We hope you love our recommendations! While every product is independently chosen by our editors, BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. You can read more about how our affiliate partnerships work in our Editorial Standards & Ethics Guide.

Quit all that yawning and try this home cheese-making set and Bob Ross "paint with water" book instead.

Check out a TikTok of Murdle in action. 

The best part?? Once you finish "Murdling," you can use your sleuthing skills on Volume 2, Volume 3, and a whole BUNCH of other themed Murdle books — PLUS a Murdle board game!! 

Promising review: "The puzzles are a lot of fun but the characters, story lines, and other details take the Murdle experience to another level. I have no idea how the author came up with all of this creativeness! You can Murdle solo or with friends. I look forward to future volumes but this one will keep me busy for awhile!" —Liz Gately

Psst — a lot of reviewers use silicone or plastic molds to get specific shapes! 

Promising review: "It’s honestly just a really nice material to work with! If you want to create things with clay, this is definitely a good choice! It’s definitely not for professional use, but I feel like that’s a given? I mean, it is Crayola. But all in all, great for those who want to use it for fun!" —Amazon Customer

Each kit comes with a pottery wheel machine, a power adapter, eight sculpting tools, two paint brushes, three packs of air-dry clay, and 12 paints. 

Promising review: "I am amazed how well thought through this product is. It is very compact and has everything you need to get started and try your hand at pottery! My kids immensely enjoyed using it and were very excited with their creations. It's very compact, built with very good quality materials. The wheel is very stable, and you can control the speed as you get the hang of it. It's well priced for a starter kit and overall a great kit." —Synghal

Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for! It lays flat to easily complete the word search and not have to fight with the book. There are different types of puzzles, and some have extra secret searches! It’s great for the slow days at work!! I will definitely be buying more of these word searches!" —Roy Y Hahn

Promising review: "This book is a fantastic way to dig deeper without having any worries of being judged. It's a book you can vent to, be 100% honest with, and find out more about yourself. I love it and need more books like it!" —Amazon Customer

This book is a kind of DIY memoir — it goes through three phases of "Early," "Middle," and "Later" years, and has 201 different prompts based on your memories, experiences, and views on the world.. This also makes for a lovely gift for family members, so you can all preserve each other's memories!

Get it from Amazon for $11.61 or from Bookshop (to support local bookstores) for $18.60 (originally $20).

Paper Peony Press is a Texas-based boutique publishing company that specializes in purpose-driven books. 

Promising review: "I’ve tried several instructional books on hand lettering. This book is the best by far. I won’t say the names of the other books, but suffice it to say they are all at the top of the list when you search for hand lettering. It is the only book that gives practice for the base strokes and also discusses posture and how to hold the pen, and at what angle to the paper. It is also a lovely book to work with; nice artwork/illustrations. I recommend this book to other beginners out there!" —Karen Rorick

For those new to the concept — instead of adding the color to these, you add the lines to create images within the colors. Sort of like a Rorschach test, but make it whimsical. 

Check out a TikTok of the reverse coloring book in action. 

Promising review: "Kendra Norton’s beautiful art books, Reverse Coloring books, have changed my world! My whole life, I thought I was not creative and therefore, had zero artistic ability. Now, this has become my favorite form of artistic expression. I turn on music and/or an audiobook and allow myself to go for an adventure outside of my mind, beyond my mind, if you will. This has become my favorite way to process through difficult emotions and experiences I’m working through." —K. DeWitt

(Psst — check out these cult-fave black fine point pens on Amazon for a good doodling option!) 

Promising review: "Who doesn't love Bob Ross and the ease with which he would paint a spectacular landscape? This is a great way for a person like me, with no artistic ability, the opportunity to paint a beautiful picture. You will get 24 watercolor/painting pages and 12 color pages with your own pencils or markers. A paintbrush does come included with the book, so you can start painting as soon as you get it. It is very calming to dip the brush in water and, with a few strokes, create a watercolor scene." —Erinn

Pro-tip: You can also snap up a Bob Ross mini paint-by-number kit and a Bob Ross paint-by-number coloring book if you want a more hands-on activity! 

Fermentaholics is a small business that specializes in pickling and kombucha starter kits. 

Promising review: "This kit is great for first timers or experienced, and makes DELICIOUS pickles, or pickled anything for that matter. Pickles, carrots, onions, asparagus. The instructions are easy to follow and understand. Will be buying as gifts for my pickle loving friends and more for myself. Makes me want to try the other products this company offers." –KelF

Promising review: "Very simple to use! Delicious homemade butter! My son and I love making this and we take turns shaking the jar. Very easy to clean, durable, low cost, and doesn't leak! Great product!" —Shay K. 

Promising review: "Another stellar puzzle from Magic Puzzle Company, featuring high-quality pieces, a hidden final image, and a unique solving experience. The artwork is full of detail, making it an immersive and engaging build. The pieces fit together snugly, with no puzzle dust, and the final reveal adds an element of surprise. If you’re looking for a high-quality puzzle that’s more than just a standard jigsaw, this one is worth every penny." —Baloptimus

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (and check out the DELIGHTFUL assortment of Magic Puzzles for more options!). 

Promising review: "Sooo cute and easy to make! Also, pretty good value for what’s included. I had fun making all these cute little pastries, and it’s super beginner-friendly!" —Karla

Promising review: "I didn't know what to expect from this super adorable anxiety bookshelf, but it delivered! I shake it up when I feel anxiety, even frustration, and I sort all the little books back onto the shelves anyway I want, and it is sooo satisfying! The bookshelf is super cute and well-built. It is sturdy and beautiful. The tiny books are detailed, and their covers are amazing. They aren't actual books, but they really look like they are. This is the most gratifying gift I have ever purchased for myself. Beyond satisfied!" —Elda M. Ferguson

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in five colors). 

Kunitsa Co. is a small business that specializes in reading, exercise, and food journals. 

Promising review: "This book journal had plenty of room for all the book reviews and so much more. It has pages for daily reading tracking, pages for reading goals, pages for DNF books, favorite books, loaned-out books, and tons of review pages all you have to do is feel it out. It’s perfect!!!!" —Cody McNeal

Get it from Amazon for $22.95 (available in six colors). 

Promising review: "This is a must have. Best lazy bread making experience you’ll ever have! Put everything into one container and then cook it in the same container! When you wash it everything slips off with no scrubbing needed. The brioche recipe rivals fresh bread served at restaurants." —FutureMrsBLW

Promising review: "The designs and colors are the same as shown on Amazon. Finished coasters sparkle, and the vibrant colors create eight very cute cats. There were plenty of beads to complete the project, and adhesion was excellent. Letters and numbers were sharp and easy to follow. I am delighted with these coasters." —PackLeaderJ

Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (available in four styles). 

Each set comes with a 100-color palette, a sketch pencil, a sponge, a swatch sheet, and three water brush pens. 

Promising review: "Love collecting watercolor sets, and this one is amazing — so many exquisite colors to paint with. Creativity is everything, and imagination with all these colors is unlimited. Pure happiness!" —pve

Each set comes with a detailed numbered outline, four brushes, and a set of numbered acrylic paints with extra to spare.

Promising review: "Colorful and fun! This is the third paint-by-number I’ve done, and by far the most challenging. Lots of fine point detail, and the paint brushes included were adequate, unlike other PBN sets I’ve bought." —Emily cox

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in 18 styles).

Promising review: "I used these molds to create homemade Nestle Crunch bars. It was easy to load these molds. I placed them on baking sheets and banged them on the counter to remove air bubbles, then loaded into fridge/freezer. The molds are compact enough that they fit easily into my side-by-side fridge. I did not add any release agents to the molds before using, and the chocolate bars popped out very easily." —Keith G. 

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in two styles). 

Foldology is a small business that specializes in unique puzzles. 

Promising review: "So much fun! This activity has provided hours of enjoyment. They start off easy and with each you learn a new fold and they progressively get harder. Definitely a worthwhile purchase for someone who likes puzzles." —Amazon Customer

Promising review: "Great craft kit. I'm absolutely thrilled with this tiny greenhouse. It was easy to assemble, and the high-quality materials made it a joy to work with. The attention to detail is impressive, from the miniature plants to the watering can and water pipe. It's perfect for small spaces and adds a touch of serenity to my desk. The instructions were clear, and it's a great project for all skill levels. I highly recommend it! 5/5 stars!" —Manisha

Brewsy is a small business that specializes in affordable, app-enabled cider, wine, and mead kits. Note: you have to provide your own jug or juice bottle (there's one on Amazon if you don't already have a vessel large enough!). 

Promising review: "I've been interested in making my own wine for a while, but getting started can be costly and time-consuming. This kit is a great way to get started for very little money or time. The instructions are easy to follow, and the ability to use any juice at all means you can make some really unique flavors. I have already made one batch of wine using grape juice because I didn't want to get too wild on my first batch. It was sweeter than most red wines I've bought, but tasted great and the alcohol content was at least 12 percent. I base that on my body's reaction after drinking two glasses. I recommend these for yourself or a friend, I think it's a great buy and product." —Maximillion M. 

Check out a TikTok of the cocktail book in action. 

Promising review: "This book has easily become one of my favorites. Great base knowledge and would recommend to anyone seeking to further educate themselves on spirits and cocktails. Even the first few pages are full of useful information. Purchase this for yourself or even as a gift. I cannot say enough good things about this book." —Adriana

Each kit comes with a simple design, a cotton cloth, a bamboo embroidery hoop, a little scissor, colored threads, embroidery needles, and instructions, so you should be raring to go when it arrives!

Promising review: "I’ve never done anything like this before ... but I like to try new things, and I’ve just recently moved and wanted to decorate my house with some handmade decor. This kit is a great value for the price! It came with the hoop, more than enough thread, and two needles! The printed pattern is very clear and easy to follow, and the little sheet of instructions on what stitch to use and how to do it is clear enough (and anything I don’t understand, I just watch a tutorial on YouTube). I’m about three hours into the project already, and I didn’t want to put it down last night." —Abby

Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in various different patterns).

I'm definitely going to sushi jail for this, but I've started putting peanut butter in my avocado rolls. Don't knock it until you try it. Anyway, each kit comes with two sushi rolling mats, five pairs of chopsticks, a paddle, a spreader, and a PDF of instructions, including recipes for six popular rolls.

Psst — if you REALLY want to level up your homemade sushi game, I highly recommend adding this truffle seasoning on Amazon! It tastes so startlingly decadent. I've been ordering it for years to put on my avocado rolls and shiitake rolls when I order sushi. 

Promising review: "Received this the other day and the wife and I had our own sushi night at home...I did not realize there were two mats in the package which was a nice little surprise...everything is made of good quality materials, easy to use and a good fun activity for date night at home. I will be getting a few more as gifts for a few friends...good product, received it quickly and for the price you cannot go wrong." —Timothy J Stegner

Promising review: "This is everything you could want for an introduction to the art of origami! It has clear instructions, a variety of options and paper too! This has been an entertainment piece for the family for a few nights, as the kids want to try new projects each time. Fun for all!" —Bookbum

Promising review: "Honestly, I saw this tarot deck and thought I needed this for ha ha’s. But man. This deck’s images are hilarious. It’s so much fun, and I felt so drawn to it as soon as it was in my hands. I am smitten over these kittens. 😍 10000% worth the purchase!" —Kathryn Prouty

Each kit includes two wood carving blocks (one cherry and one basswood), a carving knife, sharpening supplies, a template, and three types of sandpaper.

Promising review: "The company is very supportive and their kit is great. It has everything you need to start working with wood. Additionally, I have really appreciated the professionalism and customer service received from them." —Sam

Promising review: "I didn’t know what to expect from this but it will greatly exceed anyone’s expectations. The materials are great quality, very easy to use, meditative, and [it's] really cool to see what you can make. —Hazel

Urban Cheesecraft is an Oregon-based Etsy shop established in 2009 that specializes in make-your-own cheese kits in a variety of cheeses, including vegan options. Each kit comes with a cheesecloth, citric acid, flake salt, instructions, and "email support for life" — all you need is milk (and a mouth to consume it all).

Promising review: "These kits are great gifts for the cheese lover and the person 'who's already got it all.' The packaging looks nice and gift-worthy and it's a perfect price range. I love that the recipient gets an experience as well as a tangible product and I can personally attest that the actual process is easy." —amyleannbohner

Get it from Urban Cheesecraft on Etsy for $29.10. 

If you are unfamiliar with this glorious witchcraft, Shrinky Dink paper lets you color designs on it that you can then cut out and bake to shrink them down, giving them a stained glass effect that makes them great for keychains, suncatchers, and little trinkets. 

Promising review: "Fun for ALL ages! Recently remembered how fun these were. I have a smaller daughter, so it gave me an excuse to buy these. They're secretly for me — half kidding. These are so simple to use and create great crafts. These will keep your little one's imagination going, occupied and helps practice fine motor skills. I would definitely recommend to ANYONE, not just little humans." —Alex Soper

Get a 25-sheet set from Amazon for $14.99. 

Or at the very least, get "WHO LIVES IN A PINEAPPLE UNDER THE SEA????" stuck in your head until the end of time.

The kit comes with a crafting board, small hammer, a holder, nails, glue, screws, cotton string, a frame, a pattern, and a detailed instruction manual, so there's no need to buy other supplies.

Promising review: "These instructions are easy to follow — I finished it in two hours. This was so much fun, and I love my finished results! It looks so beautiful. It was a gift for my friend. I would buy it again and recommend it to others." —yuyantan

Get it from Amazon for $23.99 (available in six styles).

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.