Creative outlets for carers: simple arts & crafts to enjoy at home

As a carer, your time and energy are often dedicated to looking after others, especially when supporting individuals with dementia. It’s easy to forget that you also need care—time to unwind, recharge, and indulge in activities that nurture your creativity and well-being. 

Art and crafts can provide a much-needed escape, helping you relax and express yourself, even amidst a busy schedule. Here are some simple, enjoyable arts and crafts that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine at home.

1. Adult colouring books

Adult colouring books are a fantastic way to engage in a creative hobby without the need for extensive setup or materials. You can colour for just a few minutes at a time and still reap the benefits. The repetitive nature of colouring can reduce stress and anxiety, helping to calm your mind.

How to start:

• All you need is a colouring book and some coloured pencils or markers.

• Keep it handy so you can sneak in a few minutes of colouring during breaks.

Benefits:

• Portable and easy to pick up anytime.

• A mindfulness practice that helps reduce anxiety.

2. Knitting or crochet

Knitting and crochet are perfect for carers because they offer a portable, soothing craft you can work on a little at a time. Both activities are rhythmic, helping to lower stress levels and promote focus. You can create something beautiful and functional, like scarves, blankets, or small gifts.

How to start:

• Pick up a simple beginner’s kit with basic patterns.

• A small project, like a scarf or dishcloth, can be done in short intervals.

Benefits:

• Portable and easy to do anywhere.

• Meditative and reduces stress.

3. Watercolour painting

Watercolour painting is a low-pressure way to explore creativity. With its fluidity, you don’t need to aim for perfection - just enjoy playing with colours on paper. It’s also a flexible craft that you can step away from and come back to without worrying about drying times, making it perfect for someone with a busy, unpredictable schedule.

How to start:

• You only need watercolours, a small pad of paper, and a brush.

• Try abstract painting or simple floral designs to relax into the flow of the colours.

Benefits:

• Low-cost and easy to start.

• Calming, and encourages creative expression without strict rules.

4. Collage art

Creating a collage is a versatile and forgiving craft that can be done in short bursts. Using old magazines, travel brochures, newspapers, or scrap paper, you can create a unique piece of art simply by cutting and pasting images and textures that inspire you.

How to start:

• Gather old magazines, scissors, glue, and a piece of cardboard or paper.

• Play with different themes - focus on colours, words, or create a vision board for the future.

Benefits:

• An easy way to tap into your creative side.

• Requires minimal materials, and you can use recycled items.

5. Handmade cards

Making handmade cards is a satisfying creative outlet that doesn’t require much time. Whether for birthdays, Christmas, or a thank you note, this craft gives you a chance to indulge in your artistic side.

How to start:

• Gather some blank cards, stamps and stickers.

• Decorate the cards with simple drawings, messages, or collage elements.

Benefits:

• Quick, personal, and easy to do in small chunks of time.

• Brings joy both to you and to the recipient of your handmade card.

6. Journaling with art

Art journaling combines drawing, painting, and collage with traditional journaling. It’s a personal and expressive outlet, offering the freedom to sketch, doodle, and write about your thoughts and feelings. This can help you reflect on your caregiving experiences while nurturing your creativity.

How to start:

• Use a blank journal or sketchbook, along with pens, markers, and any other art supplies you enjoy.

• Incorporate small sketches, words, and colours to represent your day or mood.

Benefits:

• Reflective and therapeutic.

• Provides a space to express emotions that may be hard to articulate.

Finding time for creativity

As a busy carer, finding time for yourself can feel impossible, but integrating small moments of creativity into your day can make a big difference. Try setting aside just 10-15 minutes a day to work on a project or enjoy an artistic activity. Even this small amount of time can refresh your mind and help you feel more grounded and balanced.

Remember, these activities don’t have to be perfect, nor do they need to be time-consuming. The goal is to find something you enjoy and that allows you to reconnect with yourself. So, go ahead, pick up those coloured pencils, or grab some wool - you deserve a creative break.

Join us in the conversation forum to share any creative projects you have tried, they might inspire someone else, we’d love to hear from you!