With Halloween on the horizon and Christmas just around the corner, now is the perfect time to pick up a cozy new hobby.
Many of these skills, from cooking to crafting, also double as gifts, with the overarching objective of celebrating what the holidays are all about: bringing people together.
Whether you’re interested in learning about customs of an era past or want to surprise your family with a sprawling Yuletide feast, know it’s never too late to try something new—and we’re here to help with this list!

Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook
Bridging the past and the present, The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook takes a spin on classic recipes of the period by incorporating modern ingredients and appliances.
Full of scrumptious holiday treats, each recipe offers tidbits of holiday lore, putting you in the festive spirit. If you enjoy learning the customs of bygone eras while also snacking on delicious cookies, this book is for you!

The Heart of Christmas Recipes
The holidays are often a busy time, but it’s always important to slow down and reflect on what matters to us most. In The Heart of Christmas, you’ll find thoughtful recipes, perfect for any holiday occasion—because what better way to bring people together than over a home-cooked meal?
From a Syrup Pancake Bake for the kiddies at breakfast time to a festive sit-down dinner of Orange-Honey Glazed Holiday Ham, the options are endless.
With over 213 brand-new recipes to choose from, get ready to make some meaningful memories this Christmas!

Granny Stitch Blankets
In Granny Stitch Blankets, the granny square, a staple in any crocheter's repertoire, gets a revamp!
With 10 innovative takes on a classic, there is plenty of opportunity to work with new shapes and techniques. Ready to take your skills to the next level?
Hone your craft today!

A Halloween How-To
From costumes to destinations, A Halloween How-To is your guide for everything related to the holiday.
Whether you’re searching for a recipe for fake blood or spooky games to play with friends, this guide combines not only current trends but the customs of the past.

Craft Your Own Cosy Scandi Christmas
Christmas could do with a little Scandinavian flavor, and in this book, author Becci Coombes brings over fifty ideas to cozy up your home this winter.
From edible gifts for a loved one to traditional Danish crafts to keep guests busy, these projects are sure to bring some much-needed Nordic comfort.

Enchanting Art Dolls & Soft Sculptures
Have you ever dreamed of making a one-of-a-kind doll? Well, look no further than Enchanting Art Dolls & Soft Sculptures, where you’ll learn how to build wire armatures, work with air-dry clays, add fabric sculptures, and so much more.
Even if you have never come across these techniques before, this book will help you craft a beautiful figure, perfect for a gift or home decor!
With eight unique projects to choose from, such as an enchanting mermaid and a charming princess, you’ll not only fall in love with these designs but also further your skills for future doll-making projects.

Sew a Modern Halloween
For many, decorating for Halloween is the most exciting aspect of the holidays.
Whether you’re going for a sleek look, with festive orange lights, or hoping to be the most haunted-looking house on the block, there is something in this DIY guide for everyone.

Hooked!
With over forty adorable and whimsical motifs to choose from, there is sure to be something for every crochet lover in this collection.
Perfect for embellishing any project, there are classics like hearts and flowers, as well as more quirky designs such as mushrooms, skulls, and seasonal-themed motifs like pumpkins and gingerbread men.

Holiday Crafting & Baking with Kids
These holiday crafts for every festive occasion, including Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, New Year’s, and Boxing Day, are a great way to bring the family together.
With easy-to-follow instructions and useful templates, they are the ideal way to get in the holiday spirit, while still leaving time for bonding.

Cake Pops Holidays
Angie Dudley, a.k.a. Bakerella, is best known for creating the worldwide phenomenon of cake pop—and she’s back for the holidays with more than twenty exciting new creations!
Bakerella’s step-by-step instructions are not only great for beginners, but will have you decorating like a pro, with Christmas trees, Santas, snowflakes galore, and so much more.

Crackers & Dips
Food writer and baker Ivy Manning brings you a tried-and-true guide to making homemade crackers, with over fifty-two dips to accompany.
Diving into the world of pure flavors, made from whole grains, fresh spices, and no preservatives, there are crunchy and sweet formulas, as well as everything in between!

Doctor Who: The Official Cookbook
Whether you’re throwing a viewing party or simply a Doctor Who fanatic, this is the perfect addition to your bookshelf!
From the Doctor’s favorite, fishfingers and custards, to inspired treats like Supreme Dalek Cake, these tasty, wacky treats are a great addition to any spread.
Featured image: Canva



