Building a computer or playing video games is fun, but have you ever thought about picking up an old-school hobby? These forgotten art forms are sure to impress friends and family, while keeping occupied with something that doesn't involve a screen. You're not likely to find a practical, money-making side hustle with any of these hobbies, but they're rewarding nonetheless and will definitely bump you up on the intrigue scale.
Collecting
These days you rarely see a collection of stamps, currency, baseball cards, or other memorabilia. But there's not much more enjoyable than watching your collection grow in size and value. This is one hobby that could cost a lot of money up front, but over time, the value of your collection may increase, and you could end up with a sizable investment in the future.
Leatherworking
Leatherworking is an incredibly versatile hobby. While you’ll most likely start out making coin pouches that nobody needs, with a little practice, you'll be leathersmithing with the best of them. Wallets are a go-to standby for leather hobbyists, but if you want to make something as awesome as a biker jacket, nothing is stopping you. The tools are easy to purchase online, and there are plenty of resources to get you started.
Model Building
Planes, trains, and automobiles! No matter what you're interested in, there's a model-sized version waiting to be built. There are even specific models you can build from movies, like a Star Wars Millennium Falcon or the Batmobile. No matter what you choose, you’ll have fun piecing everything together and displaying the finished product for all to see.
Ships in a Bottle
Ships in a bottle have largely disappeared, but they’re one of the coolest old-school hobbies around. There are two ways you can build one—the first method is the “real” way because you place every little piece in the bottle by hand and assemble them using tiny tools. The second is getting a bottle that opens on the bottom so you can slip the ship in without hassle. This way is also known as “cheating,” you slacker, you.
Whittling
Whittling may evoke images of toothless hillbillies or pinewood derby cars, but it's quite a versatile old-school hobby. Some people create a Harry Potter wands, mounts for displays, spears, cooking utensils, and practically anything else you can imagine. Impress your significant other with a prop from their favorite movie….or you could just whittle a creepy gnome to watch over your porch.
Knapping
You know those arrowheads you see in museums? They were created using knapping, a skill that’s long moved to the wayside. The proper method can be difficult to learn, but when you get it down, you'll be able to create gifts for friends and family that are in the market for ancient weaponry. It's not the most practical hobby to pick up, but it's cheap, fun, and a real conversation starter.
Watchmaking
Nothing says “class” (or maybe “ass”) than a man that carries around a pocket watch, and nothing is more impressive than telling someone you made your own. Horology, or watchmaking, takes a fine eye for detail, but with time and practice, you can create a tiny, complicated masterpiece. Plus, they’ll be unique and fantastic presents for someone that you really care about.