Arts and crafts can be a therapeutic and fun way to pass the time during chemo!
Benefits of arts and crafts during chemo
- Stress relief: Creating art can be a great way to relax and de-stress.
- Self-expression: It provides an outlet for expressing emotions and thoughts.
- Focus and distraction: Art projects can distract from the discomfort and boredom of treatment.
- Sense of accomplishment: Completing a project can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of achievement.
Arts and crafts ideas
Drawing and sketching
- Materials needed: Sketchbooks, pencils, pens, erasers.
- Tips: Start with simple sketches and gradually try more detailed drawings. Consider following online tutorials to learn new techniques.
Painting
- Materials needed: Paints (watercolors, acrylics), brushes, canvas or paper.
- Tips: Use a variety of colors to express different moods. Experiment with different styles like abstract, landscape, or portrait painting.
Coloring
- Materials needed: Coloring books, colored pencils, markers, or crayons.
- Tips: Coloring can be very relaxing and doesn’t require artistic skill. Choose intricate designs for a more engaging experience.
Craft kits
- Materials needed: Pre-assembled craft kits available in stores or online (e.g., bracelet making, model building, embroidery).
- Tips: These kits provide all the necessary materials and instructions, making them convenient and easy to use.
Scrapbooking
- Materials needed: Photos, scrapbook, stickers, decorative paper, glue, scissors.
- Tips: Create a scrapbook of favorite memories, inspirational quotes, or future goals. It’s a great way to preserve and reflect on positive experiences.
Jewelry making
- Materials needed: Beads, strings, clasps, pliers.
- Tips: Start with simple designs like bead bracelets or necklaces. As you get more comfortable, try more complex patterns.
Origami
- Materials needed: Origami paper or any paper cut into squares.
- Tips: Follow online tutorials to create various shapes and figures. It’s a great way to improve focus and patience.
Knitting and crocheting
- Materials needed: Yarn, knitting needles or crochet hooks.
- Tips: Start with simple projects like scarves or hats. There are many beginner-friendly patterns available online.
Clay modeling
- Materials needed: Air-dry clay, modeling tools.
- Tips: Create small sculptures, jewelry, or decorative items. Air-dry clay is easy to use and doesn’t require baking.
Digital art
- Materials needed: Tablet or computer with drawing software.
- Tips: Use drawing apps or software to create digital art. It’s a mess-free way to explore creativity.
Tips for enjoying arts and crafts
- Set up a comfortable space
- Ensure you have a well-lit, comfortable area with all your supplies within reach.
- Take breaks as needed
- Listen to your body and take breaks if you feel tired. Art should be relaxing, not exhausting.
- Keep it fun
- Don’t worry about perfection. Focus on enjoying the process and expressing yourself.
- Explore new techniques
- Try different art forms and techniques to keep things interesting and discover what you enjoy most.
- Share your work
- Share your creations with friends, family, or online communities. Positive feedback can be encouraging and boost your confidence.
- Stay organized
- Keep your supplies organized in a way that makes it easy to start and stop projects as needed.
Fun project ideas
Create a vision board: Collect images and words from magazines that represent your dreams and goals. Glue them onto a board for daily inspiration.
Design your own greeting cards: Make personalized cards for friends, family, or even other patients to spread some cheer.
Paint rocks: Find smooth rocks and paint them with uplifting messages or designs. They can be kept as personal tokens or given as gifts.
DIY home decor: Make decorations for your room, such as painted canvases, wall hangings, or decorative jars.
Custom t-shirts: Use fabric paints or markers to design your own T-shirts with favorite quotes, designs, or patterns.
There are lots of more ideas for crafts on Pinterest! Check some out below:
