Hobbies are an unmatched form of self-care. Sure, unwinding with a long soak in the tub or treating yourself to a fresh manicure is great. But having an activity you can get lost in—something you do that’s just for you—might just be the best way to relax and recharge. And if you can give someone else that gift? That makes one heck of a thoughtful present.
If you’re stuck on what to get your mom for Mother’s Day this year, introducing her to a new hobby might just be the perfect solution. Whether she wants to get into needlepoint, watercoloring, or gardening, these hobby gifts will help her get started on her new favorite activity:
Needlepoint
In recent years, needlepoint has gone from granny hobby to it-girl activity. It’s easy to pick up, super meditative, and perfect for practicing while cozied up on the couch. Plus, there are tons of beginner-friendly needlepoint kits on the market these days that make excellent gifts for the hobbyist.
Reading
Reading is the ultimate low-key hobby you can do anytime, any place. Help her fit reading into her busy schedule with tools that make it even more fun and convenient. She’ll be devouring books in no time.
Mahjong
Mahjong is having a serious moment right now. This tile-based strategy game originated in China and is now making the rounds in mom friend groups everywhere. For the gal who wants to get into mahjong, these gifts are the perfect starting point:
Gardening
Whether you start with a couple of pots of herbs or dig straight in with a whole vegetable garden, gardening can be so rewarding. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty and then watch as your hard work grows and thrives. Kickstart her gardening journey with a few tools she’ll need to get started:
Cooking
Reframing cooking as a hobby transforms it from something you have to do into something you genuinely want to do. With the right tools and a little inspiration, working in the kitchen becomes so much more than a chore.
Watercolor painting
With only minimal supplies required (a set of paints and brushes, plus a cup of water), watercolor painting feels a little more approachable than other forms of art. It’s the perfect creative hobby to dabble in without a huge commitment. Inspire her to create her own watercolor masterpieces with these artsy hobby gifts:
Letter writing
These days, writing letters feels like a dying art, but it can be such a satisfying hobby and a thoughtful way to connect with friends and family. Set her up with some special letter-writing supplies that will inspire her to put pen to paper.
Puzzles
Putting together puzzles is one of those hobbies that feels relaxing and low-stress but actually gives your brain a great workout. These puzzle gifts are perfect for cozy evenings at home:
Crocheting or knitting
Both crocheting and knitting are great ways to keep your hands busy and do something creative while watching TV or chilling at home. For someone who wants to get into yarn crafts, a beginner kit or a few must-have supplies make fabulous gifts.
Yoga
Yoga doubles as both a relaxing hobby and a great workout, and all you need to get started is a few simple pieces of equipment. These yoga gifts are basically an investment in lower stress, better balance, and improved flexibility.
Jewelry making
From charm necklaces to beaded bracelets to polymer clay earrings, there are so many cool ways to make your own jewelry. Stock her up with a few supplies so she can start crafting her own accessories at home.
Jessica Friedhoff, Senior Lifestyle Editor
Jessica Friedhoff is the Senior Lifestyle Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversees the Home & Living category of the site. She writes and edits stories across a broad range of topics including decorating, food, entertaining, travel, and more. With a pulse on the latest trends, she uses her eye for detail and design to create timely, inspiring content for our readers.
Products featured in graphics linked within article.
Moms deserve more than a last-minute grocery store run for a card and some flowers. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, planning a special brunch spread, or just looking to spend some quality time with your mom, here’s your guide to pulling off a Mother’s Day that will make her feel seen, appreciated, and genuinely celebrated.