How to Have Crafty Hobbies as a Mom with Young Kids

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Being a mom to little ones is a full-time job (and then some!). Finding time for yourself can feel impossible between diaper changes, nap schedules, and endless snack requests.

But if you love getting creative, don’t give up on your crafty hobbies just yet! Having a creative outlet isn’t just fun—it’s an essential form of self care for busy moms. It’s certainly been necessary for me!

Whether you’re looking for a quick project during naptime or a relaxing evening activity, you can absolutely make space for creativity in your life. Here are 10 ways to fit crafty hobbies into your busy mom life, plus some crafty ideas to get you started!

1. Get the Kids Involved

Who says crafty hobbies have to be just for you? If your child is old enough, set up a little crafting station with safe materials and let them create alongside you.

You can work on your own crafty DIY while they finger paint, make beaded bracelets, or practice cutting and gluing.

2. Craft During Nap Time or Quiet Time

Your little ones might not nap forever, but that quiet time can still be golden for you. I know tackling chores during every free moment is tempting, but you deserve a break, too.

Dedicate even a few naps a week to crafty activities for adults. Having even a little bit of time for crafting can be incredibly refreshing.

Consider a craft that’s easy to set up and put away for this. Think knitting, crocheting, cross stitching.

3. Keep a Portable Craft Kit

Busy moms don’t always have time for elaborate setups. Keep a small tote or basket with your supplies so you can quickly grab and go.

Whether it’s embroidery, sketching, or crochet, having everything ready means you can make the most of any unexpected downtime.

4. Schedule Crafting into Your Week

Just like you schedule doctor’s appointments and playdates, add crafting to your calendar! Even if it’s just 20 minutes a couple of times a week, prioritizing it will help you stick with it.

5. Join an Online Crafting Community

There are so many crafty mamas out there! Join a Facebook group, follow crafty DIY accounts on Instagram, or participate in a virtual craft night.

Engaging with other crafty moms can give you inspiration and motivation to keep going.

6. Try Quick & Easy Projects

Some crafty moms love elaborate projects, but if time is tight, focus on quick wins!

Choose simple DIY crafts like card-making, hand-lettering, or decorating mugs with paint pens. These crafty ideas are fun, low-pressure, and can be finished in short bursts.

These quick projects are also good to do while crafting with your kids. You’ll feel like you’ve made good progress on a project while likely also helping your kids with what they’re doing.

7. Embrace Imperfection

As a mom, it’s easy to feel like you have to do everything perfectly, but crafting should be fun and relaxing!

Let go of perfectionism and enjoy the process. Even if your DIY project doesn’t turn out exactly as planned, it’s still a win for your creativity and self care at home.

8. Craft While the Kids Play

If your little ones are happily playing or watching their favorite show, take that time to work on your projects. Even if it’s just for 10 minutes, small bursts of creativity add up!

I’ll often do some knitting while my youngest is napping and my oldest watches some TV.

9. Incorporate Crafting into Everyday Life

Use your crafty hobbies to add a personal touch to everyday life.

Decorate your planner with doodles, make a simple wreath for your front door, or hand-letter a sweet note for your child’s lunchbox.

Small creative moments can bring a lot of joy!

10. Make It a Self-Care Ritual

Crafty activities for adults can be a wonderful way to unwind. Light a candle, put on some music, and dedicate time to creating.

Treat it as an act of self care—because it is! Crafting can be just as soothing as a spa night or a bubble bath. It’s honestly my favorite form of self care.

Crafty Hobbies You Can Easily Pick Up

Not sure where to start? Here are some easy and fun crafty hobbies to try:

• Knitting or Crocheting – Perfect for busy hands while watching TV or waiting in the car.
• Watercolor Painting – A relaxing way to play with color without needing many supplies.
• Hand Lettering or Calligraphy – Great for making beautiful signs, cards, and planners.
• Jewelry Making – Quick and rewarding with endless design possibilities.
• Scrapbooking or Journaling – A creative way to preserve memories.
• DIY Home Décor – Small projects like painting flower pots or making fabric garlands add charm to your home.
• Sewing or Embroidery – Whether you’re mending clothes or creating something from scratch, sewing is a satisfying skill.
• Candle or Soap Making – Fun, practical, and makes for great gifts!

Get Crafty!

Being a crafty mom isn’t about having unlimited free time—it’s about making creativity a joyful part of your life.

Crafty hobbies aren’t just a way to pass the time—they’re a form of self-care that can help you feel more balanced and fulfilled. Whether you have 5 minutes or an hour, there’s always room for a bit of creativity in your day.

So grab those supplies, make a little space for yourself, and enjoy the creative journey!