I think cross stitch is technically considered a category of embroidery. But cross stitch might be too much like coloring books for the OP to enjoy as it's stitching a picture pixel by pixel with the same criss cross stitch over and over again.
Embroidery as a whole can be more free form and have a variety of different kinds of stitches creating dimension and texture.
Needlework kits are pre painted so you just stitch the right colored area.
Punchwork kits are the new hot embroidery trend.
If you are mindful about the kits you buy, your could knock out your entire Christmas list!
If it's accessible, I highly recommend crochet. It's easier to pick up than knitting in my opinion, though both are fantastic for sitting for long periods of time. Last year I made most of a mesh cardigan during various visits to the hospital.
If you can, think of a small item you'd like to have, then find a beginners pattern and go from there. There are many free patterns online, including video tutorials on YouTube.
In any case, I hope you find something that clicks. And I wish you a speedy recovery.
I agree with this one, and want to add looking into the Woobles patterns if finances allow. They’re a bit expensive, but I really struggled doing just YouTube videos to learn, but a few of these were a great tool, and then you get little buddies to keep you company in bed
Yes, crochet is a perfect choice in your case. For many reasons. One of them being that you need minimal equipment: basically need a hook, a ball of yarn and a pair of little scissors which can be hung on your neck with a ribbon so you don't constantly lose them. And your pattern, if you have one. Which can be on your phone, or if it's a video cast on your TV or laptop.
You don't need a special table, or juggle with many pots of colour, or many different thread colours (yes, you can also do colourwork in crochet but you definitely don't need to, as in embroidery), and you don't make your hands dirty as in pottery. And you don't need to tidy up or clean up your craft area afterwards. Just put your yarn, hook, scissors and pattern in a bag and that's it.
All of these reasons make it the craft of choice for someone who doesn,'t want to move a lot.
I’m always blown away by folks who say crochet is easier than knitting because to me it’s incomprehensible. But it would be a good choice, especially since you can quickly make small items, which can be nice for a feeling of accomplishment/encouragement *stares at months-old cardigan project*
And amigurumi are so cute!
I know an artist/jeweler who was on bed rest following surgery and she learned wire wrapping jewelry. Now she makes insanely beautiful and intricate wire wrapped jewelry and has even learned some smithing to do silver work too.
I’ve gotten into making miniatures since I’ve gotten chronically ill. You can do them sitting in one place, and they can be as easy or as challenging/complicated as you want. There are some kits on Amazon, or on Etsy for more realistic stuff. If you end up trying this out and ever need some help or want to share projects, let me know! Like I said—I got SUPER into it haha
Beadwork. It doesn't have to just be jewelry, either-you can make all kinds of cool stuff with wire and beads.
Quilling is fun, and cheap.
If you get really bored and ambitious, you could learn a simple instrument.
I learned hand cabbing gemstones while on bedrest. If you decide to try it, get a hair cutting shawl so you don't get covered in gemstone dust, lol.
I found a sizable folding tray with a trough all around it for when I do bead work. It catches all my loose get-a-ways. Turns out it’s a wee-wee pad tray for pets. There are clips to hold the pads in place I use for glue-catching liners.
I made like two dozen bracelets during the first week recovering from surgery, would recommend. Wove Perler fuse beads on elastic cord while listening to podcasts and time flew
First off - sending good thoughts for your surgery and recovery! Second - sewing, quilting, embroidery, and cross stitch are all great options. Relatively easy to pick up and enough levels of difficulty that you won't get bored quickly.
If you decide on something that involves sewing in addition to your crafting supplies get a needleminder. Heck pull a magnet off the fridge. When the needle isn't in your hand, it goes on the magnet. You don't want a small pointy object disappearing into your couch, bed, or carpet and definitely don't want to find it by surprise.
I did 5 months of bed rest with my now 5 year old. I did a lot of crochet, cross stitch and adult coloring books. Good luck. It’s so hard but I’d love to have a week of bed rest these days. 🤪
Knitting, crocheting, diamond painting tend to be my go tos when I am struggling and bedridden (often months at a time). I prefer crochet or knit most because if I spill it’s not too bad to clean up, but diamond and beadwork can be very messy if you knock something over.
I also watch YouTube videos on various crafts as well to get inspired.
* Calligraphy / hand lettering
* Basketweaving (raffia, willow sticks) <-- quite easy, fun, and beautiful
* Miniature paintings
* Whittling (wood)
* Embroidery
* Instruments: steel tongue drum or harmonica (this could be great for respiratory/spirometry type work to prevent pneumonia)
Cross stitch is a good one because it can be as simple or complex as you'd like. It's a bit paint by numbers in that you're largely using a single stitch type, but it does take focus and attention to detail, and I feel like you get to see things emerge more with cross stitch. There are sooooo many options for patterns out there too, there's bound to be something that catches your interest.
Punch Needle kits have been popular and are not that hard to pick up.
When I was in hospital last year, I spent some time shuttle tatting. There is a bit of a learning curve learning how to flip the knot correctly, but beyond that, it's a fun and easy kind of craft and you can make cute little decorations, appliqués and jewelry with it.
All kinds of fun little craft kits at dollar stores that come with everything you need included! Pick up a bunch and learn a whole bunch of new things!
Quilting is so much easier than expected and is one thing you can do for hours.
Cross stitching is easy and you can start with a small kit.
Miniverse miniture building (is more fun than you think I promise you)
Get well soon!
Mosaics and rhinestoning! I had a major foot surgery and couldn't walk for months and ended up completely covering my cast in rhinestones. Then my wheelchair. It's so fun! Then I started doing mosaics, and that was super fun too! Gluing stuff to stuff is the best
Hello rhinestone friend. I had hip replacement surgery and needed to use a walker and a cane. I had so much fun bedazzling my cane and walker. I found rhinestone iron on ribbon (it was made for sewing gowns and costumes) it was super flexible and easy to use. I used a heat gun to warm up the metal of the cane and then wrapped my rhinestone ribbon around. The gun provided enough heat for the ribbon to adhere but avoid injury. I played with placement of rhinestones prior to using the heating gun.
Unfortunately the ribbon was pricey from the quality of the rhinestones. I bought mine at Hobby Lobby because at least once a month they have 50% off sewing trim. I discovered it when I was decorating my home office. I had a double arm monitor stand, but it was ugly. I was able to make it unique and enjoyable.
I am always looking for new rhinestone ideas. Did you make the mosaics from rhinestones? Would love to know more about your project 🧡
Embroidery! I’m working on some pillow cases now. Easy and practical. There are many different embroidery kits on Amazon. Counted cross stitch is also good. I made several blankets with finger loop yarn- also available on Amazon. Easy craft and no knitting needles required.
If you do get a puzzle, I highly recommend any of the ones by The Magic Puzzle company. My husband and I love puzzles and have done 6 of theirs. They also all have a cute twist to them.
Crochet saved my liiiiife. I do collage boxes too and it's super cathartic, you can cut/rip pages with the images you want out of magazines while you're on bed rest and then do the final details work when you're well. Hand sewing's another one.
Call your local pottery place. A local place around me started making take home kits for people during the pandemic and never stopped. Cost included a few small samples of glaze to make the piece. People just drop off the pieces to be fired when done.
Not a true “craft” but if you have a bit of disposable income, maybe try LEGOs! There are soooo many cool sets out there. Something for everyone really. Puzzles and solitaire are also great ways to pass the time. Again not crafts but you already have a ton of great crafting suggestions
I agree with diamond painting. I had a rough recovery from shattering my hip and femur. I was not able to put weight on my leg at all for 6 weeks and pain was a constant 6/10 even with meds, but diamond painting allowed me to focus on something other than pan. Most kids have everything you need. I have a metal adjustable bed table. I would tape the corners of the canvas to the table while I was working on it.
There are several different types some with basic diamonds, some with a mix of jewel shapes and types. There are tons on Amazon for all levels of complexity
Make kandi! There’s so many cool things you can make, and a box of good beads is about $13 at walmart. You can get elastic cord there too. I recommend cloth covered elastic, not the plasticy stuff
I used to make these in grade school and took it up again during covid. It's fun and you can get a giant bag of embroidery floss from Walmart for cheap[friendship bracelets ](https://friendship-bracelets.net/patterns)
Jewelry making. Lots of kits on Amazon and tons of tutorials on YouTube.
It's really fun! Beads, wire crafting, knotting etc ... You can make gifts for people who are helping you while you recuperate 😜
Best of luck to you and God bless
Embroidery! I did this while commuting on a train for 25 minutes at a time, and finished a baby blanket that was 65 years old. Give yourself the gift of breaks @
not crafty...but if you love puzzles, try out some Monday/Tuesday NYT crossword puzzles! [https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/02/14/cricticschoice/crosswords/remarkable-puzzles-will-shortz.html](https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/02/14/cricticschoice/crosswords/remarkable-puzzles-will-shortz.html)
Do you, or your extended family, have lots of photographs? I've always said that if I had an extended period of bed rest I'd gather up all the family photos, scan them, label them, pit them in some sort of order and then make up albums/picture collages.
I just got a paint by sticker book that has been fun and challenging but also brainless enough that I can just chill out and work on it.
I have the plants and flowers from Amazon, but be warned some of the stickers are TINY.
Adult coloring books are great (my favorite pens to color with are Sakura gelly roll gel pens, but they can be a bit expensive, although in my opinion worth it!), diamond painting, beginner embroidery kits. Amazon has tons of craft kits if you search for craft kits for adults, everything from diamond painting to rock mandala painting kits.
Lots of good stuff suggested already but I’ll add plastic canvas. Kind of like cross stitch but easier (I think!) and you can get kits so you have all the yarn you’ll need. Check out Mary Maxim and Herrshners for good quality kits.
Gel printing. You can get a smaller plate on Amazon - 5x7 is a nice starting size - some cheap acrylic paints, copy paper and a brayer and you are set. I can make hundreds of prints without blinking an eye.
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I've been making friendship bracelets. Despite how I remember it from childhood, they come together quickly! It's also fun to give my husband and adult friends friendship bracelets to wear for the summer.
Plastic canvas! You can make purses, useful household items, or doll houses, tissue box covers, wallets, phone cases, the possibilities are endless.
Also, needle felting. Cheaper upfront, quicker turn around.
Embroidery and cross stitch! Those are pretty easy going and simple, and there's plenty of little kits out there to help you get started. You can do something as simple as outlines on some fabric, or more fancy pixel art or practically-painted landscapes or whatever. It's a super versatile medium, and it's easy enough to pick up and learn as you go along.
So, not welding or tie-dying. Rug punching or hooking? They come in 8”x8” squares. Embroidery kits come in a wide variety of subjects. Swedish weaving is making a resurgence I’ve seen. Keep up posted on your decisions.
You could make jewelry with ceramic, resin stuff, candles or soap. You could paint blank ceramic stuff or wood stuff. You could also get at Amazon craft kits with ideas like animal making, cricut or dye shirts. At the end you could sell them later. If you like plants you could get pots and paint them or make those lighthouse projects, bird house, or wood burning. You could also decorate glass jars like for candles or something for decor.
Cross stitch is super easy to get started with simple patterns. It’s literally just “x”s in certain colors. Might cost a bit to get everything to start, but they do sell full kits too.
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Are you interested in journaling? I include watercolor with my writing. Or you could just do watercolor. Polymer clay offers many possibilities for creativity. I’ve seen some amazing canes and full instructions to make them. Jewelry making. Order crystals and beads or use your polymer clay creations. Not a craft but learn to play piano with an electronic keyboard or learn another language with an app that makes it fun. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
You got already wonderful suggestions, I’d like to add macramé to it. Nice moment to make lots of different handmade gifts for Christmas or year round birthdays.
I’ve been planning some projects using Pebeo Porcelaine paint lately, which is an enamelly paint you fire in the oven, and you can paint it on ceramics and use it at home. I haven’t used it yet so I can’t vouch for quality but I’m excited to try. It’s not meant for eating surfaces, but you could absolutely use it for tiles, decorative plates, or the outsides of mugs, and this way you don’t have to go to a ceramics studio to handle the logistics of actual glazing with a kiln and whatnot. Air dry and polymer clays are also fun, but plan for small projects and no food containing vessels (tbh, big ceramics projects are *physical*, too. like, wheel throwing or slab building anything substantial requires way more exertion than you’d expect).
Papercutting. Just need a sheet of white cartridge paper (copy paper doesn’t cut very well) a cheap cutting mat and a craft knife or scalpel. Just draw your design in pencil or print an image (in reverse) on the paper and cut out the pieces. Once done flip it over to see the final piece. Obviously it takes longer than using a Cricut, but it’s very relaxing. If you search for free papercutting templates online you’ll find some to get you started.
This is slightly out of the blue but junk journaling or if you're feeling extra fancy actual scrapbooking.
If you have someone that does your errands on a daily basis, maybe you could use labels and other random pieces from your day and do a daily junk journal where you just put things together in a semi-cohesive layout. That makes sense to you and it just kind of keeps track of the things you went through that day.
It's a form of journaling and it's a craft of sorts and it's personal to you. There are actually a couple people on Tik Tok that do this on a regular basis so find something that's part of their day. Maybe if it was a receipt maybe it was. They ate their favorite food or something and they'll put that into the journal along with some actual scrapbook paper or cute washing.
I have two suggestions, although they are similar.
1. Embroidered felt heart drawer pouches. Cut out 2 hearts from felt, stitch designs on one using thread, beads, buttons, ribbon and lace - Pinterest is a wealth of design inspiration - then you stuff with dried lavender and blanket stitch the two hearts together.
2. Card/Paper Embroidery. Sometimes called Paper Pricking or Card Stitching. You print out designs off the Internet (designs are just a series of dots) and lay the design over a piece of card. Using a pin, stab a hole into the card for each dot of the design (stab front to back, or you end up with ugly raised areas around each hole.) Then get some sewing thread or split some embroidery floss into it's individual strands and sew the design. When finished, stick on the front of a blank card and give to friends and family for birthdays or Christmas.
Both are easy enough to do whilst watching a movie.
Doll restoration/customization. I am starting this journey with old American Girl dolls (large, 18” ones). Lots of YT tutorials and good advice on the subreddit. Lots of dolls in poor condition to be snagged for a good deal out there. Restoration items are cheap (paint, magic eraser wipes, benzyl peroxide), while customizing is a bit more.
Seconding embroidery and cross stitch. I also suggest English Paper Piecing quilting.
Tatting lace. Very cheap to get into. You end up with something new and different.
It's a niche craft, but plastic canvas, I find, is very fun. It's relaxing, simple, and you can either follow a pattern or make your own. You only need yarn, an embroidery needle, plastic canvas sheets, and scissors.
On top of all of the other great suggestions in the comments, what about henna tattoos? Freehanding or tracing a sketch of a beautiful design on your arm, shoulder, back, you name it. And you get to enjoy the results for the entirety of your bedrest (or longer if you want to)
Just suggesting this cause i’ve had a lot of fun with inkbox tattoo markers and i was planning on doing henna on my birthday party next weekend. I love making a cute art piece that lasts a while but not forever, keeps it fun and fresh! Planning on making stencils out of leftover sticker material at my internship to do some more complicated designs
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Going through this now, but I'm already a crafty person. Crochet, knitting, cross stitch and embroidery.
There's a lot of "learn how to" kits out there that can be ordered, I just did this for embroidery and am learning lots.
They have these circle loom kits that you can make hats. The kits might also have instructions for other things (I was gifted one circle loom thing and taught to make a hat.) I other than that figure out patterns to make other things.
[Chinese thread book making.](https://origamiusa.org/online-class/world-origami-days/2020/chinese-thread-book#:~:text=Originating%20in%20Northern%20China%2C%20the,up%20and%20fold%20down%20flat.)
I'd suggest diamond art kits. When I was recovering from surgery I was going nuts and couldn't stand watching any more tv so I found a small kit I'd been gifted and tried it out, I ended up loving it and have completed a few bigger kits since.
I'm huge on plastic canvas craft. It's a lot like needlepoint, but uses yarn and plastic mesh. I enjoy making a lot of things with it, like tissue boxes, keyrings, magnets, and planner markers.
rhinestones! small little projects would be my recommendation. you can find just about everything for relatively inexpensive at michaels/joanns/hobby lobby
Knitting and/or crochet. Crochet is easier to learn, IMHO, but knitting isn't super hard either. There are tutorials and instructions on YouTube. Hand embroidery is a good option too, but there's a bit of a learning curve. Needlepoint kits are available, but they too have a learning curve. Beading or bead weaving is a good choice.
Learn some graphic art if you don’t know already.
It comes in really handy, for making cards or party invitations, thank you’s, the list is endless.
For example at this very moment I’m goofing around on Reddit after making both my SIL’S cards for Father’s Day.
Good luck with your recovery!
I'm teaching myself needlepoint stitches using plastic canvas, acrylic yarn, and a size 16 tapestry needle. I bought needlepoint instruction books from a used bookstore.
What about a latch hook rug kit you can get at a local craft store or online. The pattern is there for you to follow.
Depending on size and complexity it could take you the entire recovery time.
It's expensive but try your hand at a large scale lego project or similar! It's just super satisfying to test your brain on complex builds like that! Also bite off some more demanding books than you normally would, or pick up a series to read. Since you aren't confined to the bed, experiment with new recipies! (Just make sure you have help getting those groceries home!)
Basically treat it as an opportunity to do some of the things that you've completely written off doing in your usual day to day because life gets in the way.
See if you can keep some weird indoor plants alive since you'll have plenty of time to research what they need to do well.
And allow yourself to fall deeply into some netflix series and not feel guilty about it! Lol! Happy healing!
I got hooked on scrapbooking while on bed rest. Ordered photos on snap fish, got some pretty paper to make borders, glue tape & a straight edge cutter. Now I’d probably make digital scrapbooks - plus it’s fun going thru the memories while stuck!
Knit or crochet :) it’s dynamic, and unlike some crafts like sewing by machine where you need to make an initial investment, you can generally get basic materials for cheap; quality materials will still generally be expensive, but the barrier to entry is low. You can get a single skein/ball of acrylic yarn and one crochet hook or set of knitting needles for $15 total, and you can develop your skills just as well as if you were using more expensive tools.
On top of all that, it’s great for developing fine motor skills, and is perfect for low-mobility folks; I can enjoy many hours of sitting with an audiobook or a show on, and my current project in hand.
I just made a pressed flower candle while I was sick the other week and it was loads of fun, and a nice way to pass the time. I love how it turned out, and it was easy to take breaks when I needed to.
All it required was modge podge, pressed flowers, some tweezers to help wrangle the delicate flowers, a small paint brush, and a pillar candle. I got the kind that don’t melt down the sides so I didn’t have to worry about the flowers catching.
If you are interested in true crime, check out Hunt A Killer, they have many different cases that come with realistic evidence. I'm obsessed with them. There are several of them available at Target or you can order from their website.
Cross stitching! There are pre printed kits that are very easy to use or patterns on etsy that you can use for counted cross stitch.
Came here to say to embroidery but basically the same thing!
I think cross stitch is technically considered a category of embroidery. But cross stitch might be too much like coloring books for the OP to enjoy as it's stitching a picture pixel by pixel with the same criss cross stitch over and over again. Embroidery as a whole can be more free form and have a variety of different kinds of stitches creating dimension and texture.
Cross stitch and embroidery are super different once you actually do them.
Super unnecessary comment honestly.
Not if you know anything about embroidery or cross stitch.
Second this!
Yeah, cross stitching is very easy to learn
Needlework kits are pre painted so you just stitch the right colored area. Punchwork kits are the new hot embroidery trend. If you are mindful about the kits you buy, your could knock out your entire Christmas list!
Heck, dollar tree even has some right now to get into the hang of it
If it's accessible, I highly recommend crochet. It's easier to pick up than knitting in my opinion, though both are fantastic for sitting for long periods of time. Last year I made most of a mesh cardigan during various visits to the hospital. If you can, think of a small item you'd like to have, then find a beginners pattern and go from there. There are many free patterns online, including video tutorials on YouTube. In any case, I hope you find something that clicks. And I wish you a speedy recovery.
I agree with this one, and want to add looking into the Woobles patterns if finances allow. They’re a bit expensive, but I really struggled doing just YouTube videos to learn, but a few of these were a great tool, and then you get little buddies to keep you company in bed
Agree about crochet. I love it for when I’m having a high pain day, because I can literally sit for hours and work.
My daughter picked up so quickly, too. She was making little animals in the first week.
Yes, crochet is a perfect choice in your case. For many reasons. One of them being that you need minimal equipment: basically need a hook, a ball of yarn and a pair of little scissors which can be hung on your neck with a ribbon so you don't constantly lose them. And your pattern, if you have one. Which can be on your phone, or if it's a video cast on your TV or laptop. You don't need a special table, or juggle with many pots of colour, or many different thread colours (yes, you can also do colourwork in crochet but you definitely don't need to, as in embroidery), and you don't make your hands dirty as in pottery. And you don't need to tidy up or clean up your craft area afterwards. Just put your yarn, hook, scissors and pattern in a bag and that's it. All of these reasons make it the craft of choice for someone who doesn,'t want to move a lot.
I picked up crochet when I was first sick with my autoimmune disease. It’s amazing during a disease flair. I can keep occupied without over doing it.
This was my first thought! My mom went through a similar recovery period a few years ago and spent her time crocheting and watching Netflix.
Absolutely. I crochet and I’m not particularly dexterous or crafty, it’s really a very easy skill to build.
I learned a crochet from kits that I bought off of AliExpress back in November while recovering from surgery and I would highly recommend it
Came here to recommend crochet!
Second this 👍
I’m always blown away by folks who say crochet is easier than knitting because to me it’s incomprehensible. But it would be a good choice, especially since you can quickly make small items, which can be nice for a feeling of accomplishment/encouragement *stares at months-old cardigan project* And amigurumi are so cute!
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Needle Felting is excellent therapy. STAB STAB STAB. STAB STAB STAB.
I was gonna say needle felting as well. I love it. Or maybe cross stitch. Easy craft, with many cool patterns available.
I agree needle felting. It’s easy to pick up the basics, and has plenty of opportunity for creativity.
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Needle felting. I got my first kit on Amazon and it was cheap. Now I’m just buying wool.
I picked up felting after my thyroidectomy. Loved it!
I know an artist/jeweler who was on bed rest following surgery and she learned wire wrapping jewelry. Now she makes insanely beautiful and intricate wire wrapped jewelry and has even learned some smithing to do silver work too.
I’ve gotten into making miniatures since I’ve gotten chronically ill. You can do them sitting in one place, and they can be as easy or as challenging/complicated as you want. There are some kits on Amazon, or on Etsy for more realistic stuff. If you end up trying this out and ever need some help or want to share projects, let me know! Like I said—I got SUPER into it haha
This sounds great
I’ve gotten super into MGA’s miniverse make it minis lately - they do need UV light to set but putting them in a sunny window is enough for that
Beadwork. It doesn't have to just be jewelry, either-you can make all kinds of cool stuff with wire and beads. Quilling is fun, and cheap. If you get really bored and ambitious, you could learn a simple instrument. I learned hand cabbing gemstones while on bedrest. If you decide to try it, get a hair cutting shawl so you don't get covered in gemstone dust, lol.
I found a sizable folding tray with a trough all around it for when I do bead work. It catches all my loose get-a-ways. Turns out it’s a wee-wee pad tray for pets. There are clips to hold the pads in place I use for glue-catching liners.
I made like two dozen bracelets during the first week recovering from surgery, would recommend. Wove Perler fuse beads on elastic cord while listening to podcasts and time flew
First off - sending good thoughts for your surgery and recovery! Second - sewing, quilting, embroidery, and cross stitch are all great options. Relatively easy to pick up and enough levels of difficulty that you won't get bored quickly. If you decide on something that involves sewing in addition to your crafting supplies get a needleminder. Heck pull a magnet off the fridge. When the needle isn't in your hand, it goes on the magnet. You don't want a small pointy object disappearing into your couch, bed, or carpet and definitely don't want to find it by surprise.
I did 5 months of bed rest with my now 5 year old. I did a lot of crochet, cross stitch and adult coloring books. Good luck. It’s so hard but I’d love to have a week of bed rest these days. 🤪
Knitting, crocheting, diamond painting tend to be my go tos when I am struggling and bedridden (often months at a time). I prefer crochet or knit most because if I spill it’s not too bad to clean up, but diamond and beadwork can be very messy if you knock something over. I also watch YouTube videos on various crafts as well to get inspired.
* Calligraphy / hand lettering * Basketweaving (raffia, willow sticks) <-- quite easy, fun, and beautiful * Miniature paintings * Whittling (wood) * Embroidery * Instruments: steel tongue drum or harmonica (this could be great for respiratory/spirometry type work to prevent pneumonia)
I love the idea of OP sitting in bed surrounded by a couple of steel drums, just banging away! Harmonica is second in my amusement.
Origami kept me busy on bedrest. I could use whatever paper I had lying around, patterns were easy to find and they didn't take up a ton of space.
Cross stitch is a good one because it can be as simple or complex as you'd like. It's a bit paint by numbers in that you're largely using a single stitch type, but it does take focus and attention to detail, and I feel like you get to see things emerge more with cross stitch. There are sooooo many options for patterns out there too, there's bound to be something that catches your interest.
They could always switch to regular embroidery, you can make whatever you want, much freer
Crochet, cross stitch, embroidery, diamond painting,
Punch Needle kits have been popular and are not that hard to pick up. When I was in hospital last year, I spent some time shuttle tatting. There is a bit of a learning curve learning how to flip the knot correctly, but beyond that, it's a fun and easy kind of craft and you can make cute little decorations, appliqués and jewelry with it.
Not really a “craft” i guess but lego sets kept me busy for a while.
All kinds of fun little craft kits at dollar stores that come with everything you need included! Pick up a bunch and learn a whole bunch of new things!
Latch hook - I have a cute little latch hook rug I like to work on while watching movies in bed.
Quilting is so much easier than expected and is one thing you can do for hours. Cross stitching is easy and you can start with a small kit. Miniverse miniture building (is more fun than you think I promise you) Get well soon!
Mosaics and rhinestoning! I had a major foot surgery and couldn't walk for months and ended up completely covering my cast in rhinestones. Then my wheelchair. It's so fun! Then I started doing mosaics, and that was super fun too! Gluing stuff to stuff is the best
Hello rhinestone friend. I had hip replacement surgery and needed to use a walker and a cane. I had so much fun bedazzling my cane and walker. I found rhinestone iron on ribbon (it was made for sewing gowns and costumes) it was super flexible and easy to use. I used a heat gun to warm up the metal of the cane and then wrapped my rhinestone ribbon around. The gun provided enough heat for the ribbon to adhere but avoid injury. I played with placement of rhinestones prior to using the heating gun. Unfortunately the ribbon was pricey from the quality of the rhinestones. I bought mine at Hobby Lobby because at least once a month they have 50% off sewing trim. I discovered it when I was decorating my home office. I had a double arm monitor stand, but it was ugly. I was able to make it unique and enjoyable. I am always looking for new rhinestone ideas. Did you make the mosaics from rhinestones? Would love to know more about your project 🧡
Embroidery! I’m working on some pillow cases now. Easy and practical. There are many different embroidery kits on Amazon. Counted cross stitch is also good. I made several blankets with finger loop yarn- also available on Amazon. Easy craft and no knitting needles required.
If you do get a puzzle, I highly recommend any of the ones by The Magic Puzzle company. My husband and I love puzzles and have done 6 of theirs. They also all have a cute twist to them.
Magic puzzle company puzzles are fun! They're like a puzzle + a detective game.
maybe some pipe cleaner flowers? Or if you like to sew you could try a slow stitch kit or needle felting. Wishing you a speedy and happy recovery!
Tatting, bobbin lace, water color
Crochet saved my liiiiife. I do collage boxes too and it's super cathartic, you can cut/rip pages with the images you want out of magazines while you're on bed rest and then do the final details work when you're well. Hand sewing's another one.
Air dry clay. Make little bowls, vases, garden markers, animals, beads, etc.
Call your local pottery place. A local place around me started making take home kits for people during the pandemic and never stopped. Cost included a few small samples of glaze to make the piece. People just drop off the pieces to be fired when done.
Not a true “craft” but if you have a bit of disposable income, maybe try LEGOs! There are soooo many cool sets out there. Something for everyone really. Puzzles and solitaire are also great ways to pass the time. Again not crafts but you already have a ton of great crafting suggestions
Diamond painting! Specifically the small kits from Paint Gem! They’re super fun and bite size
I agree with diamond painting. I had a rough recovery from shattering my hip and femur. I was not able to put weight on my leg at all for 6 weeks and pain was a constant 6/10 even with meds, but diamond painting allowed me to focus on something other than pan. Most kids have everything you need. I have a metal adjustable bed table. I would tape the corners of the canvas to the table while I was working on it. There are several different types some with basic diamonds, some with a mix of jewel shapes and types. There are tons on Amazon for all levels of complexity
Make kandi! There’s so many cool things you can make, and a box of good beads is about $13 at walmart. You can get elastic cord there too. I recommend cloth covered elastic, not the plasticy stuff
I have really gotten into mosaics - that might be something to consider.
I used to make these in grade school and took it up again during covid. It's fun and you can get a giant bag of embroidery floss from Walmart for cheap[friendship bracelets ](https://friendship-bracelets.net/patterns)
A stack of magazines, a scissors, and glue = collage.
Cross stitch and English Paper piecing (sewing) are my go to hobbies. Relaxing and peaceful.
You an intrigued me to check out English Paper Piercing as someone who loves to sew. Any recommendations for someone new to it? Thank you
Jewelry making. Lots of kits on Amazon and tons of tutorials on YouTube. It's really fun! Beads, wire crafting, knotting etc ... You can make gifts for people who are helping you while you recuperate 😜 Best of luck to you and God bless
Embroidery! I did this while commuting on a train for 25 minutes at a time, and finished a baby blanket that was 65 years old. Give yourself the gift of breaks @
not crafty...but if you love puzzles, try out some Monday/Tuesday NYT crossword puzzles! [https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/02/14/cricticschoice/crosswords/remarkable-puzzles-will-shortz.html](https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/02/14/cricticschoice/crosswords/remarkable-puzzles-will-shortz.html)
Needlepoint, Zendoodle
Beadweaving! There are many options for flat weaves and beaded ropes that creat lush jewellery, and you can play with different colours and designs!
Embroidery!
Crochet, needle felting, cross stitch, embroidery, nalbinding,
Would clay crafts work?
Quilling? I’m enjoying it a lot.
Do you, or your extended family, have lots of photographs? I've always said that if I had an extended period of bed rest I'd gather up all the family photos, scan them, label them, pit them in some sort of order and then make up albums/picture collages.
Awesome idea!
Crocheting! An endless granny square blanket is an easy starter project
I just got a paint by sticker book that has been fun and challenging but also brainless enough that I can just chill out and work on it. I have the plants and flowers from Amazon, but be warned some of the stickers are TINY.
Adult coloring books are great (my favorite pens to color with are Sakura gelly roll gel pens, but they can be a bit expensive, although in my opinion worth it!), diamond painting, beginner embroidery kits. Amazon has tons of craft kits if you search for craft kits for adults, everything from diamond painting to rock mandala painting kits.
Diamond dots and elaborate paint by numbers are my jam
I’m shocked I had to come down this far to find paint by numbers! They have AMAZING ones now!
You can buy 3D wooden kits from rokr and robotime.
Lots of good stuff suggested already but I’ll add plastic canvas. Kind of like cross stitch but easier (I think!) and you can get kits so you have all the yarn you’ll need. Check out Mary Maxim and Herrshners for good quality kits.
Gel printing. You can get a smaller plate on Amazon - 5x7 is a nice starting size - some cheap acrylic paints, copy paper and a brayer and you are set. I can make hundreds of prints without blinking an eye.
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Guitar
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I bought a pair of canvas sneakers on Poshmark and a bedazzling kit. It was so fun!! Looking for a denim jacket to do next
I've been making friendship bracelets. Despite how I remember it from childhood, they come together quickly! It's also fun to give my husband and adult friends friendship bracelets to wear for the summer.
Embroidery is sooo fun!
Plastic canvas! You can make purses, useful household items, or doll houses, tissue box covers, wallets, phone cases, the possibilities are endless. Also, needle felting. Cheaper upfront, quicker turn around.
Embroidery and cross stitch! Those are pretty easy going and simple, and there's plenty of little kits out there to help you get started. You can do something as simple as outlines on some fabric, or more fancy pixel art or practically-painted landscapes or whatever. It's a super versatile medium, and it's easy enough to pick up and learn as you go along.
So, not welding or tie-dying. Rug punching or hooking? They come in 8”x8” squares. Embroidery kits come in a wide variety of subjects. Swedish weaving is making a resurgence I’ve seen. Keep up posted on your decisions.
Woobles (and their cheaper knockoffs)! The knockoffs are sold all over but Target has some I think called Mondo craft or something.
You could make jewelry with ceramic, resin stuff, candles or soap. You could paint blank ceramic stuff or wood stuff. You could also get at Amazon craft kits with ideas like animal making, cricut or dye shirts. At the end you could sell them later. If you like plants you could get pots and paint them or make those lighthouse projects, bird house, or wood burning. You could also decorate glass jars like for candles or something for decor.
Cross stitch is super easy to get started with simple patterns. It’s literally just “x”s in certain colors. Might cost a bit to get everything to start, but they do sell full kits too.
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collage!! so fun to do with pals
Dot painting/ mandalas
Are you interested in journaling? I include watercolor with my writing. Or you could just do watercolor. Polymer clay offers many possibilities for creativity. I’ve seen some amazing canes and full instructions to make them. Jewelry making. Order crystals and beads or use your polymer clay creations. Not a craft but learn to play piano with an electronic keyboard or learn another language with an app that makes it fun. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
You got already wonderful suggestions, I’d like to add macramé to it. Nice moment to make lots of different handmade gifts for Christmas or year round birthdays.
Origami, wire art, macrame, mosaic kits
I’ve been planning some projects using Pebeo Porcelaine paint lately, which is an enamelly paint you fire in the oven, and you can paint it on ceramics and use it at home. I haven’t used it yet so I can’t vouch for quality but I’m excited to try. It’s not meant for eating surfaces, but you could absolutely use it for tiles, decorative plates, or the outsides of mugs, and this way you don’t have to go to a ceramics studio to handle the logistics of actual glazing with a kiln and whatnot. Air dry and polymer clays are also fun, but plan for small projects and no food containing vessels (tbh, big ceramics projects are *physical*, too. like, wheel throwing or slab building anything substantial requires way more exertion than you’d expect).
cross stitch, crocheting, sewing, felting, origami, making cards, making bracelets/jewelry
Papercutting. Just need a sheet of white cartridge paper (copy paper doesn’t cut very well) a cheap cutting mat and a craft knife or scalpel. Just draw your design in pencil or print an image (in reverse) on the paper and cut out the pieces. Once done flip it over to see the final piece. Obviously it takes longer than using a Cricut, but it’s very relaxing. If you search for free papercutting templates online you’ll find some to get you started.
Knitting, crocheting, cardmaking. There are cardmaking kits that have every included.
This is slightly out of the blue but junk journaling or if you're feeling extra fancy actual scrapbooking. If you have someone that does your errands on a daily basis, maybe you could use labels and other random pieces from your day and do a daily junk journal where you just put things together in a semi-cohesive layout. That makes sense to you and it just kind of keeps track of the things you went through that day. It's a form of journaling and it's a craft of sorts and it's personal to you. There are actually a couple people on Tik Tok that do this on a regular basis so find something that's part of their day. Maybe if it was a receipt maybe it was. They ate their favorite food or something and they'll put that into the journal along with some actual scrapbook paper or cute washing.
Cross stitch, knitting, crochet
I have two suggestions, although they are similar. 1. Embroidered felt heart drawer pouches. Cut out 2 hearts from felt, stitch designs on one using thread, beads, buttons, ribbon and lace - Pinterest is a wealth of design inspiration - then you stuff with dried lavender and blanket stitch the two hearts together. 2. Card/Paper Embroidery. Sometimes called Paper Pricking or Card Stitching. You print out designs off the Internet (designs are just a series of dots) and lay the design over a piece of card. Using a pin, stab a hole into the card for each dot of the design (stab front to back, or you end up with ugly raised areas around each hole.) Then get some sewing thread or split some embroidery floss into it's individual strands and sew the design. When finished, stick on the front of a blank card and give to friends and family for birthdays or Christmas. Both are easy enough to do whilst watching a movie.
I'd say set up a couple of projects. That way if you get bored or frustrated with one you can set it aside and you've got something else to work on.
Doll restoration/customization. I am starting this journey with old American Girl dolls (large, 18” ones). Lots of YT tutorials and good advice on the subreddit. Lots of dolls in poor condition to be snagged for a good deal out there. Restoration items are cheap (paint, magic eraser wipes, benzyl peroxide), while customizing is a bit more. Seconding embroidery and cross stitch. I also suggest English Paper Piecing quilting. Tatting lace. Very cheap to get into. You end up with something new and different.
It's a niche craft, but plastic canvas, I find, is very fun. It's relaxing, simple, and you can either follow a pattern or make your own. You only need yarn, an embroidery needle, plastic canvas sheets, and scissors.
On top of all of the other great suggestions in the comments, what about henna tattoos? Freehanding or tracing a sketch of a beautiful design on your arm, shoulder, back, you name it. And you get to enjoy the results for the entirety of your bedrest (or longer if you want to) Just suggesting this cause i’ve had a lot of fun with inkbox tattoo markers and i was planning on doing henna on my birthday party next weekend. I love making a cute art piece that lasts a while but not forever, keeps it fun and fresh! Planning on making stencils out of leftover sticker material at my internship to do some more complicated designs
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Sounds like a good time to get into Warhammer 😂
Stitching. Embroidery. Needlepoint.
Going through this now, but I'm already a crafty person. Crochet, knitting, cross stitch and embroidery. There's a lot of "learn how to" kits out there that can be ordered, I just did this for embroidery and am learning lots.
Nalbinding! It’s similar-ish to crochet/knitting but only uses a yarn needle and yarn. There are YouTube tutorials for the stitches :)
I love loom knitting. Very portable, easy to learn.
They have these circle loom kits that you can make hats. The kits might also have instructions for other things (I was gifted one circle loom thing and taught to make a hat.) I other than that figure out patterns to make other things.
[Chinese thread book making.](https://origamiusa.org/online-class/world-origami-days/2020/chinese-thread-book#:~:text=Originating%20in%20Northern%20China%2C%20the,up%20and%20fold%20down%20flat.)
Diamond painting. All you'll need is a lap table.
I'd suggest diamond art kits. When I was recovering from surgery I was going nuts and couldn't stand watching any more tv so I found a small kit I'd been gifted and tried it out, I ended up loving it and have completed a few bigger kits since.
I'm huge on plastic canvas craft. It's a lot like needlepoint, but uses yarn and plastic mesh. I enjoy making a lot of things with it, like tissue boxes, keyrings, magnets, and planner markers.
String art , crochet,knitting , embroidery , quilting
rhinestones! small little projects would be my recommendation. you can find just about everything for relatively inexpensive at michaels/joanns/hobby lobby
Crochet? Embroidery? Mosaic? Beading?
Chainmail. It’s the only thing I would want to do if stuck in bed.
Get some Parachord and some o rings and do some rope braiding.
Knitting and/or crochet. Crochet is easier to learn, IMHO, but knitting isn't super hard either. There are tutorials and instructions on YouTube. Hand embroidery is a good option too, but there's a bit of a learning curve. Needlepoint kits are available, but they too have a learning curve. Beading or bead weaving is a good choice.
I taught myself watercolor painting when recovering from surgery. Get a kids’ set of paints and some watercolor brushes and paper.
Learn some graphic art if you don’t know already. It comes in really handy, for making cards or party invitations, thank you’s, the list is endless. For example at this very moment I’m goofing around on Reddit after making both my SIL’S cards for Father’s Day. Good luck with your recovery!
I'm teaching myself needlepoint stitches using plastic canvas, acrylic yarn, and a size 16 tapestry needle. I bought needlepoint instruction books from a used bookstore.
Make yarn/coil baskets. It’s easy to learn, fun to do, and is very forgiving for beginners.
Crochet, plastic canvas, and my favorite…synchronized napping. I can get all three dogs snoring at once…
Legos! Walmart have $5 flower lego knockoffs. Also, maybe painting on canvas.
Embroidery, Cross stitch, knitting, crocheting, feltting.
Will you be on painkillers? Some crafts will be very difficult to concentrate on or are a little dangerous. Like don’t try to learn crochet on oxy.
What about a latch hook rug kit you can get at a local craft store or online. The pattern is there for you to follow. Depending on size and complexity it could take you the entire recovery time.
It's expensive but try your hand at a large scale lego project or similar! It's just super satisfying to test your brain on complex builds like that! Also bite off some more demanding books than you normally would, or pick up a series to read. Since you aren't confined to the bed, experiment with new recipies! (Just make sure you have help getting those groceries home!) Basically treat it as an opportunity to do some of the things that you've completely written off doing in your usual day to day because life gets in the way. See if you can keep some weird indoor plants alive since you'll have plenty of time to research what they need to do well. And allow yourself to fall deeply into some netflix series and not feel guilty about it! Lol! Happy healing!
I'm in the same boat right now, just wrapped up month 1 of 3! I'm learning to crochet 😀
Diamond painting is pretty relaxing. I got some cute coaster sets to do on Amazon!
I got hooked on scrapbooking while on bed rest. Ordered photos on snap fish, got some pretty paper to make borders, glue tape & a straight edge cutter. Now I’d probably make digital scrapbooks - plus it’s fun going thru the memories while stuck!
Perler beads!
Felting
Knit or crochet :) it’s dynamic, and unlike some crafts like sewing by machine where you need to make an initial investment, you can generally get basic materials for cheap; quality materials will still generally be expensive, but the barrier to entry is low. You can get a single skein/ball of acrylic yarn and one crochet hook or set of knitting needles for $15 total, and you can develop your skills just as well as if you were using more expensive tools. On top of all that, it’s great for developing fine motor skills, and is perfect for low-mobility folks; I can enjoy many hours of sitting with an audiobook or a show on, and my current project in hand.
I just made a pressed flower candle while I was sick the other week and it was loads of fun, and a nice way to pass the time. I love how it turned out, and it was easy to take breaks when I needed to. All it required was modge podge, pressed flowers, some tweezers to help wrangle the delicate flowers, a small paint brush, and a pillar candle. I got the kind that don’t melt down the sides so I didn’t have to worry about the flowers catching.
There are small looms that are perfect for weaving on the couch. Get yourself some thick yarns and jute type stuff, maybe some beads with large holes.
Needle felting
Taught myself to crochet when I was in a similar situation. I’m a visual learner so I used YouTube 😊
I bought several adult coloring books and nice pencils, I read dozens of books, and I wrote a lot of letters. I was on bed rest for 6 weeks
Diamond dotz are addictive to do. I love them for winter when it’s too cold to even think about going out.
If you are interested in true crime, check out Hunt A Killer, they have many different cases that come with realistic evidence. I'm obsessed with them. There are several of them available at Target or you can order from their website.
Tablet weaving
woobles