Budget-Friendly Hobbies -- Savings Experiment

Having a hobby can be a great way to enjoy your down time, but the expenses can add up. If you're looking for something new to try, here are a few low-cost alternatives worth checking out.

For you creative types, making your own stamps can be a clever way to add a personal touch to stationery, letters and gift wrapping. All you need is a Sharpie, a craft knife, ink pad, and a few corks.

First, draw your design onto the bottom of the cork. Next, slowly and carefully cut around the outine of your design. Once you're done, turn the cork sideways and trim away the excess. In just a few minutes, you'll have your own eco-friendly stamp. For different textures, try carving shapes in potatoes, apples and other veggies.

Another low-cost hobby is pickling. It's easy to do, and you won't need any special equipment. To get started, you'll need a jar, a saucepan, pickling ingredients and one pound of the vegetable of your choice.

Begin by packing your vegetables and garlic as tightly as possible into the jar. Then, combine the remaining ingredients in a saucepan and bring the mixture to boil. Pour the hot liquid carefully into the jar and let it cool for one hour with the lid off. After that, put on the lid, stick it in the fridge and you're done.

If you're looking for something new to do, try your hand at making homemade stamps and pickles. You can be creative and have some fun without breaking your budget.

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