As more people are self-isolating and staying indoors at home, many small businesses are suffering. The loss of customers and revenue is a huge deal for small stores. But while we are mostly all at home with extra time on our hands, some solutions can keep us busy and entertained, while also showing support for small businesses.
The Telegraph has listed their favourite creative pastimes to try at home, and taking up a creative hobby is a great way to stop going stir crazy while social distancing. We have some suggestions on how to keep busy, while also supporting local businesses.
Take a virtual class
Nobody wants to be gathered with a lot of people in a classroom right now, but thanks to the internet, there are all kinds of classes available. Learning new skills and thinking critically are incredible ways to stave off cabin fever. Many small language schools have been forced to halt in-person sessions, so maybe look to see if they offer virtual language tutorials.
Maybe it’s your body that you want to exercise right now, not just your mind, and with gyms remaining closed at the moment, it’s worth checking to see if any fitness and PT instructors are streaming any sessions. Why not print out your own fitness-plan to help you stay focused and motivated. Exercise is perfect for fighting anxiety, and no doubt many of us could do with a little help with that.
Start a craft project.
If you’ve drawn a blank when asked “what are your hobbies?” because you’ve never really had the time to do something for its own sake, then now is the perfect time to pick up a hobby and a new skill.
Find a small arts and crafts supply store in your area and purchase online everything you’ll need to create a masterpiece: think yarn and needles for knitting, needlepoint kits, or paints and canvases.
Don’t feel nervous about starting a creative project. Your local arts and crafts store may have helpful hints and tips on their website, and one of the best things about small businesses is that those who run them are almost always very passionate about their area of expertise, and likely to have any advice you need.
If you are feeling more adventurous why not even create your own paper based design for family and friends and the wider world with your own art-design-craft business.
Do puzzles and play games
Whether it’s just a simple jigsaw or a book of Soduku, puzzles are an extremely satisfying way to get your brain working. Local newsagents are likely to sell books and magazines with puzzles, word searches, and colouring books.
Board and card games are great for playing against someone else. Try learning a new card game with someone.
Bake or cook something special or share your secrets with others
With the extra time on your hands, try finding out if any local independent grocers, butchers, or farmer’s markets in your area are offering delivery. Try ordering ingredients to cook something a little different than usual. Instead of watching The Great British Bake Off for the umpteenth time, try baking something spectacular for yourself!
Why not create your own cook book of your favourite family recipes and share with your loved ones. A great family keep sake. A perfect way to bring these creations to life is hardback-wire-binding a practical and beautiful format which will be cherished for years to come.
Create a Colouring Book to keep your young ones happy
Why not create something to keep the young members of the family happy with your own colouring-book, in a few simple steps.
Get in touch and print colouring book today!
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