Things to do without leaving your home: 17 geeky hobbies

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

It is important to have a hobby for a harmonious life. If you do not have a passion, most likely, you devote too much time to work and too little to yourself, and this, as you know, is a common cause of overwork and stress. Of course, after a busy day at work, you don't want to rush somewhere across the city, so we offer you a choice of several unusual geeky hobbies that you can do without leaving your room.

1. Programming

Programming is a typical hobby of the modern geek. There are a lot of possibilities - from web programming to game development. There are many spheres and various directions in programming, so you can surely find something really interesting for yourself. And at the same time, no cash investment is required. But most importantly, you don't even need additional space, except for a desk with a computer or a laptop on your lap (and I'm sure you already have it).

So, if you decide to start immediately, we recommend that you read the thematic articles on Lifehacker. For example, check out and, which will help you become a programmer.

2. Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi is a very small computer, essentially a single board, slightly larger than a bank card. But nevertheless, it contains a processor, memory, ports for external devices, Internet connection and graphics output. Initially, the device was created as an inexpensive system for teaching computer science, but it caused a real sensation among geeks. Its main advantage is that you can use it almost as you like. You can start with simple projects, such as turning an old TV into a monitor. And then show all your creative imagination. In addition, not so long ago, an improved version came out at the same price - $ 35.

3. Arduino

Like the Raspberry Pi, the Arduino is a small microcontroller that's pretty easy to use. The board can be purchased both on the website of the official manufacturer and from third-party developers - the completely open architecture of the platform allows copying and supplementing the line. But the most chic is, of course, trying to make the device yourself. We recommend watching one of the creators of Arduino Massimo Banzi, in which he talks about how a small device awakens the imagination in people.

4. Amateur radio communication

Despite the fact that the practical value of amateur radios is a thing of the past, the amateur radio community is more enthusiastic than ever. This is an opportunity not only to test your knowledge of radio in practice, but also to start communicating with people around the world. For a start, you can try to put together a walkie-talkie to talk to a friend, and then tackle a more difficult project.

5. Opening locks with master keys

You probably thought that only criminals need lockpicks, but don't rush to conclusions. Not everyone who learns to use lockpicks in their free time does so in order to break into houses and open safes. In fact, the community of lovers of lockpicks by no means welcomes illegal activities.

Lovers of lockpicks enjoy calculating the peculiarities of bypassing complex mechanisms. Therefore, among lovers of lockpicks there are so many fans of puzzles and quests. Moreover, if you suddenly ever find yourself in a dangerous situation when you need to quickly open the lock, this skill will come in handy.

6. Rocket simulation

In Soviet times, this hobby was very popular; in almost every settlement there was such a circle. Today, you rarely meet those who are keen on modeling, and very much in vain. After all, now it is not necessary to make all the parts by hand, so anyone can assemble a rocket alone. We added this hobby to the list of things that you can do without leaving your home, because preparing for the launch is painstaking and takes place mainly indoors. But when the model is ready, go outdoors and be sure to invite your friends with you: it will be interesting for everyone to watch a real rocket flight.

7. Lego

Many of us grew up with Lego bricks. Perhaps the multi-colored bricks will be able to interest you again after so many years. If you don't have enough time to get to the store, you can play Lego right on the Internet.

Lego is not just a fun hobby, it has several additional benefits. For example, a designer helps to develop managerial skills. Plus, by sharing a common passion, you can spend more time with your kids. So don't wait and choose the Lego you like.

8. Wood carving

You don't need a whole workshop to work with wood. For starters, you can learn how to cut out small figures. At first, it will not work out very neatly, but over time you will gain experience and be able to do interesting things with your own hands.

9. Home brewing

If you are a fan of craft beer and are looking for a new hobby, now is the time to try making a frothy drink yourself. Start small - a small batch of a few liters. If you like the result, go for larger volumes.

Some brewery owners started out as hobbyists. Some enjoy the process itself, experimenting with their own recipes. Others can't wait to try the result.

10. Making canned food

Canning is the general name for all the hobbies associated with curling food into jars. Mom or grandmother will probably tell you where to buy cans, but keep in mind that you will have to deal with freezing, drying, salting, smoking, distilling, storing and much more. The canning process itself is quite simple, but there are many subtleties that you have to figure out if you do not want to end up with an inedible product.

11. Hydroponics

Gardening is an occupation for those who have at least a small piece of land, which in a modern city can be a rarity. Fortunately, there are alternative methods of growing plants, and one of them is hydroponics. This method does not require soil at all, only water and nutrients.

12. Manufacture of homemade candles

If you regularly buy scented candles for your home, you know that it is not cheap, especially when it comes to first-class manufacturers. So why not try making your own candles? It's surprisingly easy and doesn't require a lot of investment. All you need is wax, wick thread, and a mold. In addition, this hobby can make some money.

13. Bookbinding

Have you ever wondered how books are published? Why not find out how the binding is done and collect at least a couple of notebooks for yourself? To begin with, you should try simple techniques, such as saddle stitching, and only then move towards something more complicated, for example, Coptic binding. You can try to work with leather, you can come up with a cover design - and no one else will have such an original notebook as yours.

14. Origami

Origami is a great way to develop fine motor skills, and again, no additional cash is required for this hobby. Origami is difficult at first. But there are so many teaching materials on the web that you will quickly get off the ground.

15. Beaded patterns

Beaded art is the creation of pixel art using Perler beads and a special board. Each bead corresponds to one pixel. You can create famous game characters with your own hands - the main thing is to choose the right colors. A 1,000-part pack from Perler can be purchased online for just a few dollars.

16. Knitting knots

Knitting is fun if you don't just dwell on the surface. There are hundreds of different sites, each of which will prove useful in different circumstances. In some activities, such as rock climbing, boating, even on a regular hike, knots are nowhere to be found. But knots are fun in and of themselves and can be a great hobby. For this hobby, you need to develop logic, be able to solve puzzles, so it is perfect for diligent and attentive people.

17. Animals from balloons

Everyone loved the circus in childhood. Clowns are real monopolists in the production of animals from balloons, but this does not mean that you yourself cannot do the same for your own pleasure. If you grasp the essence of this technique, you can show your creativity and imagination. And if you have children or younger brothers or sisters, believe me, they will be completely delighted with your hobby.