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25 Soothing Hobby Products From Uncommon Goods For Anyone Who Needs To Relax

Time to take a deep breath and get your craft on.

Posted 2 hours ago

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by Rachel Dunkel BuzzFeed Contributor

I am a former editor and contributor to the BuzzFeed shopping team with over seven years of experience testing and recommending products that help make life a little easier, whether that’s ultralight gear, holy grail serum, jeans that fit just right, or anything in between.

1. A beginner-friendly needle felting kit that comes with all of the tools you need to create and display one of three landscape designs. Meditatively poke, poke, poke your way to a piece of art you feel proud of. 

Uncommon Goods

Price: $55 (available in three designs)

2. Or a toadstool needle felting kit if you want to use the same skills to create a 3D piece of art. I mean, look at these little guys. Too cute for words. 🍄

Uncommon Goods

Price: $26

3. A 'Woodle' crossword dice game for anyone who wants to play a word game every morning without picking up their phone first thing. Just roll, place, and make as many three-letter-and-up words with connecting letters as you can. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "More fun than Scrabble, which we also love." —Game night

Price: $35

4. A Storybook DIY kit that literally makes me say "hehehe," it's so cute. With grown-up money, you can really just buy a craft kit of a little scene to display on your bookshelf, huh? The mini 3D scenes are as imaginative as the books they'll be surrounded by, and putting them together will be a peaceful, well-spent time. 

Uncommon Goods

The kits take 2–7 hours to put together, depending on the style, and require two AAA batteries to light up. They are not included. 

Promising review: "I've gotten these kits as gifts and also for myself... They are just SO cool when they're finished, and it's always fun to put something together where everything works, everything fits, everything makes sense, nothing's missing. An excellent alternative to flat puzzles and popular building-block sets. ;)" —Kari

Price: $40+ (available in six designs)

5. A birthday month flower paint-by-numbers set so you can sit down to paint without having to scheme or plan or design. Just sit down with your materials and get to creating, finishing with a stunning piece of art that celebrates YOU. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "This paint-by-numbers set is a joy to work with! The daffodils' design is beautiful, and the quality of the materials is excellent. The paint colors are vibrant and well-chosen, creating a stunning end result that feels professional. The canvas comes with clear lines and numbers, making it easy to follow and fun to work on, whether you're an experienced painter or a beginner. It's a relaxing and rewarding way to spend time, and the finished piece is perfect for display. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to get creative and unwind!" —MikeShee

Price: $32 (available in 12 months/designs)

6. A super unique infinite galaxy puzzle that has no start, no end, and — get this — no fixed edges! It's really and truly able to be put together with endless combinations and is the ultimate way to puzzle without limits. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "I gave this to my boyfriend for Christmas with the message, 'In such a spacious universe, I'm so glad we found each other.' We're both science and puzzle nerds, so it was a very well-received gift!" —Madeline

Price: $68

7. A gardener's tool seat and bag: if planting and weeding are among your most peaceful times, but you want to do so in comfort. Sitting can help relieve back pain and give you a little break. And the detachable tool bag keeps all of your beloved accessories organized.

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "I absolutely love this tool bench! It can fit so many useful tools, and I just carry it around with me as I move from the front to the backyard. It is quite sturdy, and the fabric is thick, which I appreciate. I sometimes find it a teeny bit high to sit comfortably on while weeding, but I alternate between squatting and sitting on this bench, which works great and has helped ease back pain. The inside is lined, and I use it to store trash like empty potting soil bags and nursery pots. I like it more than the gardening benches with wheels since it is so easy to fold this up and carry, rather than wheeling over gravel surfaces." —Desert Gardener

Price: $49

8. A clay wind chime making kit that's peaceful to create and even more so to hang and listen to. Sculpt, paint, then display this pretty piece that will bring you joy every time the wind blows. 🌬️

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "The packaging is great, and the project itself is really beginner-friendly. My sister and did the project together, and now we have a really lovely chime and memory together. Win/win." —Bex

Price: $29

9. A Book Nook reading valet for all you readers who didn't think your favorite pastime could get any better. Surprise! It holds your place in your book, your mug, and your glasses all in one special place. And don't forget the out-of-sight, out-of-mind phone cubby. Ahhhh... Peace at last. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "I bought this as a birthday gift for my mom, and it honestly could not have been more spot on. She has always kept a small reading station next to her favorite chair with a lamp, a book stack, glasses, and a cup of tea, and this fit right into that setup like it was made for her. Everything finally has a place instead of being scattered or stacked awkwardly." —Kenny

Price: $50+ (available in two styles)

10. And a one-handed book buddy, so it's easier to keep your book open. Any little thing to make the experience even better is a welcome addition to the routine!

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "This is so simple and maybe seems gimmicky, but is so cool!! Bought this as a gift and then one for myself afterward because it was so neat." —Kbr10

Price: $19(available in two styles)

11. A succulent art sculpting kit that puts your love of plants on ~display.~ Create mini plants out of air-dry clay and hang them in an adorable wooden frame to get your creativity on and really zone out. It even comes with a "Do not disturb" door sign so everyone knows you're locked in.

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "This project was so much fun to make! The quality of the materials was excellent, and there were plenty of supplies. The value was very good, and I plan to purchase some for gifts." —Carol the Crafter

Price: $28

12. A mini Weird & Wild Animal Build Kit available in tree, land, or sea sets to craft little critters to keep you company, just by punching out layers and gluing them together. I know what you're thinking: "What if the animals are lonely?" Don't worry, every set comes with a pair, so they have a friend!

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "Got these for my 8- and 10-year-old nephews who love puzzles and Legos. Great gift and nice to give something you can spend time working on together!" —JMK

Price: $24 (available in three varieties)

13. A homemade limoncello-making kit so you can play Nona in the kitchen and then sit and relax over your homemade drink with friends when it's ready. That's *two* opportunities for some relaxing fun.

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: “Awesome gift and homemade limoncello! This limoncello kit was a Father's Day gift for my dad. He had been wanting to try making limoncello for a while, and this was the perfect place to start, since it includes everything necessary! The packaging includes instructions right on it and is really simple — perfect for anyone to give it a try. The supplies included are wonderful and will definitely hold up to plenty of use. I highly recommend this kit!” —Shannon

Price: $55

14. A create-your-own-video-game set that's the perfect intro to coding for kiddos or people who just want to learn something new! Using JavaScript and Python, program your own games using the directional pads and buttons, or download and enjoy classic games. Up to you!

Uncommon Goods

The device also includes a wrist strap and can serve as a pedometer, among other functions. Okay, versatility!

Promising review: “Great gift! Got way more than expected from this ‘toy.’ The recipient explained all the options and their quality, and jumped right into programming a maze game featuring a Pikachu character. They said the tutorial is super easy to follow, endless options, and fun!” —Gifter

Price: $90

15. A decorative tile lamp-making set, so at the end of your craft, you have a piece of decor that casts a relaxing light, really setting the vibe. The kit comes with 60 tiles that you can paint with the six mixable colors to get as creative as you want while still matching your home's aesthetic. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "So many make-it-yourself craft kits seem either impossible to do or create an item you'll never really use. This is doable and beautiful!" —Ann C

Price: $25

16. A DIY crochet plant kit from the famously fun brand The Woobles, so you can learn a new skill or, if you already know how to crochet, just have fun making a new little buddy. And y'all... They already have names. Meet Otis, Ana, and Olivia. Good luck ordering just one! 🥹

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "I bought these kits directly from The Woobles. If you're new to crochet or a master, you will enjoy these cute little plants. You get step-by-step instructions, videos, and everything you need to create a cute little desk plant that won't die!" —Angie

Price: $30 (available in three plant styles)

17. A Murder Most Puzzling jigsaw puzzle that starts with an absorbing story, continues with the puzzle, which you solve in part thanks to the narrative, and finishes with you getting the answer via the finished jigsaw. A deliciously distracting game that makes for the perfect fun-but-lazy afternoon. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: “Must-have!! Fun, relaxing, with an unexpected surprise! This item was a gift for my wife! She loved it! The unique, decorative, mysterious packaging was what caught my eye. We spent quality time together on the first puzzle, which was quiet, relaxing, and fun!! We spent about three evenings on the first puzzle. We didn’t know what the image would be until the end. Why do I keep saying the first puzzle? I bought the second one, too!! (A month later.) I recommend buying both at once! The second purchase was part of Valentine’s Day to spend more quality time with my wife! Wife loves the book's look and packaging, and it looks great on our shelf.” —Unique Gift Shopper

Price: $19+ (available in two styles)

18. A pasta art kit so you can finally combine your two favorite hobbies: crafting and eating! Make your dough with the included 00 flour (aka the best pasta flour), then get crafting with four natural dyes, a pasta wheel, and dough cutters. The sky's the limit. 

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "Love this creative gift for my pasta-loving artist 8-year-old. A great gift that enabled us to have some fun together." —Tené A

Price: $50

19. A light-up wooden treehouse kit for anyone who loves cute assembly crafts and open houses. Sounds niche, I know, but tell me that looking at these little homes doesn't scratch the same itch as checking out some local real estate! The kit's available in a Forest Cottage or Woodland Outpost style, so maybe call your realtor for advice first.

Uncommon Goods

Once it's built, you can proudly display it on a shelf or in a houseplant with an included stake! Both sets include building components, LED lights with a 6-hour timer, a moisture-resistant acrylic stake, and assembly tools. Two AAA batteries are required, but are not included.

Price: $39+(available in two styles)

20. A birdwatching tote bag, so when you go out to get your tweet-tweet on, you have the perfect way to tote your binoculars, books, journals, and more. Oh! and SPF! Don't forget that. 

Uncommon Goods

The bag is made of 100% cotton canvas. 

Price: $45

21. A soapstone mini animal carving kit that includes a carving file, sandpaper, polishing wax, and a buffing cloth, so you can transform the included shaped stone into a little guy you love. This activity is even kid-friendly, so you can gift or share it with your littles, but rest assured, it's great for folks of any age who need a cute little craft.

Uncommon Goods

Price: $32 (available in two styles)

22. A build-your-own squirrel playground and feeder, if you love nothing more than to sit on your front porch and watch the world and wildlife go by. Pre-cut wood pieces, a jar, paint and brushes, tools, and hardware let you get creative without feeling overwhelmed, and from there, just hang and watch the squirrels enjoy!

Uncommon Goods

Price:$34

23. A reading journal that's literally called the "No Pressure Book Journal," so don't worry, this won't turn your hobby into a chore. It simply allows you to write down your favorite passages, reflect, and even has little essays on reading. How meta!

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "Is exactly what I expected, and it provides thoughtful essays alongside the reading journal to help you dive into your experience as a reader." —Dakota

Price: $20

24. An "emotional support desk pet" available in five sets, each made with reclaimed rubberwood and ready to both entertain and calm you at your desk or in any corner of your home where you need a little touch of whimsy. My personal pick is the chicken coop, but the tortoise pet set is a close second!

Uncommon Goods

Promising review: "Great quality. Even though marked for younger ages, it's a lot of fun to have on anyone's desk or anywhere in your house where you sit. It brings a smile to my face just looking at it, and it's a great distraction and calming activity. It begs you to pick the pieces up and rearrange them. Very fun." —Midwest Mom

Price: $17+ (available with five different animals) 

25. A "Crafting For Your Cat" guide that teaches you how to make 25 DIY projects your feline friend will adore, from toys to scratchers and more! They're gonna purr sooooo much when you give them that charm necklace. 

Uncommon Goods

Price: $25

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Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.