If I say the word “hobby”, you’ll likely think of something you like to do in your spare time – gardening, walking, reading, knitting, model kits. Maybe it’s pottery classes, DIY projects or learning something new on YouTube. But what you may not know is many hobbies were originally forms of work that evolved into something to do in our spare time as manufacturing practices changed.

Crafts are one type of hobby that have always been popular. Many, like lacemaking, were originally jobs that women and children did, and some, like tablet weaving, have long histories that can be traced back to the bronze age.

In the UK, the Heritage Association advocates for traditional craft skills and supports makers. One of their roles is to monitor the risk of a craft becoming extinct in the UK through their red list. Many crafts they list are professions; however, there are some that are now thought of as hobbies as well.

Here are three crafts that are at risk of becoming extinct in the UK. Maybe one will pique your interest. If so, why not give it a go – you might even help keep a traditional skill alive.

Hobbies can bring joy, wellbeing and focus to our busy lives, but so many of us don’t have one. If you’re ready to replace scrolling with stitching, or hustle with horticulture, The Hobby Starter Kit (a new series from Quarter Life) will help you get going.

Also called naalbinding, nalebinding and needlebinding, nålbinding is a looping technique used to........

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