Retirement is a fantastic time to pursue your hobbies – whether they’re new ones or pastimes you’ve enjoyed since childhood. Finding the perfect hobby, however, isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve found 6 great books to help you narrow your choice down. From arts and crafts to beer-brewing, there’s something for everyone here.
1. How to Draw Anything by Mark Linley
While it’s true that in many cases, artistic ability is either something you do or don’t have, with a bit of persistence and expert guidance, even the clumsiest sketcher can learn how to make a masterpiece. In this book, Linley will guide you through creating stunning landscapes, portraits of people and animals, or even draw a cartoon.
2. The Mah Jong Player’s Companion by Patricia A. Thompson and Betty Maloney
If you’d prefer a more social activity, why not try the centuries-old iconic Chinese board game, mah-jong? Easy to learn but difficult to master, mah-jong is a favourite pastime among many retirees as it combines regular brain workouts with the opportunity to chat and gossip with other players. Written by two experts, this book will have you on your way to master status in no time.
3. Miniscapes by Clea Cregan
Terrariums are all the rage at the moment, and now you can put your own spin on the trend with this step-by-step guide to creating the perfect tiny world in a bottle. Cregan’s book includes 16 different projects in four different environments – desert, forest, carnivorous and air plants. Cheap, easy and fun to make, you’ll be raving to your friends about Miniscapes.
We’ve all heard the stereotypes, but these days knitting isn’t associated with that mental image of a grandma sitting in a rocking chair – not that there’s anything wrong with that! In this book, you’ll learn how to master every type of knitting pattern with clear, easy-to-follow instructions for everyone from amateurs to professionals.
5. The Little Veggie Patch Co. by Fabian Capomolla and Mat Pember
Love the idea of growing your own herbs and veggies but don’t think you have the space? This book is about to prove you wrong! Vegetable patch experts Capomolla and Pember reveal their top tips and tricks on everything from soil and shade levels to choosing the right seeds. Soon enough, you’ll be saving money and picking the freshest produce from your own backyard.
6. The Complete Joy of Homebrewing by Charlie Papazian
What’s better than home-grown veg? Homemade beer, of course! In this internationally bestselling book, master brewer Charlie Papazian will take you on a step-by-step guide to creating your own beer. You’ll also learn about the fascinating history of beer, its ingredients and vital information to help you become the next James Boag!
Tell us in the comments below, what’s your hobby? How did you get involved in it?
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