If you're looking for a new interest to add to your life, DIY is here to help! In this comprehesive one-hour special, host Eric Boardman introduces a wide range of hobbies for every lifestyle and budget. Along the way, hobbyists of all types explain why they love the hobbies they do. Meet a boat enthusiast who has mastered the art of crafting miniature ocean liners (figure A) -- since he can't spend as much time as he'd like on their life-size counterparts! Find out why a golfer has started spending less time on the golf course and more time cooking chili. And, see how a bonsai buff unwinds after a long day at work with his hobby, which he describes as a "great escape." A satisfying hobby is one that fits both your personality and your lifestyle. If you're a consummate gardener, for example, expanding your repertoire to include elegant topiaries (figure B) would likely be a good fit. To determine what hobby -- or hobbies -- best suit your characteristics and situation, ask yourself the four following questions: - How much time do I have?
Time-intensive hobbies like dog breeding or crafting detailed wax molds (used to create the beautiful gold charm shown in figure C) aren't practical for someone who only has a few hours a week to spare. If your time is limited, choose your hobby accordingly. And remember, don't ever allow your hobby to become a burden... the goal is to enhance your life with something you enjoy! How much money do I want to invest in my hobby? A hobby doesn't have to cost a fortune to be enjoyable. For example, paper-making requires little more than junk mail and a blender. Activities like fencing can be maintained for a reasonable amount spent on lessons and equipment rental. Tip: For many activities, it isn't essential to purchase every required item; renting some or all of your gear is often a more practical alternative. You may want to try out the hobby for awhile first to see if you plan to stick with it. Do I like spending time indoors or outdoors? Indoor hobbies have several "built-in" advantages: they aren't affected by weather and can be enjoyed in the comfort of one's home. For instance, a dining room or spare bedroom can double as a workspace where you can create rustic hand-woven baskets (figure D) or beautiful hand-painted china (figure E). More of an outdoors type? Just look in your own backyard --- the possibilities are endless: bird watching, bee keeping or even remote-control hobbies are just a few of the options you can choose! Do I want a hobby that I can enjoy by myself or with others? Some people like to use their hobby time to enjoy precious solitude after a long day at work or after a full week of caring for their home and children; others prefer a more social hobby. If you're inclined toward the latter option, check with local clubs, universities and civic groups to see what activities they offer. Hobbies enjoyed on an individual basis are often available in a group setting: astronomy, needlepoint and model-train building are just a few examples.
RESOURCES :
101 Essential Tips: Bonsai
Model: 0789410753
Author: Harry Tomlinson
(November, 1996)
To order this title from Amazon, click here.
DK Publishing - Main Office
New York, NY 10016
Phone: 212-213-4800
Fax: 212-213-5240
International Federation of Butterfly Enthusiasts
Web site: www.ifbe.org
303 Tips for Detailing Model Railroad Scenery and Structures
Model: 0890242437
Author: Dave Frary
To order this title from Amazon, click here.
Making Radio-Controlled Boats
Model: 0713459867
Author: Graham Goodchild
Clock Repairing As A Hobby
Model: 0832911186
Author: Harold C. Kelly
Hot!: Fiery And Spicy Recipes For Cooking With Chilies, Peppercorns, Mustard, Horseradish and Ginger
Model: 1884822967
(1997)
Black Dog and Laventhal Publishers
New York , NY 10011
Phone: 212-647-9336
Fax: 212-647-9332
Beautiful Beads/How to Create Beautiful, Original Gifts and Jewelry for Every Occasion
Model: 080198629X
Author: Alexandra Kidd
(August, 1994)
Chilton Book Company
Westchester, PA 19380
Phone: 610-738-9280
Fax: 610-738-9354
Flying Models
Model: 0938716549
Author: Don Ross, Mike Markowski (Editor)
Markowski International
Jewelry: Fundamentals of Metalsmithing
Model: 1880140292
Author: Tim McCreight
Making Wire Jewelry: 60 Easy Projects in Silver, Copper & Brass
Model: 157990002X
Author: Helen Clegg and Mary Larom
(November, 1997)
Lark Books / Altamont Press
Website: www.larkbooks.com
The Ultimate Chili Book: Connoisseur's Guide to Gourmet Recipes and the Perfect Four-Alarm Bowl
Model: 1585744212
Author: Christopher B. O'Hara
(2001)
The Lyons Press
New York, NY 10011
Phone: 212-620-9580
Fax: 212-929-1836
Chili Nation: The Ultimate Chili Cookbook With Recipes From Every State
Model: 0767902637
Author: Jane Stern and Michael Stern
(1999)
Broadway Books/Random House, Inc.
Website: www.randomhouse.com
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