So you’re sitting at home and feeling very bored. You know that you’re still capable of creating something fascinating, but nothing comes to mind.
If you like to get creative you can build some super cool things like cardboard houses or furniture, a cardboard pinball machine, a terrarium, an indoor garden, or sculptures out of recyclable materials.
These are fun creative projects you can do from the comfort of your own home! Plus, you might already have a lot of the necessary materials in your home and if you don’t, I’ve listed everything you need to get started and links to order them from Amazon.
This guide offers 6 ideas of things you can build at home when you’re feeling bored.
Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. As part of the Amazon Associates program, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.
Cardboard house
No, cardboard houses aren’t just for kids! It’s not like building a dollhouse after all, although you can definitely turn it into one for your kids if you want.
A cardboard house is a great way to get creative, practice your handyman/woman skills and create a unique piece that can be used as furniture or decoration.
Collect old cardboard boxes of different sizes from around the house and use them to build the walls. Cut out windows and decorate them with markers, paint or stickers.
How to make a cardboard house
To begin, you’ll need:
• Cardboard boxes
• Utility knife or scissors
• Glue gun or strong adhesive
• Markers or paint
Step 1: Measure and cut the cardboard boxes. It’s important to measure each box before cutting so that you can make sure each element of your house is the same size.
Step 2: Glue the sides together and tape them to hold them in place.
Step 3: Decorate the walls of your house with markers, paint or stickers.
Step 4: Cut out windows and doors.
Step 5: Put the whole house together. Glue or tape the walls and roof together to form your cardboard house.
You can also use other materials like string or fabric to decorate and make it look even more realistic. You can even add furniture like chairs and tables made of cardboard.
Kitchen stools
Woodworking skills can be learned at home but you need to have the right tools for the job and start with the basics first.
For this building DIY, you’re going to make some cool kitchen stools that you can use as seating around your kitchen table.
How to make a basic wooden kitchen stool
What you’ll need:
• Screws and bolts
Step 1: Cut the wood board into four equal square pieces. Sand down the edges to make them smooth.
Step 2: Drill four pilot holes on each piece of wood – two at the top and two at the bottom.
Step 3: Paint or stain the wood boards and leave them to dry.
Step 4: Secure the four pieces of wood together with screws and bolts.
Step 5: Add a cushion to the top for extra comfort and you’re done!
For the cushion, you can use foam and fabric or just an old pillow. If you want to stick the cushion to the wood, you can use a glue gun.
Cardboard pinball machine
Who doesn’t like pinball? But buying a big pinball machine isn’t always possible or affordable.
If you want to make a pinball machine, but don’t have the right materials, you can use cardboard. It’s a great way to make a fun game out of recycled material and it doesn’t take much time either!
How to make a cardboard pinball machine
What you’ll need:
• Cardboard
• Glue gun
• Pencils
• Paint, markers or stickers
• Steel balls
• Wooden sticks
• String
Step 1: Start by cutting two pieces of cardboard in the shape of a rectangle.
Step 2: Draw the game board on one of the pieces with a pencil and color it or stick some stickers to make it look nicer.
Step 3: Cut small holes in the cardboard for the steel balls. Make sure they are wide enough so that the balls fit in but not too wide so that the balls don’t get stuck.
Step 4: Glue wooden sticks to the cardboard for the flippers.
Step 5: Connect the flippers with a piece of string and attach it to another wooden stick placed behind the cardboard.
Step 6: Put the steel balls in the holes and your cardboard pinball machine is ready to play!
You can also add other elements like bumpers, spinners or slingshots to make it even more fun.
Terrarium
There’s nothing quite like making a terrarium to keep you busy. It’s a great way to create your own little world and is perfect for any green-fingered enthusiast!
If you’ve always liked living crafts, then this DIY is definitely for you. You can use all kinds of natural elements, plants, and critters to create your own little world.
How to make a terrarium
What you’ll need:
• Gravel or pebbles
• Water & spray bottle
The critters are optional as you’ll need to provide a suitable habitat for them. This includes getting the critters food and water.
Step 1: Start by getting your terrarium container which is made of glass. Make sure it’s big enough to fit all your plants and other decorations.
Step 2: Put a layer of gravel or pebbles at the bottom of the container to provide drainage.
Step 3: Add a layer of charcoal on top of the gravel or pebbles which will help to keep the terrarium clean.
Step 4: Put a layer of potting soil in the container and add your plants.
Step 5: Add decorations like rocks, twigs, shells or any other natural elements you’d like to use.
Step 6: Lastly, add a small amount of water to the terrarium using a spray bottle! Never pour in water because it has nowhere to go. It should be just dampening the soil a bit.
Once you’re done with all the steps, your terrarium is ready to be enjoyed! If you added any critters, make sure they have everything they need to live and stay healthy.
Indoor garden
Spending time in nature can be a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But if you don’t have access to a garden, or just don’t have the time to maintain one, you can easily create an indoor garden.
Indoor gardens are a great way to bring the outside in, without having to worry about the weather or lack of space. With a few simple supplies and some basic knowledge, you can create your little patch of nature in the comfort of your own home!
You can create herb gardens, vegetable gardens from seeds, or flower gardens.
How to build an indoor garden
The cool thing about building your indoor garden is that you can set it up in interesting ways. I like to place my potted plants and hanging plants in areas that create a natural look.
What you’ll need:
• Plants (potted or hanging)
• Watering can or spray bottle
• Fertilizer & indoor plant food
• Decorations (stones, pebbles, etc)
Step 1: Start by choosing your plants and containers. Make sure the size of the pot is suitable for the type of plant you are using.
Step 2: Fill the pot with potting soil and add some fertilizer if needed.
Step 3: Place your plants in the pot and water them using a watering can or spray bottle.
Step 4: Decorate your garden with stones and pebbles, adding wooden frames to hang plants from.
Step 5: Place the pots in areas where they can get enough sunlight.
You can use an indoor plant stand to display your plants and create a lush look for your garden.
Once everything is set up, your indoor garden is ready to be enjoyed! Make sure to water and fertilize your plants regularly to keep them healthy. With a little bit of maintenance, you’ll have your own piece of nature in the comfort of your home.
Sculptures made from recycled materials
Creating something out of nothing is a great way to express your creativity. And what better way to do it than by using recycled materials?
Recycled materials are not only good for the environment, but they can also be used to make unique and interesting sculptures. With a few simple supplies and some creativity, you can create your own works of art!
P.S check out these DIY ideas for spring!
How to make sculptures with recycled materials
What you’ll need:
• Assorted recycled materials (plastic bottles, paper, cardboard boxes etc.)
• Glue
• Scissors or utility knife
• Paint (optional)
Step 1: Start by gathering all the materials you want to use for your sculpture. Make sure you have enough to create your desired shape. Some ideas for shapes include animals, flowers, trees, or abstract forms.
Step 2: Cut the materials into different shapes and sizes with a scissors or utility knife.
Step 3: Begin gluing the pieces together to create your sculpture. Make sure you let the glue dry before adding any more materials.
Step 4: Once the sculpture is complete, you can give it a coat of paint if desired.
Step 5: Finally, display your artwork in a prominent spot and admire your work!
Creating sculptures from recycled materials is a great way to express yourself and it’s also a fun way to think of cool shapes and designs. So get creative and start sculpting!
Final thoughts
Creating art can be a relaxing and rewarding activity. From terrariums to sculptures made from recycled materials, there are many ways to make beautiful pieces in the comfort of your home.
There are benefits to building things with your own hands like:
• Sense of accomplishment
• Learning a new skill
• Expressing your creativity
So why not get creative and start making something unique? You’re sure to have fun and you may even surprise yourself with the results!
Good luck and happy crafting!