with that.  

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Physical activities like rock climbing are a great way for us to personally challenge and push ourselves, as Laauwe explains. "It's often said that we find our true potential at the edge of our comfort zone. Hobbies that challenge us often prove to be the most rewarding, presenting unparalleled benefits for our psyche," he told w&h.

11. Tarot reading

Often shrouded in mystery, tarot cards can have a dark reputation, but, for many, it's simply a way of understanding themselves and their psyche more, using the cards as prompts to ask big questions. Learning the art of tarot is a very personal experience, as it delves into the ideas and concerns we have about our own lives. But that's not to say that it can't be shared with others as a tool for reflection after learning it as a solo hobby. If tarot isn't for you, there are other similar practices, such as goddess cards or I Ching that tap into a similar philosophy. 

How much does it cost to get started?

£ A deck of tarot cards is an affordable investment, for example, this Tarot Cards with Guide Book set costs £11.99 on Amazon.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Learning to read tarot takes a great deal of patience and the ability to lean into your intuition. It can involve a fair amount of personal growth, too, which can be a very intimate experience. As spiritual mentor Kayleigh Marie Priest explains, "The silence of being on your own helps you to further trust yourself when you interpret their meaning. Learning tarot can help to boost confidence; it's a calming activity that allows you to connect deeper to yourself, cutting through the noise of the modern world so you can hear yourself more clearly."

Try it at yourself:

• Touchfutrue Tarot Cards with Guide Book at Amazon, £12.99

12. Knitting

Knitting was said to be one of Queen Elizabeth II's favourite pastimes - she was famously pictured knitting alongside her sister Princess Margaret during wartimes in April 1940. And it seems like the late Queen was on to something - a labour-intensive craft like knitting can help focus the mind and be a positive hobby for our mental health, as Laauwe explains. "Learning a craft like the intricate art of knitting is a positive and constructive way to spend our time, meaning we're less likely to stray into unhealthy habits," he told w&h. 

How much does it cost to get started?

££ It's relatively cheap to try knitting, particularly if you start with acrylic yarn while you're still practising and learning. This typically costs under £5 for a bundle of yarn (it's slightly more for wool), while you can invest in a set of knitting needles for as little as £2.95.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Knitting is the kind of hobby that lends itself to being sat in front of a Netflix series, or listening to the radio or a gripping podcast - it's the perfect downtime activity.

13. Journalling

Journalling has been proven to help release stress, process negative thoughts and provide a generally more positive outlook, but many of us struggle to find the time. Taking it up as a solo hobby means investing some time in you and your mental health. There are so many types of journals out there, from productivity planners, gratitude journals, goal planners, relationship trackers, bullet journals and journals that will help track your dreams and sleep better. If you want to go more high-tech, you could also try one of the best journaling apps. Aiming for just ten minutes of journaling a day can significantly improve your mental health. As Liz Clifton, a life coach with a focus on reducing stress explains, "Expressing yourself in the written word can be very cathartic. Journalling, writing poetry, short stories, nonfiction or mind mapping is a wonderful way to release the thoughts from your head and move you into peace and calm."

How much does it cost to get started?

£ Journals can cost anything in the region of £5 to £30, like this super in-depth productivity planner from Leathally Her. But if you don't want to invest in a structured journal, even just jotting thoughts down in a notepad can be extremely beneficial if you are consistent. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Journalling is a solitary activity that encourages us to look inwards, so naturally it's one of the best hobbies to do alone. "I do recommend that journalling should be done alone if possible," Penny explains. "Try to make sure you are in a quiet, private place when journaling so you can truly focus on your thoughts. If you are constantly being interrupted, this might knock you off your train of thought."

14. Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking is a great way to keep track of your memories and can provide an insight into the past not just for you, but your family in the future. Simply collect anything that has personal significance to you, whether that's photographs, concert tickets, letters or doodles and arrange them together, adding your own notes and captions if you want to. 

How much does it cost to get started?

£ All you'll need is a scrapbook and then a collection of old items, like photos, postcards, tickets and notes or letters. A simple sketchbook will do as a base, or you could arrange your keepsakes in a photo album. It doesn't need to be polished - but we're sure you'll treasure it for years to come.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Having some time alone allows you to reflect on the past and cherished memories - but that doesn't mean that your finished item isn't something you can share with loved ones in the future. 

Try it yourself:

• Personalised Scrapbook Kit Gift Set at Martha Brook, £39.50

15. Start a herb garden

A winner when it comes to both saving money and sustainability, growing your own herbs can be an incredibly rewarding solo hobby. Whether you decide to grow your garden inside or dedicate a patch to it outdoors, the most important thing to remember is that it needs plenty of sunlight. If you're planting outside, look for a sunny area with well-draining soil, such as a raised bed that's facing the direction of sunlight. If you're planting inside, choose a sunny spot on your windowsill. Take a look at this guide from the Royal Horticultural Society for an in-depth guide.

If you're looking to go a step further and grow your own veg too, it could be worth looking into an allotment space where you can enjoy hours of solitude while tending to fruit and veg - it's one of the great solo hobbies to team with cooking and getting there can be a great way to build a walking workout into your day. 

How much does it cost to get started?

££ Starting a herb garden is relatively expensive to start up and costs nothing to keep going, aside from some time and patience. You don't need to invest in compost - most herbs don't need rich soil and your garden soil should do the job (and you can use this if potting your herbs inside) - the key is to make sure it's free draining. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Along with cooking, I started growing herbs in the garden a few years ago and having fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to hand has definitely saved me a lot of money and trips to the local supermarket when creating dishes. Gardening, including tending to a herb garden, is quite a solitary task - but it's one that provides great satisfaction when you see the fruits of your labour. Spending time in the garden is calming and this gives me a great excuse to get outdoors. 

16. Upcylcing

Rooting through charity shops could be a hobby all in itself! But if you've got a talent for DIY projects, upcycling is a mindful hobby that will leave you with some beautiful finished pieces to treasure. Look through your local thrift store for items like old chairs, dressers, bookshelves and coffee tables, or start with smaller pieces like lamps and interesting baskets that could be repurposed as striking lampshades - the opposites are endless. If you want to start really small, things like oyster shells can be great trinket dishes while getting crafty with vases will allow you to create a striking new centrepiece. 

How much does it cost to get started?

££ If you're dealing with expensive antiques, it can be costly, but that's not to say you can't source your items from places like FreeCycle or car book sales. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Creating bespoke pieces alone allows you to really channel your creativity into a new project. By working on artistic activities alone, we get a deeper sense of our own tastes and preferences without the influence of anybody else. 

17. Photography

Thanks to the advancement of smartphones, pretty much anyone can try their hand at photography nowadays - you don't need expensive camera equipment or a pricy online course. There are even plenty of materials online dedicated solely to camera-phone skills, so you can take beautiful pictures on the go if a subject presents itself. Photographs act as memories and can highlight our happier moments, encouraging positive thinking. One way to get started is to try the 365 Photo Challenge, which has a new photography idea for every day of the year.

How much does it cost to get started?

££ You'll need to own a smartphone or invest in a digital or DSLR camera. These can start at around £150, but can cost up to thousands of pounds for more advanced models. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

It can take time and practice to hone your craft - something that's easier to do solo without the watchful eyes of somebody else while you improve your skills. 

Try it yourself:

• The iPhone Photography Book at Amazon, £19.69

18. Creative writing

Whether it's poetry, short stories, or finally penning that novel you've been thinking about, creative writing is a creative outlet that will help fire up your imagination a boost your mental health. Research from Cambridge University Press reveals that expressive writing can help us release built-up tension and emotions, particularly if we explore the negative experiences in our own lives as it can be a cathartic process.

How much does it cost to get started?

£ Writing doesn't have to cost anything - all you'll need is some imagination (as well as a laptop, or pen a paper if you're old school). If you want to try something more structured

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Writing is a deeply personal experience and one of the best hobbies to do alone. It's not something you can really share with another - though many people find writing groups where they can share ideas beneficial to developing their work. For my own foray into creative writing, I tried out Curtis Brown's online course Writing A Psychological Thriller Course led by journalist and novelist Erin Kelly (you can read the full Curtis Brown review here). Despite being a journalist, I found writing fiction very intimidating, so having some structure around character development and plot devices was very useful. 

19. Learn a new language

Learning a new language won't just give you the satisfaction of learning a challenging new skill, it's also a great excuse to travel to new places to test out your skills (take a look at our guides to the best tortilla in Madrid or the best traditional dishes to try in Italy for some inspiration) Downloading a language learning app like Duolingo or Babbel on your phone can really help move this alone and is perfect for solo hobbyists. 

How much does it cost to get started?

£/£££ Apps like Duolingo and Babble are free to download - but you can pay for more premium services. If you want to enrol on a more formal course, The Open University has plenty of options that you can do from home. Whether you choose to study part-time or full-time will affect how much it costs each year, but it's safe to say a language course is a big investment, however, it could open up opportunities in the future, such as being able to work abroad. If you want to try something less formal, check out local evening classes in your area. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Learning a language requires a lot of skill and dedication and many of us find it easier to focus when alone. That's not to say that as your confidence grows you might want to switch this from a solo hobby to a class format and practice your conversation skills with others. 

20. Reading

Reading is brilliant for calming the mind, in fact, recent stats from The Publishers Association found that one in three of us use books for escapism from our daily lives. Whether it's feminist books, page-turning thriller books or fantasy novels that take your fancy, dedicating some time to reading every day is an excellent way to switch off and unwind. If you do want to meet new people via doing a hobby alone, a book club is a great place to meet like-minded individuals. 

How much does it cost to get started?

£ Books are relatively cheap - particularly as you can buy second-hand books from Amazon or eBay at a fraction of the original price. Of course, you could invest in one of the best kindles, but if you're anything like me only a good old-fashioned paperback will do.

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Reading is one of the best hobbies to do alone as it's such a quiet and immersive activity. Wellness expert Abdullah Boulad, founder of THE BALANCE explains, "Reading is a peaceful and solitary pastime, this can be a great way for introverts to explore other worlds and immerse themselves in stories without the need for social interaction."

21. Pottery making

Another popular crafty hobby is pottery making, which can be a fun way to try something artistic if you shy away from drawing and painting. Once you've mastered the basics, it can be a fun way to create bespoke interior pieces or special gifts for friends. 

How much does it cost to get started?

£££ One of the more expensive hobbies to do alone on our list, you'll need to invest in materials upfront and join pottery-making classes to learn the ropes. A key piece of equipment is a kiln to fire up the clay once it's moulded into the desired shape, which will need to be used with the guidance of a professional, at least at a beginner level. 

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Working on an art or crafts piece is a labour-intensive process that lends itself to a quiet and methodical approach. While it might be fun to try new things with friends, by doing something that's creatively challenging alone, we're more likely to focus our mind fully on the task at hand.

22. Meditation

Learning how to meditate can be taken on as a solo hobby that will improve your overall wellbeing. If you're new to meditation, the Headspace Guide to Meditation course available for free on Netflix is perfect for beginners. You could also download a meditation app and commit to just ten minutes in the morning and ten minutes in the evening - you'll soon start to see the benefits. 

How much does it cost to get started?

£ All you'll need to a meditation app or there are plenty of free recordings on YouTube as some guidance and you can practice meditation at any time, in any place Simple activities like nature walks can also be a meditative experience where you can hone mindfulness skills, as I touched on with Forest Bathing earlier. 

As Kayleigh Marie Preist explains, "I recommend to all my clients to do intuitive nature walking or forest bathing alone - this proves to be very powerful for people. Often many of us will take walks for exercise or to clear our minds but often when done in groups we can be distracted thinking about other things. When you walk intuitively through nature on your own, it's more about paying closer to attention to nature - the ripples in the water, the colours around you. I find it's the best way to reset, it reminds us that we are part of nature and not separate from it."

Why is this such a great hobby to do alone?

Boulad explains that meditation is a particularly good hobby to do alone, as it can "promote inner peace, self-awareness, and relaxation, which are particularly appealing to introverts seeking introspection and mental clarity". 

Try it yourself:

• Mindfulness Journal at Not On The High Street, £26

What’s the best hobby for introverts?

First things first, "being an introvert doesn't mean you're antisocial," Kelly Weekers, Psychologist and best-selling author of The Power Of Choice explains. "It just means that excessive socialising is likely to leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed."

There's not one singular hobby that is best for introverts; any of the hobbies on our list would be suitable for some alone time. As Weekers explains, "For introverts therefore it mostly feels best to pick up hobbies that don’t require too much social interaction or large groups of people. Solo hobbies are relaxing for introverts as these are the perfect way to engage in something fun all the while having some alone time and by doing so recharging their social batteries. This could include nature walking, reading, pilates or yoga, writing, cooking, baking or painting." 

Dr Rob Kemp, Head of Accredited Coach Training at Barefoot Coaching agrees, writing, "Introverts may benefit from recharging their ‘batteries’ with solo activities, and time alone. Whether it is time for quiet introspection, quiet craft time, or reading poetry, there is no shortage of ideas when it comes to hobbies. And taking part in solo hobbies doesn't mean you need to be totally disconnected - you can still share your experience through a Facebook or Instagram group for some social interaction."

Could solo hobbies help you meet new people? 

The other benefit of trying hobbies out alone, but in a group setting, is the opportunity to widen your social circle - or even a potential new partner. While online dating shows no signs of slowing down - with 366 million online dating service users recorded in 2022 according to Statista - that's not to say that many people would like the opportunity to meet people the old-fashioned way. Solo hobbies may benefit us by giving us some much-needed time to look inward, but they can also help us find new interests and passions that could provide avenues to meet like-minded people.  

"Hobbies are also the thing that makes you interesting," explains Chantelle Dyson, a life coach specifically for single people. "Whether you're talking to a friend or even out on a date, your hobbies are what define you and make you unique to another person. Not only might you meet new people through a new hobby, but you're also doing something purposeful with your time, which is good for self-esteem, rather than spending hours scrolling on apps."

These hobbies for women will not only help you learn a new skill, but also could boost your health and wellbeing - not to mention help you meet some new people in the process. 

Taking up a new hobby allows you to carve out some time for yourself while unplugging from things like work, family stress, and errands. As well as helping to relax your mind, hobbies can reconnect us to things we truly enjoy doing - they don't need to be productive or earn us money. 

Many of these hobbies for women are inexpensive, too, with fun activities such as cold water swimming, yoga for beginners and fermenting requiring very little in terms of start-up costs. We’ve weighed up the most popular hobbies for women below including hobbies for couples, easy hobbies you can do at home, hobbies you can do in the kitchen, and the most relaxing hobbies to help you decide which is the right one for you. Let these ideas for hobbies inspire you to try something different and enrich your life. 

Why are hobbies good for our health?

Hobbies can be a lifeline when it comes to dealing with stress. Family psychotherapist Jay Perkins of Partisan explains, “Hobbies are a way to detach ourselves from the anxieties of everyday life and can provide a valuable escape route for our minds. Even just half an hour spent engaging our minds on a hobby can have a positive impact on our mental health." 

Research from the National Library of Medicine shows how hobbies stimulate the reward system in our brain and release hormones such as dopamine that motivate us to do the hobby again, as well as having more individual benefits. Playing a musical instrument, for example, is said to improve memory according to Dr Ciara McCabe, a professor of neuroscience, psychopharmacology and mental health. Dr McCabe also links reading and board games to preventing dementia in later life.

"People with hobbies are less likely to struggle with depression, stress, and low moods,” Poonam Dhuffer, a meditation practitioner, told us. According to Dhuffer, hobbies are a great way to practice mindfulness too, who told us, “Crafting, for example, can calm our nervous systems, as we’re using our hands and brains together, being fully aware of where we are and conscious of what we’re doing."

The best hobbies for women 

Fitness

1. Practice yoga

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: Yoga mat, blocks and online classes | Indoor or outdoor: Both  | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Class dependent

Yoga is about so much more than simply rolling out your best yoga mat and honing your technique - it’s a whole lifestyle and the more you learn about yoga and its ancient principles, the more it will benefit you off the mat. 

“Yoga isn't just about the postures themselves, the practice takes us on a journey of self-discovery,” Lauren Brady, yoga teacher and founder of Lauren Brady Yoga told w&h. "Firstly connecting us to our bodies and breath, and then taking us deeper. We learn to see ourselves more clearly on and off the mat, to witness our thoughts and reactions, and ultimately it guides us to see that we are part of something greater than ourselves, connecting us to our spirituality.” 

Yoga is one of the most popular exercise forms in the world, as well as being one of the most popular hobbies for women. Last year the Yoga Alliance reported that around 36 million people were regularly practicing yoga in America alone and 56% of those were classed as beginners. With so many tutorials online, yoga is a hobby that you can get started with very easily. The benefits of yoga are clear; not only will you feel stronger and fitter, but yoga can also help reduce stress, increase happiness and improve memory function. 

All you need to begin practicing yoga is a mat, which you can use in the house or garden, and some workout clothes. Comfort is key, so make sure you choose activewear that fits well and feels great. If sore joints are an issue, you could try one of the best thick yoga mats, too. 

2. Nordic Walking

Start up costs: £££ | Start up kit: Walking poles, walking shoes | Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Medium

Nordic Walking uses poles that propel you forward. This means you engage your upper body more than when rambling or trekking. It’s also great for those with joint problems, as the poles mean you’re applying less pressure when walking. “Public Health England and the Centre for Aging Better recently said it’s one of the best activities for strengthening muscles and balance,” Dr Melanie Wynne-Jones told w&h. “Which is essential, as this tends to deteriorate as we age, making us more prone to falls.”

It's no secret that walking in nature is good for body and soul, with the benefits of forest bathing earning it a huge following across the world. Whether you live near the ocean, or forest or want to take in the sights of your hometown, walking gives us space to think, gets our joints moving, and allows us to breathe in some fresh air. Nordic walking poles cost around £30 and you will also need a good pair of walking shoes (check out our guide to the best women's walking shoes if you're in the market for a new pair). Then it's worth getting in touch with a Nordic Walking instructor to find out about walking routes near you. This is also a great hobby for couples if you want to start with a companion. You can find out more at Nordic Walking UK.

3. Wild swimming

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: Swimming costume, (optional) wetsuit, swim boots, swim gloves, wooly hat | Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Medium 

Wild swimming - also called open-water swimming - has been rising in popularity for a few years now, making it one of the best new hobbies to try if you're looking to take up something physical, invigorating - and maybe a little out of your comfort zone. There are plenty of health benefits of cold-water swimming, including an instant mood boost, increased fitness levels and better circulation. Cold water swimming also makes it on our list of the best hobbies for women in their 30s though it really is all-ages. 

Matt Ovenden, on-the-water expert at Borrow A Boat, says, “The thrill and exhilaration that comes with wild swimming has meant it’s fast become a national pastime. Far from just a way to exercise, wild swimming comes with a plethora of mental and physical health benefits, from the cold water helping to boost your immune system to the release of endorphins giving you a natural high."

To get started, invest in a good-quality swimsuit and potentially a wetsuit. You'll also need to purchase some neoprene swim gloves and boots if swimming in colder temperatures (some wild swimmers also prefer to wear aqua shoes while wild swimming to protect their feet from any potentially rocky ground) and complete an induction at your local pond, lake or by the sea depending on where you want to wild swim. There are additional health benefits to swimming in the sea thanks to its high salt content, but some may prefer a secluded and still lake to get their ecotherapy fix. For guidance, take a read through the Outdoor Swimming Society Swim Responsibility Statement and always chat about safety considerations with a lifeguard beforehand.

“The beauty of wild swimming is that it’s a simple, low-cost hobby that anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, can enjoy with opportunities to enjoy it wherever you live," Ovenden explained. If you don't feel confident heading out on your own, there are plenty of groups to join where you can wild swim with others in tow. The Outdoor Swimming Society's website has an extensive list of local groups to join.

4. Dancing

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: Just bring yourself and maybe a good pair of trainers | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Easy

Dancing is arguably one of the most fun hobbies to pick up, and it's fantastic for upping your fitness levels too. According to the NHS, it's brilliant for weight loss, as well as improving your posture and your bone and muscle strength. Not only is dancing good for your body, but it's also a great way to improve your mental health, it releases endorphins which can make you feel relaxed and happy.

If you're keen to take up dancing as a hobby, there's also nothing stopping you from getting started right now. If you'd rather learn to dance in a more professional setting though, there are always local dance groups running. Plus, learning to dance with others is a great way to socialize, and have fun at the same time. 

You can try your hand at any form of dancing, be it modern dance, classical dance such as ballet, or professional dance numbers such as the foxtrot and the tango. Lessons vary in price, especially if you opt for pricier one-on-one sessions as opposed to group classes. But you can make a start yourself right away (and for free). Simply put on your favourite upbeat song and go for it!

Crafting

5. Learn the art of ceramics

Start up costs: £££ | Start up kit: Ceramics course (will include materials) | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: Potentially | Skill level: Medium 

Thanks to numerous ceramics courses across the country, ceramic making can be a hobby for the masses, with classes to suit all abilities on offer. This is one you generally can't do at home, as you'll need to use a kiln to transform your pieces from clay to ceramics, but creating beautiful pieces of crockery, vases and ornaments isn't as intimidating as it may sound under the guidance of a professional. Who else is ready for their own Ghost moment?

For Hayley Johnson, a PR Director from London, ceramics classes have provided a much-needed respite from the digital world. "I've always loved interiors so ceramics is a wonderful creative outlet for that," she told w&h. "Beyond that, it's also a great ritual of self-care. Like most people, I spend way too much time glued to a screen, so it's a great way to have a complete digital detox. In fact, pottery is so messy that I can't even wear my smartwatch, so for a few hours I'm completely free from notifications popping up. 

"Pottery also teaches me to slow down. In the day-to-day, I always feel like I'm rushing around and am non-stop, but throwing on the wheel requires a lot of patience. One rushed action and you can ruin a whole pot, so you have to learn to slow down and concentrate, really be in the moment and present. It's like a form of meditation."

6. Try your hand at jewelry making

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: A jewelry making kit | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Medium 

The best jewellery-making kits will include everything you need to take up this rewarding hobby, including any necessary tools and detailed instructions. Kits usually come with wire, string, needles, hooks, lobster claws, and clasps. And if you’re still not sure, there are so many online jewelry-making classes that will help you perfect your craft - t's never been easier to learn how to make jewelry at home. 

Crafting your own jewellery has long been considered a therapeutic creative outlet - it’s time-consuming but produces a beautiful result. You could start with something really simple, such as learning how to make a bead bracelet and then work your way up to intricate, one-of-a-kind statement pieces. Learning how to make earrings is also a good first step, as a simple style can still look really effective.

Jewellery-making is one of the most popular hobbies for women. Make unique pieces to update your look, or create homemade gifts for loved ones. Before you know it you could have a covetable collection, whether you want to set up a store on Etsy or keep your creations for yourself. 

7. Embroidery, tapestry or knitting

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: Knitting/embro needles, fabric and thread or yarn | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Difficult at first!

Taking up embroidery, knitting or tapestry can be as simple or complicated as you like. If you want to try basic embroidery, all you need is some fabric (like cotton or calico), an embroidery hoop, embroidery needles, and thread. You can order all you need online from a craft store such as Hobbycraft - just look for the section on basic stitches. 

If you want to hone your craft further, you could teach yourself how to stitch with one of the best sewing machines via online tutorials, to create beautiful textiles at a quicker pace (our guide on easy sewing machine projects is also a great place to start!) This being said, there's something to be said for the slow and mindful pace of embroidering or knitting, methodically working towards a finished product. It's meticulous work, but deeply satisfying when you're left with the finished item.  

You might like to start with embroidering a name, a simple pattern, or a floral design. To begin, simply draw on your cloth with a pencil and stitch on top - adding buttons and sequins is an easy win. And if you’re a confident artist, try recreating a portrait in stitch. There are plenty of online tutorials to get you started, like this video that walks you through seven basic embroidery stitches, or this knitting video that will teach you the basics. It's one of the easier hobbies for women to pick up without much prep at all.

8. Learn how to make Macrame

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: String or cord, online tutorial | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Difficult at first!

Macrame was all the rage in the '70s. Now - along with houseplants - it’s back in vogue. Making a macrame plant pot holder is one of the easiest ways to try out this skill and you can then move on to more advanced patterns. It’s a low-cost hobby, too. All you need is string/cord and a little patience and pot holders make lovely gifts, making it one of the more lucrative hobbies for women.

There are good things and bad things about taking up macrame and if you're not one who possesses much patience, then it's probably not for you, as this is one hobby that takes a little time to develop the skill. However, once you master it, it's a great creative skill to have as you can make a whole range of beautiful products. You can make home accessories like placemats and coats, make a lovely light spring jumper or you could even pair it with some feathers and come up with a magical dream catcher.

9. Take up candle-making

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: Wax, a jar, a wick, and other household essentials- or, you can buy ready-made kits | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: It can be! | Skill level: Medium

You might not have considered it as a hobby, but let's face it - some of the best-scented candles can be pretty pricey, so making your own is a great way to create some really unique candles that won't cost you the earth either. Candle-making is a brilliant way to get creative, plus it's one of our favourite hobbies to do at home when we want to relax and unwind.

We've got a full guide on how to make candles at home, but the very first things to consider when making a candle are the wax you will use, the container, the wick, and the fragrance or essential oils you want to create the scent of your candle.

When it comes to actually creating your candle, the process is actually relatively easy. Put simply, it involves melting your wax and fragrance oils in a pan, inserting the wick, and leaving the candle to cool for at least 24 hours at room temperature.

Not only will taking up candle-making as a hobby leave you with a gorgeous end product you can enjoy almost instantly, but it can also be really meditative and relaxing, as you work your way slowly through the process to create something tangible. Plus, it won't cost you loads to get started, and it's something you could enjoy with others too - why not try it out as an alternative date night idea with your partner?

Cooking

10. Have a go at fermenting

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: A fermenting starter pack, jam jars, veg | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Medium

Gut health has placed itself firmly at the forefront of our health agenda, with the benefits of eating fermented foods obvious, from clearer skin to better organ function, as well as having a significant impact on our mental health. They don’t call the gut the ‘second brain’  - a term coined by medical experts to explain the importance of what's happening in our guts - for nothing. Thanks to our newfound respect for gut-loving foods, fermentation has become a popular hobby, with many heading to the kitchen to cook up kefir, miso paste, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. 

Kombucha in particular is having a health-food moment, with sales skyrocketing in recent years. “At LoBros we sold more than 2 million bottles in 2020, with online sales growing 127%,” Natalie Stanton, head of sales at Soulfresh UK told w&h. “Brewing your own kombucha has also seen a resurgence, with sites like Happy Kombucha selling everything you need for a homebrew kit. It’s a fun hobby with a delicious outcome.” Kombucha is easy to brew at home if you have the correct tools; sugar, tea, and a living bacteria culture called a scoby. 

Fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi are also easy enough to whizz up in a blender or food processor. To rustle up some kimchi, all you need is a diced crunchy vegetable, salt, and a jar with a well-fitting lid so it's a great one to start with. Dr Clare Bailey, the wife of Dr Michael Mosley, who is famous for his No Sugar Diet, is a big fan of fermented food kimchi. She has incorporated it into their Fast 800 intermittent fasting plan and the couple praise gut-friendly foods as a whole in their book, The Clever Guts Diet. If you want a hobby that will boost your health from the inside, it looks like fermenting is the way to go. 

11. Build up your recipe collection

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: Ingredients and kitchen utensils  | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Easy

Trying out the best recipe boxes can be a great way to experiment in the kitchen, with top chefs and foodie brands sharing their insider secrets when it comes to rustling up tasty dishes. Before you know it, your culinary skills have much improved thanks to the nifty tips and tricks picked up along the way, all while following fool-proof recipe cards. Cooking isn't only a wonderful treat for your friends and family, it has the ability to quiet our minds and encourage us to concentrate on the task at hand. For many it's therapeutic.  

Baking is far more precise by nature, perhaps one for the scientists and mathematicians among us, while cooking allows you to bend the rules. When planning new recipes, it could be interesting to try cooking a cuisine that is new to you, such as vegan food. We love this BOSH! Green shakshuka for a tasty vegan brunch, as well as classic collections like our one-pot dinner recipes if you want to start with the basics. 

It can be deeply satisfying to store your recipes on beautiful recipe cards; a joy for all the stationary fans out there. Or, simply jot recipes down in a notebook, or save them within your bookmarks online. However you store them, you'll be thankful you built up your repertoire come future dinner parties. 

12. Get into baking

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: A mixer, mixing bowl, whisk, rolling pin and a baking tin | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Medium

Baking is a popular hobby for good reason - it can be incredibly soothing to absorb yourself in the process, and - of course - it can yield some very delicious results!

Getting started does require a few kitchen essentials though; your baking journey will be a lot easier if you have one of the best stand mixers (or one of the best KitchenAid stand mixers) to hand, as well as the necessary tools, such as a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a rolling pin. Of course, you'll also need some great baking books to hand - Mary Berry's and Yotam Ottolenghi's are particularly popular. You'll also need to purchase the ingredients each time, of course.

But it's well worth the time and effort you put into getting set up. Baking takes real skill, with different methods needed for different types of bakes - and perfecting that can feel like a real achievement. Plus, all of your family and friends will (and you), will get to enjoy the spoils of your efforts, and baked goods can make for fantastic gifts for birthdays or Christmas. 

13. Try your hand at mixology

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: Ingredients, glasses and bar utensils | Indoor or outdoor: Both | Group activity: Optional | Skill level: Easy

Who needs to head to an expensive bar for cocktails when you've got your very own mixology expert at home? As opposed to how it may seem when you glance over at your bartender pouring and mixing behind the bar, cocktail making isn't as simple as chucking a few ingredients in a shaker and hoping for the best. Of course, that is a tactic many of us have tried after a few tipples - and it hasn't always turned out badly...But if you want to recreate your all-time favourites at home, then there is an art to it - and it can be one of the most fun hobbies for women.

To get started, you'll need to invest in a cocktail shaker kit. These come in all shapes and sizes and at a variety of price points depending on where you buy them from, how many pieces are included and what material you choose - they generally come in stainless steel but there are a few fancy gold or copper ones around. Make sure your set includes at least: a shaker, a jigger (or measure), a strainer, a spoon and a pestle (or tamper). A corkscrew and pourers can also be helpful depending on what type of cocktails you plan on making, what tools you already have at home and if you want to make an impression on your guests with a spirit-pouring display. Some also come with ice tongs that are a cool but somewhat unnecessary addition. If you plan on making frozen cocktails, it also helps to have one of the best blenders on hand.

After you're stocked up on tools, ingredients are the next must. It's helpful to have the basics in - mainstream spirits like vodka, gin, rum, whiskey and tequila. Citruses are also helpful to have on hand as well as essentials like sugar and salt. Next think about liqueurs and flavourings like Angostura bitters, syrups, triple sec, amaretto and any other bits that you usually like in your drinks. And of course, mixers like juices, soda water and ginger ale come in handy. We'd suggest getting hold of a cocktail-making book or scouring the net and making a list of your favourite cocktail recipes. The last thing to think about - glassware. Obviously, you can serve your cocktails in any old glass, but it really does add something to the experience to have the right glassware for each drink. Build up a collection of coupes, tumblers, hiballs and of course, a trusty martini glass.

Hortology

14. Get into gardening

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: Seeds, bulbs and tools | Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor | Group activity: Potentially | Skill level: Easy

Gardening, perhaps one of our favourite hobbies for women, comes with a huge list of benefits, both physical and mental. Planting bulbs, pulling weeds, and tending to an allotment offer the perfect antidote to a day spent glued to a screen indoors, and can even alleviate depression and ease anxiety. With plenty of places to buy plants online, getting everything you need to try out this hobby couldn't be easier. Head to your local DIY or garden shop to pick up the essentials or shop online, either with your local garden centre, or a retailer like Amazon.

If you're new to gardening, a good place to start would be with a small herb garden or wildflower garden. You will need a garden rake to clear the space of stones and debris, some canes to lay on the earth to make sure the seed is spreading evenly, and some herb or wildflower seeds. A particularly joyful pastime is planting sunflowers with the family, competing over whose climbs the highest come the summer months. 

15. Learn the art of flower arranging

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: Blooms of choice, a vase, trimmer | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Medium

One of the best hobbies for women if you love flowers! This is a relaxing and creative way to spend an hour or two, with a beautiful finished product that will enhance your living spaces. What makes this hobby so popular is how accessible it is - anyone can have a go and the finished result is unlikely to be anything but beautiful. Plus, whether you opt to pick wildflowers from the garden, or pick up some affordable blooms in your local grocery store, everything you need is readily available. 

Long gone are the days when flower arranging meant sticking to traditional arrangements, with much more scope for creativity. A quick scout around on Pinterest or Instagram should give you all the inspiration you need to try flower arranging, but if you want something more prescriptive, there are plenty of in-depth tutorials online to help you learn the basics before you find your own flair like this flower arranging step-by-step guide from Celebrity Florist Carly Cylinder.

Art, writing, and photography

16. Up your photography game

Start up costs: £££ | Start up kit: Camera, optional editing softwear | Indoor or outdoor: Both | Group activity: No | Skill level: All levels

Photography is one of the best hobbies for women because if you want to start with the basics, you don't need to buy anything extra. Sure, you could splash out hundreds - even thousands - on an expensive camera, but thanks to the latest smartphones, every woman and her iPhone has the potential to be a great photographer. 

Whether you're amassing an enviable Instagram-ready photo album or looking to get published in a magazine, photography offers the opportunity to capture memories, improve your eye for detail and relieve anxiety, as you spend much of your time focusing on your surroundings and living in the moment. 

While anyone can take a picture, it takes a certain finesse and the right techniques to really capture the right angles. Take a photography course online before you get started and make sure you read up on which camera is best for you. A DSLR camera, for example, is ideal for a beginner - easy to use and starting price points are accessible. 

17. Experiment with photo collage

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: Photographs, craft materials | Indoor or outdoor: Outdoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Easy

Is there anything more joyful than looking through old photograph albums, and recalling happy pastimes? The more candid the shots the better, if you ask us. And after you've brushed up on your photography skills, why not learn how to showcase your photographs in a unique and beautiful way? 

This goes the same for old (particularly black and white!) photographs too. Dig out those old albums that have been gathering dust in a cupboard somewhere for years and bring the memories back to life with some crafty presentation. Collages can be displayed in your home in frames in meaningful shapes or patterns such as a map or a heart, or strung up with string or wire to make personalized bunting. 

If you favour the vintage look, reprint old photographs onto Polaroids for a retro starting point. And, on that note, if you don't own an expensive digital camera, there's something wonderfully nostalgic about snapshots captured with a good old-fashioned disposable camera, which you can pick up for around £5 online. 

18. Commit to journaling

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: A notebook and a pen | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Easy

Journaling may not strictly be a hobby, but it can be a really enjoyable and beneficial activity to do on a daily basis if you're after a bit of mental clarity. It can take any kind of form you want - whether you prefer to write in response to prompts (e.g. what am I grateful for today?), or prefer writing a stream of consciousness about your feelings, worries, or hopes. You could take a look at the best goal planners for inspiration. 

There are different ways to lay out your journal entries too - some people like to use the bullet journal format, where you table off your thoughts and plans (one section could be for goals, one section could be for reflections, for example), while others just write and write, either in bullet point format or just in paragraphs. It's one of the best hobbies for women if you want to express yourself creatively.

The key is finding out whatever works best for you because journaling can provide enormous benefits whichever way you do it. It can help you to offload and deal with any negative emotions, it can be a good way to practice positive self-talk, and it can simply help you to get rid of a lot of mental clutter that may be circulating in your mind. Many have found that it helps to reduce anxiety and stress, and it can help to identify patterns in your mood too. -for example, it can help you realize how much a day without any time to yourself can impact you.

And best of all, you need almost nothing to get started. There are specific journals you can buy for different purposes (such as wellbeing journals), but all you really need is a blank notebook and a pen. Happy journaling!

19. Take a creative writing course 

Start up costs: Varies | Start up kit: Writing materials/computer, creative writing course (optional) | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No (unless joining an in-person group) | Skill level: Medium

Always fancied yourself a novelist? If you have some time to spare it could be the perfect time to invest it trying your hand at creative writing - and who knows where it could lead. The beauty of this hobby is that you can do it from anywhere and don't necessarily have to encounter any start-up costs or admin - the only integral thing you need is your imagination. 

For those who do feel they benefit from a more strict routine, there are affordable courses you can opt for online, often hosted by bestselling authors to provide invaluable insights. Writer Lauren Hughes tried out Curtis Brown's online course Writing A Psychological Thriller Course led by journalist and novelist Erin Kelly (you can read the full Curtis Brown review here) as a sideline alongside her day job. She said, "I'd always wanted to try creative writing, but never would have found the time if it hadn't been for the course. Having accountability for turning pages in each week helped me stay committed and it was great to share the experience with other creative writing novices on my course. 

If you don't want to invest in a course online, you'll need some personal discipline to keep up the writing, but setting achievable goals can really help with this. Aim to write just one page a day, or even a week, to get the story moving.

Beauty

20. Make your own skincare

Start up costs: ££ | Start up kit: Skincare ingredients, pots and a spatula | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Medium

As well as learning how to do an at-home facial and at-home pedicure, why not make your own skincare range that's completely tailored to your skin, for the ultimate DIY pamper session? While it may sound intimidating to mix up skin products at home, if you opt for natural ingredients, you can still create powerful and potent serums and creams, without dabbling with chemical ingredients like retinol and acids (leave that to the experts!) This is also one of the hobbies to do at home that could save you money.

"Making your own skincare, otherwise known as formulation, is one of the most fun, easy and empowering skills you can learn. After all, you can grow your own food, you can make your own clothes, why shouldn’t you formulate your own skincare? The reality is that you can become a formulator in your own home with just a few ingredients and tools," Lorraine Dallmeier, a biologist and CEO of online formulation school Formula Botanica. "Formulation is a skill that everyone can learn and that allows us to return to our grassroots by reclaiming the knowledge that our ancestors had. And not only is formulation fun, easy and empowering, but it also gives you control over what you put on your body." We've got an extensive guide to how to make your own DIY eye cream to get you started.

21. Reap the benefits of face yoga

Start up costs: £ | Start up kit: Facial oil and tutorials | Indoor or outdoor: Indoor | Group activity: No | Skill level: Medium

Facial massage is not only a way to relax after a long day and help you unwind and ultimately sleep better - it's also a natural way to improve your skin and strengthen the facial muscles. Massage in general is a great skill to learn and a popular hobby for many with an interest in beauty treatments, however learning the ins and outs of body massage can be an expensive hobby if you embark on a course. 

Mastering facial massage is a more manageable goal and something that you can do at home by dedicating just 10 minutes each evening (or even once or twice a week if you're feeling time-poor) with the help of apps like Luminous, which will tailor a face yoga plan that's personalised to your needs. "Just a few minutes spent working across a tight jawline will not only have aesthetic benefits but also an extremely calming effect, especially to anyone prone to stress-induced clenching," explains Ada Ooi, celebrity facialist and founder of 001 Skincare. "One of the best skincare hacks that you can do easily from home is to use face yoga and massage techniques to stimulate acupressure points for tension release and drain the lymphatic system to give a firmer, brighter complexion."

So how often should you do it? Luminous suggests, 'Try to do about 10 minutes of Face Yoga six days a week – consistency is key for achieving the best results; however, we understand this isn’t always possible so do what you can – the results will just take longer.' Membership costs £9 per month, but if you don't want to invest any money at all there are plenty of free routines available online - all you will need is a high-quality facial oil to get going. You could also invest in one of the best gua sha tools or a facial roller to use alongside the techniques. 

It's hard to overstate the benefits of having hobbies, yet you wouldn't be alone if you've neglected to find time for them as an adult and have found yourself scratching your head wondering exactly how to find a new hobby. 

As children, we pick up hobbies intuitively, often without referring to them as such - whether that’s art classes, playing a musical instrument or flexing our language skills. But as life gets busier and work and family commitments take over, spending time on a hobby can feel like a privilege. 

We’re here to tell you it’s not. Not only are hobbies fun, but the best hobbies for women are also fundamental for physical and mental well-being. The best ideas for hobbies are entirely subjective as the right hobby for you will be one that aligns with your interests and lifestyle. But if you’re struggling to land on what that is, we’re here to help with our expert-led guide.

How to find a new hobby as an adult, when you have no idea where to start

When looking for a new hobby, the most obvious thing is to look at all your interests and think about anything you've always really wanted to try. Sometimes that's easier said than done though. So if you're struggling to get started, these expert tips should help you along the way. 

And for further reading, check out our guides on the best hobbies for relaxing and new hobbies to try in 2023. Or, if you're hoping to pick up a new activity with your other half, check out our guide on the best hobbies for couples.

1. Don’t put pressure on yourself

"Hobbies should be fun, and something that makes you lose track of time, not something that you ever feel 'guilty' about accomplishing," advises Stephanie O'Dea, certified life coach, NYT best-selling author and host of the Slow Living Podcast.

Avoid putting any pressure on yourself with your hobbies and don't go in with expectations of changing your life or accomplishing something big. The whole purpose of finding a new hobby is to have fun and to dedicate time to something you're genuinely interested in.

"Have fun! Hobbies should be challenging, but if you're tearing your hair out, step back and start again at beginner level," agrees novelist Wednesday Lee Friday who started writing in her 30s. 

2. Think back to your childhood

Several of the experts and hobbyists we spoke to advised casting your mind back to your childhood and thinking about the things that you enjoyed then.

"Make a list of activities that interest you and think of things that you have always wanted to try or activities that you enjoyed in your childhood. Revisit those hobbies and come up with ideas for new ones to explore," suggests Catherine Wilde, life coach, certified yoga & meditation teacher and founder of Soul Care Mom.

"Women looking for new hobbies could start by thinking about what they wanted to be when they grew up," agrees Wednesday. "The broad strokes of what you loved as a kid (cooking, crafting, building things, painting) might lay the foundation for something new you can do as an adult."

Samantha Hoff creator and founder of Pottery with a Purpose was working in the corporate world when she decided to pick up her previous hobbies of DIY and pottery-making. She initially took up pottery as a creative outlet that offered anxiety relief, but this hobby later developed into her career. "Pottery became a way for me to find peace and stay present in the moment," she tells us. "The tactile nature of working with clay and the meditative process of creating something beautiful with my hands brought me a sense of calm that I had never experienced before."

Are there any hobbies in your life you gave up but always wonder "what if?" If so, it's never too late to return to them - whether you're looking for a new hobby to pick up in your 30s or 50s. 

3. Try a few things out and see what sticks

Try out a few different things before committing to anything. For example, you could join some trial classes or dip your toes in a few activities to see if it's something that piques your interest. If you try it a few times, and you don't find yourself particularly fussed about returning to, it might not be the hobby for you.  

"It can be hard to commit to something long-term right away, so try venturing out and exploring different hobbies once a week. You might find that something sticks," explains Catherine.

"Experimenting with new hobbies is not about finding the perfect one immediately; it’s about taking the time to unearth what interests you the most so that when you do settle down into something, it brings lasting joy and satisfaction into your life." 

4. Think about the advice you'd give your children

For many parents, the concept of finding a new hobby is nothing new - in fact, it's something they'll often actively encourage their children to do, giving them the tools and advice they need to find a passion. However, many of us aren't great at applying our own advice to ourselves. 

Stephanie O'Dea tells us she relayed this advice during a recent coaching session. "The person chatting with me was a mom, and we asked what advice she'd give her children," she tells us. "That advice was to think of something to do 'for your brain' and 'for your body.'" 

What advice would you tell a child or your younger self? For starters, you'd probably avoid putting any pressure on them and you'd urge them to be open-minded. Try writing down your own advice - and follow it. 

5. Join a class

If you've identified a hobby you'd like to try, enrolling in a class can help you develop the necessary skills, dedicate time to it and also have a level of accountability. It's much easier to keep something up once you've made a financial or time commitment. "One way to find a hobby is to look at adult education classes nearby and try a short-term class,” suggests Oona Metz, LICSW, CGP a Boston-based psychotherapist.

Looking at the evening and weekend programs at local community centers and colleges can also be a great way to find inspiration if you're still not sure what you want to do. Many courses run taster sessions so you can dip your toes into the program without fully committing from the get-go.

6. Join an online community

Not able to join an evening class? Then turn online. "Join online communities – there are many online communities dedicated to teaching and sharing information about various topics and hobbies," advises Catherine. "The Internet is an amazing resource for connecting with like-minded people who can offer advice and support while trying a new activity or skill." It's one of the best ways to learn how to make friends as an adult.

If you're interested in a hobby that requires a degree of interaction with others without actually physically seeing them, online communities can be a great tool as you're instantly connected to people from around the world with shared interests. 

7. Step outside of your comfort zone

Quite simply, challenge yourself to try something new, suggests Melissa Bauknight, business and life coach, and founder of The Ripple Connection. "Stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying new things can be a great way to discover new hobbies. Having worked across six states and consistently performing in the top 10% of my peers in the corporate world, I learned the importance of taking risks and trying new things," she tells us. "Attend a cooking class, take up painting, try rock climbing, or sign up for a dance class. You never know what you might enjoy until you try it."

It's easy to hold yourself back by staying in your comfort zone, but by doing so, you could miss out on trying so many new things. Remember our tip about following the advice you'd tell your younger self? If you don't try new things, you'll never know what's right for you. Just look at 53-year-old journalist and competitive triathlete, Donna McConnell who took up triathlon in her 40s.

8. Think about what's missing in your life

While some people are fortunate enough to turn their hobbies into a career, for most of us, a hobby is something to distract us from the stresses of our every day. If you work in a manual job, you might enjoy a more sedentary hobby; similarly, if you work at a desk, you might want a job that gets you out and about.

“Finding a new hobby is also a great way to use your brain in a different way," says Oona Metz. "For instance, the financial advisor who takes up pottery is not only making bowls but also "massaging" their brain by creating new neural pathways.”

For Tahmina Watson, Immigration Lawyer and founder of Watson Immigration Law, turning to photography helped provide an outlet for her stress and an activity that was completely different from her day-to-day. "My job is very stressful and I didn't really have an outlet for stress relief," Tahmina tells us. However, during the lockdowns Tahmina started to work from home, taking her breaks from her garden. "I started to take breaks out on the deck and that's how I started to take notice of the backyard birds," she tells us. I started to photograph them with my phone. Gradually I upgraded to using my digital camera and then upgraded my camera to a mirrorless one. 

"I now believe that every woman, particularly mothers and leaders, and every human, frankly, should have a hobby. The trouble is that most of us don't know why it is important and how to even discover what your hobby should be. I feel gratitude every day that I have a hobby in which I can lose myself."

Caroline Godin, life coach and blogger with First Responder Coaching, coaches people in frontline work, also helping them search for new hobbies. She tells us that a tool she regularly uses is 'The Wheel of Life' which helps people map out their lives and understand if they have a balance or are lacking, or feeling unfulfilled, in particular areas. 

"The Wheel of Life is something life coaches may use to help a person find which areas of life may be off balance or not receiving proper attention. Coupled with a Values worksheet, the coach will help the person identify which areas are in need of more attention," she tells us. "For example, if the Wheel identifies that you're putting more energy into work but your highest value is your relationship, you may find that adjusting that will help you balance your life better."

9. Think about hobbies that align with your skills and natural interests

While most people seek hobbies that help them escape from their everyday stresses and from the demands of their job, it's also worth thinking about the skills you utilize at work, and why you've been drawn to your career path. 

"As for finding new hobbies, The Wheel of Life and Value worksheets can lead to a discussion about what makes a person happy or satisfied," adds Caroline. "Finding what one enjoys is the start of finding a rewarding hobby by simply asking powerful questions such as, 'What is it that leads you to that profession?' If someone loves their job (even if the current work situation isn't great), one can dive into what qualities of the job that attract them. A banker may discover they love solving logic puzzles. Firefighters may realize they love building things and creating structures. A chef could find out they want to try painting. The possibilities are endless."

So even if you don't want a hobby adjacent to your job, think about the things you like about your job. Do you like solving puzzles? Or enjoy the creative aspects of it? You can flex those skills in a more relaxing way, outside of your 9-5. 

Even if you don't have a coach, you can try compiling your own Wheel of Life: we particularly like the resources available at Mind Tools.

10. Make time for it

Dedicating time to your new hobby is the ultimate act of self-care, an essential part of learning how to be happy alone, as you're also dedicating time to yourself. "Make time for yourself – life can get busy but it's important to make time for yourself each day or week (depending on what works best for you) in order to nurture your creativity and explore fun activities without any pressure or expectations from others around you," explains Catherine.

If you're still trying to find a new hobby, think about the amount of time you can realistically dedicate to it and how you can fit it into your lifestyle. Taking up embroidery or reading requires less commitment than something like learning a new language. If you don't have time to give to it, you'll overcommit and feel stressed - which is the opposite of how you should feel with a new hobby.

11. Follow your curiosity

It goes without saying that your chosen hobby should be aligned with your interests. But are there certain activities, topics or areas you've found yourself curious about and constantly returning to over the years? It could be something you've never considered trying yourself or turning into a hobby. For example, are you interested in watching TV shows about fashion and always find yourself shopping the latest fashion trends? It might be fun to give clothes-making a go. 

"One of the simplest ways to start is by following your curiosity," advises Melissa. "Ask yourself what interests you, what topics you find yourself researching in your free time, and what you enjoy reading about."

11. Understand your goals for your new hobby

When thinking about finding a new hobby, ask yourself what you really want from it. Is your goal to practice mindfulness and completely switch off? Or are you hoping to get fit by picking up a sport that you enjoy doing? Alternatively, you might want to develop skills that will enhance existing hobbies - for example, learning a language for a country that you travel to regularly, or maybe you want to pick up a skill you regret not doing sooner, like learning how to swim as an adult. It's important to really understand what you want to achieve from your new hobby.

If you're looking for new hobbies to try, these unique ideas are creative, fulfilling and in some cases, present a chance to meet new people or give back to the community. Not only that, they're great conversation starters. 

When taking up a new hobby, try not to get bogged down by finding something ostensibly productive. The best hobbies for women (or men) are all about what personally gives you pleasure. Think about whether or not you want a relaxing hobby to help you switch off, or if you would rather do something more physical. Do you want to pick up something creative, or are you more interested in learning a new skill that you can put to use?

Whatever you're looking for, you'll find something in our guide, which covers easy hobbies you can pick up at home, as well as involved activities that require structured learning.

Unique hobbies to try

1. Cold water swimming

It might sound terrifying at first, but once you get over your initial fear, the benefits of cold water swimming are endless. From boosting your mood to kick-starting your metabolism and immune system, a dip in cold water can be a great tonic for both your body and mind. Not to mention, a short swim is an effective full-body workout. It might be tempting to (quite literally) jump in at the deep end, but you need to ease yourself into this hobby. It's advisable to start in the summer months when water temperatures are a little warmer, that way you can slowly acclimatize your body to the colder temperatures slowly and build up a tolerance over time. Getting the right equipment is important too; a good-quality wetsuit, neoprene gloves, and boots, as well as a woolly hat are a must. Aside from the health benefits, cold water swimming can be a fantastic social hobby too as there are countless informal clubs and support groups running across the world. Cold water swimming also features on our guide to the best hobbies for woman in their 30s but it's truly an all-ages activity, depending on your fitness levels. 

How to get started: While getting started isn't difficult, it's important to do thorough research to understand whether or not its right for you, and to create a training schedule for yourself, also ensuring you have the right gear.  The Outdoor Swimming Society is a great resource for newbies and breaks down everything you need to know, plus tips on how to acclimatize yourself to the cooler temps. 

2. Foraging for flowers and foliage

When you think of foraging, foraging for food probably springs to mind. However, foraging for flowers or foliage is a slightly easier entry point for the hobby and is ideal for anyone interested in home interiors or styling as you can easily create stunning accent pieces for your home.

Interior stylist and DIY writer Claire Douglas explains how she got into the hobby, "I absolutely love flowers and have always found ways to incorporate them into the rooms (or images) that I’m styling," she tells us. "I let sections of our garden grow quite wild so there is usually lots of foliage and greenery to use, but as my ideas grew bigger and bolder I had to look further afield (no pun intended!) for twigs and branches to fill the gaps.

"Whilst out and about I’d often spot foliage or greenery and know instantly how I could incorporate it, for example, a beautiful fallen branch under a tree or some lovely twigs that would be perfect to hang ornaments on or perhaps suspend over a table. I’ve even been known to return from the school run with a large stick or two under my arm!

"Foraging for home styling purposes can be as simple as gathering a few beautiful pine cones for a festive coffee table display and it’s guaranteed to make you happy."

How to get started: Quite simply, get out in nature, keeping in mind the sort of foliage or flowers you're looking for - and what purpose they could serve in your home. Are you making a DIY wreath? Or are you just looking for some decorative shrubs for your fireplace? It's useful to have some level of focus.

It's also important to do some research beforehand into the areas you can access and the foliage that you are entitled to take. "I’d encourage anyone to get out in nature and have a go themselves - as long as they abide by all the rules of foraging as laid out in the Countryside Act (there are lots of resources on the web so it’s worth researching beforehand) and take care not to trespass or uproot any plants as this is illegal," advises Claire. "Only ever take from areas that have an abundance, never cause any damage and check there are no restrictions in place."

3. Plogging

An amalgamation of the words "jogging" and the Swedish word "plocka upp" (picking up), plogging combines jogging and litter-picking, making it a great physical activity that's also social and eco-friendly.

We'll admit, the word "plogging" initially threw us too, but it's hard to think of a more accessible activity that has so many benefits, both to you and the wider community. 

Outdoors advocate, podcaster and yoga teacher, India Pearson, got into the hobby as it combines two of her main passions - fitness, and nature. "I’ve always chosen moving outside in nature over being at the gym and since I moved to the coast, I have found the more time I spend moving in nature and by the sea, the more I want to protect this beautiful planet we live on, so I started combining litter picks with my workouts," she tells us.

"I lived in Sweden as a student and had seen Swedish friends sharing a new fitness trend on social media that they had coined ‘Plogging’ which combines jogging while picking up rubbish (“jogging” and “plocka upp”, a Swedish term that means “picking up”). I was totally inspired by their efforts and started spending 5-10 minutes picking up litter after I'd completed my run along the beachfront. I soon found it useful to pop a thin pair of gloves in my pocket before heading out to protect my hands from any nasty rubbish I found."

If jogging isn't your thing, you can take things at a slower pace and just incorporate litter-picking into other daily activities you do, like walking the dog. 

"Nowadays I don’t restrict my fitness litter picks to just jogging, I also like to do it whilst I’m walking my dog or paddle boarding," adds India. 

How to get started: While you can easily get started yourself, it's probably best to join a local group first as they'll have done all the adequate safety checks and will have the litter-picking equipment ready. India recommends the environmental charity Planet Patrolwho run free, group litter-picking activities across the country, but you can also find a local group on Clean Up UK in the UK and on Keep America Beautiful in the US. 

4. Dog agility

Agility is a great shared hobby for you and your dog that can be executed at different levels. While some people may have aspirations to compete competitively with their dog, it can be a fun gentle walking workout for both of you without any pressure attached. It's also a great (and fun way) to help your dog learn obedience. This suggestion comes via the team at the dog health, welfare and training charity, Kennel Club.

"If you are looking for an energetic mix of everything, agility involves guiding your dog through a range of obstacles with the aim to complete the course in the fastest time," a spokesperson for the charity tells us. "Agility originated from the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, and became a firm favorite, designed to put a dog’s fitness and handler’s ability to train to the test. 

"Agility is fast-paced and action-packed, but the first steps start at ensuring your dog has basic training and is well socialized. There is a whole variety of obstacles to master, like hurdles, weaving poles, tunnels, see-saws, jumps and more!"

The activity is also endorsed by the likes of PDSA, who in a blog, praise it as a great way to provide your dog with stimulation and exercise. 

How to get started: Firstly, think about whether this would suit both you and your dog. Does it suit their personality and are they in good enough health? The last thing you want to do is cause any stress to your four-legged friend. The Kennel Club has created a step-by-step video guide which can be found online at thekennelclub.org.uk/newtoagility which also has some handy tips about getting started. 

5. Calligraphy

Taking up calligraphy and hand-lettering is a surprisingly fulfilling and useful hobby. Whether you're looking to pen some exquisite letters (another unusual hobby to consider) or you're designing homemade Christmas or birthday cards, learning calligraphy is a mindful activity as well as a helpful life skill. 

How to get started: There is a wealth of online resources, but as a starting point, we recommend buying a book and some high-quality pens and paper. The Modern Calligraphy and Hand Lettering for Beginners by June&Lucy will teach you all the fundamentals you need to know and it includes clear instructions and practice pages (at the time of writing this book has over 18,900 'Excellent' reviews on Amazon out of a total of 26,279 reviews. You'll also need a set of Calligraphy pens (we like this set of Calligraphy pens for beginners from Amazon) and a high-quality pad of paper, like this Calligraphy Writing Paper set.

6. Microcementing

If you're looking for some high-impact, low-cost ways to renovate your home, consider microcementing. Not only is microcementing an easy way to make your home look expensive on a budget, you can also create a range of functional but highly unique bespoke designs. Once sealed, the material is super strong, waterproof and stain resistant so it's particularly good for countertops and tables. 

"With the cost of living crisis putting such a strain on people’s finances, I can see more and more homeowners turning to DIY options like microcementing to create their dream kitchens and bathrooms," explains Claire. "So, while it might seem like an unusual hobby now I can see it becoming more and more commonplace." Claire has used microcement to create worktops, storage units, coffee tables and decorative vases. 

"It became a bit of an obsession completely by accident!" she tells us. "I was looking for ways to revamp our kitchen (the worktops especially) but none of the in-budget options fit the brief - it was a typical case of champagne tastes on a lemonade budget. 

"DIY is usually part of my daily life but at the start of 2022 I challenged myself to take on bolder and braver creative projects and use more technical processes, so after watching all the Concrete Lab tutorials I decided to give it a go and was thrilled with the results. I found the process of sculpting the structure of the kitchen by hand (on a tiny budget) so rewarding and empowering that it spurred me on to try more and more exciting projects. 

"I love the concrete texture so looked for more ways to incorporate it into our home. As well as the larger projects like the worktops and built-in fridge surround, I found other low-key ways to use this rather addictive and cost-effective material - like a concrete coffee table and more recently concrete-style accessories."

If microcementing your own worktops feels a little ambitious, Claire suggests undertaking smaller projects. For example, she has created vases (pictured) with small amounts of leftover kit. "I decided to play around with painting it onto vases and ornaments to give a textured concrete finish and finally by soaking material in the microcement mix and shaping and sculpting to create new ones," she tells us.

You can see Claire's creations on her Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/clairedouglasstyling)

How to get started: "My advice would be to buy a sample kit and practice preparing the materials & using the tools. Then, when you are happy go for it…be tenacious, be bold and be uncompromisingly creative," advises Claire. Once you've got to grips with using micro cement, you'll start to understand just how versatile it can be and how many creations you can make. You can find a range of microcement tutorials on Claire's website which breaks down the process in an easy-to-understand way. 

7. Volunteering

If you're looking for a worthwhile activity where you'll learn new skills while supporting communities that need it most, consider volunteering. While this hobby isn't necessarily unique in itself, there is a huge range of charities spanning different sectors and communities looking for volunteers with a diverse variety of skill sets. Whether you're interested in organizing events, helping with admin, fundraising, working in stores, cooking for soup kitchens or helping at a local foodbank, volunteering is one of the most genuinely impactful hobbies you can take up.

How to get started: Think about your primary reason for volunteering. Is it to help a specific charity or cause that you're interested in? If so, it's best to head to that charity's website or social media channels to see what roles they need to be filled. If you're more interested in upskilling or want to volunteer to advance a career in a specific area, your first port of call will be job sites like Indeed or LinkedIn where you can search for voluntary roles in specific areas. In the UK, you can also find volunteering opportunities at gov.uk, and on Volunteer Match in the US. 

8. Learning a new language

Learning a foreign language can be a fun and sociable hobby, especially if you choose a language that will be of some use to you. Whether you want to brush up on Spanish for your next vacation or Italian so you can impress the waiters at your local pizzeria, you might be surprised at how deeply satisfying it is to master even the most basic vocabulary in a new language. The benefits of learning a new language are well-documented, from improving cognitive functions to the fact that it can be a genuinely useful life skill, especially if you're working in an international career or traveling often. This is also a great hobby for couples and one of the best ways to make friends as an adult as you can practice your new skill together. 

How to get started: The most important thing is to try a few different ways of learning to work out what suits you best. We're a big fan of Babbel , a language-learning app with lessons grounded in real conversations. I've been using the app to brush up my German and have been pleasantly surprised by how accessible it is, and how useful the vocabulary learned actually is. There are no tables of grammar to memorize or random phrases that you'll never use in real life, which I've often struggled with on other apps.

If you're looking for something more sociable, consider looking into classes. As someone who's lived in a few different countries, I've always found face-to-face classes helpful if you find yourself feeling too shy to speak aloud when you're in the company of natives or anyone fluent in the language you're trying to learn. Not to mention, practicing (and even socializing) with classmates is a great way to keep your motivation levels up.

9. Decoupage

Decoupage entails decorating a surface with cut-out pieces of patterned paper, often in different patterns or accompanied with paint or gold leaf. You can entirely transform pieces of furniture, ornaments, book covers, paper mache shapes, vases or anything else you want to breathe new life into. It's also a fun way to introduce on-trend colours into your interiors. What we really like about decoupage is that it's suited to all skill levels and you can rectify any mistakes pretty quickly just by overlaying more paper. And if you really don't like your work, you can often remove it pretty easily too before it's sealed. 

How to get started: We'd recommend ordering a beginner's kit so you can try the process before embarking on a bigger project. Hobbycraft sells several ready-to-use kits that include the materials, as well as a base item to decoupage on. If you have an idea of the base or item you want to cover, all you need is decoupage paper, decoupage glue and a bristled brush. We love the selection of papers and designs at Hobbycraft, but you can also find a wide range of decoupage papers and kit on Amazon. 

10. Jam-making

Jam-making is a great way to preserve a glut of fruit and homemade jam also makes a lovely housewarming gift. It's also a fun hobby idea as you can get really creative with your recipes and even the jar design and labels (this hobby combines beautifully with calligraphy!) Don't forget to consult our guide to fixing the most common jam mistakes to ensure you get off on the right track. 

How to get started: Getting started couldn't be easier, simply find a good jam recipe (like this simple Raspberry jam recipe) and follow the instructions. If you're making jam for the first time, it's best to use high-pectin fruits like apples, citrus fruits and currants. Otherwise, you'll need to add pectin to thicken your jam. However, all good recipes should specify this either way. 

11. Botanical art

If you're keen to get in touch with your creative side and take up any form of artistic practice, it can be useful to work within set parameters. That's why we love the idea of botanical art. The subject material is easy to source, you can use any medium you want (ink, watercolors, pencil, pastels or oils) and if you're picking it up for the first time, plants and flowers are a relatively easy entry point. Not to mention, botanical prints are extremely on-trend and will complement any Japandi interior scheme.

How to get started: Take small steps. Professional botanical art is painstakingly precise and scientifically accurate; you don't need to reach that stage, and if you aspire to do that, it will take time. Buy some good books, go to exhibitions and absorb yourself in the art form. From there, you can buy some brilliant books for getting started, such as Botanical Illustration from Life or consult YouTube, where there are hundreds if not thousands of strong how-to videos. Our favorite approach, however, is to sign up to a class. Whether you're UK or US based, you can find in-person and online classes near you at Botanical Art and Artists. Just remember to check the skill level before you sign up!

12. Wreath making

When you think about wreaths, Christmas is probably the first thing that springs to mind. However, if you found yourself inspired by the best DIY Christmas wreath making kits, then we have good news for you: wreaths are a beautiful accompaniment to your home all-year round. Just think about all the summer blooms you can add in the warmer months and the different themes you can adopt for different celebrations. We love these Easter wreath ideas, for example.

How to get started: If you're new to wreath-making, we advise getting started with a good kit. Hobbycraft has some brilliant guided tutorials and sells everything you need to get started, as well as some super-simple kits like this natural wreath kit that you can use as a base. Amazon also has a wide selection of supplies.

13. Book-binding

Booking binding is relatively easy to learn without much resource or expense required, making it the perfect at-home hobby. You don't need any fancy equipment to get started but like many other hobbies on this list, if you do start to take it more seriously you can invest in better supplies and tools. A hand-bound book is also a thoughtful gift idea for a milestone birthday, like a 40th birthday or you could even fill it with joyful snaps if you're looking for a great wedding gift.

How to get started: Once again, start small with a thin, blank paper-bound book, then work your way up. There's no point in throwing yourself in at the deep end as you risk ruining expensive materials or worse, your favorite books. There are countless online tutorials and blogs that can advise on processes and kit. Below are some of our recommended ones.

Books: Making Handmade Books

Tools: Book binding kit for beginners

Tutorial: How to make a sketch book by Sea Lemon

14. Sport walking

Sport walking is like regular walking, carrying all the benefits of walking, but at an accelerated pace. Also known as power walking, it's basically just a way to create walking goals for yourself, and to turn your walking into a workout. This is a particularly good hobby to take up if you work in a sedentary job or if you have impaired mobility that stops you from doing higher-impact sports. Your gait should be more forceful than in normal walking and strides should be longer. You should also create speed goals, though these will vary depending on your fitness levels.

How to get started: Our guide to walking as a workout (linked above) provides some strong step-by-step instructions on getting started. But in summary, you'll need one of the best fitness trackers like a Fitbit for this as you'll need to measure miles per hour. As a guide, think of 2 to 3mph as moderate and 6 to 6.5mph as very fast. And of course, you'll need a pair of the best walking shoes or running shoes, depending on your pace. 

15. Nail art

If you're inspired by the latest nail trends or love getting a regular manicure, why not learn how to do your own nail art? Not only can you save money and trips to the salon but you can get super creative with your designs and have truly unique talons.  Firstly, you'll want to ensure you know how to paint your nails like a pro, then we recommend learning some simple designs, like how to do your own ombre nails, then you're ready to get stuck into learning nail art. 

How to get started: There are scores of YouTube videos and blogs all uploaded by people who have learnt the craft. However, if you really want to 'nail' your technique (sorry, we couldn't resist), we'd recommend researching guided in-person or online courses. If you're a hobbyist, you won't need much more than a short course so there's no need to sign up for long-term, certified courses unless you want to put your skills to use in a professional setting. Alternatively, we personally find videos the best format, like this one from cutepolish as it's important you have strong visual instructions.

16. Upcycle old clothes

Whether you're looking to perfect your capsule wardrobe or just trying to live a more sustainable lifestyle, upcycling is a budget, environmentally friendly way to breathe new life into your clothes. While owning one of the best sewing machines undoubtedly helps, you can make many high-impact alternations with minimal kit. Do you have some stained white t-shirts in your closet that you once loved but now never wear? Think about dying them. Or perhaps you have a dress that's in a print you love but it just doesn't fit anymore. Think about turning it into a tote bag, or even cutting it into a top. Jeans can be easily patched or embroidered, while old shirts can be the basis for a handmade quilt. 

How to get started: Firstly, identify any old clothes that you no longer wear. Designer or embellished items with intricate sequins or beading are a little more difficult to work with so it may be better to consider selling them. Consult our guide on how to sell clothes online if you're not sure how to get started. While most other fabrics can be upcycled, if you're a complete beginner, working with denim and cotton is easier, so we'd advise getting started with cotton t-shirts or denim jeans. Once you've picked your item, think about how you could transform it into a piece you'd actually wear - Pinterest is great for inspiration, and many of our easy sewing projects can be made from old pieces of clothing. Once you have an idea of what you want to make, research tutorials and blogs online - similar to nail art tutorials and book-binding, being able to watch the process first-hand is extremely helpful. 

Our expert guide will help you find the best sewing machine for you, whatever your skill level or budget. There are so many sewing machines to choose from and knowing which one to choose can feel like an impossible task. Luckily, over the last two years, our Craft Editor Esme Clemo has done all the hard work for you, testing and reviewing the very best sewing machines, including the latest models from the most popular brands, including Pfaff, Brother, and Bernina.

Esme has been using sewing machines for more than 20 years, beginning with a hand-crank Singer sewing machine, before working her way up to domestic Janome, Brother, and Singer models in a professional capacity for live workshops, demonstrations, and editorial projects.

Whilst putting the machines for this guide through their paces, Esme assessed a number of factors, such as stitch ranges, ease of use, design, value-for-money, durability, and overall sewing performance.

The best sewing machines at a glance

• Best sewing machine overall: Janome Sewist 780DC, $824/£629
• Best premium sewing machine: Bernina 435, $1,781/£1,495
• Best budget sewing machine: Silver 197, $455/£369
• Best value-for-money sewing machine: Necchi NC-102D, $367.49/£309.98
• Best beginner sewing machine: Brother Innov-is A60SE, $548/£469
• Best heavy-duty sewing machine: Singer Heavy Duty 4423, $550/£399.95
• Best specialist sewing machine: Pfaff Creative 1.5, $1,924/£1,549
• Best serger machine: Brother 2104D Overlocker, $295.19/£249
• Best family sewing machine: Hobbycraft 19S Sewing Machine, £80 (UK only)

How we tested the best sewing machines

We put all the models through a rigorous stitch test to check they were compatible with all sewers. From small-scale projects to more robust challenges, we checked their performance in real-world scenarios, to ensure we're only bringing you the best sewing machines.

• How well they performed with simple stitching—sometimes it's good to start with the basics. The straight stitch is the most commonly used on a sewing machine, so we tested how easy it was to change the length and checked that the stitches formed neatly whatever the fabric thickness. We expanded this test to include the zigzag stitch, checked stitch width adjustments, too.
• The design of each sewing machine—we tested whether the design looked good or whether it felt dated. We also assessed the weight of each model too and whether it was suitable for transporting by checking the carry-handle and the protective casing for each.
• How durable they were—we put the machine's through their paces by testing their stitch per minute capabilities on complex stitch settings across a range of fabrics.
• Value-for-money—we took a look at all the extra features, like the number of stitches, embroidery options, and included kit, to make sure we found the best sewing machines whatever your budget. We considered longer warranties an added bonus.

The best sewing machines as tested by our expert

For fuss-free sewing at speed, my go-to machine is the Janome Sewist 780DC. As one of the latest models to launch from the Sewist series, the Janome Sewist 780DC boasts all the latest gadgetry. Even with these time-saving and high-tech additions, the Janome Sewist 780DC never loses its simplicity of design and ease of use. I think it’s the perfect all-rounder.

Compared with the other models in our best sewing machines guide, you might be thinking that 80 built-in stitches is an uninspiring number. However, unless you’re planning on embroidering every sewing project you embark upon with letters, numbers, and names, I honestly don’t think you need any more than what this machine has to offer. So, whether you’re a beginner or intermediate sewer, this is a great mid-range model to step up to from a mechanical, especially if some of the more complex computerized sewing machines are putting you off.

Read our full Janome Sewist 780DC sewing machine review

With the Bernina 435, every single detail has been thought about, every function adapted to help the sewing machine perform faster and be easier to use—which is why I've included it in our best sewing machine round-up. For example, if you’re a sewer who likes to tackle big projects, the jumbo bobbin leads to fewer interruptions throughout your stitching and the included slide-on extension table provides ample sewing space.

And what about the unrivaled amount of stitch patterns on offer? True, I initially found this an overwhelming selection to choose from, but with an in-built memory function to save and store your stitch settings, I could easily return to my favorites time and again at the click of a button.

If you’re still wondering what all the fuss is about, it comes down to the color display and interactive touch screen. Feel like it’s a bit too technical for you? The on-screen Sewing Consultant can help you choose the right settings to suit your stitches and your projects, and it’s always there at the touch of a button to help guide you through.

Read our full Bernina 435 sewing machine review

The Silver 197, named after the huge range of built-in stitches, is the perfect all-rounder for both beginners and accomplished sewers. The budget-friendly price tag doesn’t reflect the comprehensive range of features it has to offer, of which there are plenty.

Speed-saving functions, like the automatic needle threader, start/stop button as a foot pedal alternative and LCD display might not set this machine apart from its competitors. However, the memory mode used to store up your favorite stitch settings, and the stitch range that includes alphabetical and numerical options, place this machine above the rest for me.

I did find it a little noisy at first, but it makes up for these traits by being the cheapest model and best sewing machine on a budget, which offers the user the most creativity.

Read our full Silver 197 sewing machine review

The Necchi NC-102D ticks all my boxes. The first thing to note about the Necchi NC-102D is the way it looks. Its modern appearance and pop of color make it a standout model among the rest, but you’d be wrong in thinking this model is all style over substance.

With 200 utility and decorative stitches, including an alphanumeric stitch range, this model packs in a lot of features for the mid-level price tag. I loved the mute button, used to keep your stitching schtum, and it had all the usual gadgetry and automatic functions you’d expect from a computerized machine, along with a memory feature.

If that’s not enough, the included nine presser feet are sure to win you over if you want to bag a bargain. I think it's the best sewing machine pick if you want value for money.

Read our full Necchi NC-102-D sewing machine review

The Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition is perfect for beginners and confident stitchers alike. This machine creates high-quality, precision stitching at top speeds of 850 stitches per minute. With a vast range of 60 stitches to choose from, I could sew simple seams with the usual utility stitches and add decorative topstitching to my test project with the embroidery options.

At this affordable price, the Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition works hard to deliver on a range of practical and time-saving features without sacrificing on simplicity. I found the modern LCD display screen so easy to use and the illustrations on the body of the machine helped to guide me around the threading technique.

So, whether you’re a beginner or advanced sewer (though we reckon this is the best sewing machine for beginners), this machine is sure to impress.

Read our full Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition sewing machine review

The Singer Heavy Duty 4423 is a must-have machine for speedy stitchers. Compared with the computerized machines on this list, you might be wondering why I'm championing a mechanical model. For me, the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 is in a league of its own when it comes to durability and build. With a metal internal frame, this sewing machine is built to last.

Capable of stitching up to 1,100 stitches per minute, the speed alone makes this sewing machine noteworthy. Plus, it makes very little noise and no vibration, even when pushed to these top speeds. So, if you’re looking for an option that can keep up with you, you’ve found it.

It’s easy to operate, too, with dials to select stitch options and a foot pedal to control stitching. The Singer Heavy Duty 4423 goes back to basics, but it does it brilliantly—and in a stylish grey finish, too.

Read our full Singer Heavy Duty 4423 sewing machine review

The Pfaff 1.5 Creative delivers specialized embroidery functions for sewing pros. In my opinion, this modern sewing machine brand is the best on the market for computer-integrated software, so you can completely personalize your stitching experience.

Looks-wise, the Pfaff 1.5 Creative has a sleek and elegant design, which helps it to stand out from the crowd, but this isn’t a machine that puts style over substance. It produces high-speed embroideries perfectly, helped by the Original IDT system and the included master hoop attachment.

Admittedly, this is a specialist machine, so if you’re an enthusiastic embroiderer or want to use your machine for quilting, it’s the perfect model for you, with a large sewing space and 150 beautiful built-in stitches to choose from. The best sewing machine if you're after something a bit more specialist.

Read our full Pfaff 1.5 Creative sewing machine review

For an entry-level machine, it doesn’t get better than the Hobbycraft 19S in terms of value for money. Don’t be put off by this budget-friendly buy, its performance is anything but cheap. It’s weighty, sturdy build works in its favor and I found that it could easily tackle big projects with multiple layers, even denim can be stitched with this robust machine.

Yes, there are only 19 stitches but along with the basics there are some decorative options too, so I found there was plenty to experiment with. Design-wise, the chunky dials and levers make it incredibly easy to use, as does the large font on the stitch selector so you can be sure of what you’ve chosen.

If you want a basic sewing machine with a decent range of functions, I think this is a great place to start. The cheap price makes it a standout choice for beginner sewers, and even kids and teens will enjoy starting their stitching journey on this model.

If you’re looking to expand your sewing machine collection and your stitching skills, it’s worth considering an overlocker. The Brother 2104D uses three or four threads to overlock fabric edges, combining them together, finishing the raw edges and trimming off the seam allowance as it sews.

Most sewers will use a wide zigzag stitch on raw seams in an attempt to prevent fraying, but with an overlocker, you can sew the seam at the same time and the looped stitches leave the seams totally enclosed and protected. For those looking to add speed and accuracy to their stitching, I believe this machine is a must-have purchase. The free arm enables you to stitch cuffs and sleeves with ease and the differential feeds adjust to suit multiple fabrics, avoiding a puckered, wavy seam.

I have an earlier version of this model in my personal sewing kit, and I can always count on a professional finish for all my garments with this serger. The thing I love most about it is the size, it’s so compact that it easily fits in my craft cupboard, ready to pull out whenever I need to complete a stitching project.

What to consider when buying the best sewing machine for you

The technical jargon that comes with choosing the best sewing machine for you can overwhelm even the most experienced of stitchers. To keep it simple, these should be your key considerations when choosing the right machine for your needs:

• Your sewing level—mechanical sewing machines are best for newbies. Anything more than this and you'll be best to move into computerized sewing machines. These are perfect for intermediate sewers who want to expand their stitching skills and advance into embroidery, free-motion stitching, quilting, and more.
• Budget—sewing machines can be expensive so it's important to set a budget that's right for you and to stick to it. Don't be swayed by fancy features you may not need.
• Number of stitches—simple machines will have around 20, but some have hundreds. Work out what stitches you’ll actually use and find a model that can sew them.
• Extra accessories—some models come with the bare minimum—a presser foot, a fabric cover, and maybe a seam ripper. So shop around for a sewing machine with the extras if you want them—multiple sewing feet (especially a buttonhole foot), a hard cover for storage and an automatic needle threader can be helpful.
• How much it costs—when you find the model you want, don't be put off by the price tag. Wait around for a discounted price or consider buying a sewing machine on eBay to save some pennies.

How to use a sewing machine

When you take up a new hobby like sewing, it's difficult to know where to begin. Here are five steps to start with on your sewing journey:

• First, buy good quality sewing thread—don't skimp on the price tag, cheap thread will break up on strenuous stitching and won't last a spin through the washing machine.
• Learn how to thread your machine—read your instruction booklet to help you but begin by placing your reel of thread on the spool pin, wind it around the thread guides, and onto an empty bobbin on the bobbin winder. Wind the bobbin with thread and then place it in its casing at the bottom of the machine.
• Next, thread the needle—wind the thread on the spool pin around the other thread guides on the sewing machine and through the eye of the needle. Use the handwheel to drop the needle and pull up the bobbin thread. Pull the two threads away from the sewing machine and you're ready to start stitching.
• Now, start stitching—place your fabric under the presser foot and control your stitching speeds with a foot pedal or a start/stop button.
• Need more guidance?—take a look at our in-depth guide on how to use a sewing machine. It covers all the basics to get you started, like how to set up your machine, how to thread a sewing machine, and a deep-dive on all the buttons, sliders, and dials and what they do.

What equipment do I need to sew?

Once you’ve purchased the best sewing machine for you, it’s a good idea to stock up a few items to help you get going. The basics you'll need are:

• Thread and fabrics
• Pins
• A rotary cutter
• A cutting mat

Most importantly, you'll need sewing thread and fabrics so you can get going with your sewing projects straight away. Invest in a pair of good fabric shears too (Fiskars has a great range that stays razor-sharp). Don't forget about pins either, you'll need a pot to store them in and a magnet to help collect them up after each project.

You’ll also need a rotary cutter and cutting mat if you want to have a go at patchwork or quilting - consider sewing machines for quilting if that's all you want to stitch. Think about purchasing some sewing patterns too, there are lots of simple dress patterns available, even bags and homeware templates.

Fabric-wise, stick to medium-weight cotton fabrics for easy stitching if you're a beginner. Once you’re confident with cotton, you can progress to lightweight voile fabrics or thick canvas-like fabric for robust upholstery and furnishings. Mastered that? Have a go at sewing with stretch fabrics, thin jerseys, or thicker knitted styles. Remember, you’ll need to refer to your sewing machine manual to select the best stitches for your fabrics.

What are the best, most reliable sewing machine brands?

While every machine we've featured above is a fantastic option, there are some sewing machine brands that truly stand out, which have become firm industry favorites over the decades.

• PFAFF—one of the most popular brands out there is PFAFF. Rosie Scott and Hannah Silvani, the duo behind The New Craft House, a sewing company in London, tell us, agree. “Almost all of the PFAFF models have what's called the IDT system, which is basically a built-in walking foot. It makes sewing fine or slippery fabrics, as well as bulky ones, a breeze.”
• Bernina—many of the sewing experts we spoke to recommended Bernina. "They aren't necessarily entry-level sewing machines as they can be quite expensive, but they are the best on the market. They are long-lasting, very smooth and quiet," says Lisa Comfort, from Sew Over It, a London-based sewing company.
• Janome—a staple among keen stitchers. Kate Underdown from The Fold Line, an online sewing pattern shop, says, “my current machine is a Janome M50 QDC—it's a mid-level machine in terms of price and has some great features.”
• Singer—a household name, many families will have had a Singer machine at some point, be it a vintage hand-crank model passed down through the generations or one of the later (just as dependable) machines.

How much should you pay for a new sewing machine?

Before considering budget, work out what you’ll be using your sewing machine for. There’s no point spending a fortune on a model that can perform 300 stitches if you only plan on sewing with five. Even if you’re an intermediate sewer, entry-level machines are usually adequate for most projects you’ll be stitching and significantly cheaper too. Generally, beginner level models you’ll pay anything between £75 and £300, but when you move to intermediate level the price varies from £200 to thousands of pounds depending on your machine of choice.

That being said, the general rule is to spend as much as you can afford. If your budget allows, it’s worth investing in a model that will work for decades to come and have a plethora of features that you can use as your confidence grows. “Personally I love a Bernina,” say expert sewer Lisa Comfort, from Sew Over It. “They aren't necessarily entry level sewing machines as they can be quite expensive, but they are the best on the market. I have had my Bernina for over 20 years and it's still working beautifully. They are long-lasting, very smooth and quiet."

It’s worth considering too that if you have a preferred brand, the inner workings of all their machines will be fundamentally similar. So if you have your eye on one of their more expensive models, take a look at their cheaper sewing machines with an equivalent features list - sometimes it’s the external coverings or amount of stitches that increases the cost.

The best jewelry making kits create stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you want to try to make your own DIY jewelry for the first time or have taken it up as a hobby, these kits are a great way to experiment with different materials and techniques until you land on a style that suits you.

As one of the most popular hobbies for women, jewelry making is a great way to gift yourself—or someone special—a truly unique ring, bracelet, necklace or pair of earrings at the end of the process. Once you're skilled enough, making your own jewelry can be lucrative, too, as the best jewelry gifts are often handmade and appeal to shoppers who scour sites with unique items, like Etsy and Not On The High Street.

To bring you our round-up of the best jewelry-making kits on the market, our team of testers assessed each kit to see which provided the most user-friendly and enjoyable crafting experiences. And, needless to say, learning how to make jewelry isn’t as fiddly as it sounds.

How we tested the best jewelry kits

When the team at womanandhome.com tested the best jewelry making kits, we looked for great quality products that produce high-end pieces. From the packaging to the end result, we take note of all the details to ensure we find the best kits. The main criteria we look out for is:

• How easy it is to use—some kits are pretty straightforward but for others involving resin, clay and casting materials, we’re looking for instructions and visual aids that go the extra mile to help users create their kit jewelry
• Good value for money—if the kit is more expensive than it would cost to buy the item ready-made, we look out for the reasons why. Are there specialist tools or one-off designs included that make it worth the price tag?
• The end result—all the jewelry kits we recommend create great-looking results, items that we’d all be proud to wear day-to-day. If they don’t look good, they don’t make the cut.

The best jewelry making kits as chosen by our experts

With everything from a beginners’ beading set—such as Macaroon’s Luxe DIY Beading Kit—to a more complex option, such as CAST’s Bespoke Jewelry Making Kit, we’ve got your jewelry making needs covered. 

If you’re a fan of Roxanne Assoulin’s beautiful jewelry collections, why not take the design reins and make your own bracelet in her signature style? We loved this kit, which comes in a cute little tin containing 73 vibrant enamel beads to string on the tan cord, finished with red macrame and gold-toned button closure. 

Create your own bracelet with a playful design, and keep any leftover beads for your crafting stash to make a matching pair of hoop earrings or a necklace with some extra jewelry findings. We found making the bracelet super straightforward, so if you’re looking for a fast project to make something special for yourself or someone you love, this is it. It makes a real style statement too and looks good however you wear it.

Unless you’re secretly skilled in the workings of a soldering iron (and other specialist tools), you’d be forgiven for thinking that making your very own precious metal jewelry was a little out of your reach. But we’ve got good news: CAST is making the seemingly impossible possible thanks to a technique called lost-wax casting.

Use the tools included in this kit to turn the various blue-wax forms (from a ring form to various other shapes) into unique-to-you designs. Once you’ve carved your desired piece of jewelry, send it off to CAST who will return it to you cast in silver or gold - see where the name comes from now? 

We found the carving a little tricky to get the hang of at first—be careful of your fingers—but practice makes perfect, and you can always order replacement wax shapes if you have a mishap. Once we were in the swing of things, the whole process was seamless and thoroughly enjoyable.

Read our full CAST bespoke jewelry making kit review 

Always dreamt of making your own rings? Get a step closer to the pros (with no expensive training) thanks to this clever little box of joy, brought to you by jewelers and friends Kirstie MacLaren and Katie Woodward. 

It all starts with a little ring of blue wax which can be carefully carved and sculpted to suit your style. If you’re not quite sure where to begin, make the most of the process by following online tutorials, snooping on the brand’s Instagram, or sketching your own designs before using the included craft knife and sandpapers to perfect your ring. The real beauty of this kit is that even if you’ve carefully followed a how-to-guide, the resulting rings will always be unique. Think of it as handwriting; no two people’s scribbles look the same. 

Once you’re happy with your carved ring design, pop it in the post and the clever folk over at The Workbench HQ will use a process called lost-wax casting to turn it into a beautifully shiny, bespoke piece that you can treasure forever.

While this kit is on the pricey side, we think it’s one of the best jewelry-making kits out there, and worth every penny for the quality of the materials, as well as the joy of knowing you’re the proud owner of a ring that’s one-of-a-kind. A great option for you to enjoy or as a gift for a loved one.

Read our full The Workbench Box review 

Jewelry brand Macaroon has been toying with the idea of launching its jewelry-making kits for years, but it was the pandemic that provided the final push to get the project off the ground. And the kit ticks some major boxes: it’s screen-free, occupies your hands and relaxes frazzled brains. It also makes a gorgeous-looking gift for a friend or family member in need of a little TLC. 

We really liked that each kit offers plenty of options for personalization and self-expression: they are packed with a mixture of around 200 beads and charms crafted from glass, shell, pearl, opal, crystal, and semi-precious gemstones, as well as some metal ones. All of the metal beads are lead and nickel-free. 

Your options are increased still further by the additional elements included in the box; you can string beads onto the stretchy elastic to make bracelets, or onto the strong cord to create beautiful, bespoke, beaded necklaces. One of the best jewelry-making kits if you like beaded creations.

Read our full Macaroon Jewelry Luxe DIY beading Kit review

Stitching Me Softly specializes in colorful, cotton-yarn friendship bracelets. Its impressive range of 15 sets—which you can find on the brand’s Etsy shop—offers options in an array of vibrant shades.

Each kit comes with an illustrated step-by-step guide to help you along the path of creating the various bracelet styles so we found it really easy to get started. Not only is this helpful for beginners, but it serves as a useful reminder if you decide to work on any similar craft projects in the future. Keep your creations for yourself or gift them to friends and family—the choice is yours. 

Of all the jewelry kits we’ve tried, the TOTL Tom Foolery Full Kit looked the most exciting on first unboxing, which is part of the reason it's made its way onto our list. Three large, shiny pouches contain everything needed to make your necklaces and bracelets. One is brimming with an electric mix of colorful beads, another is dedicated to beads emblazoned with letters and symbols, and the final pouch holds all the practical elements—wire, cutters, and clasps. 

One of the key selling points of this kit is the freedom it offers. There are no set rules or expectations, just the excitement of creating something completely unique. The beads included vary from kit to kit and are generous too, with a single set including enough beads to make a range of pieces.

But don't worry, if you do run out of beads, wire, or clasps there's the option to stock up on refill packs. There are limited edition extensions to the range too, so keep a beady eye on the TOTL Tom Foolery Instagram page for news on those. 

Creatives will love experimenting with this resin necklace kit that comes complete with resin, hardener, pigments, metallic mica powders, fillable bezel charms, extra charms (moons, stars, lightning bolts and mini tassels), six necklace chains, plenty of jump rings, lollipop sticks, cocktail sticks, mixing cups and gloves. For a kit that comes in such a neat little box, we were so impressed with the full-to-the-brim contents that meant we could really experiment with mixing colors and creating something unique. 

This is a great jewelry kit to use on an evening. Once you’ve mixed up the resin, hardener, pigments and mica, pour the mixture into the bezels and leave to cure overnight. It’s so fun to wake up the following morning to see your creations come to life, the metallic mica powders glinting in the light. Our favorite part was putting the necklaces together, playing around with the charms we’d designed and incorporating the moon and star charms too. It’s worth noting that you will need small pliers in your craft kit to be able to attach the jump rings to the charms and necklaces. There were so many charms and necklaces included in the kit that we started making extra ones for friends as gifts, they looked that professional!

This Amazon set doesn’t come with any instructions or guidance, which might put off some novice crafters. That being said, it’s easy to find jewelry-making tutorials on Youtube if you get stuck.

This particular kit offers great value for money—the tools alone (a brass jump-ring opening tool, pliers, and craft tweezers), make it worth the purchase. Many kits don’t come complete with these, so it’s certainly a selling point. 

As for the jewelry-making materials themselves, there’s a nice mix of charms, beads, clasps, and fixings to help you put your necklaces, earrings, and bracelets together, using the beading wire and cord. All in all, we found it to be a solid, affordable, no frills set for making bracelets or necklaces.

We Are Knitters is at the center of the cool crafting scene, specializing in yarn-based kits, stunning embroidery motifs, and bang-on-trend techniques. So when we discovered that their easiest kit to make (and the cheapest) was the Macramé Bracelet kit we jumped at the chance to try it out.

We weren’t disappointed with the results. Macramé is a simple technique to master once you’ve learned the knots, you only need two knotting techniques to make this bracelet. Plus, there are so many color options to choose from on the website. At such an affordable price, you can buy a rainbow of yarns to try out with your new craft skills.

You’ll become addicted to the mindful technique of weaving the yarns and pulling the knots together—in fact, this kit is a great way to switch off after a hard day. The best bit? You get a gorgeous stack of on-trend bracelets at the end of it.

Whether you're a beginner or gem-making expert, this DIY Bead Kit offers a full range of creative expression. It brims with over 200 beads and pendants across colors, shapes, and styles to suit any taste; plus, zinc, steel, acrylic, and rubber bands. The bright-yellow box houses pieces in individual compartments for easy access and organization. 

Why do we love it? This is a fab kit for kids, teens and adults, too. So if you're whole family enjoys crafting, pull out this kit for you all to get creative of an evening. The beads are so vibrant and unusual, you'll be able to make one-of-a-kind pieces.

Meet Akola, the jewelry-making brand with a twofold mission. Each kit comes with Karatasi beads handcrafted in Uganda, along with six ankole horn charms and a freshwater cultured pearl charm. We loved the vibrant colors of the beads and the pearly charms and the kit couldn't be easier to use. Not only that, with every purchase Akola reinvests 100% of profits to empower women and families in poverty. Overall, a great way to learn a trade and give back.

More often than not, luxury jewels boast four-digit-plus price tags. Fortunately, Kendra Scott offers a kit with the essentials to make these kinds of pieces from home at a fraction of the price - making this our favorite luxury kit.

With the Ellie DIY Bracelet Kit, you can mix and match pieces seamlessly. The set spotlights two options in Iridescent and Multi Drusy, and over 20 stone beads in Amethyst, Variegated Turquoise Magnesite, White Howlite, and Pink Cat’s Eye. It also comes with a mix of natural baroque pearls, mini tassels, gold bead accents, and vibrant cording with prefixed closures. 

For something really special, we suggest the Oh Hello Maker polymer clay kit to make a spangly set of gold leaf earrings. The kit comes complete with white polymer clay, gold leaf, custom-designed cutters, pliers, jewelry findings, and embroidery thread, along with printed step-by-step instructions. Should you need more of a helping hand, take a look at the online video tutorial - it really helped to see another pair of hands making the earrings at the same time as us. 

The results are impressive - the earrings we made look like a pair you would buy at a premium price from an indie store. Considering the kit only costs £29.99 and you can make several pairs, it really is great value for money.

The other great thing about this kit is that it comes with all the tools you need to keep making more jewelry. With the pliers and cutters included, you can expand on the knowledge gained from the kit and buy more polymer clay and necklace findings to create a matching set to go with your earrings. The options are endless when you start with this fantastic kit. 

When we came across this kit, we couldn’t quite believe it was DIY - the earrings were so unusual and on-trend. They’re the kind of earrings that, when worn, get lots of compliments. We had to try them out!

The kit itself didn’t disappoint. We loved the hands-on approach to creating the jig myself. A jig is a board, that you hammer with nails in the shape you wish to turn your wire. Once you’ve nailed on the pattern, you simply wrap the wire around the nails to form the shape.

You will need your own hammer to be able to create the jig but, otherwise, everything else is included - brass wire, gold-plated earring wires, wooden board, nails, pliers and access to an online video to help you out whilst crafting.

Having made the three patterns included, we've started looking for more shapes to turn into stylish earrings. The Monstera leaf shape is particularly stunning. We just wish The Edinburgh Craft Club did more kits with different shapes to choose from.  

What to consider when choosing the best jewelry making kit for you

What do you need to consider when browsing through the best jewelry-making kits? Skill level will play a part: how much (or little) experience—and perhaps patience—do you have for the activity? Are you looking for something that offers flexibility for creative flair, or something more of a painting-by-numbers-style creation? How much money do you want to invest, and what kind of materials do you want to work with?

If you have done some crafting before, it can be helpful to choose a kit that chimes with what you’re most comfortable with. If you’ve done a bit of crafting with yarn or thread, have a go at making friendship bracelets, or stretch yourself with the macramé bracelet kit. You’ll get the hang of it quickly and have the confidence to move on to the harder kits that involve carving or hammering. That being said, nothing is stopping you from going straight to the more technical kits—it might just take a little bit of time to get your head around them.

These are just some of the things you’ll want to think about when seeking out the very best jewelry-making kits on the market. Whether making jewelry is something you’re already into, or you want to learn the techniques from scratch with online jewelry-making classes, we’ve saved you precious time scrolling through Instagram, or browsing on Etsy by collating the very best options available right now into one big list. We’ve also sought out personal recommendations from in-the-know friends and colleagues, for those word-of-mouth recommendations that online browsing fails to deliver. Once we had a comprehensive list of options, we added them to our basket and tested them out for ourselves, to share with you what the kits are like. 

How to choose the best jewelry kit for you

If you’re not sure where to start with jewelry making, it’s best to try a beginner kit. We score each kit with a difficulty rating within this article, so it will be easy to find something suitable. Although, if you enjoy crafting in general, we would recommend that you start with a kit that incorporates more materials than beads, gems and jump rings. Get creative with a jewelry making kit using clay, resin, or even macramé embroidery floss. You’re sure to have fun learning a new skill and it will open the door to jewelry making for you.

What other equipment do I need to make jewelry?

If you're just getting started making your jewelry, some extra tools can help make the journey a little easier. Some of the best jewelry-making kits (including many of the kits mentioned above) come with everything you could need to make your project—while others require wires, pliers, or even wire or elastic thread. Make sure to check if your kit has these things, or whether you need to purchase them alongside the kit as well. 

It can also be helpful to purchase some bead stoppers if you struggle to keep yours on the wire. A beadboard can also be incredibly handy when making your jewelry as well, as it will hold everything in place for you. While you can make your jewelry on your lap or sit at a table, a beadboard will make things so much easier. To make sure you have everything you'll need, our ultimate guide to creating your jewelry starter kit might be helpful. 

What can I make next?

Once you’ve mastered the basics with one of the best jewelry making kits, you can make your own range of bracelets, necklaces and earrings from scratch. Use the same tools from your jewelry kits and some extra beads to get started. You can even repair your own jewelry with the same equipment and techniques.

It's easy to learn how to make Christmas stockings with this quick-stitch project. All it takes is some straight stitching to complete the simple, festive decoration.

Homemade Christmas stockings make lovely Christmas decorating ideas whether you just hang them for show around your home or use them practically to fill with Christmas gifts for the whole family.

Once you've sewn together your first Christmas stocking, why not create a full set for everyone in your household? Experiment by pairing festive prints with plain fabrics, for the perfect contrast between the stockings and cuffs, ready to hang and fill with presents for Christmas morning. 

Better yet, for a cute Christmas tree decorating idea, make matching mini versions and hang them on your tree, filled with chocolate coins or candy canes for a festive treat.

To make a Christmas stocking you will need:

• The Christmas stocking template below (printed at 300%)
• 60 x 100cm fabric for the stocking
• 20 x 40cm contrasting fabric for the cuff
• 20cm length of ribbon
• Matching thread
• Hand sewing needle
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine (don't have one? Read our guide to the best sewing machines)
• Iron and ironing board

How to make Christmas stockings in 7 easy steps

Step 1

Place the enlarged template on top of your folded stocking fabric and pin all the way around the edge. 

Cut out two pairs - one pair for the outer stocking and one pair for the lining - at approximately 1cm from the edge of the template to allow for the seam allowance. 

Step 2

Cut the cuff section from the Christmas stocking template and pin the template to your folded cuff fabric. Cut out two pairs of cuffs with an extra 1cm added around the edge. Pin each cuff to the top of each stocking with the right sides facing. 

Step 3

Sew each cuff piece to the top of each stocking with a 1cm seam allowance. 

Once sewn, press the seams open.

Step 4

Pair together the two outer stockings and two linings and pin around the edges with the right sides facing. 

Sew together with a 1cm seam allowance, leaving the top edge of the cuffs unsewn and a 10cm gap for turning through in the lining. Snip into the seam allowance of the corners and curves with a pair of scissors

Step 5

Turn the outer stocking right sides out and leave the lining with wrong sides out. Stuff the outer stocking inside the lining, lining up the seams. 

Pin the outer stocking and lining together along the top edge of the cuffs. Sew together with a 1cm seam allowance. You might need to remove the extension table from your sewing machine to slip the cuff onto the sewing arm and under the needle comfortably. 

Step 6

Pull the outer stocking through the turning gap in the bottom of the lining, then turn the stocking and lining right sides out. Turn the edges of the lining's gap under by 1cm, pin and top stitch as close to the turned edge as possible. Push the lining inside the stocking outer and press thoroughly for a crisp finish.

Step 7

Fold the piece of ribbon in half. Open out the stocking cuff and pin to the inside along the back seam. Top stitch 2cm down from the top of the stocking, sewing across the ribbon a couple of times in a colour that matches the cuff to disguise the stitches.

Your Christmas stocking is now ready to hang!

For more homemade ideas on how to decorate for Christmas, see Esme's guide to the best DIY Christmas wreath making kits of 2022. 

There are so many different hobbies for couples, but one thing they all have in common is doing the hobby as a pair can help boost intimacy, develop a new skill set and have some fun in the process. By speaking to experts and couples who have benefited from learning something new together, we've compiled a list of fun, affordable and interesting hobbies for couples that will bring you closer together.

Popular hobbies for women and  men are one and the same these days and while it's important for everyone to have their own passions, finding common ground and doing a hobby together as a pair is a great way to create intimacy without sex and form a deeper bond. A study from the Pew Research Centre found that 64% of couples with shared interests believe that this helps their marriages to succeed.

These ideas for hobbies that can be done as a couple are all relatively easy to get started with. In fact, the hobbies on our list generally require little in the way of start-up costs and many can be done from the comfort of your own home. Whether you're looking to reignite the spark in your relationship with a shared passion or build on your interests as a couple, there are plenty of options to explore.

9 hobbies for couples to try together

1. Yoga

The benefits of yoga include increased flexibility and core strength - but most importantly it helps improve both your physical and mental health and is one of the best hobbies for relaxing. Yoga instructor Lauren Brady explains why it's a great hobby for couples. "Not only will you both benefit physically, but yoga is a way to connect with your spiritual side together and find new intimacy," she told us. 

Lauren advises starting with a beginner's class, particularly if one of you is more experienced. "Yoga can be intimidating at first. It's important to remember that your partner may not be able to move in the same way as you, particularly, if like mine, they're more of a runner and cyclist. Start with a class open to all levels, practice poses together at home and encourage your partner not to compare themselves to others. Yoga is more about connecting with yourself - and then you can connect with each other on a deeper level."

For Lauren, a yoga holiday was a great way to share the activity she's so passionate about. "Johnny and I now regularly go away on yoga holidays around the world. It means we have a common daily activity and we can burn off energy together in the morning and start the day feeling good. I find it attractive that he's willing to give it a go! That also makes me more willing to try things that he likes doing. And as a couple, it's definitely good to try new things together." Lauren also commented on that yoga led to her partner finding his own hobby, running, had improved - which isn't surprising due to the many benefits of yoga for running.

How to get started: Look into yoga studios near you that are geared to beginners and do your research - our guide to yoga for beginners offers a step-by-step guide on getting started.

If you're thinking of booking a yoga break, you could take a look at our guides to the most spiritual places in the world for some inspiration on which destinations to try. 

2. Podcasting

While podcasting may sound intimidating, it's an activity that anyone can try at home - all you need is a topic you're both passionate about, whether that's food, the best book club books, music, true crime, or relationships. It's a fun way to discuss something different, aside from the more mundane discussions that couples have in their day-to-day lives like whose turn it is to do the dishes or when the bills need to be paid. 

We've seen celebrities excel in this field, with Idris and Sabrina Elba's Coupledom podcast, which explores partnerships on love, business and activism, boasting a 4.8 rating on Audible. This is a great hobby for people in their 30s who may be just getting to know each other, but equally would work well for couples later down the line to reignite the spark by learning something new.

For Kimberley Kaye, a mutual interest in psychology led her and her partner to create their own podcast. "My partner and I do a dark history and psychology podcast together and it's brought us together by allowing us to learn new things through research. I never thought I'd be reading The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders with a romantic partner!"

How to get started: Start by researching existing podcasts that interest you (you could take a look at our list of podcasts by amazing women) and take note of the topics covered, structure and how the hosts interact with each other. 

In terms of the next steps, you'll need to create a website or RRS feed and set up an account with a podcast platform, such as Spotify. The Podcast Guide offers a step-by-step guide to getting set up, as well as information on courses you can take.

3. Massage

Learning the art of massage is a great skill to boost your wellbeing and will also bring you closer to your partner physically. There's a whole host of avenues you can explore when it comes to massage, whether that's exploring the best essential oils for relaxation, specialist massage such as Swedish or Thai, or going one step further and learning about erotic massage and tantric sex. 

Sally Chamness, a trained massage therapist with Pheonix Health and Wellness, encourages couples to learn massage techniques together. "Massage is obviously great for boosting intimacy," she told us. "It's a fun skill that will benefit the body and mind for you both. 

"Perfecting massage techniques together involves good communication. Listen to your partner; if they say what you’re doing feels good, keep doing exactly whatever that is."

How to get started: Decide on a massage style together and do the research - and you could always attend a massage class together to learn some basic skills.

When you feel ready to get started, creating the right mood is key. "Low lighting, gentle music with no lyrics, and a comfortable location all set the scene for a good massage," Chamness suggests. 

4. Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to spend time together while giving back to the community. According to a study published by Harvard Health, when people work together in a volunteer capacity, they have stronger relationships that are built on shared interests and values. It also gives couples a sense of purpose, which can boost their overall health (for example, this study from BioMed Science found that those who felt they had more purpose in life slept better at night). 

Flora Blathwayt, the owner of Washed Up Cards a business that creates greeting cards from plastic and rubbish collected during beach cleans, found that not only did her new venture boost her mental health, but it also helped her connect with her partner. 

"In September 2019, I went on a beach clean event and I realized the importance of communities coming together to bring positive change. Not only is it great for the environment, but it's also brilliant for my mental health and helps me to connect with nature. My husband gives me amazing support for the project. Sometimes we stay up making cards until three o'clock in the morning, but it brings us great joy!"

How to get started: Volunteering could mean anything from helping out a local soup kitchen, spending time with the elderly, or getting involved in a community clean-up project. Our guide to volunteering at Christmas should help if you want to get involved over the festive season.

There are plenty of online databases that will help you get started. Do-it.org is a database of volunteering opportunities in the UK, while AmeriCorps will help you find out where to volunteer in the US.

5. Craft beer

The popularity of craft beer continues to rise - research from the Brewers Association reported that craft brewer volume sales grew 8% in 2021, while retail sales of craft increased 21% - and with so many breweries and micro-breweries to discover across the US and the UK, it's an area that offers endless opportunities to learn more and have a fun day out in the process. 

For Hannah Wolstenholme, discovering the craft beer world was an enjoyable way to spend time with her partner. "We both always had a taste for craft beer, but this became more of a project when we started to learn more about the industry and take notes on the different beers we tried and visiting breweries in our area. The craft beer scene is really sociable and you'll find that when visiting a tap room or on a beer trail other enthusiasts are keen to share their recommendations, but it's much more fun to visit with a partner or a friend."

Beer pairings are also a great way to bring something different to your next dinner party. Something to consider when you're thinking about hosting Christmas parties!

How to get started: Much like wine tasting, discovering which craft beers you enjoy is very subjective and the best way to determine your preferences is to visit a tap room or micro-brewery. The Brewer's Association in the US has plenty of information on how to get started. In the UK, head to the Society of Independent Brewers. 

6. Quizzes

Your local pub quiz could be an easy and consistent date in the diary for spending time together as a couple, as well as discovering how your partner shapes up when it comes to general knowledge. Plus, if you win the quiz, that's an instant serotonin boost for you both. 

To create more intimacy, an app such as Paired offers daily quizzes, games and questions to answer with your partner. These quizzes are centered around learning more about your other half, developed by psychotherapists and academics with the aim of creating closeness. Couples can also engage in weekly quizzes, with expert tips and conversation starters to help couples compare and discuss their answers. A study conducted by Paired found that having a daily prompt to ask each other questions increased relationship quality by 36% over time.

How to get started: Research a pub or bar in your local area that has a regular quiz and set a recurring date in the diary. Having a consistent plan in place for spending time together, even if it's just for a few hours, builds closeness and allows you to unwind together. 

Or, why not host a quiz at home with friends and family using our Royal Family quiz questions, or a Christmas food and drink quiz over the festive season? 

7. Wild swimming

Exercising together is a win-win situation, as you're doing something that will benefit your bodies and minds while spending time together. The benefits of cold-water swimming include sky-high endorphins after a dip in the wild, which creates shared feelings of happiness. Spending time in nature, such as trying out wild swimming or forest bathing, is also known as eco-therapy, which can also benefit you and your partner's emotional state, as wild swimmer Laura Greenwood found.

"Plunging your body into ridiculously cold water is one of the most full-on body and brain experiences I've ever had; it is a painfully, comfortingly, ridiculously all-encompassing moment – it totally controls all the senses and you cannot think about anything else during that time," says Laura. Overcoming this challenge as a couple creates a sense of accomplishment that will bring you closer together. 

Wild swimming can also help widen your social circle, as there's a real community aspect - it's likely there are numerous wild swimming groups in your local area. It could be a great opportunity to find a new social group with a shared interest. 

How to get started: It's very important to make you've researched cold-water swimming before braving the water and, if you're swimming during the winter months, have the right wild swimming gear - swim socks, gloves, a wetsuit and a warm hat. 

The Outdoor Swimming Society has plenty of resources and will help you find wild swimming spots in the UK, while cold-water swimming website openwaterswimming.com has a list of wild swimming spots in the US, as well as safety advice.

8. Camping

Travel in general is a great way to bond - whether that's a trip to one of the best spas in the UK, a stunning beach in Greece, or taking a trip on one of the best cruise lines for adults. In a study from the US Travel Association, 79% of survey respondents who traveled together believed it had a positive impact on their relationship.

There's something particularly special about camping as a couple, as it involves an inevitable amount of teamwork and sometimes problem-solving, with a back-to-basics approach. 

How to get started: First decide where you want to go camping. Take a look at campsites.co.uk for some ideas of where to go in the UK, or try pitchup.com for campsites in the US. 

Scotland has to be one of the most beautiful places to camp in the world, so take a look at our guide to wild camping in Scotland for some inspiration.

9. Wine tasting

Wine tasting is a great option for couples as it invites many more opportunities to spend time together developing your shared passion. "A great next step after learning the basics of wine tasting is to start learning about wine pairings and visit restaurants to try it in practice - if you're still not sure, the wine waiter or sommelier will be able to help," Jack Brennan, director and head buyer of Kent Wines, tells us. "From there, there are all sorts of avenues couples can explore, including online tasting experiences, vineyard visits and wine holidays."

How to get started: A wine-tasting evening, evolving around a specific grape, or an introduction to white, rose, red, sparkling, or orange wine, is a great place to start, where you can work out which types of wine you prefer. 

If you want to enroll on a course together for a more formal qualification Liquor.com have ranked the best online sommelier classes in the US. In the UK, head to the UK Sommelier Association to see where you can find a course near you. Prices are varied, ranging from $50/£50 to over $500/£500. 

If you'd rather just try out wine tasting at home together in an informal way, simply invite some friends and compare tasting notes on a selection of wines. Wine pairing during a dinner party is also a great way to impress your guests, and woman&home has plenty of recipe ideas from lunch ideas for entertaining friends to delicious dinner party dessert ideas.

How can doing hobbies as a couple strengthen your bond? 

It's clear that shared interests are important to us, with research from Healthy Framework reporting that 61% of daters use an online dating app to meet people that share common interests. But sharing hobbies together can also boost our relationships by encouraging healthy habits. 

"Hobbies add to our ability to create balance in our lives by shifting our attention from the things that weigh us down to the things that lift us up. In other words, they give us the opportunity to simultaneously unplug and recharge our batteries, which can be really beneficial to do as a couple," Mariel Witmond, life coach and founder of yoga and mindfulness website Mindful Sonder tells us. "In relationships, they add variety to what can be an otherwise monotonous life by providing us with new shared experiences and the chance to learn something new together."

According to Witmond, hobbies also help us gain perspective - which is vital for healthy relationships. "Hobbies give rise to creativity," she continued. "After spending our days focused on one job and direction, hobbies can help us tap into our own creativity and learn to think outside the box, offering new perspectives and skill sets that can then benefit us in our relationships."

If you've been looking for ideas for hobbies that are cheap and easy to try at home this winter, when the weather is cold outside and budgets are tight, then you've come to the right place. By speaking to experts and those who found that learning a new skill at home had a positive effect on both their wellbeing and their bank balance, we've compiled a list of suggestions of new, affordable and easy hobbies you can try. 

The benefits of hobbies for women and men have been widely praised (check out this research by Utah State University for example), but just because we know having a hobby could be good for us, doesn't make starting a new one any easier. Paying for classes, courses or investing in the equipment needed for certain hobbies (like photography, or pottery for example) can be expensive. 

However, there are cheap hobbies out there that don't require expensive start up costs, nor a commitment to attending in person. In fact, you can try all the ideas for hobbies on our list in your own home, in your own time...

8 ideas for hobbies that are cheap and easy to try at home

1. Upcycling

A hobby that is beneficial to both your bank balance and the environment, upcycling means transforming old household items into something new using DIY skills. Examples include converting old crates, ladders or the backs of chairs into stylish wall mounts, or even something as simple as using old wine bottles or kitchen jars as vases for a kitsch way to store fresh or dried flowers delivered to your home or picked from your garden.

Amy Fretwell found that upcycling things that otherwise might have been thrown away turned into a fulfilling hobby during the pandemic. "After a big clear out, there were plenty of old pieces of furniture that I would have otherwise thrown away, but after watching some tutorials online I got plenty of ideas on how to make use of them."

How to get started: The first step is to determine which items you already own but no longer use - perhaps items that are languishing in the garage or attic - so you know what you have to work with. 

One of the most common forms of upcycling is painting or upholstering old furniture, and there are plenty of materials online that can help you learn the basics, such as this beginner's guide to furniture upholstering. Masterclass also have a useful guide on how to upcycle furniture.

2. Meditation

Meditation is part of a more mindful way of life and learning how to meditate is one of the best hobbies for relaxing. Like building muscles in the gym, the mind is a muscle that we often neglect, but committing to just five minutes of meditation a day can be incredibly beneficial.

"Let’s think of it like this: when you’re feeling down, how much time do you need to spend with your best friend before you feel better? Chances are the longer, the better," explains Danielle Wills, yoga and meditation coach for WithU app. "Meditation is like that - it’s hanging out with yourself. It’s getting to know yourself better, getting to actually like yourself. It’s making friends with your thoughts and feelings."

For part-time meditation teacher Ciara McGinley, an interest in meditation became a new career path. "I was first introduced to meditation and mindfulness at university. It was a new hobby for me because I didn’t play a sport and wasn’t part of any clubs, so I turned to meditation to combat exam stress and break up my class days.

"Years later, after developing my own mindfulness routine and experimenting with everything from meditation to yoga, breathwork, forest bathing and mindful walking, I decided to train to become a qualified meditation practitioner so I could introduce others the practice and help them build a life rooted in mindfulness."

How to get started: There are plenty of mindfulness apps available that will help you get started if you're new to meditation, such as Calm and Headspace. Balance, a meditation and sleep app, which has a free trail for the first year, offers a daily meditation challenge of as little as three minutes so you can get started at home. You could also try our guide to the best sleep-guided meditations to help you drift off and get better sleep.

Start by choosing a designated time of day to commit to a short meditation, as consistency is key. This could be right before bed, or first thing in the morning. Using a bullet journal, where you write, draw or doddle the thoughts or emotions you're feeling at the time, is another way to practice mindfulness daily. If you're not sure where to start, simply writing down three things you feel grateful for that day has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress. 

3. Pickling

Making your own pickles from items in your fridge, such as cucumbers and carrots, is a great way to boost your gut health. As well as being good for gut health, pickling also goes hand in hand with the hobby of foraging and learning more about what foods we can use to make homemade pickles. 

Homemade pickles also make a great gift, which can save money on birthdays or be given as a homemade Christmas food gift over the festive season. 

Wild foods can be used for pickling and long-term storage, but it's important to do you research and make sure the foods you forage are safe to eat before you start. Our guide to foraging for foods should help. 

How to get started: To get started, you'll just need your chosen foods, some jars with a well-fitting lid, salt and some good-quality vinegar. There are plenty of resources online that will help guide you through the process, such as this guide to pickling from the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

4. Tarot and Angel card readings

Reading tarot is an ancient ritual associated with witchcraft, but in recent years tarot cards have become much more mainstream, moving away from a way to predict the future and more as a tool for learning more about ourselves. Sales of tarot cards in the US have doubled in the past five years according to reporting from The Washington Post. 

This is no surprise according to psychic and tarot expert Inbaal Honigman. "The rise in the popularity of spiritual practices in general, and divination in particular over the past two years is linked with the sense of loss and confusion during the pandemic," Inbaal explains. 

"The Tarot is relatable, visually appealing, and deals with real life situations. The Tarot can be taught with relative ease, and is accessible to all, unlike say mediumship which takes a good amount of borne talent to master, or say astrology which can take forever to learn, what with all the maths that goes into it."

Angel or Oracle cards, which offer a more fluid approach to tarot reading, are another option for people to try at home. "Angel cards and oracle cards are more of a freestyle discipline, which can be altered to suit any preference and style. The Tarot is a more rigid system with 78 cards, four suits and traditional archetypes. Angel and oracle cards are generally intended to empower and reassure, whereas the Tarot informs."

How to get started: You'll need to purchase a pack of cards - whether that's Tarot, Angel or Oracle - and then use resources online to understand the meanings of each card.

"Newbies need to take it easy, and practice, practice, practice. Nobody will judge you for checking meanings in a book, and you will be more skilled tomorrow than you are today," Inbaal explains. 

5. Mixology

Hosting Christmas parties, dinners or drinks at home is a much cheaper alternative to eating out at the moment, and it's also a fun way to impress your guests with some homemade cocktails. Mixology is a trend that that is predicted to rise in popularity throughout the rest of 2022 and into next year. 

"The cheapest hobbies can often be the most creative, because they’re more about engaging your imagination and mixology is a great place to start, with costs amounting to the ingredients you need for the cocktails and plenty of resources online," says consumer strategist and trends forecaster William Higham. 

"With the rising trend of many of us drinking less, or not at all, you could also experiment with alcohol-free drinks, which make a great alternative to fizzy drinks for those who are choosing not to drink."

How to get started: It's worth investing in a basic cocktail kit with a shaker and a strainer to start this hobby at home, as well as researching the best cocktail recipes online. You'll then just need whatever ingredients are required for the cocktails - and plenty of practice. 

7. Sewing

Stepping away from technology and learning a new skill that doesn't involve any screen time helps boosts mindfulness. "Activities such as sewing and embroidery are calming and mindful in an age full of technology," Higham explains. "And as we increasingly become more dependant on tech in our daily lives, I expect these kind of skills to boom in popularity as a chance to switch off, as well as a way to save on expensive repairs to clothing."

For Una Doyle, this hobby turned into a vintage venture. "I started learning to sew my own vintage-inspired clothes - 1940s & 1950s mainly - as a result of an image change - after I couldn't find the clothes I wanted to wear," she told us. "As a result, I ended up with some sewing-related clients; a fabric and haberdashery shop and a handmade clothes business! This weekend I attended the Dressmaker's Ball and I'm now going to be interviewing the organisers of it, who run sewing events and run a sewing pattern company." 

How to get started: You can start with a simple needle and thread and there are also plenty of affordable embroidery kits online as an easier and cheaper alternative to making clothes. 

While you don't need one of the best sewing machines to get started, but it certainly helps and it's a purchase that will pay dividends once you acquire the skills to make and fix your own clothing.  The Fold Line has plenty of advice on how to learn the basics of sewing at home.

8. Cooking

Cooking is something we inevitably do in some form on most days. But this chore can easily be turned into a satisfying hobby with some additional research. Delve into your best cookbooks and keep a recipe log with recipe cards or a simple notebook while you build up your skills in the kitchen. Like learning to make cocktails at home, having signature dishes that you know how to cook well invites the opportunity for cost-saving dinner parties, or entertaining friends for lunch, as opposed to eating out. 

"My love of cooking stemmed from a trip to foodie destinations in France where I visited the local markets and spoke to the suppliers about the best way to use the ingredients I was purchasing," part-time chef Francesca McKay tells us. "This led me to set up my food and baking blog - The Wyldflours - which I update regularly with recipes and food photography. I'm even now thinking about launching a podcast."

How to get started: You don't need the best cookware or even a library of cookbooks to start, as all you really need are a few simple recipes to try and then good-quality ingredients. Investing in a recipe journal or recipe cards will help you keep track of your favorite recipes. Plus, make sure you take a look at the hundreds of recipes we have on woman&home, from Sunday lunch ideas to easy dessert recipes to make at home.

Why are hobbies that are cheap growing in popularity? 

Expensive hobbies are out and cheap, easy hobbies are in, according to consumer strategist and trends forecaster William Higham. "Hobbies you can try at home are set to gain in popularity; not only are they typically quite cheap, but they can actually save you money. For example, learning how to paint or knit means you can create you own keepsake items and gift your talents, while learning practical skills such as carpentry could save you a fortune on hired help." 

Higham, founder of Next Big Thing Consulting, explains, "Living through the pandemic gave many people both the time and the inclination to try new things at home. And it made many of us realise that there could – and should - be more to our lives than our job. 

"Hobbies definitely don’t need to be expensive to be worthwhile. In fact, hobbies can prove an increasingly popular low cost alternative to leisure activities like expensive holidays abroad, theatre or movie trips and meals out."

The best hobbies should entertain, eradicate boredom, help you develop new skills or alleviate anxiety. But they should also help you relax - which is why we've compiled a guide on the best hobbies for relaxing.

Hobbies can open up your horizons, they can ground you, but they can also help you develop new skills and even meet new people. For many of us, hobbies are innate and we naturally lean into the things we're interested in.

However, we can also get stuck in ruts and find ourselves doing the same things day in and day out - and some of best hobbies for women can come with a bit of attached pressure, as we naturally place some expectations on ourselves when we start them.

We sat down with mental health experts who broke down exactly why hobbies are good - and the best ones you can pick up if you're struggling to relax.

The best hobbies for relaxing

Firstly, identify what you find relaxing. Some people count relaxation as one of the benefits of cold water swimming, while others will find sinking into one of the best books the ultimate way to switch off. Regardless of your favorite relaxing pastime, there should be something in this list to fulfil your desires.

1. Walking

The health benefits of walking are endless. Not only can walking provide an easy cardiovascular workout which is great for your heart and lungs but it can help maintain bone density. It can also be a great mood booster and help you switch off. Walking also works to raise your self-esteem and can aid in preventing mental health problems. Walking holidays can also be extremely relaxing - as you can pick an itinerary with a pace (and setting) that works for you.

We chatted to the team at Ordnance Survey who have been encouraging the public to get outside for over a century, originally through paper maps and now their dedicated app. Nick Giles, MD of Ordnance Survey Leisure told us that people are increasingly mapping out walking routes.

"We have seen a new wave of people taking up walking as a hobby with many venturing out further," explains Nick. "There they started in the cities exploring local greenspaces and footpaths (this layer of the app saw a 1,500% increase in usage during lockdowns) they are now visiting National Parks and Areas of Outstanding beauty. We are seeing record routes being recorded and followed in the app

"It is a great form of exercise for all ages and for many is the entry-level to running, cycling and other fitness programs. Research shows that there are big benefits from walking and getting outside in the fresh air. We are seeing many GPs offering a ‘green prescription’ urging people to take exercise before medication." 

The best part of walking as a hobby is that it couldn't be easier to get started. You could join a walking club or meet up with a companion (be it friends or your dog). Ensure you have comfortable shoes, a good map or app and plan your route. The best walking shoes are advisable if you plan to go on long routes.

"Start local and explore from your front door," advises Nick. "Find circular routes - don't stick to straight lines where you walk the same path back. But be safe and know your limits"

2. Yoga

If you're looking for the ultimate relaxing hobby, refer to the (endless) benefits of yoga. You can turn to yoga for weight loss, to aid strength and balance and to relieve back pain but ultimately, the ancient practice is great for calming the mind. 

Jinis Lai, Yoga Instructor at London’s JOHN REED Fitness explains why yoga is a relaxing hobby. "Yoga is an ancient practice, dating back thousands of years, which focuses on flexibility and breathing to improve physical and mental health. When practiced correctly, it is relaxing for both the body and mind," Jinis explains. "The physical movements are often designed to relieve physical tension - like muscle knots and improve posture, as well as releasing emotions." 

It can sometimes feel like you either 'do' yoga or not. If you're not confident, join a beginners class so that you're all in the same boat - there's no point putting pressure on yourself as that would ultimately be counter-productive.

"Like with most new sports or hobbies, the best way to begin is by joining a group class. Being around others can help those new to yoga to feel comfortable," explains Jinis. "Yoga takes practice, when starting out, be mindful to not put too much pressure on yourself, and approach each session calmly and with an open mind. Outside of the class, you can practice your breathing techniques - the inhale and exhale motions - and if you have time, familiarising yourself with the most basic of yoga poses like child’s pose, downward facing dog and cobra pose might also be useful as they are used in most classes."

Head to our guide on yoga for beginners for a step-by-step guide on getting started..

3. Swimming

There are many health benefits of swimming but taking a dip - whether it be in a swimming pool or outdoors in salt water - can also work wonders for your mental health. A 2020 study by  Lifestyle Medicinefound that a 10-week program of swimming had a marked effect on the participants' wellbeing and overall mood while reducing feelings of fatigue and anger. 

As with all forms of exercise, swimming is an instant mood booster because it releases endorphins into our system which reduce stress and generally improve feelings of well-being. But what's especially relaxing about swimming is the fact that it's based on repetitive movements, which can be soothing and force you to focus on the task at hand, clearing your mind of other thoughts. Not to mention, being immersed in water can be very meditative, especially if you're lucky enough to live next to open water.

Learning how to swim as an adult is an incredibly enriching hobby because it combines gentle exercise with mindfulness and practicality. Let go of the widespread misinformation about how long it takes to learn to swim and the myth that the skill must be learned as a child, or never at all - it can actually be learned in a surprisingly short amount of time if you have the right coach.

Even if you already know how to swim, making time in your diary to take a dip regularly can be a great hobby, whether that's in your local pool or in the sea. 

4. Gardening

Gardening is one of the most relaxing hobbies as it gets you outside in nature and is connected with feelings of accomplishment.

"Spending time gardening helps us focus on the present and the positives of the moment, rather than dwelling on past activities and issues. As we concentrate on tending to plants, it centers your mind and keeps it focused on the task at hand," explains Tim Marshall, head gardener at Raby Estates.

"The simple act of surrounding ourselves with nature and being out in the great outdoors is beneficial to mental wellbeing. Usually, a lot of time and effort is invested in gardening and the process of growing, tending to plants and seeing them flourish, allows us to utilize our nurturing instincts," he adds.

Like other relaxing hobbies, gardening forces us to really immerse ourselves in the task in hand. It also reaps rewards too - especially if you decide to start a vegetable garden.

As with all these hobbies, there's no prerequisite to starting. If you have your own garden, it's of course easier - but there are plenty of allotments or community gardens that are always looking for volunteers. 

Tim advises "joining a local gardening club if you want to meet like-minded people," but emphasizes that the most important thing is just to get stuck in. "I recommend getting out in the garden as soon as possible and start weeding and tending," he adds. "You will naturally start making plans, building up experience, and growing in confidence."

Whether you're a complete novice or relatively green-fingered, these easy gardening tips should also get you on the right track.

5. Writing

 We all have a book in us, or so the saying goes. Writing can be the ultimate relaxing hobby - not only is it mindful, but expressing your thoughts on paper can be extremely cathartic and calming. Writing can take many forms - whether you’re sitting on a great novel idea, or just want to take time to express your daily thoughts, consciously making time every day to write can be grounding and enjoyable.

Getting started can seem daunting but once you have an inkling of an idea, the first step is really just putting words on a page and getting started. Of course, there is more to it than that alone - check out our beginner’s tips on how to write a book - but don’t avoid writing because you don’t feel your idea is formed enough or because you don’t have a polished first draft. If you need a bit of encouragement, also think about joining a writer’s group.

Not all writing needs to lead to a novel either - or even a short story. In fact, just jotting down your thoughts every day in a journal can be extremely relaxing and can help unburden your mind. 

Richard Jenkins, psychologist and Stress and Performance Management Specialist at caba recommends ‘writing to yourself,’ as a way to dispel negative thoughts and put your mind at ease. 

“It’s a technique that works for a number of reasons,” he explains. “For one, when writing, you aren’t spilling out your thoughts. You have to structure them and confront the reality of what you’re saying, in order to communicate them in some kind of meaningful way. But writing things down also creates an emotional connection. There’s a degree of commitment required and therefore greater emotional engagement with what you’re saying; more so than simply speaking your thoughts aloud as they pop into your head.

“There are also very few limits to expressive writing. It can be used in a wide number of situations – owing in part to how accessible a technique it is – but is particularly helpful for those who feel as though they no longer have the answers, or as though the choice is no longer available to them. If you’ve reached the conclusion that an area of what you do is broken and are devising a plan to fix it, it can be an incredible tool.”

When you’re writing to yourself, don’t worry about grammar, syntax or even legibility. This is exclusively for you - so don’t burden yourself with any pressure.

To get started, Richard advises practicing expressive writing “when you’re at your most emotionally available. If you have two kids to get ready for school, first thing in the morning won’t work. It has to be during a time when you’re free from interruption or distraction. Free to let your mind roam and to express yourself. Free from parents, kids and even partners. You don’t have to finish writing in one sitting but do try writing continuously for 15 to 20 minutes. All I would say is that it’s important you stick to whatever goal you set yourself.”

6. Foraging

We are hunter-gatherers by nature, and there is something extremely rewarding about finding foods in the wild - and for free. Whether it's verdant wild garlic or juicy blackberries, foraging is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in nature. Being surrounded by nature is extremely grounding and having the task of finding your own food also helps focus your mind. Not to mention, learning the nutritional and medicinal nature of certain plants and foods (as well as the hazardous properties of others) is a genuinely useful skill. Similar to forest bathing, spending a day completely surrounded by - and engaging with - nature is so simple and primal, yet so powerful.

Check out our guide to foraging for food to get started

7. Painting

Engaging in a creative activity, like drawing or painting can serve as a healthy distraction and help create a self of accomplishment. It provides a creative outlet and allows you to focus on the here and now. 

"Creative activities are associated with the release of ‘feel good’ hormones such as dopamine," explains Gosia, National Lead for Mental Health, Nuffield Health.

As ever, start simple and avoid creating any pressure. Buy a small acrylic or watercolor starter set and think about what you want to paint. It might be that you want to copy a photograph, of existing artwork or create a small still life scene for yourself. There are countless tutorials online and guided group classes if you want to get started. You can also buy paint by number kits on Amazon - many of these sets will deliver genuinely good pieces of art that you can hang pride of place in your home, or wrap up for a memorable 50th birthday gift.

8. Cooking

It can be easy to get stuck in a mealtime rut and reaching for quick options, but cooking dishes can be extremely relaxing. The process of opening your best cookbook, sourcing the ingredients and following a new recipe can be mindful, whether you’re looking for lunch ideas for entertaining friends or a delicious dinner for one.

Mimi Morley, Recipe Development Manager at HelloFresh explains, “Cooking is a great hobby to take up and it can help you to feel relaxed after a busy day. For example, the process of chopping and stirring can be very meditative and focusing on following a recipe can help take your mind off any worries, helping you to relax and unwind. 

“You use all of your senses when cooking, with smell being the main focus, and this can create feelings of relaxation, too, as certain food aromas may remind you of a certain memory.”

The best part about cooking is that anyone can do it. If you’re a seasoned chef, you can branch into new dishes or even join a supper club. But if you’re unconfident in the kitchen, don’t be deterred: just start small.

“I would also recommend starting off with recipes you know you enjoy eating and that are simple to make, so you can build your skills up and move on to more complex recipes that you’ve maybe not tried before,” advises Mimi.

“Finally, cooking with a friend or relative is a great way to add a social element to this hobby. It gives you both a chance to spend time together, in a relaxing environment, while doing something you both enjoy.”

Why are hobbies so good for relaxing and mental health?

"Hobbies offer a slice of work-free and responsibility-free time in our schedules.," explains Gosia Bowling, National Lead for Mental Health, Nuffield Health. "This is especially needed for those who feel overwhelmed by their work and ever-growing to-do lists, to recharge their batteries by doing an activity that sparks joy. 

"In fact, social prescribing is a treatment method often used by doctors. This involves asking patients with mild to moderate depression to take up a non-medical intervention (like a hobby, or connection with a community group) to enhance their mental health. 

"The reason hobbies can be effective in promoting relaxation and better wellbeing is partly that they help us to achieve a state of ‘flow’. By becoming engrossed in an enjoyable activity, we give ourselves a break from worrying about the future or ruminating about the past. We have a much-needed break from thinking about the concerns of daily life like work and paying bills."

The most relaxing hobbies are often relatively solitary ones that you can control yourself. This sense of control is powerful, explains Gosia. "Hobbies can also give us a sense of control and mastery, which can act as a powerful antidote to uncertainty, or changes outside of our control. Combined with pleasure and motivation, hobbies also bring other benefits. Physical activities can increase fitness levels and team sports offer valuable opportunities for friendship, as well as emotional support that can positively impact mental health."

More stress-busting hobbies

Ultimately, different activities relax different people. But if any of the other hobbies aren't for you, then consider taking up some of the below calming hobbies.

• Candle-making: Practical and mindful, check out our guide on how to make candles to get started
• Pottery: Often cited as one of the most therapeutic hobbies, spinning clay can be both mesmerizing and engaging
• Flower pressing: Pressed flowers can make beautiful gifts or scrapbook entries
• Dancing: Join a local class or jive in your living room. You'll be surprised at the calming effects it can have - especially when you dispel any feelings of self-consciousness
• Scrapbooking: This brings together a range of other hobbies - crafts, drawing, painting, writing and more
• Photography: Stress-relieving and helps you record precious memories
• Listening to music  - or even better, playing: Countless studies have proven the benefits of music on general well-being
• Knitting: The ultimate soothing hobby which you can dip in and out of
• Calligraphy: You'll be surprised at how relaxing (and functional) this skill is
• Baking: Similar to cooking, the ritual of baking can help focus your mind

When the weather is as warm as it is at the moment it's easy to assume that the answer to what can you plant in August is 'not much'. However, this couldn't be further from the truth and there are actually plenty of bulbs that can be planted this month, as well as key jobs you can get done in the garden in August to stay ahead of the seasonal changes for your plot once fall arrives. 

Some of the best garden plants for autumn and spring can be planted in August and there's also important pruning and planning to be done if you plan to grow your own vegetables next season.

We caught up with horticultural experts who provided both gardening tips for beginners and the well-seasoned, as well as advice on what you can plant in August and what jobs you should be ticking off you list this month to keep your backyard looking for the seasons ahead.

What can you plant in August?

August is an opportune time to get ahead of your planting for beds and borders next year, as explained by Dobbies’ Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles.

"August is the time to get ready for next year and plant spring flowering bulbs such as Crocus, Daffodils, and Snowdrops, which can all be planted now for a colorful display next year," Marcus explains. 

"Plan winter gardens whilst spending time outdoors in the sun," says Chris. "Plant bulbs such as nerines and colchicums ready for autumn."

Marcus also advises the August is the best time to prep in time for colder months by planning out garden borders and planting seeds for your vegetable patch. "In August, plant vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage to ensure they are ready for winter harvesting,"

5 important jobs to do in the garden as well as planting in August

1. Tend to parched lawns

It goes without saying that lawns need a little TLC during the month of August, especially at the moment with temperatures reaching record highs.

"For a manicured garden, regular mowing will be required in August if the grass is growing," advises Marcus, who adds, "to keep the grass green, I would suggest keeping the blades high." The general consensus when it comes to how often you should mow your lawn is about once a week.

"For a wildflower lawn, by August most of the flowers will have finished so now is the time to cut the lawn down, but make sure all the seeds are scattered first."

It's key to keep lawns well watered during the heat, but try using repurposed household water where possible to preserve water supplies. Or, as Nat White, from Rated People, recommends, "consider getting a drip or trickle irrigation system. These systems are exempt from hosepipe bans because they are really efficient in how they distribute water. "

"They need to be fitted with a pressure-reducing valve and a timer and they can’t be handheld. The timer controls how long your system is on and shuts it off automatically and the pressure-reducing value prevents spikes in water pressure which can lead to a flood. Make sure your system releases water drip by drip onto or beneath your soil, so you don’t see any water running off the surface or traveling through the air by jet or mist."

Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress adds, "do not use high nitrogen fertilizer as this only encourages growth, which will be harmed by the upcoming colder weather. The late summer means a slower lawn growth, so ensure that lawn mowers are set to a higher cut."

2. Water and mulch beds and borders

Another key area to address when it comes to watering during the hottest month is young plants in beds and borders. Marcus explains, "watering your beds and border is an important job in August, and giving new plantings a thorough soaking every few days will encourage roots to grow down into the soil rather than towards the surface during the warmer weather."

"To retain moisture and improve soil health, I'd advise mulching well with a good quality peat-free compost."

To save on water wastage Nat suggests using greywater, "Greywater is household wastewater like water from your shower, sink or leftover boiling water," she explains. A great sustainable living solution for your household to try.  "Collect this to use in your garden. Water that you’ve used to boil vegetables can contain minerals so it can be great for your plants - just remember to let it cool down first to avoid damaging them."

3. Pay extra care and attention to container plants

As well as keeping your lawn, borders and bed well-watered when possible, Marcus also advises notto forget about your container plants. "In addition to well-watering try adding liquid fertilizer to encourage strong, healthy growth with ensuring continual flowering through to autumn, and you should make sure you remove spent flowers to allow for new growth."

"If you are going on holiday, I would suggest moving any container plants into the shade to reduce the risk of drying out, or for longer holiday breaks, consider an automatic irrigation system to make sure your plants get the hydration they need."

4. Begin pruning back

Marcus advises that any flowering herbaceous plants that have finished flowering can be cut back and tidied this month to make room for new bulbs.

"When it comes to pruning in August, early summer flowering shrubs such as Deutzia and Weigela can be cut back," suggests Marcus. "Remove any branches that have flowered with secateurs to allow new growth that will carry next year’s display, and deadhead Dahlias and Roses regularly to extend the flowering season into fall."

"Fruit trees, such as apples and pears, should be pruned once they are trained, and remain in the sunlight for further ripening," advises Chris. "Plants such as wisteria should be pruned regularly to keep it under control, and lavender should be pruned for it to remain compact and bushy."

Deadheading summer plants is a key job to ensure new grow in future and to keep gardens look their best. "Remove deadheads to encourage new flowers to develop and to avoid unsightly gardens," advises Chris.

"Concentrate removing deadheads from perennial plants – such as dahlias and lilies – to promote an ongoing show of blossoms in the garden. To remove deadheads simply pinch the stem below the faded flower with your finger and thumb."

5. Start harvesting ripe produce

Ahead of planting for next year's crop, now is the time to start harvesting the produce that's ready to be enjoyed. "August means that vegetables, such as courgettes and sweetcorn, can now be harvested," explains Chris. "Lift up potatoes to make summer salads; remembering to store them in a hessian bag to allow darkness and ventilation."

"Runner beans can be regularly harvested to allow new pods to grow and prevent the beans from becoming stringy."

If you own a Kindle, a protective case isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. The best Kindle cases do more than prevent scratches; they protect your eReader from everyday drops, spills, and scuffs, all while adding a touch of personal style.

One of the first things I did after buying one of the best Kindles was invest in a case (as well as some of the best Kindle accessories). As a long-time user, I’ve learned the hard way that slipping it into a handbag (or even a coat pocket) without a proper cover is a heart-stopping experience. Thankfully, there are loads of smart, stylish, and sturdy options that prove a case isn’t just a case.

Whether you’re after Kindle cases that come with a stand, a travel-friendly zip pocket case for travelling, or something sleek and simple, there’s something to suit your style. And at under £40 in most cases, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

To help you find the perfect match, I’ve researched and tested the top-rated Kindle cases available right now, saving you the time and hassle, so you can get back to reading this season’s bestsellers. Plus, you'll get to see my personalised case (and learn the tricks of what makes a seriously special eBook look.

The Quick List

Sometimes, all it takes is one glance to find the case to match your Kindle. Here's a summary and quick introduction to my favourite Kindle cases. If you want to find out more, I dive deep into the details further down the page.

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The best Kindle covers and cases

We are focusing on Kindles here, but several of the choices are compatible with other eReaders too.

Best everyday Kindle case

If you’re looking for a luxury case and you can’t quite justify the price of some of the more premium options, this is perfect. It has all the features of the best cases: it's lightweight, sleek, and simply designed, but you don't have to pay a premium for any of the neat features. One of the reasons I particularly love this as an everyday option is the range of simple colourways and jazzy designs that let you express some personality in the way you cover your Kindle.

In spite of its price, the FINTIE still has lots of useful features. For example, the magnetic closure automatically triggers the sleep/wake function, saving your battery from any needless draining. Then there's the shell, which is wrapped in hard plastic with vegan-friendly PU leather. It’s the perfect example of style and substance. Plus, if you've invested in the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, this cover will allow you to charge wirelessly. Nothing is left to be desired.

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Best Kindle case stand

I affectionately call this the Swiss army knife of Kindle covers. MoKo, the veteran case makers for Kindles, make plenty of options. This one though, is my favourite. It comes with all of the options you could ever think of: a vast choice of colours (tick) and patterns (tick); a front cover to protect the screen (tick); a hand strap for secure one-handed reading (tick). I'm not done. Want a back stand for no-handed reading? Tick, tick, and tick. It even has things you didn’t know you needed like a card holder. It's perfect if you read to escape your phone but you know that you might want to buy a coffee when you’re out and about.

Online, there is lots and lots of love for this case and its multitude of features. The tight fit is a positive for most people (but for some a bit of an inconvenience). The case is also a bit of an unsung hero for anyone who suffers from arthritis, hand pain or low grip strength. The hand strap deserves a nod for catering to every kind of reader. And, what I also love, is that MoKo throws in some big features, without shouting about it. The highly protective features aren't a prominent selling point, but nonetheless are superior to other cases. It's a favourite amongst our w&h team.

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Best travel Kindle case

This is the case, just in case you want a case, in a case, in a case. That is to say, you’re going on holiday with your Kindle that already has a cover for when you’re using it, but want a little something extra to make sure it stays secure inside your bag. The belts and braces approach.

TiMOVO offers a great option for you. It's a well-priced option when you consider everything else available. Whilst unzipping and lifting out your Kindle might not be the most efficient way to protect your Kindle on a daily basis, it's a great accessory to take on your trips and holidays, whether you're on a train, slotting your Kindle into your backpack or a stuffed handbag. The soft interior and exterior give you confidence that your Kindle will be protected from scratches on all fronts.

This case is one of the best-rated on Amazon. In fact, we’re talking about this being our highest Amazon rating of 82% five-star reviews. It’s safe to say this will do everything it promises and more.

The case is good value when you consider the quality of the product, but it’s a good plan to check the compatibility of your device not only against the Amazon page. Some people say it’s too big or a little tight for certain versions that are supposed to be covered.

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Best luxury Kindle case

Are you part of the anti-eReader crowd? This cover could just be a turning point in your relationship with these smart devices. Alternatively, if you’re already team Kindle but want a case that says “I still appreciate a real book” then you are also in the right place.

There is so much to love about this case. The luxury faux leather covers offer an incredible range of high-quality finish prints. Ranging from an all-time classic tan brown, the Pride & Prejudice cover, or even the Advanced Potion Making title. It’s safe to say there is something for everyone.

If you're conscious about how you shop, it's also nice to know that the covers are finished in the UK by craftsmen and women local to the brand. There is even the option to add custom embossing to create an extra special, personalized gift.

Virtually everyone is thrilled with this product. The excellent quality is mentioned time and time again. The clever velcro attachment fixed on both the device and the Kindle to secure it in place is used on NASA spacesuits, so if you’re worried about how secure it will be, worry no more. One person ordered the wrong size because they didn’t read the product compatibility properly so the unfavourable review from them should be disregarded.

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Best water safe Kindle case

If you’re someone who collects the corks from wine bottles (me too) get ready to add this cover to your collection. The quality of this case is clear from the get-go. And, really, for £44.99 you would expect nothing less.

I love the lightweight design, which is available in two colourways: light cork or dark cork. They look natural and simple, but each also offers enough grip for you to read one-handed reading (presumably your other hand will be opening a bottle of wine — you can never have enough cork in your life). It's also easy to overlook some of the simple, but useful touches that Amazon includes in their cases, such as the magnetic automatic sleep/wake function activation. I think every case you buy should have this.

When I looked through the reviews, it was immediately clear that there is a long line of people queuing up to comment on the excessive price. Amazon seems to be fairly overzealous with the creation of their price tags. However, people are still buying and enjoying the product, so it must be worth it.

Our one real criticism is that the water-safe aspect is a bit of a stretch. The product image shows water droplets on the surface of the cover. The reality is that it doesn’t cover any of the ports, so unless the water in question is targeted directly at that surface and doesn’t hit any of the ports, it’s great. The rest of the water-safe features are actually integrated into your Kindle and they wouldn't change whether you had a cover or not. At the end of the day opting for this case is an aesthetic choice, and a good one (if you have the money).

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Best fabric Kindle case

In the same way that Apple makes great accessories for their devices, Amazon makes some of the best cases for Kindles. This lightweight fabric cover is the perfect pairing for anyone wanting a simple and soft outer shell that's soft and easy to hold. Plus, it comes with all the product support Amazon provides in the event something isn’t up to scratch.

The simple design makes this easy to take from the bedroom to the boardroom, so it's perfect for super-keen readers. Plus, it comes with lots of useful features. For example, the cover automatically sends your Kindle to sleep, or wakes it up, depending on whether it's open or closed. If you're reading in bed, you can fold the cover fully back on itself, whilst still holding your Kindle in one hand. It's an easy option if you're not quite sure what you want from your case.

On the whole, this is a crowd-pleaser for all the reasons I’ve explained above. Customer reviews say that it fits like a glove, it's lightweight and relatively protective for small scuffs and scratches. The main areas of concern and the problems that seem to crop up, albeit infrequently, are the fabric on the corners coming away after a few months of use, and the fact that fabric is a hard material to clean, but ultimately that’s why you have a cover, so it gets dirty instead of your Kindle.

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Best patterned Kindle case

The MoKo case for your Kindle is for people who live life in full colour. If you want everyone to know your personality type just by looking at your eReader, this is the place to start. Whether you're Vincent van Gogh’s biggest fan or looking for pops of bright colours, this is for you.

Synthetic leather can go one of two ways: they're either cheap and plastic-y or just like the real thing. Thankfully, this falls into the latter category. I love it, as do all the customers in the reviews). It brings all the benefits of being easily wipeable, nice and soft to hold, and vegan-friendly for gifting, but without the price or leather smell that puts some people off real leather. Plus, if you have any doubts over the quality you can sleep easy, MoKo offers a lifetime warranty, a mic-drop moment prompting you to trust this case and pair it with your Kindle.

As with nearly all the other Kindle cases I’ve reviewed there is the magnet for automatic sleep/wake. It’s not included in every single one, I just consider it a must-have.

I had a look into the reviews, and this one has some of the most loved of all the cases. Nearly 80% of the Amazon reviews are full 5 stars. Clearly it has been made to be robust, if not everyone would be returning them and MoKo would be out of business. One keen reviewer observed the fact that the closing magnet isn’t as strong as on some alternatives, so it may fall open if held upside down. This could be just a manufacturing quirk on that specific one as it doesn’t come up frequently. One word of advice from me though: be careful with compatibility and be sure to read the latest advice on the product page.

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Best clear Kindle case

Really this is a case for someone who doesn’t want a case, but at the same time doesn’t want to take a chance and end up with a smashed screen. Some people say that clear cases are the way to pay homage to the designers of the device, because you stay as true to the original form as possible. Others say they just want simplicity. Either way, this is the w&h-approved option.

In days gone by silicone would have been the material of choice for a flexible case, in this case, you have TPU. Whilst it is as flexible as silicone, it isn’t foldable. For the most part, this is fine, but the case can be a bit of a squeeze to get on. On top of this, it’s a bit slidy, not to be left near the edge of a downhill-facing pillow.

If you want a case that has a 'not even there' look, this isn't quite the one for you. It's (rather ironically) clear from the reviews that this isn't as 'crystal clear' as the seller's description. You can still see your Kindle through it, but you'll know that there's a case there too.

The other thing is, whilst the corners are raised to protect the screen, this is only useful if your Kindle lands on a completely smooth surface with no stones in sight. If you’re out and about, the chances of there being some debris waiting to smash your screen seem fairly high. Aside from these little niggles it’s well-priced and a lot of people really like it.

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Best Kindle case for protection

Bear with me on this one. “Protection focused” may seem like a bit of a stretch, but it still does the job really well. Have you ever had a hard phone case, taken it off to find all the grit inside has actually scratched the edge of the device as much as if you’d had no case at all? Enter gel case.

This is grafted from TPU gel, but it isn't really like TPU at all. It isn’t slippy on fabric, it’s actually more silicone-esque. This is the key. The snug case hugs every millimetre of your Kindle so grit can’t enter in the first place. If it does, it won’t slide around like with a harder plastic case. Plus, if you want to add a pop of colour to your reading collection, you've got a whole range of options to pick between. Now, your Kindle can match your chosen genre, holiday, or mood.

If you’ve checked any of the other reviews on this page you’ll notice a bit of a theme. The square colours on the page aren't exactly the same in real life for most other Kindles. With this case, everyone is delighted — a breath of fresh air for us.

There is a lot of reference to the non-slip feel which we should expect with the gel as mentioned. The only thing to be wary of is this is not a book style. You could be forgiven for thinking that the main photo shows the cover coming across the front screen. This is actually the back of the Kindle, don’t fall into that trap and you’ll be a happy reader.

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Best leather Kindle case

True to form, Amazon makes another one of the best Kindle cases out there. This is more expensive than most of the models on the list. However, it is a premium product catering to the audience looking for real leather, so a lift in price should be expected.

As with all of their cases, you are getting something lightweight, well built, and well designed too. You can fold back the microfibre/leather cover for reading with one hand and there is a choice of four colours. Note that even though the photo shows a fifth bright pink colourway, but it no longer seems to be an option.

Reading through the online reviews, the verdict is simple. If you have owned a leather case for your Kindle before, you will probably prefer your old one. Maybe this is sentimental, or maybe there is a real difference, the jury is out. If, however, it is the first leather case you have bought for your Kindle, you’re going to love it. You won’t be thinking of how things were in the good old days, and since this is a new release, we’ll have to wait 9 years to see if it lasts 12 years as one customer reported on the old version. Stay tuned.

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Best Kindle case for bed

Why is a hand strap so useful for your Kindle? How many times have you drifted off to sleep and dropped your book or phone on your face? Thought so. We’ve all been there. But late-night nose injuries are a thing of the past with this nifty case by FSCOVER. It's made of easy-to-clean faux leather, it's relatively lightweight (although not the lightest), and it's neatly designed too. The magnetic closure is the ever-welcome addition to automatically put your eReader into sleep or wake mode. Bedtime reading has never been so easy.

The only complaint in the mix is the durability of the case. This seems to become a problem when it’s taken off the device which is something you may want to do to clean your Kindle. It’s not a widespread complaint, but worth taking into account either way. Aside from that everyone is happy. The strap being placed in the middle is most welcomed by left-handers and right-handers alike. Happy reading.

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Best budget Kindle case

Right now, this is reduced on Amazon and quite frankly, at £6.99 you would be crazy to not buy this. Even with the elastic straps (that aren’t as slick as the dedicated slot, or NASA-grade Velcro) this isn't one to scroll past. We could plausibly accept this being a more expensive model since it has several other useful features such as the stand and the hand strap. Even if you don’t have a Kindle right now, but are thinking of getting one, this costs the same price as a meal deal in some shops, hard to go wrong.

One important aspect to note is that if you have the 11th Gen (2022 Version) Kindle Paperwhite, this isn’t for you. In theory, it should fit the 6.8-inch Paperwhite but so far no reviews mention it. It’s a Prime product so in the worst case scenario it can be easily returned. Some people have also commented on the quality, but there almost isn’t a cheaper case on the whole of Amazon, so what can you expect?

How to choose the perfect Kindle cover for you

Picking a Kindle cover might seem simple, but with so many designs, features, and fit options out there, it’s worth checking a few key details before you buy. Here’s what we considered when selecting the best Kindle cases:

Compatibility and Dimensions
This is the number one reason people return Kindle cases: they don’t fit. Each Kindle generation and model (e.g., Paperwhite vs. basic Kindle) can vary in size, so always check the product listing and user reviews carefully. We favoured cases with clear compatibility listings and plenty of positive reviews (ideally 100+), which often flag any sizing issues.

Case Type
From zip sleeves to folio-style flip covers, there’s more variety than you might expect:

- Sleeves offer full protection when travelling but need to be removed when reading.
- Book-style cases mimic traditional covers and come in lots of fun designs.
- Cases with stands are ideal for hands-free reading on commutes or in the kitchen.
- Clear or open-front cases suit minimalists who just want basic scratch protection.

Materials and Weight
We looked for cases that balance protection with comfort. Lightweight materials like fabric, suede, or plastic are great for on-the-go readers. Leather or faux leather cases offer a more premium feel but may add a little extra weight.

Design and Style
Whether you’re reading in bed, commuting, or cooking from your Kindle, the design matters. We included stylish picks for every reader — from sleek, professional options to bold, colourful covers. We also considered how easy each case is to clean and how well it protects from real-life wear and tear.

How we test the best Kindle cases

To ensure our recommendations help you find a case that’s both practical and long-lasting, we put each Kindle case through a thorough hands-on evaluation. Our testing focused on four key areas: durability, fit, button access, and stand stability.

Durability: We assessed the materials and construction of each case, checking for resistance to scratches, scuffs, and everyday wear and tear. Soft-touch, leather, and synthetic options were all examined for how well they withstand repeated handling and accidental drops.

Fit: A great Kindle case should feel tailor-made. We checked how snugly each case holds the device, ensuring it doesn’t slip out but is still easy to insert and remove. Cases that were too loose or stretched over time were noted.

Button and Port Access: Even the most stylish case is frustrating if it blocks essential buttons or charging ports. We tested every case to ensure the power, volume, and home buttons remained easily accessible and that charging and headphone ports were unobstructed.

Stand Stability: For cases with built-in stands or folding covers, we evaluated how well the case supports the Kindle in both portrait and landscape modes. We looked for stability during reading, typing, and watching content, checking that the device doesn’t wobble or collapse unexpectedly.

Throughout the testing process, we combined everyday use simulations, like carrying the Kindle in a bag or propping it up on uneven surfaces, with stress tests, such as repeated opening and closing of covers. This approach helped us identify which cases are both functional and reliable for long-term use.

FAQs

When is a good time to buy a Kindle case?

It's always a good time to take the chance to get a case for your Kindle. Of course, when there are big sale events around Boxing Day and the New Year, you can save some extra money, but there's almost always a good price on offer for at least one of these Kindle cases.

Do Kindle cases fit all Kindles?

Sadly, no. You'll need to check the compatibility of each eReader with whichever case you're looking at. Generally, lots of cases are made to fit the latest Paperwhite, which is what we based this list on. However, you can normally find similar designs of the case, just bigger or smaller.

99% of the time the case will state the model of Kindle it’s compatible with. If you’re going for a more general eReader case then you’ll need to check the diagonal dimension as this is what companies will use.

What are the most popular Kindle covers?

Generally, the most popular Kindle covers are 'folio' cases, which operate similarly to a book, with a hard cover on either side that you can flip open and closed. This is because they are solid and very good at protecting your device from accidents—and, they look good.

When it comes to where to buy the most popular Kindle covers, most customers tend to purchase options from Amazon itself, given that that's where Kindles are from. But, there are some lovely-looking covers to be found at other retailers too, such as Etsy, eBay, Walmart and Currys if you want to explore more Kindle covers options.

Is a Kindle better with or without a case?

In our opinion a case is never going to be a bad thing. Even if you buy the most basic one out there, at least you have a barrier between it and the elements. If you are already a case lover then you’re probably not asking this question.

Do I need a light for my Kindle and the case?

It depends how old it is. Nowadays every single Kindle has a built-in light so you won’t need to worry about where there is space for a clip on one on the top.

Is there a difference between the Amazon Kindle and the Kindle Paperwhite?

Yes. The Kindle has a 6-inch screen (diagonally), the Paperwhite has a larger 6.8 inch display and that's just one of the differences. We go deep into the details in our Amazon Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite article over here.

When browsing for a new book to read on a digital device, you will often be presented with a list of the best ebooks, which represent 100 of the most-downloaded titles of the moment. 

We reviewed the top 100 ebook titles for Kindle, Apple and Kobo and whittled them down to just 15 of our favourites - the ones we know you will love. We took into consideration which books appear in multiple top 100s, proving popular across the best eReader and best Kindles books lists, as well as novels that feature in the best Amazon book deals to help you save a bit of money. 

We chose light-hearted novels, literary greats, twisting thrillers and fascinating non-fiction books, so there should be an ebook on this list for every kind of reader as we head into the summer. If you're looking to upgrade your ereader, don't miss our in-depth Kindle Paperwhite review, which gets an impressive five-star rating from w&h editor Kerrie Hughes. 

The best eBooks to read this summer

• The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller from Amazon at £0.99

• The Impulse Purchase by Veronica Henry from Kobo at £0.99

• Borderland: A Journey Through the History of Ukraine by Anna Read from Amazon at £3.99

• The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman from Amazon at £5.99

• My Evil Mother by Margaret Atwood from Amazon at £1.99 or free with Kindle Unlimited 

• The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell from Apple at £2.99

• Anxious People by Fredrik Backman from Kobo at £0.99

• Conversations With Friends by Sally Rooney from Apple at £5.49

• Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens from Amazon at £4.99

• House Arrest by Alan Bennett from Amazon at £3.32

• Six Graves by Angela Marsons from Amazon at £2.99

• Written In Bone by Professor Sue Black from Apple at £0.99

• The Evil Seed by Joanne Harris from Kobo at £1.99

• The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry from Amazon at £3.73

• The Keeper of Stories by Sally Page from Apple at £0.99

From playing the piano to smashing it on the tennis court, Kate Middleton’s hobbies are countless and diverse—here is what you need to know about the Duchess of Cambridge’s many interests, and how they are prepping her to be a future Queen.

• The Duchess of Cambridge has an eclectic number of hobbies that she enjoys.
• A royal expert has revealed that many of these hobbies are actually preparing her for life as the Future Queen.
• In other royal news, Kate Middleton’s royal rise risks overshadowing Duchess Camilla and Prince Charles.

Kate Middleton has been a member of the Royal Family for the last 11 years and is the fourth most popular royal according to a recent YouGov poll. Another YouGov poll indicates that 76% of the general public believes the Duchess will one day make a good Queen and just 5% of the public think that she will not. But why is the public opinion about the Duchess so favorable?

The Duchess of Cambridge has a number of different hobbies that she balances with her many royal engagements and her life of service as a member of the Royal Family.

Carolyn Harris, A Royal Historian, and Royal expert has explained exclusively to woman&home how these interests may be of use to the future Queen consort and why these specific hobbies may be making the Duchess more likable to the public as she prepares for Queenship.

Kate Middleton's hobbies

Kate Middleton's love of playing the piano

Over the last 12 months, one of the most searched terms related to the Duchess of Cambridge has been about her piano playing. While other top searches on Google about the Duchess focused on Kate Middleton's dresses or Kate Middleton's bond dress, fans were intrigued when Kate Middleton stole the show with a piano performance at the royal carol service in December 2021 at Westminster Abbey.

This hidden talent astonished fans and even encouraged a spike in the search for pianos, as many fans were seemingly inspired by this musical hobby and wished to learn more about piano playing themselves.

It was previously revealed by Catherine's former piano tutor, Daniel Nicholls, that the Duchess had a grade three piano and grade five theory. However, the former tutor told the BBC, "I don't think she was ever going to be a concert pianist," how wrong he was!

While Kate's performance was highly impressive to royal fans, music and particularly piano playing has been a well-established hobby in the Royal Family and most commonly associated with the Queen herself when she was known as Princess Elizabeth.

It was well established in the Queen's early life that she and her sister Princess Margaret adored playing the piano and there are many images of the young princesses sitting together at a piano at Windsor Castle. 

Her Majesty the Queen even has two honorary music degrees, both of which she received before she ascended to the throne in 1952, but the Royal Family's association with musical hobbies even predates the Queen.

"Prince Albert had a very strong interest in music and then arranging music himself," explains Royal expert Carolyn Harris. "And there was a very strong emphasis in Victoria and Albert's family, on all of their children, having some knowledge of art and music."

Although the current generation of royals have less of an association with music, this hobby has a clear place in royal households and the Duchess of Cambridge's love of piano playing is a skill that is welcomed in royal households.

Kate Middleton's passion for tennis

The Royal family's association with tennis and Wimbledon has been long established, and Kate's personal fascination with the sport pre-dates her relationship with Prince William.

In recent years fans have loved seeing Kate Middleton at the Wimbledon women's final and have adored seeing images of Kate Middleton showing her sporty side as she takes to the court with tennis champ Emma Raducanu, but it's the Duchess' genuine interest in the sport outside of royal engagements that fascinates fans.

"It's also one of those interests that clearly predates her time as a member of the royal family," explains the royal historian, who added that previously Catherine has "reminisced about lining up for Wimbledon tickets with her sister." 

But Kate's love of tennis is another hobby that has a long history with the Royal Family. "King George VI played an exhibition doubles match at Wimbledon in the 1920s," revealed Carolyn speaking about the Queen's father. "King George VI was certainly an avid tennis player, and more recently, the Queen's cousin, the Duke of Kent, for many years, handed out the trophies at Wimbledon and was the was the Patron at Wimbledon."

Kate has also been photographed handing out trophies at Wimbledon and has been able to transform her love of this hobby into part of her royal duties as the Future Queen consort.

Kate Middleton's gardening hobby

In 2019, Catherine participated in the Chelsea Flower Show and created a 'Back to Nature Garden' garden, that she designed with Andree Davies and Adam White. This garden highlighted Kate's fan-appointed nickname as the Children's Princess as it incorporated activities to encourage children to find beauty in nature.

Even when it comes to less spectacular events, gardening is a chore that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have discussed publicly as Prince William and Kate Middleton love this household hobby, even though the Prince admits that his wife is more green-thumbed than he is. "My wife does all the gardening. I really like it, but I have no idea what I'm doing," Prince William told People in 2021. 

While gardening may be viewed as one of the chores that Royalty might employ other people to deal with, Carolyn reveals that actually, the Royal Family's association with gardening goes back many generations.

"There was an emphasis in Queen Victoria's reign where the children were encouraged to learn some practical skills there, with boys trying their hand at gardening and the girls that cooking, and it was something that Queen Victoria's descendants took with them when they married into the royal houses of Europe."

It seems that this interest in gardening was specifically taught to future monarchs and has remained an important interest that has perhaps helped to ground former monarchs.

Kate Middleton love of cooking

On numerous occasions, Kate Middleton has spoken about her love of cooking and baking and has previously revealed that she has a sweet tradition for her children's birthday and will often stay up late baking them a cake.

In 2019, during a baking special with Mary Berry titled 'A Berry Royal Christmas,' Catherine said, "I love making the cake," she added that it can lead to some very late nights. "It's become a bit of a tradition that I stay up 'til midnight with ridiculous amounts of cake mix and icing and I make far too much. But I love it."

It was also reported that the Duchess made a batch of chutney as gifts for Christmas.  Reportedly, Kate Middleton’s ‘frugal’ Christmas gift for the Queen forged bond of ‘mutual respect and admiration’ and the Queen adored this homemade gift.

The Royal expert explained that Queen may have loved this gift because she too is an able cook and understands the significance of a homemade treat.

Carolyn Harris commented, "the coverage of Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret during the Second World War emphasized that they were learning how to cook at home. It emphasized that the Royal Family was going through some of the same privations as the rest of the country."

Similarly, Kate's baking abilities reflect the country's new found interest in baking. Carolyn commented, "Of course more recently we've seen with the pandemic a lot of people embracing baking and, and things like that at home." 

She then added that this hobby just encourages people to think of the royal as relatable. "So it looks like it's another interest that has emerged before and this seems particularly topical now when many people have been discovering new recipes and home cooking during times when restaurants have been closed."

Kate Middleton’s passion for photography

During the pandemic, the Duchess of Cambridge appeals to budding photographers to 'capture what life is like' in lockdown as she launched her Hold Still campaign.

Carolyn explained that this project was another attempt to find common ground with the general public. "The royals are trying to find ways to connect to the public and we've seen throughout the COVID-19 pandemic," explained the expert.  

"There have been efforts to emphasize that the royal family are of course, living life on a grander scale, but there are these many instances where royal life intersects with some of the challenges being faced by the wider public."

Of course, Kate's love of photography pre-dates her relationship with Prince William and it is well known that the amateur photographer wrote her thesis at St. Andrews on the photography of Lewis Carroll, and acted as an amateur photographer for her family's business Party Pieces.

The royal historian suggested that this hobby is particularly significant for Kate, as her photography skills allow her to determine which images of her children are released for public consumption.

"We see the Duchess of Cambridge is both one of the most photographed women in the world. But she also takes official photographs of her children that are released to the press. And so we're seeing the Duchess's perspective on royal life and on her family, and that this is clearly an important creative outlet for her, as well as being a way to manage images of her children, reaching the wider public," said Carolyn.

This was most recently highlighted during Prince Louis' fourth birthday celebrations on April 25, 2022, when photographs that had been taken of the young Prince by Catherine were released to the public. 

Like members of the Royal Family who were able to decide the artists that would work on their portraits and how they wished their subjects to view them, Kate's photography hobby allows her to decide which images of her family are released and how she wishes her family to be portrayed.

Kate Middleton’s love of rugby

Catherine's love of rugby has been well established over the years and the Duchess of Cambridge's sister once revealed that rugby was a central part of the Middleton household growing up.

"We'd plan our weekends around the matches," Kate's sister, Pippa, revealed in a 2014 interview with Vanity Fair. "If we lost, my dad would be in a state of despair for the rest of the afternoon, as if he'd actually lost the game himself."

After replacing Prince Harry as the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League patron, Kate Middleton unveiled her hidden rugby talent in a video.

Speaking about the moment when Kate was lifted by the Rugby players in the video, Carolyn Harris commented, "It's one of those moments that are making her more relatable as she's joining into these kinds of events. And the public's always fascinated by informal moments involving the Royal Family, and often sporting events provide those opportunities."

Kate Middleton’s scuba diving abilities

The Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William took part in a tour of the Caribbean in celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee which marks her 70-year-long reign as a monarch. 

While on the tour, images of the royal couple scuba diving were released and fans were surprised to discover the real reason Kate and Will didn’t need training for scuba diving in Belize. It was revealed that the royal couple both have a number of qualifications in scuba diving and in 2015, The Telegraph revealed that Kate has passed a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Advanced Open Water Diver qualification. This meant that was qualified to dive to the depth of 30 meters (98ft) and keep up with the Duke of Cambridge who already had this qualification. 

Kate's impressive interest in sea-diving is something that Prince Charles was known for in his youth reveals Carolyn.

"Prince Charles, when he was in Canada in the 1970s, went under-sea ice diving in Frobisher Bay and actually had a press conference where he demonstrated the diving suit and how it worked and was inflating and deflating the diving suit, said Carolyn as she revealed that the Prince of Wales was considered something of an action man back in the day."

It's clear that this hobby allowed Kate to show her adventurous side and continue an interest that was already held by her husband and other members of the Royal Family.

Kate Middleton's love of sailing

Duchess Catherine has been sailing for many years and has been given the opportunity to explore this hobby when she has been on a variety of overseas royal engagements. 

Reportedly Kate Middleton taught George and Charlotte this incredible skill during their summer vacation and the young Cambridge children are also learning to love sailing as their mother passes down this lovely interest. 

Carolyn Harris revealed that this hobby has been of royal interest for more than 100 years. "There have been a number of cases around Europe with members of royal families being part of the sailing team, lead members of the Spanish royal family were involved in the Olympics," continued Carolyn as she added, "it's another long-standing interest that's shared by many members of royal families across Europe."

Speaking about this hobby, Carolyn said, "It gives the public a sense of her interests before her relationship with Prince William, as she's become so very closely associated with the royal family, her relationship with William, I think it's something that the public finds interesting is these earlier interests that have continued." 

There are hundreds—if not thousands—of writing courses available, but Curtis Brown Creative's courses are frequently recommended by writers and industry insiders alike.  We road-tested some of their most popular programs to find out what enrolled students can expect to help you decide if the courses are a good fit for you.

Curtis Brown Creative offers a wide portfolio of courses that range from 1 day to 6 months in length. Prices start at an accessible £120, but there are also some fully-funded places available for under-represented writers too. Topics range from the broader novel writing to more specific genres, so chances are whatever your literary ambitions—be they to craft one of the best books of 2022, or a page-turner good enough to earn accolades like one of the best thrillers or best romance books of the year—there'll be a course that appeals.

Why is Curtis Brown Creative so popular?

Curtis Brown Creative is a writing academy founded in 2011 by the Curtis Brown agency, which represents some of today's most successful writers (we won't bore you with an expansive list but Margaret Atwood, Jojo Moyes, and Marian Keyes are all on their books). 

Since then, more than 160 graduates have secured publishing deals. Former students you will likely recognize from bestselling books lists include Jessie Burton (The Miniaturist), Jane Harper (The Dry), Nicholas Searle (The Good Liar), Kirsty Capes (Careless), and Bonnie Garmus (Lessons In Chemistry).

The most famous course in their stable is the Writing Your Novel course—a selective application course that takes six months. You can complete this in person in London, or online from anywhere. However, the most popular Curtis Brown courses are the short ones, which anyone can complete. They run for an average of six weeks and are delivered by some of the best authors in the business.

The Curtis Brown Creative courses we tested

The woman&home team tested two Curtis Brown writing courses in 2022: the six-week Writing a Memoir course, and the six-week Writing a Psychological Thriller course. 

This course was reviewed by Kelly Bowerbank, former editor of womanandhome.com

For years I've had a vague idea for a memoir and empowering feminist book floating around inside my head. I couldn't pin it down though, it felt fleeting. I could see it in my peripheral vision but when I tried to examine it properly it would vanish. Occasionally I'd write a few paragraphs on my phone when the mood struck, but there was no coherence and no direction.

This course appealed because it boldly claimed I'd have at least 3,000 words, a book outline and synopsis in six weeks. For someone who'd scribbled a total of 500 words over a three year period that felt punchy, but exciting.

What I liked about the course

The course was delivered by Cathy Rentzenbrink, through a series of warm and encouraging videos and written exercises. She was authorative but also someone you'd like to go to the pub with with. Her demeanour made it easy to absorb the information. While there was no interaction with her during the programme, the course materials anticipated most of my questions, and some useful examples were provided almost every step of the way which helped get me started on each task.

Writing a memoir can be particularly challenging if you're writing about an experience(s) from a long time ago, which I am. The modules helped me overcome initial stumbling blocks around memory recall, with a series of easy to follow exercises. I learned how to use meaningful objects, music and places to excavate my story. A lot of the writing exercises felt transferable to other types or writing too so I'll keep them to refer to for other projects.

Six weeks doesn't sound like much of a commitment, but if you want to get the most out of the program then you'll need to dedicate at least a day a week to it. I found I enjoyed it so much that my time on the tasks and the forum regularly crept beyond that. I'm a working parent with two kids so I snatched time to do this where I could, on trains, outside gymnastics classes, in the queue at Pret. The mobile friendly platform and forums made it easy to dip in where I had a few spare moments. It also meant it was easy to see when you had comments or feedback, which after weekly submissions were what I lived for!

At the start of the course I was desperate for professional feedback, but I quickly realised that a lot of the value of this course is the emphasis on peer feedback from your fellow students. I gained a lot of knowledge from the course modules, but I learned just as much from reading others work and listening to other peoples thoughts on my work. There was an assortment of people in the group, from journalists to retired grandparents, former teachers to business owners, salsa dancers and everything inbetween. And in that range of backgrounds was where the magic happened. We all started tentatively with our feedback, applying what we had learned carefully and constructively through our own lens and experience, but we found our enthusiasm and grove soon enough. There were 20 or so of us on the course and 13 of us made it into a WhatsApp group after. We chat almost daily and plan to keep the critiquing going. The course was worth it to meet these people, but I also achieved the promised outline, Synopsis and 5,000 words that I was proud of (66% over my goal!).

What I didn't like about the course

Professional reader feedback is given once randomly throughout the course, unless you pay extra. Your assigned reader is an industry expert but not the named tutor. Because it's done randomly you don't have any say on which piece of writing they assess, which some people may find disappointing.

However, given the cost of the course this level of feedback isn't surprising. And I found reading the weekly feedback for the other students, which is shared publically on the forum, really useful. The insights, while specific to the piece they were critiquing, often had lessons that were applicable more broadly within the group. And because the level of engagement and quality of student feedback was high in my group I felt I still got a lot of ideas for how to improve my work.

By the end of the course I had the bit between my teeth and I would have loved to apply to the selective three month memoir writing course. However, a cohort had recently started and the next intake had not been scheduled, that took the wind out of my sails. It would be great it dates for courses students might feed onto were published several months in advance.

Do I recommend this course?

Yes, I loved the course and got a lot out of it. I'd recommend it to anyone with an idea for a memoir who's looking to kick start the creative process or to people wanting to refine an existing project. Personally, I'd definitely complete other Curtis Brown writing courses in future too.

What about the written report and tutorial

For extra fees you can get a 500 word report on your submission and a tutorial.

After you've cranked out several thousand words that doesn't feel like a lot of feedback but it's laser focused, actionable and constructive. It caught blind spots and technical issues that peer feedback missed.

I liked that you could add this as an additional purchase at any point during the course too. Initially I didn't think I'd need it (or want it), but I found that by week five I'd tightened up my idea and structure enough that getting industry feedback was appealing.

If this is a personal passion project you may not feel the need for a professional critique, but if your ambition is to be published, and you can afford it, then I recommend the additional investment in your project.

This course was reviewed by Lauren Hughes, former deputy editor of womanandhome.com

They say that everybody has a book inside them, but I'm not quite sure what it says about me if mine involves obsession, deception and most likely a bloody murder. My escapism of choice is getting lost in the depths of twisty psychological thriller books, so if I was going to turn my hand to fiction, it was always going to be something gritty.

As a journalist with ten years' experience, penning breaking news stories doesn't phase me, nor does crafting a detailed medical explainer or emotive long read. But the thought of writing fiction gives me the chills. The doubts always seem to creep in. Will the dialog sound realistic? Haven't these plot twists been done a thousand times before? How does one ever conceive an original idea? And just how is it possible to keep creativity flowing, writing page after page? I'm sure that these fears are not unique among fiction-writing newbies, but what's the best way to overcome them? In my experience, it's looking them dead in the eye with a six-week intensive course, where you'll share your own work with other aspiring writers. Nail-biting stuff.

What I liked about the course

Erin Kelly is a powerhouse when it comes to the thriller genre—and this was a definite pull for me when looking at which course to try. While there wasn't any interaction with Erin, it was still a privilege to be able to gain insights into the thinking behind bestsellers like The Poison Tree and He Said/She Said. As a tutor, Erin is engaging and approachable. But, most importantly, her teaching is easy to understand and the key takeaways are always clear. Half the battle with planning and executing any kind of psychological novel is getting to know your characters really, really well. And it was character development where I found Erin's insights invaluable. 

Making a foray into fiction writing is definitely out of my comfort zone. I approached the course with much trepidation. The format really helped with this, as breaking the process down into weekly modules encouraged me to think of each aspect of writing a novel, so it felt much less overwhelming. Some of the modules were easier than others. For example, I was full of ideas for the Hook and Premise tasks, but really struggled to think up a satisfying conclusion when it came to the Endings and Next Steps module. This will be individual to each writer, of course, but the real plus is that, due to the variety of tasks, you're likely to discover your strengths and weaknesses quickly. 

I've jotted down thoughts on potential plots since I was a teenager, but have never previously had the time or dedication to sit down and actually write a chapter. Fear of failing also crept in here. But a course like this allows you to develop your characters and ideas so well that by the time you do sit down to write, the words will practically leap out onto the page. Now, I'm not saying that writers block didn't still rear its frustrating head from time to time, but I found spending more time on plot and character development gave me the confidence to actually start writing—a first hurdle that I've always fallen at before. I always thought novel writing would be much more linear, but armed with these new thought processes I can see how—with a lot of imagination and dedication—a fully-fledged work of fiction could come take shape from my garbled plot ideas. 

It's worth adding that the course is exceptionally good value, considering not only the course material itself, but also the opportunity it brings to share ideas and copy with other aspiring writers. Though a downside might be that professional feedback is limited and sporadic, you do really come to value the insights of your peers and sharing the journey together creates a space that feels liberated of hierarchy or judgement. I think I would have been quaking in my boots to hear's Erin Kelly feedback on my early work. 

What I didn't like about the course

With a high-profile course tutor like Erin, some course attendees may expect some level of interaction, however I felt that through the video sessions I was still able to gain a great insight into Erin's own thought processes for novel writing and the peer interaction meant the course didn't feel solitary.

This is not a criticism of the course itself, but more just an observation that if you're trying to juggle full-time work with a six-week programme, I'd think about whether you can take some time off weekly to dedicate to the course (a day should suffice), or save enrolment for a time in your life where you have more spare time. Trying to manage the workload during evenings and weekends is certainly possible, but having a bit of extra headspace weekly means you can really commit and get the most out of each module. 

Do I recommend this course?

A resounding yes. For someone like me who's a keen—but nervous—aspiring novelist, it's a great entry-level programme that will change the way you approach writing. For me, novel writing became far less intimidating and I'd be keen to try other courses that are geared towards refining an existing novel, once I've honed my craft further with the skills developed during the past six weeks. 

Curtis Brown Creative's most popular courses

This is just a snapshot of the most popular courses that Curtis Brown Creative runs. If your plans are to replicate the success of the Bridgerton books or to try your hand at writing one of the best historical fiction novels, or a crime or sci-fi series it's worth looking at the full list of courses. You may find something tailored to your particular genre.

There is something remedial about foraging for food in the wild. From finding an illustrious blackberry bush down an unruly cul-de-sac to picking crab apples on an autumn leaf-covered floor—finding food for free is a primitive challenge. 

To then take these foraged finds home and turn them into something beautiful like a spiced winter soup or blackberry and cinnamon crumble is a rewarding experience with nurturing benefits that have been enjoyed for thousands of years. Not to mention that foraging will get you outside into the fresh, providing a much-needed moment to reconnect with nature. 

Maybe you are pressured by the busyness of everyday life and keen to take up a new activity (it's one of the best hobbies for women, after all), or under stress from having to feed a family. Prioritize your wellbeing for a moment by stripping back to your hunter-gatherer instincts and getting ready to start foraging for food with our handy guide. We're sure you'll relax your mind in the process, too...

What is the definition of foraging?  

"Foraging is the act of collecting your own food or provision," says John Rensten, the CEO of Forage London and author of The Edible City: A Year of Wild Food. It’s the art of hunting, gathering, and harvesting wild food. It's about searching for something in nature, being immersed within a landscape that surrounds us, and enjoying something edible. 

The activity has become popular in recent years, with foraging bloggers sharing their experiences online and foraging courses encouraging newbies to return to their hunter-gatherer roots. 

Foraging for food—4 benefits of this nature hobby

Foraging enthusiast, Diane Reeves reminisces over her first experience foraging, when she was eight years old finding blackberries on the side of the road. "It was amazing, the most exciting thing ever," Reeves says. 

Sparking joy and finding food to take home isn't the only benefit of this age-old pastime, for others, it's a new hobby to try their hand at, something they can do with friends, or a way to meet like-minded people, and an opportunity to get outside and connect with nature. Teamed with the Japanese mindfulness technique of Forest Bathing, where you're encouraged to take notes of the sights, smells, and sounds of the forest, foraging can be a fulfilling and relaxing way to spend an afternoon. These are four ways it could benefit you, according to foraging experts: 

1. It's a hobby to share

Donned in your winter warmers and wellington boots, you can arrange to meet a friend and search for some horse chestnuts and elderflowers. The elation felt when finding a stockpile of bounty is an experience designed to be shared. Not to mention helping you bond with all generations of the family. "The thrill of the chase and gathering food together is a great way to bond together and can involve even the smallest members of the family," keen forager Flick Hindley of North Farm Cottages told us. 

Not only this, but foraging is about learning. Did you know that dandelion leaves are an edible salad alternative? And that the dandelion flower can be made into a beautiful marmalade? Learning about the natural resources around us enriches our minds as well as our bellies. And, what better boost for our wellbeing than sharing this experience with those we love? Kit Byron, a Shropshire-based artist rates foraging as fun in all weathers, for all ages. "Blackberry picking in the lanes with young children is a dream," says Byron. 

2. It's free

Foraging is free, within limits. As long as you don’t go trailing someone’s private garden to steal some of their figs, you should be fine. "Enshrined in English law is the right to forage for your food but not uproot plants without the permission of the landowner," explains Rensten. "The most important thing is to behave respectfully towards your environment." 

There are some rare flowers out there that need protecting in certain areas. If you can't positively identify a plant, don't take it. In the US, read more about foraging laws at Forage Culture. While in the UK you can get up to speed on the foraging law via the British Local Food Foraging website. 

3. It's an opportunity to connect with nature

Much like the benefits of cold water swimming, getting outside and into nature is an instant mood booster. "Our mental health would be much better if we were all outside connecting with nature," says Byron. She sees foraging as, “an extension of being oneself and being in harmony with our natural surroundings...I think it’s an instinct as old as time that many people don’t tap into, but could," Byron adds. 

The bustle of urban life can sometimes push us to forget our natural surroundings. But, by foraging for food we connect with nature in a way that Rensten describes as an intimate relationship. "I've turned businessmen into children, running around trying to find the biggest nettle," Rensten adds. Much like the benefits of cold water swimming, getting outside and into nature 

4. It reduces stress

Foraging is good for your physical and mental wellbeing, it’s something to enjoy and get excited about. Getting outside, feeling the sun on your skin and the soil in your hands can also help reduce stress and anxiety. Its a type of ecotherapy that research by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences has shown can have a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing. 

Foraging guide: How to get started  

Like what you hear? Now it's time to learn the basics and you'll be foraging for food in no time. 

1. Gather your equipment

The best thing about foraging is that not only is it free, but it doesn't require much equipment. "You'll need common sense and your hands. Some things are also best gathered with a knife or scissors," Rensten says. Think mushrooms, leaves and nettles.

A basket large enough to hold your goodies, some old Tupperware for collecting plants and a smiling face should suffice. But, you also might want to invest in gardening gloves to protect hands, sticks to shake branches and release fruits, and a mini trowel to make digging out roots easier. 

Equipment list

• Knife or scissors
• A basket
• Old Tupperware
• Gardening gloves
• A stick
• Mini trowel

2. Get to know the craft

Get to know your craft and understand the safety aspects when it comes to foraging for food. "Read several books, and if you fancy picking mushrooms—wait until you're absolutely certain you can identify what it is you're looking at," recommends Alysia Vasey aka The Yorkshire Forager. 

As a given rule—if you're not sure what it is, don't pick it. Keep a foraging book with you that has photos for reference (see our favorites below) or head to the internet and devour websites like Foraging Culture, Wild Food, Identify That Plant.

Our foraging expert recommends...

• Food For Free by Richard Mabey at Amazon for $7.95 / £5.39

• Wild Food: A Complete Guide for Foragers by Roger Phillips at Amazon for $34.69 / £15.99

• Mushrooms: The River Cottage Handbooks by John Wright at Amazon for $25 / £12.99

3. Understand when and where to look

“Foraging for food is best between the spring equinox and the end of October to the beginning of November if the weather is mild. Once the frosts come, or if it stays late in spring, it is not the time to forage,” says Vasey.

The best places to look include woodlands, meadows, the coast, the beach, the moors or you can try urban foraging. It's a perfect excuse to explore the best UK staycation destinations. Go on a walk, keep your eyes peeled, and you never know what you might find. 

• What to pick in autumn—look for crab apples, sloes and hawthorn to make traditional jellies, jams and preserves. Salad plants also have a second flush this time of year. 
• What to pick in winter—enjoy filling your basket with berries, chestnuts, acorns, dandelion, burdock and nettles in winter for warming meals.
• What to pick in spring—forage for dandelions, wild violet, ramps, wild asparagus and garlic mustard and add to spring recipes.
• What to pick in summer—gather blackberries, mallow, and strawberries in the summer months for sweet summer bites like an almond, strawberry and cream loaf cake.

4. Only take what you need

Be wary of how much you are taking from one place. “Just be sensible about what you take, have in mind that it will come back better next year so only take what you need," says Vasey.

It’s important that we keep our ecosystems in order so over-foraging is an absolute no-no. Take a small amount from one area and carry on walking to find the next. After all, half the fun is finding the food as well as taking it home! Rejoice in the find and leave the rest for the hungry birds. 

5. Make it a tradition

Foraging is better with family and friends, so why not make it a family tradition? Start foraging for nettles to brew tasty soups come autumn, or ramble along wild hedgerows looking for berries like Byron and her loved ones. 

Foraging is a tradition passed down from generations, one that is fulfilling, rewarding, and benefits wellbeing. It's a lovely way to connect with family, and a great activity to share with kids who one day can share it with their children. 

Foraging recipes 

Had a successful foraging adventure? Here are a couple of recipes you can follow for your first foraged feast, or use your haul to make thoughtful and homemade gifts for friends (our sloe gin recipe is a crowd-pleaser)

Kit's fig and goats cheese salad

Ingredients:

• 6-10 Figs depending on how many mouths to feed  
• Goats cheese (as much as desired)  
• A drizzle of honey 
• A handful of walnuts 
• A bunch of salad leaves
• Balsamic vinegar  

Method:

1. Toss salad leaves in oil  
2. Quarter the figs, placing them on top of the leaves  
3. Dollop goats cheese across the salad  
4. Drizzle honey and shower in walnuts 
5. Finish with a dash of balsamic vinegar and enjoy  

Isabel's Wild Thyme and Apple Soup

Ingredients:

• A handful of wild thyme 
• 1 cup red lentils  
• 4 apples  
• 1 onion  
• 1 cup veg stock  
• Optional crème Fraiche and chili to garnish  

Method:

1. Dice onion and fry in oil in a large saucepan until softened  
2. Add lentils and cook for 2-3 minutes 
3. Add apples and stock and simmer until the lentils have cooked and the apples are soft
4. Blend until smooth  
5. Serve with crème Fraiche and chili to garnish  

Whether you’re a page-turner, a holiday reader, or someone who has a book in their bag at all times, investing in one of the best Kindles can seriously upgrade your reading game. These slim e-readers are a lightweight, paper-free alternative to carrying books around. And with access to millions of titles at your fingertips, they’re one of the easiest ways to read more without taking up space. But with multiple models to choose from, deciding which Kindle is best can take a little thought.

That’s where I come in. I’ve been using Kindles since 2012 and have tested every Kindle currently available (as well as their Kobo rivals), so I can help you figure out which one suits your needs, whether you’re a night reader, a magazine browser, or a regular commuter. I’ve also covered the most genuinely useful Kindle accessories as well as the best Kindle covers to keep your device safe and stylish, especially if you’re popping it in your handbag or taking it on a trip. Because once you’ve picked the right Kindle, you’ll want to protect it properly.

It’s also worth thinking about how you plan to use your Kindle. If you’re a voracious reader, for instance, Kindle Unlimited might be a smart add-on. It’s a subscription service that gives you access to over a million books, audiobooks, and magazines, ideal if you don’t want to keep buying new titles or love discovering new authors. Pair that with a long battery life and an e-ink screen that works beautifully in bright sunlight, and you’re all set.

Today's best deals

It's the Black Friday Weekend, which means that Kindle sales are at their most impressive. I've seen the lowest price ever for the matcha Kindle and some other seriously good savings, all listed below:

The Quick List

If you want to skim and scan the best Kindles on the market, here's a quick synopsis of what our experts thought of each model and who it would suit. There's more detail further down the page.

The best Kindles of 2025, tried and tested by our bookworms

The best Kindle overall

The Kindle Paperwhite is one of Kindle's core offerings. I always call it the Goldilocks of the Kindles; the 6.8-inch screen is not too big, nor is it too small. At £179, it's not too expensive, nor is it the cheapest and flimsiest model. It also comes with a 10-week battery life, waterproof features, and enough storage for thousands of books.

Kindle are now on the 12th generation of the Paperwhite, constantly innovating its ever-popular model. As the name suggests, the screen was created to look like paper. This means that it's glare-free, visually sharp (at 300 pixels per inch), and the screen sits flush with the front display, rather than sinking back. The clever backlights automatically adjust their brightness depending on whether you're reading outside in the sun or inside under the covers. Plus, you can make the screen warmer closer to bedtime, to reduce glare on your eyes.

Whilst older Paperwhites had a small 6-inch screen, Amazon has added another 0.8 inches to the screen. It still fits into the palm of my hand when I'm lying in bed, except now I can increase the text size and still fit more onto one screen. The latest upgrades also give you access to more of a range of storage options (8 GB, 16 GB and 32 GB) as well as a range of colourways, from black, to plum, sage, and twilight blue.

In comparisons between the Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite, you'll note that this is a little more expensive than a basic model. However, for plenty of readers, it's worth the extra money. For starters, the Paperwhite can be submerged in up to two metres of water for up to an hour, so if you read in the bath or by the pool, you can really properly relax.

You can find out more in Kerrie's full Amazon Kindle Paperwhite review.

The most compact Kindle

If you want a no-fuss eReader that still feels stylish and thoughtful, the Amazon Kindle is your go-to. It covers all the essentials that make Kindles so popular: crisp text, long battery life, and lightweight portability. All the while it keeps things charmingly simple. And with the new colour options (Matcha, anyone?), even the “basic” Kindle feels a little bit special.

In my family of seven, three of us own this model and not just because it’s the most affordable Kindle you can buy. At under £100, it’s brilliant value, and the more you use it, the more you notice the clever little touches. The built-in front light means you can read day or night, the glare-free screen works beautifully even in sunlight, and if you connect Bluetooth headphones or a speaker, it supports audiobooks through Audible too.

That said, it’s not without a few compromises. It’s the only Kindle in this guide that isn’t waterproof, so I wouldn’t risk it by the pool or in the bath. The screen is also smaller at six inches, so you may need to bump up the font size (or pop on your readers). And while the backlight works well, it doesn’t offer the warmth or subtlety of the Paperwhite’s display.

But honestly, for everyday reading, it ticks all the right boxes. It’s light, reliable, and easy to slip into your bag, which explains why it’s so loved in my family. A brilliant little Kindle that proves simple can still be smart.

You can find out more in Kerrie's full Amazon Kindle (2022) review

The best Kindle tablet

Part eReader, part digital notebook, the Kindle Scribe is perfect if you love the feel of pen on paper but still want all the convenience of an eBook. Kerrie is currently testing it for us, but Laura’s already a convert. “I’ll always be an English student at heart, scribbling in margins, underlining favourite quotes, so switching to eReaders felt a bit soulless,” she says. “The Scribe changed everything. It felt like turning over a new page.”

And that’s exactly what makes the Scribe so special. You still get access to the full Kindle Store (millions of the best eBooks, adjustable warm lighting, and that classic glare-free screen) but now with a twist. Using the included stylus, you can annotate books, jot down notes, sketch, and even doodle in spare moments. It’s brilliant for journaling, editing, or just feeling more connected to your reading.

Laura also loved how generous the 10.2-inch screen feels. It’s crisp, clear, and ideal if you like a bigger font size or wear reading glasses. In fact, her Scribe kept “mysteriously” disappearing into other family members’ hands for exactly that reason.

Yes, it’s pricier than the other Kindles, but you’re getting a two-in-one device that’s equally great for reading and writing. If you're someone who likes to annotate, brainstorm, or just prefers a big beautiful screen, the Kindle Scribe is worth every penny, especially if you can snag it in the sales.

You can find out more in Kerrie's full review.

The most premium Kindle

If you like to live life in colour, let me introduce you to the Kindle Colorsoft range. This Signature Edition is the most luxurious model that they've bought out in colour and it's the one that finally convinced me I don’t need to pack a suitcase full of books or lug hardbacks around in my handbag. This is a proper reading experience, and then some.

The seven-inch screen is a similar size to a classic paperback, yet still slips neatly into your palm or beach bag. It’s got all the bells and whistles of Kindle’s premium range (waterproofing, anti-glare display, automatic brightness and warmth controls) but with one big upgrade: colour. Whether you're flipping through a glossy magazine (woman&home, of course), browsing vibrant cookbooks in the kitchen, or reading graphic novels on your commute, the Colorsoft makes every image pop.

The screen cleverly adjusts from bright white to a soft amber hue depending on your lighting, and it really does feel like reading a high-end paperback. It’s smooth, snappy, and genuinely joyful to use, especially if your reading diet includes more than just plain text.

That said, it’s not the most budget-friendly Kindle. If you only read fiction, you might not get the full benefit of the colour upgrade, and the Kindle Paperwhite still wins on sheer value. But if you want the crème de la crème of eReaders, and love your visuals, the Colorsoft is Kindle at its most indulgent.

You can find out more in Laura's Amazon Kindle Colorsoft review

The best Kindle for children

The name is a bit of a giveaway: this is one of the best Kindles if you're after a device for your kids. As well as coming with some funky case covers (you get to choose between Blue, Pink, Rainbow Birds, or Space Station), you also get a free year's subscription to Amazon Kids+ (usually £1.99 a month), which gives your children unlimited access to thousands of books. The final extra for this particular Kindle is the two-year warranty, which means if it should happen to break, you can get a replacement straight from Amazon, no questions asked.

There's also a parent dashboard that you can run through the Kindle app on your phone, enabling you to check up on the reading progress of your youngsters and set new challenges for them.

Essentially, beyond the dashboard, the bright colours, and the Amazon Kids+ subscription, this is actually just a standard, entry-level 10th-generation Amazon Kindle. As the Kindle Kids has increased in popularity, they've released more of a range of options. You can choose between a 6 and 6.8-inch screen and a 16-32 GB storage. There's also a back reader and everything else you would expect from a good n eReader. But a big advantage of getting one of these for your kids, rather than a tablet, is that there's no access to the web, no videos, and no social media if you'd rather keep them away from that right now.

The best Kindle for holidays

If you're anything like me, packing for a holiday means making the impossible choice of which books to bring (and hoping they don't weigh down your suitcase). That’s why the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition wins the award for being the ultimate travel buddy. It has all the features of the regular Paperwhite, but with a few luxe extras that make it feel just that little bit more special.

First things first: the 32GB storage. It holds thousands of books, so whether you’re a beach-read binger or someone who finally tackles that chunky classic on holiday, you’re covered. The screen is crisp and glare-free, even in bright sunshine (goodbye squinting by the pool), and the adjustable warm light makes late-night reading a dream.

I also love that it charges wirelessly: just pop it on a Qi pad and forget about fiddly cables. The battery life is incredible too; mine lasts for weeks, so there's no need to stress about running out of juice mid-chapter while sunbathing. And if you get caught in a sudden rain shower, no worries. It’s fully waterproof.

It’s not the cheapest Kindle, but for something you’ll use every day on holiday and at home, the Signature Edition feels worth the extra £40. It’s lightweight, sleek, and makes reading on the go feel effortless. Basically, it’s like taking a mini-library on your travels, without sacrificing space for that extra pair of sandals.

The best Kindle alternatives

If you like the idea of a Kindle, but you're wondering what else is out there, I have a few other tried-and-tested e-readers that I'd recommend. Kobo makes some of the most competitive e-readers when you put them head-to-head with Kindles. Plus, Amazon's Fire borrows all the Kindle technology and blends it with a more classic tablet.

I think Kindles are the best e-readers that you can buy, but these are worth considering too.

How to choose the right Kindle for you

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry. You’re not alone! With so many models to choose from, picking the right Kindle can feel a bit overwhelming. But once you think about how you like to read, things start to fall into place. Here are a few things to help you decide:

• How you’ll use it: Think about when and where you’ll be reading. If you love reading in bed at night, the Paperwhite models are perfect; their adjustable warm lighting is much gentler on tired eyes. If you’re someone who likes to scribble notes, journal, or doodle, the Kindle Scribe doubles as a notepad too.
• Screen size matters: You can change the text size, but the actual screen size still makes a difference. The Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch screen is a lovely in-between, easy to hold in one hand, with plenty of words per page. The smallest screen is 6 inches, and the biggest (on the Scribe) is a roomy 10.2 inches, great if you prefer larger text or use reading glasses.
• Storage space: Most Kindles now come with 16GB as standard, which is loads for books. But if you're into magazines, audiobooks, or large PDFs, look for models with more storage, like the Paperwhite Signature Edition or Scribe.
• Battery and charging: Most Kindles last weeks on a single charge (dreamy, right?). The Signature Edition even charges wirelessly, so no fiddly cables.
• Extras to consider: Waterproofing, colour options, screen colour options, these little extras might not seem essential, but they can make all the difference.
• Budget: There’s a Kindle for every price point, from the super affordable Amazon Kindle (under £100) to the all-singing, all-dancing Scribe. It all depends on what matters most to you.

Still stuck? Don’t worry. I’ve made a table below comparing each model so you can find your perfect match at a glance:

How we tested these Kindles

At woman&home, we take our Kindle testing seriously, because we know how important it is to find the right eReader for you. Whether you’re a once-a-year holiday reader or someone who flies through three books a week, we want to make sure the model you pick truly fits your reading life.

Our in-house experts (hello, book lovers) keep a constant eye on the latest Kindle launches, calling in new models the moment they hit the market. From there, we start our hands-on testing, beginning with the unboxing. Is the packaging eco-friendly? Is it easy to get started? Does it feel like something you’ll want to hold every day?

Once we’ve got a Kindle set up, we test everything: screen quality, lighting, storage, size, battery life, and extra features like waterproofing or Bluetooth for audiobooks. We read in the morning and at night, in bright sunshine and total darkness, on commutes, holidays, and even while walking around the house (yes, really). The goal is to see what it’s actually like to live with a Kindle, not just use it for five minutes.

And when it comes to who’s doing the testing, that would be me, David Nield (a tech journalist), and Kerrie Hughes (our Editor). I’ve used Kindles for over a decade (since 2012) and tested every Kindle and Kobo model you'll see. I studied English at Oxford, I read on the cross-trainer at the gym, and I usually finish 6–7 books a week. Basically, I don’t just love reading, I rely on it.

So when I review a Kindle, I’m thinking like a real reader. I’m weighing up whether it’s worth your money, who it would suit, and whether the fancy features actually make a difference. Once I’ve put it through its paces, I compare it against the rest of the Kindle family and make sure everything is easy to understand, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Because when you finally unwrap your Kindle, we want it to be love at first read.

FAQs

Has the Kindle Oasis been discontinued?

I'm sorry to be the breaker of bad news, but yes, the Kindle Oasis has been discontinued. The good news is, I have found an alternative that I actually think is better. The Kobo Libra Colour has the Kindle Oasis' page-turn buttons, but it also comes with a colour screen and it will let you annotate and draw on the pages too. The best bit is that it's cheaper too. Thank me later.

Which Kindle is the best for aging eyes?

The Kindle Scribe is one of the best options for aging eyes thanks to its large 10.2-inch screen, adjustable warm light, and the ability to enlarge text without feeling cramped. If you're after something more compact, the Kindle Paperwhite also offers crisp contrast and customizable font sizes in a more handbag-friendly size.

What can you do on a Kindle besides read books?

A Kindle's primary use is to read books on: books downloaded from the Amazon library.

But can a Kindle do anything else? Yes, in fact, there are a number of other functions your Kindle can perform to become a multi-functional device. As well as reading books, a Kindle will also allow you to listen to audiobooks and to read magazines, so long as you are subscribed. On many Kindles, you can also play games and use apps, via the Kindle store.

You can also browse the web on a small amount of the Amazon devices. The Kindle and the Kindle Paperwhite have a limited capability for internet browsing should you want it, but it's worth noting that they don't support colour or any other multi-media you might find on the internet.

Finally, you can also send and store personal documents via a Kindle. When you set up your device you'll receive your own (new) personal email address, allowing you to upload documents such as PDF's to it, which can be particularly handy if you need to work whilst traveling.

Are Kindle books free?

Technically, no. While there are some free eBooks, most eBooks have to be paid for it in the same way you would pay for a physical book. However, eBooks for a Kindle generally do cost much less than physical books, so there is a saving to be had.

But there is a way to pay much less for your eBooks if you download lots of them each month. You could use Kindle's subscription service, Kindle Unlimited. On Kindle Unlimited, you get 30 days of free digital books, after which you will pay £9.95 a month, which will allow you to download as many eBooks as you want.

Is Kindle Unlimited worth it?

I have a whole page dedicated to the question "is Kindle Unlimited worth it?" Right now, new users get a free three month trial, so you have nothing to lose. Going forward from that, Kindle Unlimited's subscription service is a monthly cost of nearly £10. But given that one new e-book might cost you £4, it can mean a fantastic saving. And with books, magazines and audiobooks all available with Kindle Unlimited, we think it's well worth looking into.

That being said, if you're a lover of the newest releases then you might not find many of these on Kindle Unlimited. However, the service does often provide a few gems—especially when it comes to best thriller books, the best romance books, or the best historical fiction books.

Overall, if you're a book-lover we reckon Kindle Unlimited is well worth trying. However, it may not provide value-for-money if you tend to buy only one book a month, or less.

• Sign up to Kindle Unlimited on Amazon

Can I use a Kindle without Wi-Fi?

Yes, you can read downloaded books without Wi-Fi, so you're free to read anywhere: plane, beach, or bath. However, you’ll need a Wi-Fi connection to buy or download new books .

Do all Kindles support audiobooks?

All current Kindle models support audiobooks via Audible, but you’ll need Bluetooth headphones or a speaker to listen. Just be aware that Kindles don’t have built-in speakers or headphone jacks.

Are Kindles waterproof?

Most Kindles aren’t, but the Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, and Colorsoft all come with waterproofing (IPX8 rated). That means they’re safe to use by the pool or in the bath, ideal for holiday reading.

How much storage do I really need on a Kindle?

For most readers, 16GB is more than enough. You can fit thousands of books on that alone. You’ll only need to upgrade to 32GB or 64GB if you're planning to store lots of audiobooks, PDFs, or graphic-heavy files like comics or cookbooks.

Can I read library books on a Kindle?

It depends where you live. In the UK, Kindle doesn’t support library borrowing, but in the US, you can borrow eBooks via Libby or OverDrive on most Kindle models.

How long does a Kindle battery last?

Battery life varies by model, but most Kindles last up to 6–10 weeks on a single charge with regular use. That’s one of the biggest perks of eReaders compared to tablets or phones.

Do Kindles come in colour?

Most Kindles still use black-and-white screens, but the Kindle Colorsoft introduced a vibrant, full-colour e-ink display. It’s perfect for reading graphic novels, cookbooks, or magazines without compromising on eye comfort.

Can I use a Kindle for PDFs and note taking?

Yes, especially if you choose the Kindle Scribe, which is designed with a stylus for notes, mark-ups, and annotations. It handles PDFs better than other Kindles, but if you're working with complex documents, it’s still a bit limited compared to an iPad or tablet.

How often does Kindle launch a new model? Should I wait for a new one?

Amazon typically releases new Kindle models every couple of years, but major upgrades don’t happen too frequently. If the model you're eyeing is newly released or was updated within the last year, it’s a great time to buy.

I hope that's helped all those who are curious about delving into the world of Kindles and eReaders to find out more. If you're still stuck, don't hesitate to send me an email. You can always find me curled up with a Kindle and a cup of coffee.

This guide to the best eReaders features expert reviews of the top devices—from Kindles to Kobos—to ensure you choose the right option for you.

Many of us have been swayed by the convenience, ease, and accessibility that the best eReaders offer. These digital devices, including the best Kindles, have been designed specifically for reading, which means no sleep-disrupting blue-light and a battery that won’t run out on you. 

In order to bring you this definitive list of the best eReaders, including the much-loved Amazon Kindle Paperwhite and the popular Kobo Clara HD, we tested the eReaders over the course of a few days. Our expert tester, Isabelle Broom, specifically assessed the devices for ease of use, connectivity, design, and overall value for money. We have also given a nod to the best tablet (as opposed to specifically an eReader) for reading on, too—as well as which eReader is robust enough for children.

How we tested the best eReaders

We made sure to test each model included in our own homes—using them to read our own books—in order to share a true experience of using the product. 

We assessed each eReader on:

• Style and design—did the eReader look good, and was it comfortable and easy to handle whether we were at home, on the train, or at the beach?
• Performance—we assessed each device for ease of use (including set-up), and, quite simply, how easy it was to read our favorite books.
• Extra features—we also made a note of any extra details aside from the basics, such as storage space offered, whether or not it was waterproof, and whether or not you can do anything else on the device (such as watch movies).
• Durability—another important factor was how robust each device was—how long did the battery last, and is it strong enough to survive a few bumps and scrapes during travel? However, it is worth investing in one of the best Kindle covers too, to make sure you device stays safe.
• Value-for-money—lastly, we examined whether each of the best eReaders was worth the price. Could you get an equal or better experience for less?

The best eReaders to buy as chosen by our experts

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is the latest model from Amazon, and is already proving popular. The new Signature Edition Paperwhite is easy to turn on—instructions were intuitive for setting up and the response time from the device is fast. The Signature isn't huge (measuring 174 x 125 x 8.1 mm), but this does make it easier to use both hands to type when logging into your Amazon account to access your eBooks. 

It took longer than we'd like to land on a book (perhaps 20 seconds past our point of patience), but once were in, navigating through favorite titles was speedy and simple—the response time noticeably increased here. It's easy to adjust the font size too: by swiping across the page and you can enlarge the text up to 14 points, which should be adequate for those who might struggle with their sight.

One new feature of the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is the auto-adjusting front light, which changes brightness as you move from a dark to light and vice versa. This was arguably our favorite aspect of the device during testing, as it proved incredibly useful as the sun set and the room became darker—we barely even noticed as the brightness shot up whilst reading our best eBooks. In terms of battery life, the Signature lasted for days without a recharge. And when you need to give it a battery boost, it also offers wireless charging which was unavailable on previous Kindles. It also has a great storage size as standard, and another huge, new perk—no adverts. Amazon have moved the on/off button from the top of the device to the bottom, which can take some getting used to if you're used to the older models. But aside from that and the slightly slow response when choosing a book, we'd struggle to fault this eReader.

If you’re looking for all the benefits the best eReaders have and aren’t too fussed about snazzy extras, this basic-yet-brilliant original Kindle could be the one for you—especially if you’re keen on keeping costs down. With an RRP of $59.99/£59.99, the Amazon Kindle 8th Generation is often available for under $50/£50—so it’s definitely worth hunting around for offers. Once connected to WiFi, it takes less than a minute to download a new title, and you can store over 1,000 at a time. In other words, you can hoard your favorite fiction books without thinking twice.

It has a touchscreen, which makes navigating all the features far easier than it was with the buttons of old. Bookworms have long appreciated the Kindle's straightforward usability—you can have it out of the box and be reading or listening (via wireless Bluetooth headphones) within minutes. You can even highlight passages and translate words without leaving the page. The additional VoiceView capability allows you to adjust the font size, screen color and brightness, line spacing, and margins: a great boon to those who have sight issues. And the cherry on top? It has a long, long battery life (we’re talking weeks of strong charge). 

Some shoppers point out that letter and picture quality could be improved, especially compared to more expensive options. Regardless, it’s an excellent choice for beginners making their first foray into eReaders.

Bath time reading fans rejoice. The Kobo Libra H2O can withstand up to 60 minutes in two meters of water, so even if you fall asleep reading in the tub it will survive. Another standout feature is the ComfortLight—a front light that cleverly adjusts depending on where you are—whether sunny back garden or darkly snuggled up under a duvet. 

While it is bigger and slightly heavier than the equivalent Kindle models, this Kobo will tell you with a simple tap how many minutes it will take you to reach the end of your current chapter, allow you to place bookmarks, sync with your other devices, and has a dictionary function to look up words. An added perk: you’ll enjoy long-lasting battery life, 8 GB of onboard memory for carrying up to 3,000 eBooks, plus Instant access to Kobo’s eBookstore through WiFi. 

When using this device, be sure to have a stable WiFi connection as some users say it’s glitchy in hotspots.

There is very little that we don’t love about this robust and reliable tablet. It’s a real all-around winner with heaps of features designed with children in mind. The Amazon Fire Kids Edition Tablet comes housed in a rubber "kid-proof" surround, which bounced merrily when we lobbed it onto the floor and is very easy for small hands to grip. 

The two-year no-fuss warranty also provides additional peace of mind. Aimed at children from the age of three through to 12, this tablet comes with a free one-year subscription to Amazon Fire For Kids Unlimited ($2 per month usually), offering access to thousands of books, but also to TV shows, films, teaching apps and games. 

There’s also no need to worry about the kids straying across unsavory content. You can fully customize this tablet to block certain sites, as well as setting bedtime curfews and timeouts. 

They come in blue, pink, and yellow, and while all are sturdy, they sadly won’t survive immersion in water. Since it's a tablet rather than a straightforward eReader, the battery time is significantly less at only eight hours, so weekends away will require a charger. It's a great option for younger children eager to channel their inner Sherlock Holmes with the best mystery books, but it might be a bit too basic for the tech-savvy teens in your life.

The Kindle Oasis may be the priciest on our list, but it does have a lot to offer, especially—given the brilliant screen quality— for those with astigmatism, cataracts, or weak eyesight. It has a high-resolution touchscreen larger than any other eReader on the market. 

It’s the most aesthetically pleasing of all the devices we reviewed. The slick graphite aluminum casing feels high-end next to its plastic companions, especially in the new champagne gold shade. 

The Kindle Oasis also has a unique wedged back, making it comfortable to hold. You'll also find a smart light sensor (a night-reading essential), 3G connectivity (for a slightly higher price), and that the device is waterproof. These all add up to create an eReader that really is as good as it looks. It may seem expensive, especially when you consider the Kindle Paperwhite is less than half the price, but if you’re an ebook fanatic who prefers their gadgets to offer more than the average, then you’ll be extremely satisfied with this one. We didn’t want to part with it.

See our full Amazon Kindle Oasis review

The Kobo Clara HD seems to have been designed for those of us with busy lives and cluttered handbags. By focusing more on the simple must-haves as opposed to  the slick extras, Kobo has created an eReader that may be low on frills but is also low on fuss. The Clara’s slim, textured body fits easily into one hand, making it the perfect companion for a cramped commute. It is also very light—coming in at 39g less than Kindle’s equivalent, the Paperwhite, and we barely remembered it was there once it was slotted into the inside pocket of a denim jacket. 

There’s a nifty feature that allows you to select passages of text and share them on Facebook, but only if you’re connected to WiFi—3G connectivity is not yet a feature of this model. As with the Kobo Aura H2O, the Kobo Clara HD has ComfortLight Pro, as well as a night mode that can be set to switch on automatically once the sun goes down. The battery will last up to four weeks of standard use, and the huge 8GB of storage means you can really fill up on the bestselling books and best audiobooks.

Some caveats to consider: its interface is a bit non-intuitive, and some shoppers say the six inch screen is too small. So, if you’re a reader with poor eyesight, you may want to invest in an option with a larger monitor. 

See our full Kobo Clara HD review

Now we come to the market leader, the eReader most consistently voted into the top slot. The Kindle Paperwhite is incredibly easy to use—you touch the right of the screen to turn a page, the left to turn back, and the top to access the menu and features. This innate usability makes it the perfect choice for a sun-lounging holiday, as does the paper-like non-glare screen, extended battery life (up to six weeks from a full charge), and the fact that it’s now waterproof. Shoppers also love its lightweight, thin design for convenience and easy carrying. 

The built-in storage is a substantial 8GB, but you can extend this easily with the addition of a memory card. For an extra $100/£100, the Paperwhite will also connect through 3G as well as the standard WiFi option, meaning you can update your library more or less instantly while you’re out and about, and it is also set up for both Amazon Kindle Unlimited and Audible. You can choose from 16 adjustable font sizes to your liking, plus 16 levels of grayscale to enhance your text detail. 

See our full Kindle Paperwhite review

If you are still not sure about eReaders, the Amazon Kindle 2020 may change your mind. It's a user-friendly gem, and is the closest thing to reading a real book that you will find on the eReader market. We promise that after you’ve read a few pages, you won't miss your paperback—in fact, you’ll probably hold it longer than you would a standard novel, because it weighs so much less. 

And while the touchscreen may be lower resolution than the swankier Paperwhite and Oasis models, this makes it seem more book-like, not less. Plus, just like them, this Kindle has Bluetooth and is set up for Kindle Unlimited, all without the eyeball-enlarging price hike. It is the best basic model on the market by a mile, and an ideal choice for those taking their first tentative steps into the world of eReading.

The Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet stands out from all the other tablets with reading functions—and there are many online reviews to support our view. Using a tablet as an eReader means you can access many more functions, rather than just covering your reading and listening bases. This model allows you to get online, and makes it easy to use your favorite apps and social media accounts. As an Amazon tablet, it comes with Kindle store connectivity, enabling you to search for and then download as many reads as you want. 

However, unlike standard eReaders, the Amazon Fire HD 10 does have a much shorter battery life, and a full charge will give you around 12 hours of reading time, as opposed to the multiple weeks offered by others. That said, reading on this tablet is preferable to squinting over a smartphone screen, and it’s nice to have the option of switching from book to video or music without having to swap devices. If you’re someone who enjoys having everything you need in one attractive black, blue, red or yellow package, then the Amazon Fire HD 10 could be the choice for you.

What to consider when choosing the best eReader for you

If you're wondering how to choose a good eReader, it will depend on a variety of factors, including personal preferences, price, screen quality, and how you plan to use it. For an optimal reading experience, it's important to consider the following:

• Size—consider how big you want your eReader, and how heavy or light you need it to be. eReader weights and screen sizes vary, so be sure to check these specs before buying. Portability and comfort while holding are of paramount importance—because the best eReaders should be easy to transport and not too heavy to hold.
• Screen quality—one of the most important aspects of a brilliant eReader is the screen being clear and high-quality enough for you to read every last word, from the best autobiographies to the best self-help books. While your personal preference dictates what kind of style (e.g color) eReader you choose, deciding on one that has a clear, easily readable screen is non-negotiable. We've evaluated the below in our reviews for you. 
• Battery life—you need to be able to read yours whilst out and about—and away from a charging point—so a long-lasting battery is seriously vital (especially if you're deep in one of the best fantasy books). We've detailed the eReaders with the best battery life below, but generally, most eReader batteries should last for a minimum of two weeks on a single charge with regular usage.
• Backlight—most eReaders now, but not all, have an adjustable backlight, which helps to ensure that you can use any of the best eReaders wherever you are—whether there's glaring sunlight, or you're in a dimly lit room. Consider whether you want/need this backlight feature. We've noted which products have it in our reviews below.
• Connectivity—do you want/need your eReader to work away from Wi-Fi? The best eReaders have cellular connectivity (e.g 3G) so that you can download and read new material from anywhere even if you're not connected to Wi-Fi. Not all eReaders have this, so it's worth checking if you feel this is a feature you really want.
• Storage—the best eReaders should have expansive storage space for your reading material and audio content. Some, like the Amazon Fire, for example, have up to 32GB. If you anticipate needing a lot of storage, make sure your chosen eReader has enough for you. However, most will be absolutely fine with four or eight gigabytes of internal storage; these options can still hold thousands of publications.

How do I get started with an eReader?

Once you've purchased your eReader, you'll need to make sure that it's fully charged in order to begin using it. Once it's ready, here's how to set yours up:

• Sign into your WiFi network, which will allow you to complete the registration and setup process. 
• Once complete, you’ll be able to log into the Amazon library, or the Kobo library, where you'll have access to a huge selection of things to read—including free eBooks, popular book club books, and some of the best books of all time—to download and/or purchase at your convenience. When you find a title you want, you’ll be able to check its price and other relevant information.
• Once downloaded, the book will appear right in your own personal library ready for you to read in seconds. 
• You’ll want to swipe the left or right edges of your screen to turn the page. Or, tap the left or right edges of your screen. Note: you can only turn one page at a time.

It's interesting to note that in the ongoing print books vs eReaders debate, the eReader has greater capacity for a curated, customizable reading experience—an obvious limitation for print, where text and flow are fixed on-page. With eReader tech, you can change fonts and font sizes, even line-spacing and margins depending on your device. 

Do I need Wi-Fi on my eReader?

The short answer is yes—in fact, all eReaders allow users to connect to Wi-Fi networks in order to download and consume digital content from places like the Kindle store or Amazon. 

But while the best eReaders offer wireless connection, 3G data tends to be reserved for more expensive models. 3G means that you can download eBooks from anywhere on the move—e.g, you don't need to be connected to a wireless network connection you know in order to do so. It works similarly to the 3G or 4G on our phones, which allow us to access the internet away from home. 

Without wireless connection or good 3G, you might have to use your phone's hotspot if you really need to browse for new reading material on the go—which, depending on your location—may lag, freeze, and hinder your overall experience. In any case, we always recommend downloading content before embarking on a big trip—be it a UK weekend getaway or one of the best places to travel in 2022. It's worth noting that most eReaders have plenty of storage for you to stock up on books or magazines in advance. 

Follow our simple guide for how to reset a Kindle if your screen is frozen, unresponsive, black, or glitching. With these three, reliable methods, your Kindle will be ready to read and back to full strength in no time. 

Even the best Kindles occasionally have their wobbly days and sometimes, turning it on and off ( a classic method) doesn't work its magic. If you're still struggling with glitches, a black screen, or any other mishaps, experts will tell you that you need to reset your Kindle. To do this, you have three options.

You can do a soft reboot (restart), a hard reset (which works even if your screen is unresponsive), or a factory reset (wiping all data). I'll talk you through each simple step (because I have had to do this too many times for myself). I'll also let you know when it's time to call in the experts or even time to upgrade your eReader. 

If that is the case, you're in luck. We're the experts in all things Kindle. From the Amazon Kindle vs Kindle Paperwhite debate right through to the the best Prime Day Kindle deals. 

How to reset a Kindle — 3 methods to try

Now, for the task at hand. The three easy ways to reset your Kindle are:

• Check the battery of your device.
• Try a soft reset first.
• Factory reset the Kindle.

I'd recommend doing these in order, since they help to rule out more simple issues first. They also graduate in terms of complexity, so it makes sense.

1. Double check the battery

While the best eReaders have a long battery life, the battery running out is inevitable. Checking yours sounds obvious, but it is often a step that people overlook when their Kindle screen is black. 

Plug your device into a charging source. When it is fully charged, a green light should appear on the bottom of your Kindle. You will see an amber light if it isn't charged. If you find that you are unable to charge your device, it may mean that the charging cable or the battery itself is damaged and needs fixing or replacing. 

If you suspect your cable is preventing your Kindle from charging, you can try plugging in the micro USB cable that you use for your tablet or smartphone – often they will be compatible. If this isn’t an option, there are plenty of chargers for all models of Kindle available from Amazon and all good electrical retailers.

If this fails, the battery itself could be the problem. There are a number of video tutorials online showing you how to fit a new battery yourself, but unless you are a technician, we would really advise leaving this particular task up to the experts – see the bottom of this article for advice on how to do this. 

2. Try a 'soft reset'

A soft reset is a fancy rebranding of the age-old 'have you tried turning it off and on again?' trick that seems to work for even the most complex technology. Essentially, all you need to do is fully power it off and then turn it on again and most problems should resolve themselves. There are lots of reasons why this might happen: your Kindle might have needed to update, the battery might have needed to reset, and it could be caught in a bug loop.

If you ask Amazon how to reset a Kindle, they'll give you the soft-reset as a default method to try. Amazon says 'like any piece of technology, your Kindle might misbehave from time to time. This probably won't happen often (or at all), but if it does, a so-called soft reset or reboot can resolve many issues). 

Here is how to soft reset a Kindle:

• Flip open your Kindle cover, and press and hold the power button (this is usually on the bottom of your device, but may be on the back) until the power menu appears. Then, press restart. Alternatively, if you press and hold the power button and your screen goes blank, hold the button.
• Continue to hold down for a count of 40, then release.
• After a few seconds, your Kindle should automatically begin rebooting. Don’t worry if the screen flashes during the process. This is normal.

The soft reset won’t wipe any of your data or mess up your settings, so it’s perfectly safe to do as often as you need.

3. Factory reset your device

If your Kindle battery is fully charged, and the device is still freezing after doing a soft reset, it may be worth wiping the slate clean by restoring it to its factory settings.

Before committing to a factory reset, it might be worth quickly checking with Kindle Support to ensure there are no other steps you can take. 

From the home screen of your Kindle select 'Menu', then 'Settings'. From there take the option to 'Reset device'. These steps may vary, depending on which model of Kindle or tablet you are using. Look for the three vertical dots in the top-right of your homepage if you are unsure, as these should link directly to your settings.

Be warned: a factory reset does remove all the content from your device, but you will be able to re-download your apps, free eBooks, and your best eBook titles from the Cloud, or directly from your Amazon library. It's worth noting though that your WiFi details and any parental controls you had set up will need to be entered again. 

As a side note, if you ever decide to sell your Kindle or it gets stolen, you'll also want to do a factory reset to clear all your content and personal information.

What to do if all else fails

If you have tried all the steps above and to no avail, there are two more options to help you get your Kindle back to working order:

• Visit the official Kindle Digital Services and Support page
• Visit the official Kindle Facebook page

First of all, you can seek professional help through the official Kindle Digital Services and Device Support page. Here you will find a full library of help topics, forums where you can ask other Kindle users and Amazon staff for advice on how to reset a Kindle, with dedicated user guides for every type on the market. If your device is under warranty, you will be able to contact Amazon Customer Services and arrange for a local technician to carry out any repairs.

There is also an official Kindle Facebook page, which is a great community to join if you need quick help and advice from experts and users alike. You may find that you get a faster response here on how to reset a Kindle than you would via the main Amazon site. 

If the warranty has expired on your device, or you want a faster solution than the one Amazon is offering, you could try contacting a friendly neighborhood expert for help. Simply type ‘local Kindle technicians near me’ into your search engine to find out who’s out there, but be sure to check their credentials and read customer reviews before you hand anything over.

FAQs

Why is my Kindle frozen? 

There are a couple of reason you may be experiencing issues with your Kindle freezing. One of the most common reasons and the one that can be fixed easiest is that your Kindle is running out of power. When your device has significantly low power, it reduces the power going to the main processor therefore causing it to freeze and malfunction. 

Another reason your Kindle might have frozen is that it may be due an update. If you've not updated your Kindle's firmware in a while, the device may be suffering from bugs that have been resolved in the latest update. When you've successfully got it un-frozen using one of the aforementioned steps then check your settings for the newest update and download it. 

Your Kindle may also be suffering from memory issues. Kindles are designed to only store so much data so if they're reaching their max capacity you may start to see some slowness and eventual freezing. If this is the case, it might be time to clear out some of the old books you no longer need or want to read. 

Freezing may also occur when using the web browser feature on your Kindle, the devices don't have much processing power so something like being on a web browser can slow its functioning speed down. 

How do I reset an unresponsive Kindle?

If the touchscreen of your Kindle isn't responding, your screen is frozen, or it's generally working slowly, you can re-set the Kindle using the buttons. Amazon says to 'press and hold the power button until a power dialogue box appears or the screen goes blank. Continue holding the power button for 40 seconds, then release.' It almost sounds too simple, but it works for resolving a lot of issues.

How do you hard reset your Kindle?

A hard reset is also known as a factory reset. It's the last of the three methods that we recommend trying, since it will wipe all the data on your Kindle. To do a hard reset and reboot, you'll want to go into your settings, tap on Device Options, tap Reset (or Reset Device), confirm that you want to reset your Kindle and then it will do the rest for you.

Why is my Kindle stuck on waking up?

If your Kindle is stuck on waking up and it's not being very responsive, the problem is most likely a rest of old, out-of-date software. You'll need to reboot your Kindle, so hold down the power button for 40 seconds, let go, and wait for it to reboot. This should solve your problem. Like any laptop, you can't leave your r-reader in 'sleep' forever.

How do I know if I need a new Kindle?

If you've tried all three methods for how to reset a Kindle and yours still isn't responsive, it might be coming to the end of its life. People say their Kindles have lasted for at least five years and plenty of people's have been faithfully working for more than a decade. However, sometimes, you need to call it a day. 

If your battery isn't charging and the screen isn't responsive, it's worth treating yourself to a new Kindle. You'll enjoy using it much more when it's super speedy, well-charged, and has plenty of storage. Luckily for you, we have a team of experts who have tested the best Kindles out there and recommended different models for each kind of user.

Learn how to print a photo on fabric and you can start to make stunning textile projects with a personal touch. It’s a lovely technique to bring digital memories to life, either through printing on canvas and displaying as traditional wall art, or with more adventurous sewing projects. 

The photo to fabric transfer method is quick and simple, making these creations great gifts for friends and family. Or, if your photography skills are up to scratch, why not consider starting a business from your kitchen table with your own images and fabric products? This popular hobby to do at home could soon be making you a small fortune.

We’ll show you how to get started with the basics and a simple cushion idea that you could make with one of the best sewing machines—then the rest is up to your imagination. Turn cherished snaps that could easily be forgotten on your computer or in photo albums into treasured physical keepsakes.

To print a photo on fabric, you will need

• Iron-on heat transfer paper for light fabrics
• Cotton fabric
• A computer or laptop with photo editing software or access to an online version like Canva
• An inkjet color printer
• Iron and ironing board
• Paper scissors

How to print a photo onto fabric

Step 1: Crop your photo

Using the photo editing software or online alternative, select your image and crop it into your chosen shape. Resize as required, ensuring the image’s resolution is 300dpi (dots per inch), so it appears sharp. Flip the image so that it’s mirrored.

Step 2: Print and cut out the image

Print the image onto a sheet of image transfer paper. Cut out, leaving a 5mm border all the way around the edge. 

Step 3: Iron your image

Lay your fabric on your ironing board, right side up, then place your printed image face down. Turn your iron to its hottest setting and run it over the paper for around 30-45 seconds, pressing down hard. 

Step 4: Peel off the transfer paper

Leave the paper and fabric to cool for 5-10 minutes, then carefully peel back the paper to reveal the printed photo on the fabric.

How to print a photo on a fabric pillow

You will need

• One A4 sheet of iron on heat transfer paper for light fabrics
• White cotton or drill fabric
• 23cm square feather cushion pad
• A computer or laptop with photo editing software or access to an online version like Canva
• An inkjet colour printer
• Iron and ironing board
• Tape measure and pins
• White thread
• Paper scissors
• Fabric scissors

Step 1: Resize your image

Select your image and crop it into a square on your computer. Resize it to 22cm, ensuring the image’s resolution is 300dpi (dots per inch), so it appears sharp. Flip the image so that it’s mirrored, using your photo editing program, then print on onto a sheet of image transfer paper. Cut out, leaving a 5mm border all around the edge.

Step 2: Cut and sew your fabric

Cut out your fabric to 27 x 55cm and sew a single hem along one of the short edges. 

Step 3: Iron your image

Lay your fabric on your ironing board, right side up, then place your printed image face down with the bottom of the image sitting 15cm up from the unhemmed short edge—ensure that it’s equally spaced from the sides. Turn your iron to its hottest setting and run it over the paper for around 30-45 seconds, pressing down hard. 

Step 3: Peel off your image

Leave to cool for 5-10 minutes and then carefully peel off. 

Step 4: Seal your fabric

Fold both ends of the fabric, sewn edge first, over the top of the image until it measures 23cm from top to bottom, with the pattern sitting equally spaced from either end. Once this is in place, press the edges flat with your iron.

Step 5: Sew down the edges

Mark a line of pins 2cm in from either of the raw edges and sew down both edges with your sewing machine. Clip the corners and turn the cushion right side out. Insert the cushion pad to complete. Read our guide on how to make a cushion cover for more details. 

Printing a photo on fabric: What you need to know 

Can I use more than one image?

Get creative when cutting out your images from the photo transfer paper. Instead of reproducing a square format, you could cut out different parts of several photos to make up an eye-catching collage. Follow the same instructions, transferring the images one at a time and layering the photos on the fabric.

What size photos can I print on fabric?

At home, you’re limited to the size of the iron-on heat transfer paper and your printer. It’s best to start small with these projects before looking to print larger than A4 images. 

If you don’t want to approach a professional printer to print your images on paper, try a mosaic method instead. Divide your photo into a number of A4 panels. Print and layout your fabric in a window-pane pattern to create the full image. 

What fabric can I print my photo onto?

Start with cotton or drill fabric as it’s the easiest, to begin with. Then, look out for iron-on heat transfer paper designed specifically for different fabric types. T-shirt transfer paper is readily available to use with jersey and stretch fabrics. 

Take note of the color fabric the transfer paper is suitable for, too—some work with darker fabrics and some with lighter. 

I want to sew more photo-printed fabric projects, where do I start?

First, get set up with a good set of equipment, including a high-quality inkjet printer and a sturdy sewing machine (check out our guide on the best sewing machines for beginners if you're new to sewing). 

Once you’ve mastered a cushion, go on to making tote bags and t-shirts. Then try make-up bags with zippers using black and white images for a vintage look—you’ll need to add a scanner to your set of equipment to use old negatives and photos.

In our Kobo Clara HD review, we take a look at why this eReader device is perhaps the best of the entire Kobo range when it comes to value-for-money—and why our expert tester reckons it can more than compete with Amazon's Kindles.

When it comes to the entire Kobo eReader range, the Kobo Clara HD is second most expensive, at $119.99/£109.99. It's up against the entry-level Kobo Nia, which retails for $99.99/£89.99, as well as two more premium models, with bigger screens and physical buttons for page-turning—the Libra H20 ($169.99/£149.99) and the $249.99/£239.99 Kobo Forma. There is also a new, pricier model—the Kobo sage, which sells for $259.99/£249.99.

But there's a reason that the Kobo Clara is one of the best eReaders out there—it pretty much goes head to head against the popular Kindle Paperwhite model (which sells for a similar price), and offers great value-for-money, a brilliant reading experience, and almost all the features you need for an eReader. As you'll find from our Kobo Clara HD review, we believe this eReader more than holds its own against the competition, whether that's from Amazon or anyone else.

Kobo Clara HD review—what is the design like?

It's hard to fault the design of the Kobo Clara HD—it's a compact, well-built, lightweight gadget that's easy to use with one hand or two. It's made of all black plastic, with a nicely textured back, and a 6-inch screen that's easy to read in any lighting (the backlighting controls help with this). You can buy more expensive eReaders with physical buttons at the side for turning pages (like some of the best Kindles), which you may prefer—but most people we reckon would be happy just to tap the sides of the display and save on the extra bulk.

What you don't get with the Kobo Clara HD is any choice of colors—black is the only option. If you want a different shade you need to buy one of the SleepCover covers, which come in red and blue as well as black, and double as stands, too. We wouldn't see the limited color choice as a dealbreaker for this eReader, but if color really is important to you, it's perhaps worth pointing out that the Kindle Paperwhite (see our full Kindle Paperwhite review here) comes in four different shades.

In terms of finish and weight, Kobo has got this just right. It tips the scales at just 166 grams or 5.9 ounces, and that makes it barely noticeable when you're carrying it around, either in your hand or a bag. At the same time, it's a sturdy gadget, which feels solid and more than safe to use on the go where it may endure bumps and scrapes.

There are a couple of downsides to point out though with the Kobo Clara HD's design—it isn't waterproof, so you need to be careful about using it around pools or in the bath, or at the beach, and it uses the older microUSB connector for charging. That last point isn't a huge deal, and a charging cable is included, but with phones, tablets and laptops now mostly using USB-C it means another cable to keep track of.

What features does the Kobo Clara HD offer?

Besides the 6-inch screen, perhaps the most important spec when it comes to the Kobo Clara HD is the amount of storage you get—8GB. Other eReaders, like the Kobo Libra H20, can beat that but as it's enough to allow you to store around 6,000 of the best eBooks, it's not really a concern—unless you're heading off somewhere for a long time with no access to Wi-Fi, the 8GB that the Kobo Clara HD gives you is going to be more than enough space.

For a price, Amazon lets you buy Kindle eReaders with 4G connectivity, which means you can download and sync the best books of 2021 (or any other year) while you're away from a wireless internet connection. Alas, there's no such option on the Clara HD, which might be an issue if you spend a lot of time away from Wi-Fi. But it needn't be a huge problem. You can of course read books offline—it's just that to buy and download new ones, you will need a home, office or hotel Wi-Fi network.

Kobo promises weeks of battery life on the Clara HD, though it's hard to be precise—it depends on what brightness level the screen is set to and how quickly you read, and so how often the pages are refreshing. What we can tell you is that spending a couple of hours reading only knocks the battery percentage down by one or two numbers (we went from 85% to 83%), so that estimate of several weeks seems to be pretty accurate according to our testing.

There's no Bluetooth connectivity on the Clara HD unfortunately, which may be a drawback for some. This means you aren't able to attach headphones and listen to audiobooks—it's a format that this eReader just doesn't support. If you want to be able to listen to any of your best audiobooks, then you'll need to invest in a different brand (some older Kobo models supported audiobooks, but none of the current range that are available to buy now do).

What is the Kobo Clara HD reading experience like?

We can say with confidence that the reading experience on the Kobo Clara HD is a superb one. The text really stands out on the screen, with its 300 pixels-per-inch resolution. It's not quite as good as looking at an actual printed page, but it's getting close, and of course with a digital eReader like this you can adjust the brightness and contrast of the words on screen to suit the environment you're in.

You've got two sliders to use when it comes to controlling the display: brightness and natural light. The second one adjusts the warmth or the temperature of the screen, which means you can switch to a warm glow late at night, and in fact this can be enabled at a specific time in the evening if you prefer. It's one of the stand-out features of the Clara HD, and it means the reading experience is equally pleasurable whether you're on the beach in bright sunshine or in the bath with nothing but candlelight for illumination.

The software that runs on the Kobo Clara HD is impressive too, telling you exactly how far through an eBook you are, how much reading time you've got left, and plenty more besides. If you go to the Activity screen inside your account, you can stats covering how much reading you've done on your eReader, how close you are to getting all the way through your e-book library, and even your average reading speed.

There are over five million titles to choose from on the Kobo Store, so there should be plenty to choose from for all genre preferences—whether you prefer the best historical fiction books, the best thriller books, or the best romance books. And in the ongoing Kindle vs Kobo debate, it's worth noting that Kobo devices actually support more formats than the Amazon Kindles (though Amazon's own proprietary format won't work on the Clara HD). Kobo makes apps for smartphones and tablets too which is incredibly handy, in case you want to pick up your reading on a different device for a while.

Kobo Clara HD review—w&h's overall verdict

For the price you're paying, the Kobo Clara HD leaves a very good impression. The main things we loved about it include: 

• The screen and reading experience—these were definite highlights—text is crisp and perfectly legible in all lighting conditions, and as we've mentioned you can adjust the brightness and screen temperature as required. Add in the ability to choose from multiple font types and sizes, plus a variety of justification options, and it's a combination of hardware and software that we really like.
• The design—its design isn't as premium as some other eReaders on the market, but it's a lightweight and well-built device, and one that's comfortable to hold (with one hand or two)
• The value-for-money it offers—at over $100/£100, there's no doubt that the Kobo Clara HD is on the more expensive side. But for what it offers you, we reckon it's one of the best value-for-money eReaders out there, considering other models sell from upwards of $200/£200. 

While we think this might a fantastic eReader option for some, it's not quite the perfect device for everyone. The absence of waterproofing, the use of the older microUSB port, the fact that the display isn't flush to the bezels, and the lack of different color options mean some people will want to look elsewhere—though you'll typically have to pay more to get all of those features.

The Kobo Store can't match the Amazon equivalent in terms of sheer breadth, but you should still be able to find just about everything you need—and remember that the Kobo devices are better at handling a variety of different file formats, so if there are comic books and graphic novels you want to read, then these can be easily handled too. Overall, if you do pick up the Kobo Clara HD, we don't think you're going to be disappointed.

When it comes to deciding on which eReader to buy, there are generally two main brands to pick from—the Amazon Kindle eReaders and the Kobo eReaders. So which is better in the Kindle vs Kobo debate, and what is it that distinguishes the two types of eReader from one another?

Kindles and Kobos are some of the best eReader models around—but how do they differ in terms of design, features, and software? If you are keen to purchase one, it's worth noting that the best choice for you depends on what you want from your eReader, as well as how much you want to spend. But we’ll help you make the most informed choice possible, as our tech expert details and analyses the key differences and similarities to note between each brand, measuring up everything including design, price, performance, and book options.

What Kindle models are there and how much do they cost?

There are three Amazon Kindle eReaders to pick from: 

• Amazon Kindle—$79.99/£79.99
• Amazon Kindle Paperwhite—$129.99/£119.99
• Amazon Kindle Oasis—$269.99/£229.99

The two cheaper Kindles are available for $10/£10 less if you let Amazon put adverts on the lock screen. The two more expensive Kindles (considered by many to be the best Kindles) come with a 4G connection at an extra cost—so you can download some of the best eBooks while you're away from Wi-Fi.

What Kobo models are there and how much do they cost?

With Kobo, you've got four choices: 

• Kobo Nia—$99.99/£89.99
• Kobo Clara HD—$119.99/£119.99
• Kobo Libra H20—$169.99/£159.99
• Kobo Forma—$249.99/£239.99
• Kobo Sage—$259.99/£249.99
• Kobo Elipsa—$399.99/£349.99

There are clearly more Kobo models to choose from than Kindles, but it's worth noting there are no 4G options for the Kobo eReaders, so to download e-books on all of them you'll need to be in range of Wi-Fi.

Winner: Both—there are more Kobo options, but each brand has a range of models for all budgets.

What do both the Kindles and Kobos do? 

The software running on the Kindles and Kobos is actually quite similar, as are the customization options for making your eReader work better for you:

• First and foremost they both let you buy and read e-books
• Models from both brands will tell you how far you are through each book, how many pages you've got left, how long it's probably going to take you to finish
• You can look up the definitions of words with a tap, add notes and highlights on both models
• Both brands let you adjust the font style and size to suit, with options for changing the margins and paragraph spacing as well
• Both brands have models with up to 32GB of internal storage.
• And, you can search through e-books very easily on either a Kindle eReader or a Kobo eReader.

Essentially, there’s little difference between what you can do on the Kindle vs Kobo models. It's perhaps worth noting though that the Kobo Forma lets you read in landscape orientation as well as portrait, whereas the Kindle Oasis sticks to portrait.

But, the Kindle eReaders do have a few extras on the software side—including integration with the GoodReads community site, and the X-ray feature that lets you dig into specific characters, topics, events or places (in e-books where the feature is supported). These are nice extras to have, but the essentials are the same—and it may not be so important that they would tempt you away from buying a Kobo model that you've really taken a shine to.

Winner: Both—each brand offers very similar features when it comes to performance.

Who has the better design—Kindle or Kobo?

The designs aren't identical, but they're along similar lines—both of them are fairly simple-looking (which is what you want, as the interesting stuff is on the screen!), and all of the models from both brands come in neutral colors such as grey, black and beige. And if you don't like the design of either, there are some good Kobo covers you can buy separately—or see our guide to the best Kindle covers.

With both the Kindle and Kobo ranges, paying more gets you the same sort of extras when it comes to design—waterproofing, larger screens, physical page turn buttons, and a screen with temperature as well as brightness adjustments.

The more expensive models of each brand also give you bigger eReaders, with buttons you can press to turn pages, instead of using the touchscreen.

It's worth checking the screen resolution when you're comparing specific models against each other—in general the more pixels per inch, an eReader has, the sharper and crisper the display is, which is better for reading.  The basic Kindle has a screen resolution of just 167 pixels-per-inch (ppi), for example, while the Kobo Nia offers 212 ppi. 

Winner: Both—models from each of the brands have good screen quality and all of the design extras you would need.

Who has the better book options—Kindle or Kobo?

The general consensus is that Amazon has a bigger eBook store than Kobo does, but that Kobo eReaders support a bigger range of eBook and document formats (though that doesn't include Amazon's own bespoke e-book format, of course). At the same time it's probably fair to say that most users are going to be able to do most of what they want in terms of reading with either a Kindle or a Kobo device.

In terms of the online stores, while Amazon's is undoubtedly larger, there are still some 5 million e-books in the Kobo library. You can find some of the best books of 2021 on both libraries, including some of the best historical fiction books, the best romance books, and the best mystery books. You'll also be able to find works from popular authors, like JK Rowling, Lee Child and Hilary Mantel, on both platforms. It’s worth checking out the Kindle store and the Kobo store for yourself, to see if your favorite literary works are included, before you pick a device.

When it comes to the formats available to use on both devices, Kindles can handle Amazon's own e-book formats as well as text, PDF, MOBI and PRC files natively, plus there's support for audiobooks on Audible. 

Kobo eReaders can handle a broader range of formats, including the more open EPUB e-book format, HTML webpages, and standard formats for digital comics and graphic novels without any conversion. It's a slight win here for the Kobo range. 

Winner: Kindle for range of books, but Kobo for range of formats

So which is best—Kindle vs Kobo?

There's not much to choose between the Kindle eReaders and the Kobo eReaders in a lot of key categories: the design of the devices and the prices you can pick them up for are broadly similar, for example, and there aren't really any major differences in terms of the software that runs on these eReaders either. Both brands produce eReaders that are affordable and a pleasure to use.

With Amazon's Kindles you're really buying into the Amazon ecosystem: think the Amazon e-book store, other Amazon services like the Audible audiobook platform, and subscription options such as Kindle Unlimited (a bit like Netflix for e-books). Go for a Kindle and you get a lot more in the way of a supporting ecosystem, and other connected devices and services.

If you'd rather keep yourself from falling down the Amazon rabbit hole though, then the Kobo eReaders are an excellent alternative. They lag behind the Kindles in one or two areas (there's no audiobook support for example), but they can work with more file formats (including digital comics) and they still have bags of quality on both the hardware and software side.

Knowing how to make simple jewelry repairs is a useful skill to have, especially if you have a large collection of bracelets, rings, and necklaces. Because often, our favorite pieces can experience little breaks, or require small tweaks to help them look their best. So instead of tossing those earrings with a bent wire, or getting rid of your chicest statement necklace with a missing clasp, it's handy to know that you can save these pieces and repair them yourself.

You might assume that all jewelry repairs need to be done by a professional, given how delicate many of our items can be. But actually, many repairs are easy to make at home without needing to call an expert—be it cleaning a discolored chain or replacing a dislodged stone. Whether you need to fix an item you've made from one of the best jewelry making kits (one of the most fun hobbies for women) or a much-loved piece from a popular high-street store, there's an easy-to-follow method for almost every issue that means you can do a DIY fix yourself, before paying someone to help you.

Take note, however—while you can fix many common problems with fashion jewelry, you shouldn't attempt to repair fine jewelry yourself. It's often too expensive and/or delicate to risk damaging even further. So if you have a precious engagement ring or a family heirloom necklace, we'd advise that you do seek the assistance of a professional to fix it properly. 

Jewelry repairs you can do yourself

1. Replace a broken clasp or jump ring

Whether you love learning how to make jewelry or you prefer to buy yours, clasps can be the most fragile part of a piece of bracelet or necklace, and that's because it often gets the most use. A few things may have happened if your clasp is broken: 

• The clasp itself might have broken and no longer close properly.  
• A jump ring may have opened, and the clasp may have fallen off. 

In either case, replacing the clasp and jump ring will solve the problem. While it sounds complicated, this repair is simple and straightforward. It requires just a few supplies: 

• Two pliers (chain and/or flat nose) 
• An open jump ring 
• A clasp 

To do the repairs, use your two pliers to open the jump ring. Slide the end of your chain or beadwork into the open ring. Next, slide the clasp onto the open ring, and then use your pliers to close the jump ring. Your jewellery should now be ready for use.

2. Reglue missing stones

It's not uncommon for stones to come loose from their settings, even if they've been bought at a popular store, or made in the best online jewelry making classes! A hard impact can dislodge the stone, or a prong in the setting may get caught in your clothes and push the stone loose. Improper care or storage can also lead to missing stones, so make sure you're taking care of your jewelry when you're not wearing it.

Depending on the type of jewelry and stone, you may be able to reglue your missing stones. To do this, follow these steps: 

• Gently remove the stone from the piece of jewelry
• Squeeze a thin layer of glue onto the base, where the stone was
• Place the stone back on top of the glue and hold it in place for a few minutes
• After removing your finger, leave the jewelry item alone overnight to set

Make sure that you use jewelry glue—not superglue—for this repair, to ensure the stones stay in place.

3. Resizing a ring

Over time, ring bands may become too small or lose their shape. Here's the good news—you can fix either of these problems with some patience and a few simple tools.  

To resize or reshape a ring, you will need a leather mallet and a ring mandrel. Both of these items can easily be found at any craft store or, perhaps, in a jewellery kit. 

• Place the ring on the mandrel. 
• Using the mallet, gently tap the side of the ring.
• Repeat on the other side of the ring. 
• For reshaping, apply just enough pressure to restore the ring's round shape. 
• For resizing, continue tapping and then rotating until it reaches your desired size on the mandrel. 

This process is simple but, for fine jewelry, it's best to leave this type of repair to a professional.

And if you really can't fix your rings, why not see our guide to the best jewelry advent calendars this year, to treat yourself to some new pieces?

4. Removing tangles and knots from chains

Thin, delicate chains can easily become knotted and tangled, especially if they aren't stored properly. But these tangles and knots must be removed carefully to avoid breaking or damaging the chain. 

A few simple sewing pins, a gentle touch and good lighting are all you need to untangle your chains. Simply thread the needle through one bit of the chain, and gentle wiggle it and work at it to try and loosen it. For difficult knots, apply a little baby oil to make it easier for the chain to untangle.

5. Repair or replace ear wires

You may want to change the ear wires on your earrings for a number of reasons. Maybe you're allergic to the metal, maybe you want a different look, or maybe the wire is broken or bent. No matter the reason, replacing or repairing ear wires is a useful skill to have. 

The process is very similar to the clasp replacement mentioned. A jump ring will connect the ear wire to your earring. Open up the loop or jump ring using two pairs of pliers. Remove the old ear wire and slip the new wire into the open ring or loop. Now, use your pliers to close the ring. Your earrings should now be ready to wear.

6. Freshen up dirty stones and chains

Knowing how to clean jewelry properly is vital. Sweat, oil, makeup and other things can rob your stones and chains of their shine. A thorough cleaning can restore the natural beauty of your jewelry. 

While you'll find many recipes for cleaners online, it may be safer to use professional jewelry cleaners. You can find cleaners for both fashion and fine jewellery. Some are stronger than others—make sure you choose the right type for your jewellery. 

Careful handling and a gentle approach can help ensure that you clean each piece thoroughly and without causing any damage. We'd suggest using a cotton swab to clean stones and other delicate areas.  

These simple jewelry repairs can be made by anyone with the right tools and materials. Some require a little more patience than others—but they can certainly save you from throwing out your favorite fashion jewelry pieces or spending unnecessary money on a professional repair. 

Follow our step-by-step instructions for how to make a cushion cover or have a go at one of our more decorative designs to add a stylish flourish to any home

Learn how to make a cushion cover with our step-by-step video guide. Whether sewing for yourself, for others or even to sell on, cushion covers add personality to every home and a universally in demand.  Once you’ve mastered this easy design, have a go at sewing our envelope cushion cover too. Need to update your equipment? Read our guide to the best sewing machines.

How to make a cushion cover

Step 1

Measure your cushion pad (or check the size on label) and add 3cm to each measurement to allow for 1.5cm seam allowances. Using a ruler, set square and dressmakers’ chalk pencil, mark out this area on your fabric, once for the cushion front and again, for the back. If you want to center a pattern or motif, or cut lots of cushion pieces, make a pattern from tracing paper, position on your fabric and draw round. Cut out pieces and iron.

Step 2

Pin the cushion front and back together with right sides facing and tack 1.5cm in from edges round three sides and four corners, leaving a gap on one side. Machine-stitch close to tacking, reversing for a few stitches to secure thread ends. Remove tacking.

Step 3

On heavier-weight fabrics, such as velvets, clip excess fabric across the corners to remove bulk. Alternatively, to give sharp, slightly padded corners on lightweight fabrics, fold the double seam allowance down on both sides, pressing along the stitching line, then at the top and bottom.

Step 4

Turn cushion cover right side out, press and insert cushion pad. Using a needle and matching thread, slip stitch opening to close.

In the future, if you want to try something a bit more complicated, read our guide about how to make piping for a cushion.  Piping will add a pretty design detail to your soft furnishings.

And, if you're eager to create more handmade, special pieces, you can also read our guide to how to make a lavender pillow, and our list of easy sewing projects.

In our Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition sewing machine review, we found it to be an impressive piece of kit that far surpassed our expectations, so it’s no wonder that this compact, creative and speedy model has made it into our best sewing machines round-up. 

Brother is renowned for creating sewing machines that are affordable without compromising on features, and this model is no different. In terms of value for money, you can’t get much better. 

When putting the model through our rigorous testing process, we were bowled over by its performance. The Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition is a sturdy machine that stitches smoothly, with little to no vibration—even at high stitch speeds—when performing intricate stitch settings.

Specs:

Pricing

At £389, this is an affordable model for confident stitchers or those looking to upgrade their cheaper, entry-level machine. It’s also worth noting that this sewing machine is sometimes discounted by around £10, if you're keen to snap up a bargain. The manufacturer’s three-year warranty covers regular use but if you want to use this machine commercially you’ll only get one year of cover.

Design

Design-wise, this machine doesn’t look too different from the other white models on the market. The pop of cornflower blue surrounding the display is a welcome hit of color and the floral design under the stitch selector is a pretty touch. However, this color may not be to everyone's taste, which is something worth noting. 

With the stitch options clearly labelled on the front of the machine, operating this model couldn’t be simpler. The LCD display, buttons and sliders are easy to navigate, too, positioned clearly on the front and top.

There are some handy illustrations for how to use the machine printed on the body as well, some of which are on stickers and can be peeled away once you’re confident enough to tackle threading the bobbin by yourself. 

The real stand-out feature for this sewing machine is the hard cover, with a sleek shape and gloss white finish. It looks really smart left on display in a crafty corner, or stored safely away on a shelf. 

Weight

Small but mighty, this compact machine comes in at the lighter end of the weighing scale. At only 6.5kg, it’s perfectly portable for carrying to and from storage areas or even to classes. 

The hard case ups the weight but makes it even more convenient for carrying about. There’s a neat handle on the top of the machine, which folds down flat when you’re set up to sew.

Durability

As part of our Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition sewing machine review, we also tested the durability of the machine. Despite its overall light weight, the base of the machine is surprisingly heavy. While this might not be ideal for some sewing fans, it does help to create an incredibly sturdy-feeling sewing machine. When sewing at 850 stitches per minute during our test, the height of its stitching speed capabilities, the machine barely vibrated. It’s so solid in fact that there’s no differentiation in vibration when working with the more intricate stitches this machine has to offer. 

Ease of use

With a whole host of expert features, you wouldn’t think this machine was beginner-friendly. And yet, that’s exactly what makes this model stand out from the rest. It’s easy to learn how to use the Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition, with numbered points all over the machine guiding you through the task of winding the bobbin or threading the needle. 

Speaking of which, the automated one-step needle threader is one of the best we’ve tested so far. It’s a smooth device and doesn’t show any signs of jamming— something that happens far too regularly with these. It's just another testament to how strong and sturdy this machine is.

The LCD display is uncomplicated too—for a smart feature, it is incredibly straightforward in informing the user what foot to use with the selected stitch, the needle position, and the stitch width and length. A quick glance at the instruction manual is all you’ll need to start confidently stitching on the Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition.

Performance

The Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition creates high-quality, precision stitching at speed. Take it up a gear to the more intricate stitch patterns and buttonholes, and this machine continues its stellar performance with minimal vibration and noise. 

For a model in this price bracket, it out-performed its competitors on speed, stitch formation, and quality, producing flawless stitching every time.

And don’t be put off by the thought of an LCD screen if you don’t like digital interfaces. Brother has stripped this display back to basics, making it quick and easy to comprehend. In the end, this little screen will become your best friend as it guides you through presser foot choices.

Extra features?

In our Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition sewing machine review, we also tested any extra features it has—and it has a large amount. Along with the 60 stitches which provide ample opportunity to get creative with your sewing, there is a number of other features that set this sewing machine apart from the rest. With the click of a button, you can reverse stitch, lock stitch to automatically tie off loose threads—and a start/stop button means you can work pedal-free.

If you’re a confident stitcher the machine has a twin-needle setting and comes with a twin needle too, perfect for topstitching denim and knit fabrics.

For those short on space, the hidden storage box at the front of the machine is a handy place for storing the seven feet, extra needles, and other maintenance tools that are included.

w&h's overall verdict on the Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition sewing machine

For beginner stitchers just starting out with a little more cash to spend, or confident sewers looking to upgrade on their first model, our Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition sewing machine review found that this machine is the way to go. 

It works hard to deliver intuitive features for those who want to use them, while keeping things simple to help learners find their feet. In that respect, this machine is the ultimate all-rounder.

The Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition manages to do all this without compromising on performance. It’s provided some of the smoothest stitching we’ve ever had the pleasure of testing, across a multitude of speeds and stitches—from simple straight stitches to the more complex embroidery stitches. 

If we were looking for a flaw, it might be the number of stitches. Sixty seems like a lot until you compare it to the Necchi NC-102D sewing machine. For the same price, this option has a whopping 200 built-in stitches to choose from. But if you’re not planning on using too many decorative stitches, the Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition is the model for you.

Learn how to make an envelope cushion cover—a great beginner project to have a go at if you’re new to sewing and a quick and easy solution to brighten up your home. 

You'll mind this easier with a sewing machine, so we've rounded up the best sewing machines for every budget.

How to make an envelope cushion cover

You can watch our video guide that explains how to make an envelope cushion cover, but we've also broken down the instructions in the article too.

What you'll need

• Cushion pad measuring 45 x 45cm
• Piece of fabric measuring 48 x 106cm
• Matching thread
• Contrasting thread
• Needle
• Tape measure
• Set square
• Ruler
• Dressmaker’s chalk
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Iron

How to make an envelope cushion cover in 8 steps

Step 1

Start by measuring the cushion pad itself. For the width of the cushion add 3cm for a seam allowance, so 48cm for a 45cm cushion. For the length, double this width and add 10cm to allow for the envelope overlap, so 106cm.

Step 2

Transfer these measurements to your fabric using a ruler, dressmaker’s chalk and a setsquare to get an absolute right angle, and cut out the front cushion panel.

Step 3

If you’re using a patterned fabric and want a motif to sit in the centre of the cushion face, first transfer the measurements to a piece of tracing paper before laying over the fabric so you can see the pattern underneath. Then pin the paper to the fabric and cut out.

Step 4

At the two short ends of your fabric create a double hem as these will be the edges of your envelope opening. Fold the fabric over by 1.5cm and press, and then fold the fabric over the previous fold by another 1.5cm, press, pin and tack in place.

Step 5

Using a sewing machine set to straight stitch to sew the hems on the right side of the fabric.

Step 6

With right sides facing, pin and tack the cushion panel together, making sure to overlap the double hemmed edges by 10cm to create the envelope opening. Pin along the unsewn edges and tack together.

Step 7

Using the same settings as before on your sewing machine, straight stitch the two tacked sides following the tacking stitches as a guide.

Step 8

Clip the corners and turn the cushion cover right side out, pushing a closed pair of scissors into the corners to get a crisp point. Give the cover a final press before inserting the cushion pad.

Next time follow our guide for how to make piping for a cushion to add some extra detail to your cushion cover.

And, if you're keen to craft more lovely, unique pieces, you can also find our guide to how to make a lavender pillow here, and our step-by-step guide to more easy sewing projects here.

Follow our step-by-step instructions for how to sew a zip on a cushion cover. Making do and mending is much more commendable than just buying something new, and it means you can save a household favorite.

A cushion that works just like new can be yours in just seven steps.

How to sew a zip on a cushion cover

We have created a video tutorial to show you how to sew a zip on a cushion cover. But we've also outlined the instructions simply below too.

What you'll need

This project could be done by hand, but we recommend using a sewing machine. If you don't own one read our guide to the best sewing machines.

• Cushion pad measuring 45 x 45cm
• Two pieces of fabric measuring 48 x 48cm
• General purpose plastic coil zip measuring 35cm
• Zipper foot
• Seam ripper
• Matching thread
• Contrasting thread
• Needle
• Tape measure
• Ruler
• Set square
• Dressmaker’s chalk
• Scissors
• Pins
• Iron and ironing board

How to sew a zip on a cushion cover

Step 1

On the wrong side of one of the fabric panel’s edges, position your zip in the centre and, using dressmaker’s chalk, mark on where the zip starts and finishes.

For my 35cm zip this measurement is 6.5cm at either end and this marker will be my stitch guide when sewing the cushion panels.

This length will differ depending on how long your zip is. Your zip should sit in the center of the panel, so use your tape measure to work out the equal distance at either end.

If your zip is longer than you need, it’s easy to alter. Simply sew ten or so times around the coils at your desired length to stop the zip pull from coming off the coils and trim the zip 1cm beneath the new stitched end.

Step 2

Place the cushion panels right sides together and pin along this edge. Following the stitch guide markings, sew the seam with a 1.5cm seam allowance, using small straight stitches for the 6.5cm sections and long basting stitches for the 35cm in the center.

For the basting stitches, I’ll be using my sewing machine set to straight stitch on the longest stitch length setting, but you can tack this by hand if you prefer.

When sewing the small straight stitches at either end of the basting stitches, begin and finish each section by using the reverse stitch button on your sewing machine to secure the thread ends and strengthen the seam ends. Use your iron to press the seam open.

Step 3

Lay the zip face down along the basted seam making sure that the zipper teeth sit directly over the join of the seam and pin in place.

With a contrasting threaded needle, stitch a row of tacking down either side of the zip, securing the zipper tape to the seam allowance. Always double-check that the seam and zip are lined up as you sew.

Step 4

Change the presser foot on your sewing machine to a zipper foot and topstitch all the way around the zip on the right side of the fabric, about 3mm from the zip’s coil.

As you sew around the corners, lower your needle, lift the zipper foot, turn the cushion panel, lower the zipper foot and then continue sewing.

Step 5

With the seam ripper, remove all the tacking stitches around the zipper tape. Turn the cushion panel over and remove the basting stitches to reveal the zip beneath. Unzip the zipper.

Step 6

With right sides together, pin and tack the cushion panels all the way around the other three sides. Change the zipper foot back to the presser foot on your sewing machine and straight stitch with a 1.5cm seam allowance. Clip off all four corners to get a crisp finish.

Step 7

Turn the cushion cover right sides out and use a closed pair of scissors to push the corners right out. Give the cover a final press before inserting the cushion pad.

Once you've mastered how to replace a zip on a cushion you can do pretty much anything. Learn how to make a cushion from scratch, or how to jazz a cushion up with our guide explaining how to make piping for a cushion.  If you want to try something new then our list of easy sewing projects will come in handy.

Wondering how to make piping for a cushion? It is easy enough to buy ready-covered cord, but with our simple guide, you can learn how to make piping in any color you want, to perfectly match your existing cushions. 

Once you’ve made your piping, have a go making a cushion cover with piped edging, we've put together a handy guide that explains how to make a cushion cover in less than 30 minutes.

How to make piping for a cushion

What You'll Need

A sewing machine will make this a much quicker task. If you don't have one or need a new one, read our guide to the best sewing machines.

• Cushion pad measuring 45 x 45cm
•  Fabric measuring 50 x 120cm
• Contrasting fabric for the piping measuring 150 x 150 cm
• Piping cord measuring 200cm in length
• Matching thread
• Contrasting thread
• Needle
• Tape measure
• Set square
• Ruler
• Dressmaker’s chalk
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Zipper foot

Before you start...

Piping preparation

Cut the fabric on the bias by folding your square of fabric in half diagonally and cutting along the fold so you have two triangles.

Using dressmaker’s chalk, mark 5cm in from the raw edge and then cut along this line. Continue to cut strips until you have enough to go all the way around your cushion.

Cushion cover preparation

Cut out a square measuring 48 x 48cm for the front panel and two rectangles measuring 27 x 48cm and 37 x 48 cm for the back panels.

If you’re using a different size cushion pad, measure the length and width of the cushion. For the width of the cushion add 3cm for a seam allowance and for the length, double this width and add 10cm to allow for the envelope overlap.

Transfer these measurements to your fabric using a ruler, dressmaker’s chalk, and a set square to get an absolute right angle.

How to make piping

Step 1

To join the bias strips together, trim the short ends so they are all squared off. Take two strips and with right sides facing, pin where the short ends overlap at a right angle.

Step 2

Use some dressmaker’s chalk to mark a 45-degree angle across the overlapping fabric and machine straight stitch along this line. Trim the excess and press the seam open. Repeat with all the strips until you have one long piece.

Step 3

At one of the short ends, fold the fabric under by 3cm and pin in place.

Step 4

Insert the piping cord 3cm in from the strip’s folded end and begin folding and pinning the bias strip over the cord lengthways so that the raw edges meet and wrong sides are facing, sandwiching the cord.

Step 5

Using a zipper foot, sew along the raw edge of the strip, close to the cord to secure it in place.

How to make the cushion cover

Step 1

Take the two back panel pieces, sew a double hem along one of the long edges of each piece. Fold the fabric over by 1.5cm and press, then fold the fabric over the previous fold by another 1.5cm, press and pin in place.

If you’re worried about using your sewing machine with the pins in, tack the hem before machine straight stitching on the right side of the fabric.

Step 2

Pin the piping to the front cushion panel by matching up the raw edges with right sides together. Where the piping overlaps, trim the cord back so that the ends meet and wrap the trimmed cord with the folded end of the fabric. Pin in place.

Step 3

Use your zipper foot to straight stitch around the edge of the piping. When you get to the corners, lower the needle and lift the foot to turn the cushion panel making it easier to sew in a curve. Snip into the piping cord’s seam allowance to help the piping cord lie flat.

Step 4

With right sides facing, pin and tack the cushion panels together so that the two back panels overlap by 10cm to create an envelope opening.

Step 5

Use the zipper foot and a straight stitch on your sewing machine to sew all four sides of the cushion together with a 1.5cm seam allowance.

Step 6

Clip the corners, turn right sides out and there you have it!

If you prefer cushions with a wider border, learn how to make an Oxford pillowcase cover.

Learn how to make a lavender pillow to keep your clothes and linen-fresh, using all-natural materials. The smell of lavender will also help to deter moths, so not only are these pillows pretty, they’re also extremely practical!

If they lose their smell over time, simply put a few drops of good quality lavender essential oil onto the pillows to restore their aromatic scent.

We like to use ours in our linen cupboard to perfume and keep our bedsheets fresh. The subtle scent of lavender will also help to relax you before bedtime—is there no end to this wonderful flower’s benefits?

This lavender pillow craft is extremely simple to make and is a lovely gift for friends or relatives. You could spend a day making multiple piles of cushions and save them for special occasions. Handmade gifts are always the most special and these little lavender pillows are no exception.

This project is hand-sewn but you could make a batch very quickly with a sewing machine. If you're considering buying one read our guide to the best sewing machines before you invest.

How to make a lavender pillow

What you'll need

• Patterned cotton
• Needle and thread
• Paper
• Dried lavender
• Ribbon

Instructions

1. Cut a pair of 9.5cm squares from three coordinating pieces of fabric.

2. Stitch the pairs together, with right sides facing, taking a 6mm seam allowance and leaving a 5cm gap in one edge to turn through.

3. Clip the corners and turn right side out.

4. Roll paper into a funnel and slip the narrow end into one sachet. Pour in dried lavender until it resembles a pillow.

5. Slip stitch the gap closed. Repeat to make two more sachets.

6. Pile sachets on top of each other and tie them together with ribbon, or sew a loop of ribbon at the top of each of them to hang on clothes hangers.

Now you’re ready to add them to your wardrobe, drawers or cupboards to give a bust of freshness!

Once you've mastered this lavender pillow, try more of our easy sewing projects.

Learn how to make an Oxford pillowcase cover with our step-by-step guide. Perfect the mitered corners for that extra professional finish. 

The decorative edging on an oxford pillowcase cover can transform a plain cushion cover. Experiment with a mixture of pattern and plain fabrics to add your own stylish twist to our design.

What you'll need

• Fabric measuring 48 x 27cm and 48 x 37cm for the back panels
• 8 strips of contrasting fabric measuring 8 x 58cm
• Matching thread
• Contrasting thread
• Needle
• Tape measure
• Set square
• Ruler
• Dressmaker’s chalk
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine (don't have one? Read our guide to the best sewing machines)
• Iron and ironing board

How to make an Oxford pillowcase

Step 1

Along two of the long edges of your back panel pieces create a double hem as these will be the edges of your envelope opening. Fold the fabric over by 1.5cm and press, and then fold the fabric over the previous fold by another 1.5cm, press, pin and tack in place.

Set your sewing machine to straight stitch to sew the hems on the right side of the fabric.

Step 2

With one of your fabric strips, align the centre of the strip with the centre of one of the sides of your front cushion panel by finger pressing the centre points.

Step 3

Pin the edges wrong sides together and tack in place and then straight stitch with a 1.5cm seam allowance, starting and stopping at the tailor’s chalk markings.

Step 4

Repeat until all four sides of the cushion panel have edging.

Step 5

Attach the other four strips to the sides of the back panel pieces,  lining up the panels so that they have a 10cm overlap for the envelope opening.

Step 6

Where the strips overlap at the corners, pin the two strips together with right sides facing. Using dressmaker’s chalk, mark a 45 degree angle across the overlapping fabric.

Straight stitch along this line, press the seam open and then trim the excess.

Repeat this process with all the corners until they are all mitred, meaning the seam sits at a 45 degree angle.

Step 7

With right sides facing, pin and tack the cushion panel together. Using a straight stitch on your sewing machine, sew all four sides of the cushion together with a 1.5cm seam allowance.

Step 8

Turn the cushion cover right side out and press. Pin and then top stitch or ‘stitch in the ditch’ where the edging meets the main cushion panel, so that the cushion pad fits snug within the cover.

Once you've perfected the pillowcase, try more of our easy sewing projects to make with a sewing machine—our easy guide to how to make a lavender pillow is a particular favorite!

Paper sewing is easy once you know our top five tips to get you started. Once you realize that it’s just a process of punching holes and joining the papers together with thread, just like sewing fabric, it becomes very simple. So take a look at our guide to this creative technique that can be applied across a whole host of crafts, from card making to embroidery. 

You will need a sewing machine to start paper sewing, so we've rounded up the best sewing machines for every budget.

Paper Sewing: Our top tips

1. Pick the right paper

The type of paper is important too. A very thin and flimsy paper will be fragile to work with, so opt for a slightly thicker paper or card stock to ensure your design turns out the way you want it to.

2. Prep the sewing machine

The first thing you need to do is get your sewing machine ready for paper sewing. Begin by changing your machine needle to one that has seen better days. Paper sewing blunts your needle so it makes sense to start off with one that’s already a little worn.

3. Adjust the stitch length

Next, you’ll need to set the stitch length and, if you’re using a zig-zag stitch, the stitch width too. The further apart your stitches, the less likely the paper is to tear and rip whilst you’re sewing. So when it comes to paper sewing, the bigger the stitch the better.

4. Sew on the "right" side

Remember, you won’t be able to turn the paper the right side out afterward, so always sew on the right side. This means the wrong side of the stitches will show the paper punches underneath, so you might want to disguise this with a piece of paper glued on as backing.

5. Use paperclips instead of pins

Pinning and tacking fabric together is essential to making sure your stitches stay on track. When it comes to paper, you’ll need to be even more accurate as once you’ve punched a hole in the paper it can’t be undone. A good alternative is paperclips or bulldog grips. Just make sure to put something protective underneath the bulldog grip so it doesn’t mark your paper.

6. Rotate the foot

When sewing curves on your paper, stop sewing at the beginning of the curve and, with the needle positioned down, lift up the presser foot, rotate the paper and drop the presser foot down before beginning to stitch again.

This is a great technique to try out with children if you’re trying to teach them some sewing basics – after all, it’s far cheaper to experiment on paper rather than fabric!

Remember we've got lots more quick and easy sewing projects if you're looking for inspiration. 

There’s actually a lot we need a printer for. Whether it’s tax season and we have to print off an endless string of documents or the whole family is working and schooling from home, the printer can become a key player at crucial times. That makes the quality of the printer pivotal. An old clunky behemoth we’ve kept around from the early 2000s might slow us down, and matters would only be worse if we had to run down to a print shop every time we needed something. The HP ENVY 6000 Series printer aims to make all of that a little easier.

What can the HP ENVY 6000 series printer do?

The HP ENVY 6055 all-in-one printer is designed to do a bit of everything. It can hold 100-sheets of paper, so you can easily keep it stocked up and ready for your next print job, and you won’t need to clutter your home with loose reams of paper. It can also scan items and make copies. That option to digitize documents is another handy way to get rid of unnecessary clutter, like a bunch of receipts you might be hanging onto for tax season.

While the capabilities of the printer may sound simple, it’s how the printer simplifies your life that matters. When holidays roll around, you can print envelopes and cards to send to friends and family. When you need to get a signed document to someone ASAP, you can quickly scan it and email it to them. When you want to make backup copies of physical photos, you can scan those in high-detail and save them right onto your computer or phone. The HP ENVY 6055’s printing capabilities will also let you print wall-worthy photos to decorate your home. 

Declutter your home

Since the HP ENVY 6055 connects to your devices over Wi-Fi, it can also help keep your home less cluttered. You don’t need to put it in the same room as a computer, nor do you need to keep it wired up next to the router. And, even though you can set it up out of the way, it offers an elegant style that fits nicely into the modern home. HP’s Instant Ink subscription service can also help ensure you never run out of ink, so the printer is always ready for whatever you need.

Always ready

Topping it off, HP’s Instant Ink subscription service can also help ensure you never run out of ink, so the printer is always ready for whatever you need. So, stop turning to the old printer that never seems to want to work the first time, never seems to have enough ink to finish a full print, and only connects to one random device in your home. The HP ENVY 6055 will bring your printing, copying, and scanning experience into the modern day with features and looks to match.

For many of us, a printer is a fact of life. It’s simply a device we need to have for the occasional document, scan job, or to facilitate our kids’ homework. But, an old printer can create more hassles than it offers solutions. The HP ENVY 6000 Series is a modern printer that can take the fuss out of printing.

While older printers were clunky, many with loose sheets of paper hanging out the back, the HP ENVY 6055 is a refined package. It’s not a giant machine, and it has a discreet, 100-sheet paper tray that lets it stay primed and ready to print without cluttering up your home. 

What is Wi-Fi connectivity?

Unlike old printers that needed a USB connection to your computer or an ethernet cable to your router, the HP ENVY 6055 can simply connect to your Wi-Fi. It even features HP’s Self-Healing Wi-Fi technology to help it stay connected. So, you can set it up wherever is convenient in your house. It doesn’t have to take up prime real estate on your desk, doesn’t need to live in your living room, and can simply hang out in a utility closet if you prefer it. That said, the elegant style of the HP ENVY 6055 makes it more of an accent piece than an eyesore if you do place it out in the open.

The Wi-Fi connectivity of the HP ENVY 6055 also helps simplify its use. It’ll work with computers, phones, and tablets alike. This means everyone in the home will have an easy time using it. Your kids can print off homework assignments from their tablet or pictures they took on their phones. You can print off tax documents from your computer. And, no one needs to borrow someone else's device or struggle with transferring files between devices to get a print job done. You can also scan directly to different devices, which can be especially handy if you want to make a digital backup of old photos.

Save time and money

Having a capable all-in-one printer in the home can save you from little inconveniences that can really start to add up. You won’t have to run out to a print shop when you just need to make a shipping label. You can easily print off, fill out, sign, and scan completed forms in a matter of minutes. And let’s not fail to acknowledge how much easier it is to follow a recipe from a piece of paper than it is from an online blog when ads pop up, the screen turns itself off, and our hands are too deep in the ingredients to scroll back to the next step. 

The HP ENVY 6055 can even simplify maintenance, as it supports HP’s Instant Ink program. So, even if your kids use up every last drop of ink printing off colorful photos to decorate their room, you can count on more ink coming in the mail as soon as the printer detects the ink is running low.

So, to make the odd print jobs in your life a little bit easier, check out the HP ENVY 6055.

Want to sew but can’t find the time? These quick and easy sewing projects can all be completed within 30 minutes, so you can get your craft fix without it taking all day.

Soon, you’ll be stitching up a bag in your lunch break or creating a set of coasters in an evening.

If you’ve just bought a sewing machine and are looking for some beginner-friendly makes, have a go at our speedy projects. They don’t require one of the best sewing machines for patterns or complicated techniques, so it’s a great way to build up your confidence to tackle more technical designs in the future.   

• Best sewing machines for beginners: 5 machines to get you started with the hobby
• How to thread a sewing machine without any hassle
• Best sewing machines for quilting: 5 picks for making the most thoughtful gift for loved ones

20 easy sewing projects to whizz through

1. Sew a set of rope baskets for some stylish storage

This impressive project might look hard, but it’s super simple to accomplish. All you need for this is some washing line cord or cotton rope, some matching or contrasting sewing thread and your machine set to a wide zigzag stitch. Invest in a denim needle to get through the thick rope if you plan on making a couple.

Coil the rope around itself to create a tight spiral with the first 30cm of cord. Pin through the sides to secure and then stitch between the pieces of cord to sew them together, following the spiral around as you sew. Continue stitching the cords together while coiling the cord around, keeping the base of the basket flat on the bed of your sewing machine.

To create the sides of the baskets, tilt the stitched base at a 90º angle and continue stitching. Carry on until you run out of cord and simply tuck the end inside the bowl and stitch in place.

2. Stitch a set of coasters for your coffee break

Use up leftover patterned fabric scraps to recreate these colourful coasters. For an applique project like this, add some Bondaweb to your sewing stash – it’s a must-have for most sewers and you won’t regret it. Make sure you have some matching thread and plain fabric, too, for this quick-sew project.

Cut out two squares measuring 12x12cm from plain fabric. Fuse the Bondaweb to the wrong side of the patterned fabrics, draw a coffee shape on the paper backing and then cut out. Remove the paper backing and apply the applique to one of the plain squares. Straight stitch all the way around the cup motifs in a contrasting thread to secure. 

Pin the squares together with right sides facing and sew around three sides with a 1cm seam allowance. Turn right sides out and press flat. Turn the open side under by 1cm and pin. Straight stitch all the way around the edge of the coaster about 5mm from the edge. 

3. Make some luggage tags for your next holiday

If you struggle to spot your luggage while it’s gliding about the baggage carousel, you need one of these pretty labels to stand out from the crowd. We’ve used some map canvas fabric to make ours sturdy. 

Using our image as a guide, cut out four luggage-tag shapes measuring about 8cm x 12cm. Pair two together with right sides facing and stitch with a 1cm seam allowance, leaving a small gap for turning through. Turn right sides out, turn the gap in by 1cm and top stitch all the way around the edge. This is the back piece.

Repeat for the other two pieces and then score a cross in the centre. Turn the cut edges inside and top stitch to create the front piece. 

Pair the front and back together and the topstitch around three sides to form the label. Cut a piece of white card to fit inside the holder.

To make the strap, cut a piece of fabric measuring 5cm x 25cm, press in half lengthways with right sides together and sew along the edge with a 1cm seam allowance. Turn right sides out and topstitch along the edges.

Now it’s time to practice a new technique if your machine has a buttonhole stitch. Follow your manual to sew a buttonhole on the top of the luggage tag. Slip the strap through and tie the label to your suitcase.

4. Sew a glasses case to keep your specs safe

Store your glasses or sunnies in one of these cute cases, perfect for stashing them away safely in your handbag. All you need is a piece of patterned fabric measuring 18cm x 21cm and lining fabric measuring 21cm x 21cm, matching sewing thread and a snap fastening if you want to seal the case.

Take the outer and lining fabric and pin together along a matching edge with right sides together. Sew together with a 5mm seam allowance, open out the fabric and press the seam towards the lining. 

Fold the case in half lengthways with right sides facing and press. Pin the raw edges together and sew all the way around with a 5mm seam allowance, making sure to leave a small gap for turning through along the lining. Turn the case right sides out and press. Turn the edges of the opening under by 5mm and topstitch closed. 

Push the lining down inside the outer fabric until you have a 1.5cm cuff of contrasting fabric at the top. Add a snap fastening in the centre of the contrast cuff to keep the case closed.

5. Personalise a plain towel with your initials

Love a matching bathroom set but hate getting the towels mixed up? Banish the confusion with this initial towel make.

Simply fuse some Bondaweb to the reverse of some patterned fabric. Draw out your letter of choice on the paper backing and cut out. Remove the paper and apply the letter to the towel. Use a short and wide zigzag stitch to sew around the edge of the letter to secure it in place.

6. Sew a handy tote bag for your next shopping spree

This snazzy shopper is so speedy to stitch up and the perfect replacement for a plastic bag you’d usually get in the shops. 

Cut two large rectangles from some patterned fabric, pin together with right sides facing and straight stitch around three of the sides with a 1.5cm seam allowance. Trim the corners and turn right sides out.Turn the top edge down by 1cm and then again by 2cm. Pin and sew all the way around the top edge.

To make the straps, cut two strips from the fabric, fold in half lengthways and stitch along the raw edges with a 1.5cm seam allowance. Turn right sides out and press. Pin to the top of the bag and then topstitch in place to secure. Now you’re ready to shop!

7. Stitch a set of lavender sachets to freshen up your drawers

These simple sachets are the perfect new-house gift and they can be filled with whatever you like to add different fragrances to your drawers or wardrobe. 

Cut out two 15cm squares from patterned fabric and pin together with rights sides facing. Sew all the way around with a 1cm seam allowance and leave a 5cm gap on one of the sides. Turn right sides out and fill the pouch with your dried lavender or an alternative. Sew the gap closed and repeat. Stack into a set of four and tie with ribbon as a gorgeous gift.

8. Add a floral binding to spruce up a set of flannels

You can buy ready-made bias binding in most sewing stores or haberdasheries. For this make, we’ve used some floral Liberty-print binding to make these boring flannels pop.

Simply sandwich the edge of the flannel in the bias binding and pin in place. Topstitch with a matching thread, making sure to tuck the end of the binding under to hide the raw edges. If you’re struggling to tackle the corners, take a look at our how to use a sewing machine [LINK] guide for an in-depth tutorial.

9. Make a face mask to feel safe and stylish

Have fun with your fabric choices for this easy-sew and don’t forget to pick up 50cm of elastic next time you’re at the supermarket.

Cut out two squares of fabric measuring 20cm. With right sides together and edges aligned, stitch two of the opposite sides with a 1cm seam allowance. 

Cut the elastic in half; you can reduce or increase the length to fit your ears. Take one piece of elastic and position it in between the stitched squares. Line up the ends with the unstitched edge and against the stitched sides. Pin in place and then stitch the edge of the square with a 1cm seam allowance. 

Repeat for the other piece of elastic and side, leaving a 5cm gap in the centre for turning through. Turn the mask right sides out and slip stitch the gap closed with a hand sewing needle. Press and then fold as many pleats into the mask as needed to fit your face. Once pleated, pin and top stitch the sides to secure.

10. Sew some cushions for your sofa

Sewing a cushion is one of the easiest projects to start stitching. It’s the perfect beginner make that gives you a sense of accomplishment purely for the progression from a simple square style to embellished designs with an assortment of closures once you’ve gained confidence.

For these envelope-opening cushions, you’ll need a piece of patterned fabric cut into a 45cm square and two rectangles measuring 30 x 45cm, plus 2m of readymade fabric-covered piping. 

Take one of the rectangles and turn the one long edge under by 1cm and then another 1cm. Straight stitch to secure and repeat for the other rectangle. Overlap the pieces so they form a 45cm square. With your machine set to the longest straight stitch, tack the overlapping edges together.

Pin the two squares together with right sides facing and the piping sandwiched between the layers so that the raw edges are aligned. Stitch around the sides with a 1.5cm seam allowance. Unpick the tacked edge on the back pieces and turn right sides out.

For some extra personalisation, we’ve blanket stitched a felt letter to the front of each cushion.

11. Stitch a pincushion to add to your craft stash

Here’s another scrap-busting project that will give you the chance to try out some patchwork techniques. You’ll need some fabric and stuffing before you start making this sewing project. 

Cut out 17 strips measuring 2.5cm x 12.5cm from patterned fabric and a rectangle of plain fabric measuring 12.5cm x 17.5cm. Add an applique butterfly to the top of the plain rectangle and zigzag stitch in place, if desired.

Sew 11 of the strips together along the long edges with a 5mm seam allowance to create the backing. Repeat with the other strips to create the pocket, turning the top edge under by 1cm and then another 1cm. Topstitch in place. 

Layer the backing right sides up, with the pocket followed by the plain rectangle right sides down, making sure the hemmed edge of the pocket is in the centre. Pin and sew all the way around, leaving a 5cm gap for turning on one of the edges. Turn right sides out, fill with stuffing and slip stitch the gap closed. 

12. Sew an apron to keep clean in the kitchen

A kid-size apron that can be easily upscaled so the whole family can have a matching set. Just increase the measurements for an adult variation. Add some webbing to your fabric stash, too, as a quick and easy strap alternative.

Cut out a 45cm x 54cm piece of fabric and fold in half widthways. Cut off the top corner along the edge, measuring 13cm on the short side and 16cm on the long side. 

Open the fabric out and turn the top, bottom and side edges under by 1cm. Topstitch in place and add some pom-pom trim to the bottom edge if you fancy. Repeat for the underarm edges, folding a further 3cm and sewing as close to the edge as possible to create a channel for the strap. 

Thread a length of webbing through the underarm channel to form the neck and back ties. Add a rectangular pocket to the centre front if you wish.

13. Vamp up a denim jacket with some appliques

Upcycling clothing is a great way to transition into sewing garments. Simply arrange some readymade applique shapes or letters on the back of a jacket and straight stitch in place. This might be a good occasion to lower your feed dogs if your machine has this function and free-motion embroider the applique in place. It will give you a much smoother stitch for going around fiddly corners and curves.

Make a fabric plant pot for your greenery

Fabric baskets are all the rage at the moment for styling up your house plants and flowers. This speedy project transforms a dull plant pot with a kitsch cover-up, making it a great gift for friends and family.

Cut out a total of four 25cm squares from two patterned fabrics. Pair up two different patterned fabrics and sew together with right sides facing along one edge with a 1cm seam allowance. Repeat for the other two pieces.

Place what are now rectangles right sides together with fabrics and seams matching. Pin and sew all the way around the edge with a 1cm seam allowance, leaving a 5cm gap along the bottom of the lining fabrics. 

To box the corners, pull each corner together so the seams meet and mark 5cm in from the point. Stitch across the corners and trim away the excess. Turn right sides out and push the lining into the outer fabric. Turn the top edge down by about 3cm and place your plant inside.

15. Sew a drawstring backpack for your gym or swim kit

Get the kids to help with this simple project as it makes the perfect PE kit backpack. All you need is some brightly coloured fabric, matching cord and some eyelets.

Cut out two rectangles measuring 35cm x 45cm. Pin and stitch the right sides together with a 1cm seam allowance around three sides, making sure to not stitch the top 5cm of the sides or top of the bag. 

Turn right sides out and turn the unstitched sections of the sides under by 1cm and topstitch in place. Along the top edge, press a 5mm and then 3.5cm channel, straight stitching as close to the edge as possible.

Thread some pink cord through the channels. Fix a large eyelet to each bottom corner of the bag and thread the cord through. Tie the cord ends in knots to keep in place.

16. Stitch up a laundry set for wash days

This simple design is a more complex version of the drawstring-bag tutorial. Before stitching any of the pieces together, take the front rectangle and applique a series of letters using Bondaweb and a zigzag stitch. We’ve chosen to embellish ours with the words lights and darks, to make those tiresome wash days all the easier. And remember to omit the eyelet instructions.

17. Quilt a cover for your iPad or laptop

Once you’ve made the patchwork pincushion, have a go at making a quilted table case to flex your sewing muscles. You’ll need a couple of patterned fat quarters, batting, bias binding and some snap fasteners to complete this project.

Cut out 20 strips measuring 3.5cm x 27cm from the fat quarters, plus a 21cm x 27cm rectangle for the front and 27cm square for the back from the lining fabric and batting. 

Place the batting pieces on top of the same size piece of fabric with right sides down. Pin a strip to one of the fabric and batting pieces along one long edge, with raw edges together and right sides up. Pin and sew a strip on top of this strip with right sides facing and a 5mm seam allowance. 

Open out the strip and finger press along the seam. Pin another strip over the last strip, matching up the raw edges, and repeat until all the strips have been used and each batting piece has been strip quilted. 

Sandwich and topstitch bias binding to one of the long edges of the front piece. Pin the back and front together with raw edges matching and lining sides facing. Sew bias binding on all the raw edges. Attach a series of snap fasteners along the fold-over edge and pop together to seal the case.

18. Sew a starry hot water bottle cover for chilly nights

Most of our easy-sew projects have used cotton fabrics to keep things simple, but step it up a gear with this sewing idea that uses wool felt instead. After all, it’s good to experiment with alternative fabrics to expand your sewing repertoire.

Place your empty hot water bottle on a piece of paper and use a pencil to draw around the edge. With a ruler, straighten the lines at the neck. Add 2cm around all the edges of the hot water bottle to create your front hot water bottle template.

For the two back templates, measure 28cm up from the bottom of the template. Draw a horizontal dashed line to mark this length. Then measure 18cm down from the top of the template and draw a horizontal dotted line to mark this length, so the two templates overlap. 

Cut out the template and pin to the wool felt. Cut out one front and one of each of the back pieces. On the back pieces, turn the edges with the dashed lines under by 1cm and then another 1cm to create a double hem. Pin and topstitch. 

Cut out a star from a contrasting felt and pin and then zigzag stitch to the centre of the front piece. Pin the front hot water bottle piece to the back pieces with right sides together and pin all the way around the edge, making sure the two back pieces overlap to form the opening. 

Sew the pieces together with a 1cm seam allowance. Clip into the curves, turn right sides out and press. Fill with the hot water bottle. For extra embellishment, stitch two small stars to a piece of ribbon and tie around the hot water bottle neck.

19. Get ahead for Christmas and make this present sack

Again, this project is very similar to the laundry and gym bag instructions; it just requires some festive fabric to get you in a Christmassy mood. Replace the cord with some bright red ribbon and tie in a knot to seal Santa’s presents inside!

20.  Stitch up a set of mittens from an old jumper

For winter months, a pair of handmade mittens are a must. If you have a moth-eaten or bobbly jumper that’s seen better days, this is the perfect project to put that knitted fabric to good use.

Place the jumper inside out on a flat surface and position your hands on top, making sure your wrists are along the bottom ribbed edge. Draw and then cut around your hands to form a mitten shape. You should have two pairs of mitten cutouts.

Pin and sew all the way around the edge, leaving the cuff open, with a 1cm seam allowance. Switch to a zigzag stitch to stop the raw edges from fraying and turn right sides out, ready to wear.

Shortly after Amazon released its Kindle eReader in late 2007, it seemed like the era of the printed book was coming to an end.

More than a decade later, that prediction has been proven wrong, since print sales are still going strong. In 2019, print books recorded a whopping £3.5 billion in sales – hardly the sales volume of a dying market - compared to e-book sales of just £653 million. So, it appears that print books can happily coexist with e-books and you can have the best of both worlds.

Print advocates point to the book-buying experience as part of the pleasure of reading books. They enjoy browsing the store or reading a few chapters before buying. With e-books, using the best eReader for your needs, the experience isn't quite the same - although you can browse virtual aisles and download a sample chapter or two before you buy. 

Knowing the best option for you comes down to understanding the benefits of both experiences and choosing the one that resonates most with your reading habits. Take a look at the advantages of print books versus eReaders, to help you make your decision.

The pros of print books

For print book lovers, a big part of the experience is simply holding a book, turning the pages and enjoying the soft scent of paper. If your decision-making criteria is on the more practical side, however, here are a few more reasons to love print:

On the downside, print books are heavy and take up room. If storage space is limited at home, or if you're travelling and hoping to take a good book to keep you company, print books might create a few challenges that eReaders won't.

Reasons to opt for eReaders

Having a digital library may be the choice for you and, given the number of eReaders on the market, you should find one that meets your specific needs. Whether you want the best Kindles or one of the best eReader brands, here are five features to consider if you're looking to replace the printed book, or at least invest in a device to use alongside your print book collection.

Before enjoying an e-book, you'll have to invest in an eReader, and an eReader may or may not be a cost-effective purchase, depending on your reading habits. While this up-front cost doesn't exist with print books, if you are an avid bookworm an eReader can pay for itself in the long run, as you'll have access to some of the best books of 2021. If you read more than ten hardcover books in a year, a £200 eReader would pay for itself in the first year, assuming a cost of £20 per book.

While your default preference may lean towards print books or eReaders, we think there is a place in everyone's library for both. Unlike many other products that have completely changed with the introduction of digital technology, most readers seem to appreciate the benefits of both print and eReaders to suit their various needs. Some of our favorites include the Amazon Paperwhite, the Amazon Oasis, the Kobo Clara HD, and more.

Meet the Kindle Oasis, a premium eReader that offers sophisticated hardware, convenient perks, and a treasure trove of great titles.

There are three Kindle eReaders to choose between at the moment (not including the kid’s one), and of these the Kindle Oasis is the biggest, the most expensive, and one of the best Kindles in terms of features and functions. That doesn’t necessarily mean it's the best eReader for you, however. 

At £229.99 (and up), it’s quite an investment for a device that may have some really nice features, and look fantastic, but that doesn't actually do a whole lot more than the basic, entry level Kindle does. That's the one that costs a mere £79.99. But that can’t be the whole story. 

We took a closer look at the Kindle Oasis, reviewing it in depth to try and guide you through the specs and the options you need to know about… as well as why Amazon charges so much money for this particular eReader. It's undoubtedly a fantastic piece of hardware, but we still have reservations.

Kindle Oasis: design

At 7 inches corner to corner, the Kindle Oasis has a bigger display than the 6-inch screen on the basic Kindle and the Kindle Paperwhite – that's the first reason you might pick this one over the other two. It's also the only Kindle eReader in the current range to have physical buttons for turning the pages, although you can also tap on the screen if you prefer.

The back of the device is ridged, which in theory makes it easier to hold, but we're not convinced. The Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite are perfectly easy to hold in one hand, and they might actually be easier to hold up than the Kindle Oasis, because of their smaller size. This is one of the Kindle Oasis features that feels a little superfluous.

The Oasis does have a metal finish rather than plastic, and it's undoubtedly pleasant to the touch. The screen sits flush with the front of the device as well, and we have to admit it does have a premium appearance: it looks like an eReader that costs a bit extra. Your color options are gold (like our review unit) or graphite.

We're pleased to report that the Kindle Oasis is fully waterproof, so it's also going to survive a dunk in the bath or the paddling pool. Unfortunately it still makes use of the older microUSB standard for charging. That's fine, and you do get a cable in the box, but it would be easier in terms of cable clutter if it just used USB-C like pretty much everything else nowadays.

Kindle Oasis: specifications

When it comes to Kindle eReaders, there aren't too many specs you need to concern yourself with: we've already mentioned the 7-inch screen, and the only other feature really worth mentioning is the choice you've got between 8GB or 32GB of storage (the same as on the Kindle Paperwhite). Considering 8GB can hold around 6,000 e-books, we think that's going to be enough for most people.

If you go for the 32GB version, the price gets bumped up along with the memory – to a hefty £259.99. There's also the option of 4G connectivity, which means you'll be able to download new e-books even while you're away from Wi-Fi. If you opt for that model (with 32GB of storage) it will set you back £319.99. For most users, buying, downloading and syncing while on Wi-Fi will be fine (you can of course read your e-books anywhere, once they're synced).

All the models in the Kindle range should last you weeks between charges, although it does of course depend how much reading you do (and how bright you have the screen). After a week of reading an hour a day, we saw the battery dip from 100 percent to 85 percent, so Amazon's claims do hold up...unless you're a voracious reader. As long as you have a full charge when you leave, the battery on this Kindle will last you the duration of a holiday or a week camping.

As you're not playing games or browsing the web on your Kindle Oasis, it doesn't need particular fast internals, but we're pleased to report that the eReader is snappy in its page turning and its menu loading. It may even be a touch faster than the Kindle Paperwhite, but they're all more or less the same in terms of responsiveness and page loading times. If you've never used an e-ink screen before then it's a little slower than a phone or a tablet, but it's perfectly fine for reading e-books.

Kindle Oasis: reading

One of the party tricks that sets the Kindle Oasis apart from the Paperwhite and the basic Kindle is that as well as the brightness, you can adjust the warmth of the display. That means in the evening you can reduce the blue light emitted by the Oasis for a more orange tone and limit the strain on your eyes. Like a lot of the premium features on the Kindle Oasis, it's nice to have but not really essential.

There is a lot of play with the brightness and warmth settings though, plus all the usual font size and alignment customization options you get with every Kindle. You can definitely get this eReader set up for a reading experience that's tailored specifically to you (and the lighting conditions that you're in), and we had no complaints with reading e-books or finding new ones to download.

Text is sharp and easy to make out on the background, the choice of fonts is good, and we could happily read the best books of 2021 and best romance books for an hour or two at a time with no signs of eye strain appearing. We'd say the reading experience is slightly superior to the one you get with the Kindle Paperwhite, but there's not a huge amount in it.

Having physical buttons to turn the pages actually makes quite a difference – it means you're not always covering up the screen with your fingers or dirtying it with fingerprints. The compromise is the big black slab at the side of the display, but we think it's worth it. Note that you can use the Kindle Oasis with either your left hand or your right hand, as the display will simply rotate to suit.

Kindle Oasis: verdict

While the features and the price of the Kindle Paperwhite mean that it's usually labelled as the Kindle for most people, the Kindle Oasis is the Kindle for those who want the very best eReader experience around. The price means it's not really an option for some, but it's hard to deny the quality of the craftsmanship or the reading experience (Amazon has been making Kindles for years, so you would expect the standard to be high).

The Kindle Oasis really shows off how great an eReader can be, with a large and sharp screen, display temperature and brightness controls, plenty of customisation options and all the goodies that you normally get with these types of devices (the ability to look up word definitions in an instant, at-a-glance info on how much reading time you've got left with an e-book, and so on).

If you're choosing between this and the Kindle Paperwhite, the Oasis gives you that slightly bigger screen, the ridged back, the physical buttons, and more options in terms of backlighting and screen temperature. Everything else is pretty much the same. Whether that's worth an additional £100 of your money is, ultimately, your call.

Overall it's hard not to be impressed by the Kindle Oasis, in terms of both the hardware and the software that it offers. If you consider yourself a serious e-book enthusiast, want the very best device that money can buy, and you're prepared to pay whatever it takes, then the Kindle Oasis is the obvious choice.

From its crisp display to long battery life, the Kobo Libra H20 leverages thoughtful features and offerings that redefine how to navigate the digital reading space.

When it comes to finding the best eReader out there, you might think of the best Kindles first of all – but there are some very decent alternatives to the Kindle, including the compact and stylish Kobo Libra H20, which we're reviewing here.

Yours for £149.99, it’s a mid-range model balancing price and features (between the top-end £239.99 Kobo Forma and the entry-level £89.99 Kobo Nia). There's also the £109.99 Kobo Clara HD, so there really is a Kobo eReader for every budget.

If you're wondering why you might or might not want to invest in this particular model, you're in the right place: our Kobo Libra H20 review will lay out everything you need to know about the eReader, from screen quality to battery life.

Kobo Libra H20 review: design

There are two types of eReader in this world: those with physical buttons at the side and those without. The Kobo Libra H20 falls into the former category, which means you don't cover the screen in fingerprints or obscure the display every time you want to turn a page. It does, however, add a little extra bulk to the device. You can use the Libra H20 left-handed or right-handed, or even in landscape mode with the buttons at the bottom (or the top) – the screen will adjust accordingly.

That screen is 7 inches corner to corner, with a sharp 300 pixels-per-inch resolution, and we found it sharp and readable in all lighting conditions. Around the sides, the soft-textured plastic is easy to grip, while the page turn buttons are suitably clicky (and easy to feel for in the dark). The eReader feels solid and well constructed and, in terms of colour, you've got a choice of white or black.

The way the side panel has been put on a slight angle helps as well, giving you an eReader that fits snugly in the hand and is easy to operate. We're less keen on the placement of the power button on the device – we would have preferred to have it on the side rather than up in one corner on the back. It's only a minor point though, and you might find the button placement suits your fingers and thumbs better than ours.

As the Libra H20 is waterproof, you don't need to worry about dropping it in the bath or using it by the pool on holiday. Charging is handled via a port that uses the older microUSB standard – we would have referred to see a USB-C socket to match most modern-day phones and laptops (and cut down on the number of cables we need around the house), but it's not a deal breaker.

Kobo Libra H20 review: specs

The Kobo Libra H20 comes with 8GB of storage on board, which is enough to store several thousand e-books, if needed – surely enough to get you through any trip away from home. Wi-Fi is your only connectivity option, so you can't connect to phone networks and download new books that way, as you can on some Kindles. For most people most of the time, Wi-Fi will do just fine.

Kobo says you'll get through "weeks" of reading on a single battery charge with the Libra H20, and that seemed to be backed up with our testing: hours of use only knocks the battery down a few percentage points, though it'll vary depending on how quickly you read (so how often the page has to refresh), and the level of brightness that you set the display to. In essence, the battery life is not something that you're going to have to worry about.

Tipping the scales at 192 grams (6.8 ounces) and measuring 14.4 x 15.9 x 5cm (that's 5.7 inches x 6.3 inches x 0.2 inches), the eReader is suitable for one-handed use. It's lightweight enough to carry on public transport without any danger of it weighing down your arm or tiring your fingers. It's not the smallest eReader on the market, but it's small enough that its size isn't an issue.

You've got both screen brightness and screen temperature controls to work with on the Libra H20, so you can make the display warmer at night time and reduce the strain on your eyes (this will even work automatically if you tell the Kobo when to turn it on). Overall, it's a very well-specced eReader, with plenty of storage and all the hardware features you're likely to need.

Kobo Libra H20 review: reading

From the best books of 2021 to best romance books, reading is a pleasure on the Kobo Libra H20, with pages turning in a snap and text crisp and legible.

The buttons at the side of the display are pleasingly responsive, but you can just tap on the screen to turn pages instead. Tapping on the screen also brings up a host of customization options for making sure the text sizes and fonts on screen are set up in a way that you're happy with.

There are 12 different fonts to pick from, plus sliders for adjusting the size of text, page margins and line spacing very precisely. Text can be left justified or fully justified, as you prefer. Even if you end up sticking with the default settings, it's still fun to have a play around with the formats and see what's available. Plenty of reading stats are available with a couple of taps too, including an estimate of how much longer it will take you to finish your e-book. Adding annotations and looking up definitions is straightforward as well.

Getting around the software is very straightforward, and accessing new e-books is very simple. The Kobo library isn't quite as well-stocked as the Amazon Kindle one, though you should be able to find most popular titles as long as they're not exclusive to the rival platform. Unlike the Kindles, there's no support for audiobooks or having the text read out to you.

Where the Libra H20 and Kobo eReaders in general beat the Kindles is in the range of file support – they're happier dealing with different formats like PDFs, web pages or graphic novels and comics. Discovering new content through the recommendations engine and search tool can be a bit hit and miss, but in general we were able to find most of the things that we were looking for.

Summing up… the Kobo Libra H20 

You've got a lot of choice when it comes to eReaders, with four distinct models in the Kobo series to pick from even before you start thinking about the Kindles. While the Amazon models have the edge with certain features (such as audiobook support), the Kobo devices are certainly well worth considering – especially if you want to break out of the Amazon ecosystem and open up e-book files in a variety of formats.

If you're after an eReader with physical buttons, then the Libra H20 could well be the best option out there, with the Kobo Forma and the Kindle Oasis being significantly more expensive. We like the way that the eReader can be used in any orientation you like – portrait or landscape, left or right, top or bottom – and it even comes in a choice of two colors. The sharp, bright 7-inch screen, meanwhile, is big enough without making the device too unwieldy overall.

You could argue that the Amazon eReaders have the edge in terms of their e-book store and the overall polish of the software, but the Kobo equivalents aren't far behind at all. Nice touches, such as the integration with the online read-it-later service – Pocket – mean that this might be a better option than a Kindle for a lot of people.

It's hard to find many faults at all with the Kobo Libra H20 – waterproofing, customizable screen temperature, long battery life... just about everything about the device is in the positives column. Before putting down your cash though, it's worth having a browse through the Kobo store online to make sure you can get everything you need. Consider your quest on how to choose a good eReader over.

For bibliophiles and novice readers alike, the Kobo Nia is an affordable, yet high-performing eReader that ensures an enjoyable reading experience.

If you're thinking about getting a new eReader then you've got more models to pick from than you might realize. While Kindle and Kobo are really the only names in the frame, each brand offers several different devices to pick from, and here we're taking a look at the cheapest Kobo: the Kobo Nia.

It's the £89.99 price that's really the key selling point - you should judge everything else the Nia offers with that price in mind. While the cheapest Amazon Kindle is a little cheaper, the Kobo Nia has a sharper screen, and might suit you better.

We've put the Kobo Nia to the test in all the key categories that matter, from battery life to the overall reading experience. By the time you've worked your way through our review you should know if the Nia is the right eReader for you.

Kobo Nia review: design

The Kobo Nia is a simple slab of black plastic with a slightly recessed 6-inch e-ink display -  it's not a particularly stylish or premium-looking eReader, but it's not an ugly device either. The corners are nicely rounded and the Kobo logo is on the bottom chin. Around the back the plastic has a dimpled texture to it, which gives it a bit of extra grip that we like. Along the bottom you've got the power button and a microUSB port.

Thanks to the symmetrical design, you can easily use the Kobo Nia in either hand – at 172 grams (or 6 ounces) it's definitely light enough to hold in one hand (which can be helpful everywhere from the subway to the sofa). It's worth noting that the more expensive Kobo Clara HD is around the same size and weight, and has a similar design, but comes with more backlight options.

Unlike some other eReaders we could mention – such as the Kindle Paperwhite, for example – the Kobo Nia only comes in one color (black), though we doubt many people are going to take issue with that. If you want to add a splash of color then you can pick up one of the £19.99 plastic SleepCovers, which come in blue, yellow or black.

There's not much else to say about the design of the Kobo Nia, which perhaps is to be expected from a budget eReader. It's neat and tidy and lightweight, without offering any of the sort of premium materials or stylings that you will find on more expensive models. You might complain that the bezels around the display are a little on the thick size, but then again they make the device easier to grip.

Kobo Nia review: specs

Thankfully there are fewer specs to sift through when it comes to eReaders compared with smartphones and laptops. 

Kobo Nia review: reading

The reading experience on the Kobo Nia is not quite up to the level of the Kobo Forma or the Kindle Oasis – but it gets pretty close, and considering the price difference, that's good value. We've already talked about the display - text is perfectly clear and legible. Page turning and menu loading speed, is more or less standard for an eReader like this - it takes a few milliseconds.

Customization

The on-board Kobo software gives you plenty of customization options to play around with: you can choose between 12 different fonts as well as plenty of different sizing and spacing settings. The screen has a brightness adjustment but there's no temperature setting (the 'warmth' of the display) as there is on the more expensive Kobo models. The usual eReader software tricks are here as well, so you can look up the definitions of words with a tap and check your reading progress through a book at a glance.

E-book formats

Besides the millions of titles, like the best books of 2021 and best non-fiction books, that are available in the Kobo Store, the device is also very good at handling other formats (perhaps even better than the Kindle) – documents in EPUB, PDF, and HTML format, for example. Common digital comic book and graphic novel formats are supported too, so you've got plenty of reading options, even if the e-book store isn't quite as huge as the one run by Amazon.

Battery life

Kobo says the Nia is good for weeks of battery life and that seemed to be the case during our testing. It depends how bright you have the screen of course, and how quickly you get through the pages, but in our experience even an hour of reading only knocked the battery level down by one or two percentage points. It's not a device you're going to have to worry about charging every night, or even every week.

Kobo Nia review: verdict

With four models on offer from Kobo alone before you even consider a Kindle, there's plenty of choice if you're thinking about picking up an eReader. 

As the cheapest option in the Kobo line, the Nia does just about everything most people are going to need – so the question is, why would you want to pay any more?

A bigger screen might be one reason. But the 6-inch display you get here is perfectly fine (and easier to use in one hand). Waterproofing is something else that the Kobo Nia lacks, though again you might feel like you can do without it if it means saving some money. Screen temperature adjustment – reducing blue light late at night – is another feature that's nice to have without being absolutely essential, and you could say the same about audiobook support.

With a plain but solid design, and on-board software that does just about everything you're going to need – from tracking how far you are through each book to keeping tabs on your reading speed – we think the Kobo Nia offers plenty of value for your money. It's perfect for the casual e-book reader who doesn't want to spend too much on a device.

Just about every gadget purchase these days requires a careful balance of how much you're willing to spend versus how many features you want – bear in mind that there are no fewer than four iPhone 12 models, for example – and we think the Kobo Nia hits that balance perfectly.

In the argument of Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Nia, the declared winner depends on your personal preferences—specifically what you hope to get out of your device.

You've got more choice than you might think when it comes to eReaders, with Amazon and Kobo both offering several options in their respective ranges – and here we're going to see how the Kindle Paperwhite matches up against the Kobo Nia.

The Kobo Nia is the cheapest of all the Kobos, whereas the Kindle Paperwhite is a step up from the cheapest Kindle in Amazon's range of models. Here's how they stack up against each other in all the categories that matter.

Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Nia: design

Squint your eyes and the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kobo Nia look alike, aside from the logo down on the bottom chin. Both adopt a minimal, straightforward design, with an E Ink screen surrounded by black plastic – these are eReaders that keep the extra design flourishes to a minimum, which is OK by us.

We'll get to the screen in a moment, but considering the dimensions of the eReaders overall, the Kindle Paperwhite is the slightly bigger but slightly thinner device – 116mm x 167mm x 8.2mm compared with the Kobo Nia's measurements of 112.4mm x 159.3mm x 9.2mm. The Kindle Paperwhite is available in black, plum, sage and blue, while the Kobo Nia is only offered in black.

We do like the patterned, textured back of the Kobo Nia, whereas the Kindle Paperwhite goes for a flatter, plainer approach. Both eReaders are easy to hold in one hand and will take up about the same room in a bag, so there's not much to choose between them at all when it comes to design. Both these devices use a micro USB data and charging socket, rather than the newer USB-C.

Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Nia: screen

Both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kobia Nia come sporting 6in E Ink screens, although the Paperwhite has a slighter sharper resolution – 300 pixels per inch rather than 212 pixels per inch. It won't make much of a difference to the naked eye, but the Amazon eReader wins in the screen sharpness category.

Otherwise, the screens are very much the same – monochrome panels that respond to touch input to turn the digital pages. Both screens come with anti-glare technology that makes it very easy to read in any sort of lighting (including bright sunlight during the day).

Both the Kindle Paperwhite and the Kobo Nia have front display lights that can illuminate whatever you're reading in darker lighting conditions, so they're about even here, too. It's a close call in this department but the Kindle Paperwhite just about edges it.

Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Nia: features

You can buy the Kindle Paperwhite with either 8GB or 32GB of storage (with the price rising accordingly), whereas the Kobo Nia sticks with 8GB as the sole option. For most people, 8GB is probably going to suffice – it's enough capacity to carry several thousand ebooks around at once, so you'll never be stuck for something to read.

The Kobo Nia supports a few more ebook formats (including the popular .epub format) than the Kindle Paperwhite, whereas the Amazon eReader tends to focus on the proprietary format used in its own store. On the other hand, the Kindle Paperwhite supports audiobooks (via Bluetooth headphones), whereas the Kobo Nia doesn't.

Waterproofing is something else that the Kindle Paperwhite has that the Kobo Nia doesn't, so you don't have to worry about dropping the Amazon device in the bath or the sink. The Kindle Paperwhite comes with a bigger battery – 1,500 mAh versus 1,000 mAh, but both eReaders are going to last you weeks between charges.

Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Nia: software

It’s easy to get around both eReaders and the ebooks you load on to them. You get plenty of font and text size settings on both these devices, so you can customise the screen text as you like.

The software that comes along with the Kobo Nia is a little less cluttered and more straightforward, with more space and more focus on the ebooks you already have, rather than the ones that you might want to buy next from the digital store – and, of course, both Amazon and Kobo offer ebook stores packed with thousands of titles.

The software that comes supplied with these eReaders is similar enough that it's not really going to convince you to buy one over the other – there aren't any standout options or features that you get on the Amazon eReader that you don't get on the Kobo eReader, and vice versa.

Kindle Paperwhite vs Kobo Nia: price and verdict

As you've seen, the Kindle Paperwhite edges out the Kobo Nia in most of the categories we've covered – it has a slightly sharper screen, it's waterproof, it has the option of much more storage if you need it and it comes in more colors. In contrast, the main benefits of the Kobo Nia are support for more file formats and software that's not quite as cluttered.

The price is worth considering, though – the Kobo Nia comes in at £89.99, whereas the Kindle Paperwhite starts at £119.99 with Amazon ads on the home screen and £129.99 without. That's a significant saving if you opt for the Kobo Nia – and one you might consider worth sacrificing features such as waterproofing for.

Ultimately, these are two very good eReaders that allow deliver the best books of 2021, best romance books, and more at your fingertips. Whichever one you buy, you won't be disappointed in them. The question is whether you want to pay a bit more for the premium features and upgrades that the Kindle Paperwhite brings with it.

Over the last few years, eReaders have ushered in the new world of digital reading, brimming with titles, perks, and features for bibliophiles and novices alike. Here's why they're worth the investment.

We can't count how many times a good book was exactly what we needed to end our day, and sometimes start it too. With as little as a few hundred words, we have had the pleasure of exploring the world, going to space, falling in love in strange places, playing detective, and so much more. The world is limitless when reading, but the space in our houses, for every book we love, is not - our bookcases can only hold so much. If you're like the Woman&Home team, an eReader will change your life for the better when you're ready to make the switch from print.

Preferences on style and features vary from person to person, but what doesn't change is the benefits of switching to an eReader for a great reading experience. The best eReader is the one that is unique to you and your reading needs. While some prefer an eReader that's lightweight for travels, and easy on sensitive eyes, you may be more interested in one that connects to your social media or is waterproof, for reading in the bath.

6 reasons why an eReader will change your life

1. Get a good book in minutes

There's nothing worse than finishing a book and realizing you don't have another one ready to go. Taking a trip to the bookstore is not always convenient, or maybe you're just not willing to leave the cosy comforts of your home. An eReader provides you with millions of titles in the palm of your hands, all ready within minutes of finishing your last book. All of the best books of 2021 await your arrival.

C.S. Lewis once said, "You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me." Good thing there are endless possibilities on an eReader to challenge that theory.

2. Take a thousand books with you wherever you go

Perhaps you're in the mood for some classic literature. Maybe you're more interested in a good romance novel, murder mystery, historical fiction, autobiography, or all the above. With an eReader, your book taste of the moment doesn't matter since every genre you can imagine is available on one device. Save yourself from the boredom of waiting rooms or long journeys with Agatha Christie, Jane Austin, Charles Dickens, Mary Shelley - all at the same time, if you like. With print, you can only be saved by one at a time. 

3. Never wait for an inventory restock again

We have been disappointed on so many occasions when we get to the bookshop only to find out that they don't have what we were looking for. With shoulders slumped, we’ve settled for second choices but, with an eReader, that feeling is a thing of the past. Every book you've always wanted to read is waiting patiently for you to find them. Now you can find exactly what you’re looking for with just a click or two.

John Steinbeck said, "I guess there are never enough books," and he couldn't be more on point. One book will never be enough, and now it doesn't have to be.

4. Features that will take your reading to the next level

Whether you want a Kobo Libra or one of the best kindles, eReader features enhance your reading experience more than print ever could. With a physical book, I can't make text bigger or smaller, copy phrases to tweet, or words to check their meaning. There’s no "one-size-fits-all" approach to reading with eReaders, as with print. Everyone is unique in how they like to read, and eReaders provide a variety of options that fit anytime and anywhere you're ready to lose yourself in the world of books.

Additional features eReaders have over print are:

5. Skip the late fees and save your money

Everyone knows that a local library can connect you to stories for free, but most people don't know that eReaders can connect you to those same libraries without changing out of your pyjamas. Better yet, you'll never have to pay for late fees since e-books are automatically returned on the due date.

Diane Duane said, "Reading one book is like eating one potato chip," and I couldn't relate more. One book will never be enough, and now it doesn't have to be.

6. Low light reading

If you like reading in bed or snuggled up on the couch in the evenings, you know the pains of finding the right lighting to enjoy your book. eReaders skip the inconvenience of using a portable reading light or leaning into the bedside lamp to catch the next sentence. Adjust the brightness to fit the lighting in the room, and you'll never miss any precious time.

Print books will always have a special place in the heart of every bookworm, but when you're ready to make the switch, you'll understand why eReaders are here to stay. 

You’ve figured out the best eReader for you, and want to start digging into your reading list. But, as even an eReader library can get expensive, you want to be savvy, too. You’re in luck, given that there are currently around one million free ebooks available in the UK. That said, it can be tricky to know which are worth downloading onto your eReader. 

Luckily, there are plenty of online resources to point you in the right direction, including Amazon’s Top 100 Free chart and iBooks’ Top chart. You can also sign up for free to the Kindle Daily Deals newsletter and BookBub – both of which will then send you emails containing information about price drops and promotions. If you are a member of Amazon Prime you will automatically have access to 1,000 free titles through Prime Reading, plus the option to try First Reads, while Kindle or Fire tablet owners can take advantage of the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library.

It’s worth checking in regularly, as publishers will usually put a time limit on a freebie offer. When it comes to the classics, locating a free title can be easy – and often when a copyright expires (70 years after the author’s death) a title may become free indefinitely. A good place to start looking is Amazon’s Top 100 Free Classic Fiction chart.

To get you started on your quest for the best free ebooks, here are 10 titles (that received brilliant reviews) that you can download right now.

1. The Tanglewood Tea Shop by Lilac Mills

With more than 400 positive reviews on Amazon alone, this – the first in a series of books by Mills set in the fictional village of Tanglewood – is a tonic in these tumultuous times. The story follows patisserie chef Stevie, whose life is whipped up like one of her bowls of butter icing when her great aunt leaves her an inheritance, which she uses to open a tea shop in the Brecon Beacons. With an array of characters who are both easy to love and hate, a dishy (but grumpy) love interest (in local stable owner Nick) and plenty of entertaining antics thrown in for good measure, it’s a delicious slice of light-hearted escapism.

2. Life Of Crime by Kimberley Chambers

If you have yet to discover the number-one bestselling author Kimberley Chambers, then this could be your perfect opportunity. All of her books are set in the gritty underworlds of Essex and London’s East End, and all ooze authenticity, suspense, drama and a host of unforgettable characters. Life Of Crime boasts more than 850 positive reviews on Amazon, with readers calling the crime thriller “sharp”, “shocking” and “gobsmacking”. No spoilers here – just know that it’s well worth a download.

3. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Always ranking high in Amazon’s Free Fiction Classics chart, The Great Gatsby is one of the all-time greatest American novels. Set in New York during the Roaring Twenties, the story is told through the eyes of young banker Nick Carraway, who becomes embroiled in the glitzy world of his neighbour, the outlandishly eccentric Jay Gatsby. Lauded for its satirical look at society, and for Fitzgerald’s razor-sharp observations, there is much about this classic that still feels relevant today.

4. Ask No Questions by Lisa Hartley

We don’t know about you, but the recent news that the sixth series of BBC drama Line Of Duty has finally begun filming has got us in the mood for a juicy detective novel. Ask No Questions, a gripping story delving deep into the shady world of police corruption, is the first in a collection of crime thrillers starring undercover detective Caelan Small. It has plenty of four-and-five-star reviews on Amazon backing it, and readers are calling the book “unputdownable”. We’d say it’s a freebie worth downloading.

5. The House At Greenacres by Darcie Boleyn

Who doesn’t love a cosy romance set in beautiful Cornwall? Even better that this charming tale has the added bonus of a fictional vineyard. The premise of the story? After fleeing Penhallow Sands a year ago, Holly Dryden never thought she’d be back. However, that was before fate conspired to bring her life crashing down around her ears. Helping to run the family business once again, Holly realises that running away from the past is never the answer – especially when part of it is the handsome father of your child… An uplifting and poignant tale about family, love and finding your place in the world.

6. The Dentist by Tim Sullivan

An acclaimed screenwriter with TV and film credits for hits such as Cold Feet and Letters To Juliet, it’s no wonder that Tim Sullivan is consistently well-reviewed on Amazon. Now you have the chance to sample some of his written work free of charge. The Dentist, the first in the author’s DS Cross mystery series, follows the detective protagonist’s quest to discover why a homeless man has been murdered in Bristol. Gritty, dark and satisfying, it’s a real treat for fans of the genre.

7. Killer Cupcakes by Leighann Dobbs

One of the bestselling writers on USA Today’s book list, Leighann Dobbs has written an astonishing 15 books in the Lexy Baker Cozy Mystery series, and the first of them is currently free to download. Combining baking with super-sleuthing may not be the most obvious blend for fiction, but with more than 1,500 reviews on Amazon from satisfied readers, Dobbs is clearly doing something right. Killer Cupcakes sees Lexy joining forces with both her hunky detective neighbour and a gang of crime-solving grannies in order to catch the person who poisoned her horrible ex-boyfriend. Will she catch the killer and the man? You can find out for absolutely nothing!

8. Family Connections by Anna Jacobs

While going through her father’s belongings after his death, Gina discovers evidence of a secret from his past. This triggers the decision to leave her demanding family behind in Australia and embark on a fact-finding mission to England. Meanwhile, in Blackpool, put-upon Peggy is sick of the constant verbal abuse she suffers from her husband and is in desperate need of escape. What neither woman expects, however, is the impact they will have on the other. This touching escapist read, which will appeal to fans of Patricia Scanlan and Liane Moriarty, has had a flood of wonderful reviews. Get it while it’s free.

9. The New Guy by Kathryn Freeman

If you’re after something a little saucy, this fresh, funny (and free, natch) story about a woman who has a one-night-stand with a man who turns out to be her new employee, is about to become the easiest download of your day. The chemistry between the two lead characters sizzles, the entertaining plot gallops along and the ending will leave a big smile on your face. There are more than 150 positive reviews for this book on Amazon, and we can completely understand why.

10. Swept Away by Penny Parkes

Chances are that you may already be a big fan of Penny Parkes’ Larkford books – which follow the goings-on in and around a village medical practice. If you’re not familiar with them yet, this free short story is the perfect way to dip a toe into Parkes’ wonderful world. The author has created a fabulous cast of characters in a believable setting, and this delightful story more than deserves a place in your eReader library.

As consumers have gotten used to using digital products daily, the number of eReader users in the UK has rocketed from a modest 1.8 million in 2010 to become a familiar and much-loved device in many households (eReader usage rose from 30% to 34% in the first half of 2020). As demand has grown, so has expectation for someone to create the best eReader yet. We want more from our devices than we ever have before, and it’s a lucrative market for any company that can break through and offer something new and exciting. 

While Kindle and Kobo continue to dominate the market in the UK, they are not the only brands offering innovative and competitively priced eReaders. Over in the US, where it is estimated that 93 million people own a digital reading device, there has been a huge influx of new products in recent years, while China continues to push developmental boundaries in a bid to secure a larger audience.

Of course, there is a good reason why Kindle and Kobo are sitting proud at the very top of the UK eReader market – both offer devices that are user-friendly and not too taxing on the bank balance – but that shouldn’t deter you from having a look at what else is out there. To make it easier for you, here are three eReader brands that you may not have heard of and the types of product they are offering. (Just be sure to check out the best books of 2021, best non-fiction books, best romance books, and more.)

PocketBook

Founded in the Ukraine with company headquarters in Switzerland, PocketBook International has been in the electronic book business since 2007 and claims to be the third largest eReader manufacturer in the world. It is a status that’s easy to believe when you take into account that earlier this year they became the first to launch a mainstream colour eReader. Compared to the best Kindles, The PocketBook Color boasts a 6-inch E-Ink Kaleido™ 300dpi screen, which can display 4,096 colors. It has extended battery life, fully adjustable brightness, contrast, saturation and light levels, six audio formats, Bluetooth, text-to-speech and 16GB of built-in storage. It’s also small and light, allowing you to slip it easily into a bag or coat pocket, and retails at around £200.

For those of you who are looking for something a few rungs lower on the price scale, the PocketBook Touch Lux 5 shares many features with its more colorful cousin, but has a month-long battery life and weighs less, too, tipping the scales at just 155g. In the same way as you would with a tablet, you can download the Kindle, Kobo and other reading apps onto all PocketBook devices in order to buy, store and read your ebooks as normal. The Touch Lux 5 retails at around £150, while the previous model, the Touch Lux 4, costs from around £110.

LikeBook

Hailed as the most powerful eReader in the world, Chinese company Boyue’s LikeBook Mars will allow you to read ebooks, listen to audiobooks or simply play around with your Android apps. It has a high-resolution 7.8-inch touchscreen, fully adjustable front-lit display with warm light to protect your eyes and 16GB of built-in storage with room for an SD card, which could increase that to 128GB. There are numerous filters for keeping your ebook libraries in order, while the navigation is straightforward. 

One downside of this device is that there is only one font available (most Kindles and Kobos have multiple options), although you can change the size of the text and the ratio of the images, the latter of which is a new addition to this type of product. With its large screen, speedy loading time and intelligent PDF display capabilities, it’s a good choice for anyone wanting to use their eReader for work and play. The RRP is £239, but it is currently available from Amazon for £199.

BOOX

Chinese company Onyx International Inc is on a mission to build innovative eye-friendly electronics to protect its consumers from the dreaded digital eye strain. So, if you choose one of their BOOX eReaders, you will be comforted by the knowledge that your sight is in safe hands. They are also the first company in the world to apply Android 9.0 OS to their eReaders, allowing users the freedom to download more of their favourite reading apps.

The Onyx BOOX Poke 2 is the smallest and lightest device of its kind in the market and impresses with its 32GB built-in memory, multiple fonts, adjustable displays and Bluetooth. Unusually for an eReader, it will allow you to link up to extra devices such as portable keyboards, Bluetooth headphones and microphones without needing to faff around installing supporting software, and it has fingertip recognition for added security. 

With all these bells and whistles, it’s definitely an eReader for the more tech-savvy customer. However, it is clear from the Onyx BOOX Poke 2 that this is the direction the market is heading; if you’re thinking of an upgrade, choosing one of these could be a savvy way to get ahead of the crowd.

NB: Due to the current Coronavirus pandemic, you will need to order directly from BOOX.com. The BOOX Poke 2 retails at $189 (£143); shipping costs are extra.

With in-person activities a bit restricted right now, it's a great time to get crafting. There are all sorts of crafting websites, jewellery making kits and how-to videos online but, if you find yourself craving a more formal, tutor-led experience, we have found a host of online classes that will help you satisfy your creative urge. Grab your pliers, wire and beads, choose an online class from the options below and get busy.

Skillshare

Skillshare is a huge online database that offers classes in a range of creative subjects, such as film and video, creative writing and illustration. It also has a number of online jewellery making classes among its offering; 33 different courses to be exact, including DIY wire-wrapped bead pendants, realistic floral necklaces and petal earrings made using scrap silver.

One of the most popular jewellery-making classes on Skillshare is one that teaches you how to  make beautiful stacking rings from silver wire. This class walks through all the steps to create that trendy, stacked ring look that fits perfectly on your fingers. This style also makes a lovely gift for someone special. An ideal course for beginners, you’ll learn a range of basic techniques such as soldering, polishing and filing. 

READ MORE:

• Everything you need in your jewellery starter kit
• How to make earrings – quick ideas for beginners
• Jewellery repairs you can do yourself - without the help of a professional

Creative Live

This online learning platform also has numerous classes to choose from. Creative Live's Craft & Maker category includes courses in interior design, knitting and jewellery design, among other things. All of its classes are modestly priced and include titles such as: Intermediate Chain Making for Jewellery Making, Fast Start Your Jewellery Business, Beginning Soldering and Beginning Stamping. Creative Live offers online jewellery making classes on an individual basis or, if you prefer, you can buy a monthly pass, giving you unlimited access to more than 1500 creative classes. The creative world is your oyster.

Jewellers Academy

If you're interested in creating high-end jewellery, Jewellers Academy is a good choice. Traditionally, jewellers would learn their trade through in-person education and apprenticeship programmes, but Jewellers Academy allows you to learn the jewellery trade completely online. This includes courses in goldsmithing and silversmithing. Jewellers Academy even offers a diploma in silver jewellery through an online one-year programme, certified by the London Jewellery School. Memberships also include tips on starting your jewellery business, opening an Etsy shop and creating your business branding. 

Udemy

If you're looking for more casual fun, choose from one of the many online jewellery making courses offered by Udemy. Jewellery making courses for novices include Wire Wrapping For Beginners, Art Resin Pendant and Earrings, Easy Gemology and the Jewellery Making Gutsy Guide: Mastering the Basics. There are pages and pages of online classes to choose from, so you're sure to find something that sparks your creativity. 

International Career Institute

The International Career Institute in London  offers an online jewellery design course that can help you launch a career in jewellery design. Taught by well-known, respected jewellery design professionals, you can complete your course from the comfort of your own home. 

The course offers a full range of topics, including how to design jewellery, equipment and supplies, the design process, making your own jewellery and preparing for your career. Students will receive a basic or advanced diploma in jewellery design. 

All Free Jewellery Making

If you're looking for some simple tutorials on how to make some fun pieces for yourself or friends, check out US site All Free Jewelry Making. There are how-tos on everything from macramé bracelets to beaded Indian drop earrings. Many projects are easy and can be done in less than an hour, plus they're all free. 

New York Institute of Art and Design

Get all the benefits of NYIAD's Jewellery Design Course online. This course is a combination of personal mentoring and online education that will teach you how to create beautiful jewellery pieces. Current and aspiring jewellery designers can learn new skills, such as beading techniques, wire working and selling for a profit. 

Milano Fashion Institute

In its Jewellery Today online course the Milano Fashion Institute looks at jewellery-making from the perspective of art, fashion and design. This class teaches some of the more complex, philosophical aspects of jewellery making, including the cultural interpretation of jewellery, the production chain and jewellery in the digital world.

IAP Career College

If you are looking for an all-inclusive online course in jewellery-making, check out the Jewellery Design Certificate Course, 6-weeks-worth of in-depth study from the International Association of Professions Career College. You get a full range of professional jewellery making courses, a jewellery Designers Certificate and an optional membership to the International Association of Professional Jewellery Designers. 

With so many online classes to choose from, there’s no need to feel restricted if you can't get out to a jewellery-making class. You can take these courses from wherever you are in the world and learn as much or as little as you like. 

For unique gifts that don't involve long lines and hours shopping in a store, try your hand at a creative, handmade gift. Each one is easy to make, and you can have fun personalizing your gifts for each person on your list, like with jewellery making kits. Break out the craft supplies and get inspired with these inventive ideas.

1. Customized charm bracelets

Put your designer skills to the test and create a beautiful, custom accessory that anyone would love to receive. 

You'll need:

• a chain

• a lobster claw clasp

• jump links

• personalized charms, for the person receiving your gift 

Directions: 

1. Cut the chain to the desired length and attach the clasp 

2. Add the charms in the order you prefer

3. Attach the jump rings to both the charm and the chain

4. Your charm bracelet is finished