Crafting can cut costs and tension
November 26, 2012
Sometimes after a long day of school, work, meal prep and studying, watching television just doesn't cut it, and reading a book is so reminiscent of classwork that it may not be relaxing at all. Having a hobby that is both helpful to the family and a stress reliever can help single moms with college scholarships do even better with balancing finances and finding time to unite with children at the end of the day.
Knitting and crocheting
Two very easy activities that require cheap, basic supplies. These skills are simple to learn and can provide repetitive physical activity that relaxes and declutters the brain.
This hobby bears the added benefit of providing all the necessary winter accessories for a family without having to go out and buy them. Making matching hats, scarves and mittens is a breeze, and with the designs and motifs limited only by a single mom's imagination, these can be practical items or works of art. What's more, if one of the kids loses a mitten, instead of going out and buying a new pair, all Mom has to do is sit down and knit another one. Children can also be taught this skill, so that they can make their own clothes if they want, and doesn't require the same level of supervision as other crafts.
Sewing
This requires more specialized, sometimes expensive equipment, but after the initial outlay of buying the machine, basic kit and fabric, making practical clothes for kids and parents is as easy as following basic patterns. What's more, if an article should rip or need mending, it's far easier to stitch on a patch or repair a hem, rather than replacing an entire garment.
Sewing allows single moms with college scholarships to save money by making their own dresses, repairing or recycling garments into entirely new pieces and can even sell these custom items online. Sites like Etsy and eBay have whole sections dedicated to reclaimed and constructed clothes, so as a secondary income, it's a highly viable option.
Gardening
Even in the winter months, doing a window box garden inside can help cut down on stress, teach kids about the lifecycle of plants and provide valuable resources for cooking and baking needs. Instead of just growing flowers, single moms with college scholarships can plant herbs and spices, and certain planters even allow bananas and tomatoes to grow indoors.
