As the sun rises in the sky and the warmth of summer envelops us, it is time to embrace the joyous spirit of the season. Old-fashioned hobbies bring delight and relaxation to our lives. Just as winter beckons us to cosy up indoors, summer calls us to step outside and enjoy the simple pleasures that evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to a slower, more intentional way of life.
Let’s explore 10 charming hobbies that capture the essence of a blissful summer.
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1. Crochet and Knitting by the Garden
Summer is the perfect time to grab your crochet hooks or knitting needles and get creative while enjoying the sun. Try making a light shawl, a beach tote, or a colourful blanket. The soothing movements of crochet and knitting bring a sense of calmness and fulfilment. There is nothing more exciting than finishing a knitting project.
Learn the Basics:
- Start with simple patterns such as dishcloths or coasters.
- Watch online tutorials or join a local knitting circle for guidance and inspiration.
2. Baking Fresh Fruit Pies
Indulge in baking with fresh, seasonal fruits to create delectable pies that capture the essence of summer. From juicy berry pies to fresh summer stone fruits, there’s so many flavours to try. The smell of buttery crusts and sweet fruits will fill your kitchen with homemade goodness. If you want a quick and easy dessert, try my fruit crumble instead!
Baking Tips:
- Visit local farmers’ markets for seasonal fruits or a fresh pick.
- Make bulk pie crusts and freeze them to whip up a fruit pie in minutes.
3. Outdoor Painting and Sketching
Explore new creative hobbies by capturing the beauty of summer landscapes through painting and sketching. Set up an easel in your backyard, visit a local park, or find inspiration by the beach. The vibrant colours of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and sun-kissed scenery are perfect inspiration.
Choose Your Medium:
- Try different mediums like watercolour, ganache, pencil, acrylic paint, or pastels.
- Explore different paper types to find what works best for your style.
4. DIY Herbal Infusions and Tinctures
Explore herbalism by creating your herbal infusions and tinctures using fresh herbs from your garden or local farmers’ market. From soothing chamomile tea to invigorating peppermint tinctures, these homemade remedies offer natural healing and relaxation. Learn about the properties of different herbs and experiment with blends that nourish both body and soul during the summer months.
Research Herbal Properties:
- Learn about the medicinal benefits of herbs like lavender, chamomile, and peppermint.
- Start with small batches and document your recipes for future reference.
5. Seaside Shell Collecting and Crafting
If you live by the seaside, adventure to collect shells and beach treasures. This is a core memory of my childhood! Use these natural wonders to craft charming decor items like shell mobiles, beach-themed frames, or coastal-inspired jewellery. The soothing sound of waves and the excitement of beachcombing add a sense of adventure to your crafting experience, bringing a piece of the ocean’s beauty into your home.
Explore Coastal Areas:
- Visit beaches, tidal pools, or lakeshores to collect a variety of shells and beach treasures.
- Clean and dry shells thoroughly before using them in crafts to preserve their beauty.
6. Reading and Journaling
Disconnect from modern technology and transport yourself to bygone eras with vintage book reading and journaling sessions under a shady tree. Try reading classic novels, poetry collections, or historical memoirs that evoke the spirit of summers past. Capture your thoughts, memories, and reflections in a beautiful journal, allowing the written word to become a timeless treasure of your summer adventures.
Create a Reading Nook:
- Set up a cosy spot with comfortable seating and good lighting for reading.
- Keep a journal nearby to jot down thoughts, quotes, and reflections as you read.
7. Backyard Flower Pressing and Botanical Art
Preserve the beauty of summer blooms by pressing flowers and creating botanical art pieces. Gather various colourful flowers, leaves, and herbs from your garden or local parks. Press them between pages of heavy books or use a flower press to dry and flatten them. Once preserved, use these delicate botanicals to create stunning pressed flower cards, bookmarks, or framed artwork that captures the essence of summer’s ephemeral beauty.
Pressing Techniques:
- Use a flower press or heavy books to press flowers and leaves evenly.
- Experiment with different pressing times and methods for optimal results.
8. Homemade Ice Cream Making
Beat the summer heat with the nostalgic pleasure of homemade ice cream making. Whether you prefer classic flavours like vanilla bean or combinations like strawberry ripple, making ice cream from scratch is unmatched. Invest in an ice cream maker or try my simple no-churn recipe for a fun and rewarding summer treat.
Make Summer Treats:
- Incorporate homemade toppings like caramel sauce or fruit compote.
- Try different mix-ins like Oreos, chocolate chips, or jam swirls.
9. Outdoor Photography and Nature Walks
Capture the beauty of nature through the lens of a camera during leisurely nature walks and outdoor photography sessions. Explore local parks, botanical gardens, or nature reserves to photograph blooming flowers, fluttering butterflies, and trees. Experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions to create captivating images that preserve the beauty of summer for years to come.
Explore Different Perspectives:
- Experiment with close-up macro shots, panoramic landscapes, and candid nature scenes.
- Use natural lighting during golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for stunning effects.
10. Outdoor Candle Making
Craft candles using natural waxes, essential oils, and botanical additives to create aromatic treasures that infuse your outdoor spaces with warmth and ambience. Create a candle-making station in your backyard, patio, or balcony, and experiment with different scents and colours that evoke summer memories. From citrusy citronella candles for outdoor gatherings to calming lavender candles for quiet evenings, enjoy the therapeutic process of candle making while enhancing your outdoor atmosphere.
Safety First:
- Follow safety guidelines for candle making, including proper ventilation and handling of hot wax.
- Use heat-resistant containers and quality wicks for safe and effective candles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 10 old-fashioned hobbies invite you to slow down, savour the season, and embrace the simple joys of summer. Whether you’re creating handmade crafts, indulging in yummy delights, or capturing the beauty of nature through art and photography, these timeless pursuits connect us to the essence of a season filled with warmth, creativity, and cherished memories. Embrace the old-fashioned charm of these hobbies to make your summer days memorable and meaningful.
If you enjoyed this, you’ll love my post about old-fashioned winter hobbies.