Lately, it feels like there is so much change going on around us. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly been a big part of that with all the adjustments of quarantine. If you and your roommates are feeling the stress of it all, you aren’t alone! There’s plenty we cannot control right now, and that reality may leave some of us stressed out and feeling depressed or anxious. But there’s also plenty we can do to combat these feelings.
One way to fight these feelings is to engage in crafting! As it turns out, “creative action can function as a natural antidepressant.” So with that, here are some fun roommate crafts to keep you busy—and happy—during quarantine.
Painting Wall Art
You don’t have to be an artist to make beautifully striking wall art! Buy a blank canvas, various brushes, and acrylic paint from an art supply store. Then, take to the internet for your painting inspiration. A colorful abstract canvas painting doesn’t take much money—or even many brush strokes—to make, but it can sure make a huge statement in your apartment. Check out these canvas wall art ideas from Pinterest to get you started.
If you’re looking to create a more realism-inspired piece of art, check out YouTube for step-by-step canvas art tutorials. You’ll find easy-to-follow steps that beginner artists can use to produce stunning works of art. You’ll love hanging these pieces on your apartment walls! You’ll probably also have a few laughs along the way as you compare your artistic differences in the final products!
Making Cards
Pull out the scrapbook paper, colorful pens, and pretty embellishments! Spend some time together developing small-scale masterpieces called greeting cards! You can even work together in an assembly line to “mass-produce” a card design so you each have a copy. Check out this link for some card-designing inspiration!
Once you have your cards created, enjoy writing personalized notes to your family members and friends as a way to lift others up during this stressful time. Add a treat to the delivery to maximize cheer!
Knitting (or Learning to Knit)
Why did knitting make the list of our best roommate crafts during quarantine? Research indicates that knitting is another way to increase your happiness and sense of calm. In addition, research suggests you’ll enjoy some cognitive benefits from knitting as well! It’s also a great social craft, meaning you can easily engage in conversation while producing wonderfully cozy creations. Win-win-win!
If you’re unsure of how to get started, there are plenty of helpful knitting teachers on YouTube. Pick your favorite instructor and “cast on.”
Regardless of the project you and your roomies choose, crafting is a research-backed way to feel happier during these stressful times. While painting wall art, making cards, or knitting are great ways to get started, the creative options are virtually endless for your roommate crafts! Simply search “crafts for adults” on Google or Pinterest and let the inspiration roll! Tag The Heights at Signal Hill to show us where your crafting journey takes you and your roomies!