Crafting is a brilliant way to relax, express yourself, and even create something useful. And the best part is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get started. There are plenty of fun and affordable crafts that you can try with minimal supplies, most of which can be found easily online or in local shops. If you’re looking for something creative to do in your spare time, here are 15 crafts you can try for under £25, perfect for adding a bit of joy and colour to your days.
I am a craftaholic. I have a ridiculous amount of craft supplies, ranging from huge totes packed full of yarn and cord (some of which I’ve made myself on my spinning wheel) for crochet, weaving, and macrame, to hand-sawn rings and pliers for chainmail. Then there’s the beads, the paper crafts, and the embroidery. I cycle through my craft projects depending on my mood, and I also monetize them. I sell a lot online and at craft fairs to fund more supplies and as an additional household income stream.
But you absolutely don’t need to be as crazy as I am. Instead, find a single craft or project that you want to have a go at, and go just buy the beginner supplies you need. Everything on this list will cost you less than £25 to get started with, and if you hit up the charity shops, you might be able to find the supplies even cheaper.
Crochet
Crochet is an affordable and relaxing craft that only requires a hook and some yarn to get started. For under £25, you can easily get a beginner’s kit, or simply buy a hook and a few balls of yarn to practice with. It’s a great way to make blankets, scarves, or even little stuffed animals. Plus, there are plenty of free patterns online for all skill levels.
Papercraft
Papercraft offers endless possibilities for creativity, whether you’re making greeting cards, decorations, or intricate paper models. With a good set of coloured paper, some glue, and scissors, all of which can be bought for under £25, you can start crafting in no time. It’s a great activity for both adults and kids, and the results can be really satisfying.
Soap Making
Soap making is a simple and enjoyable craft that lets you experiment with different colours, scents, and shapes. For under £25, you can buy a beginner’s soap-making kit, which usually comes with moulds, ingredients, and instructions. It’s a fun way to create beautiful soaps for yourself or as gifts, and the process is surprisingly easy.
Embroidery
Embroidery is a mindful and artistic craft that allows you to create beautiful designs on fabric with just a needle and thread. For under £25, you can pick up a beginner’s embroidery kit or a few basic supplies like an embroidery hoop, needles, and floss. Whether you’re stitching flowers, animals, or patterns, embroidery is a relaxing way to pass the time.
Candle Making
Candle making is another craft that’s both fun and practical. For under £25, you can find starter kits that include wax, wicks, and fragrances to create your own custom candles. It’s an easy craft to learn, and you’ll end up with lovely homemade candles that add a cosy atmosphere to your home.
Painting with Acrylics
Acrylic painting is a versatile and beginner-friendly craft that doesn’t require expensive supplies. For under £25, you can purchase a basic set of acrylic paints, brushes, and a canvas or paper. Acrylics are easy to work with, and you can create vibrant, bold pieces that dry quickly. Whether you’re painting landscapes, abstract art, or portraits, it’s a great way to get creative.
Macramé
Macramé is an ancient craft that’s made a modern comeback, and it’s surprisingly affordable. All you need is some cord or string and a few basic knots to create wall hangings, plant holders, or decorative pieces. For under £25, you can buy enough materials to start your first project, and it’s a relaxing way to make something beautiful for your home.
Jewellery Making
Jewellery making is a fun and creative hobby that allows you to craft your own custom pieces. For under £25, you can pick up beads, wire, and basic tools to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings. It’s a great way to make personal accessories or handmade gifts, and you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to start.
Decoupage
Decoupage is the art of decorating objects with cut-out pictures and paper. With a few basic supplies like glue, scissors, and paper, all of which can easily fit within a £25 budget, you can transform items like boxes, furniture, or picture frames. Decoupage is a great way to upcycle old items and give them a fresh, unique look.
Clay Modelling
Clay modelling is a tactile and creative craft that lets you shape and sculpt objects by hand. Air-dry clay is affordable and doesn’t require a kiln, making it an accessible option for beginners. For under £25, you can get a pack of clay and some simple tools to start creating anything from pots and sculptures to little decorative pieces.
Cross Stitch
Cross stitch is an easy-to-learn craft that only requires fabric, a needle, and embroidery thread. For under £25, you can buy a beginner’s kit that includes everything you need to start stitching simple patterns. Cross stitch is relaxing and repetitive, and the finished designs can be framed or given as gifts.
Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a lovely way to preserve memories and get creative at the same time. For under £25, you can buy a basic scrapbook, some decorative paper, stickers, and glue. Whether you’re putting together a holiday album or documenting special occasions, scrapbooking is a fun way to capture moments in a personal and artistic way.
Linocut Printing
Linocut is a form of printmaking where you carve designs into a linoleum block, ink it, and then press it onto paper. For under £25, you can buy a beginner’s kit that includes everything you need to start, including a carving tool, ink, and a block. It’s a rewarding craft that lets you create unique prints and patterns with just a few simple materials.
Pot Painting
If you enjoy gardening or home decor, painting pots is a fun and affordable craft. For under £25, you can pick up a few terracotta pots and some acrylic paints to create your own custom designs. Whether it’s for indoor plants or outdoor displays, painted pots add a personal touch to your space.
Card Making
Handmade cards are a wonderful way to add a personal touch to birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. For under £25, you can buy card stock, stamps, and ink to start making your own custom cards. It’s a fun, creative craft that’s easy to pick up, and people always appreciate receiving something made by hand.
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
