They can help you relax after a long day at work.
They can provide a creative outlet, new skills, or sometimes even a new data pipe of friends.
But first, you have to get started.
(It costs $800.
But it comes with the easel!)
Whats worse than overspending on a new hobby?
Getting all the tools and then having it all end up in your garage gathering dust for years after.
Here are a few ways to explore a new hobby without diving in headfirst with your wallet.
Try an at-home kit
Looking to try a craft?
Before you set foot in a supply store, look for a kit.
They include everything you need, Kelly Rand, founder and CEO of artisan marketplaceHandheld Handmade, said.
You dont have to hunt down special tools or materials, its all right there.
She mentionedJoone, which offers starter kits starting at $45 along with refill sets for crafts like embroidery.
The reason is simple: They almost always provide you with the tools you need.
Youll be surrounded by other people in the exact same boat, testing things out, Rand said.
It might be their first class too.
You all learn from each other and the instructor.
Classes are also helpful for trying hobbies that may not fit inside your living space.
Want to try kayaking but dont have a garage to store your own vessel?
Start with a class or guided tour where youll learn about rental options and costs.
Want to start canning but have a tiny kitchen you hate?
For electronics stuff,hackerspaces are a fantastic resourcefor tools and instruction.
If not, renting equipment is always an option, especially for outdoor hobbies and sports.
Most outdoors stores will allow you to rent everything from tennis racquets to backpacks.
Even software is getting on the rental train.
Rent before you buy is an old adage, but its still applicable when youre trying out something new.
Ask an expert what you really need
But what about all the shiny new things?
What about the pleasure and possibility of browsing the endless supplies and accoutrements?
To keep an eye on your budget, tell a store associate youre just getting started.
You might be surprised how little theyll give a shot to upsell you.
More than likely they know exactly what you need, Rand said.
Theyll send you home with very specific tools for beginners.
An expert like a shopkeeper or class leader can also keep you from getting ahead of your skills.
Take my developing green thumb, for example.
Dont be like me.
Ask someone for a beginner-friendly recommendation before you buy…anything, actually.
Keep one or two alive before you bring home a whole house full of greenery.
The main lesson is that you dont need a lot of startup cash to get into a hobby.
This post was originally published on 5/3/13 and was updated on 8/14/19 to include new information.
