If you’re not talented enough to do it yourself, ask an artistic friend to make you a paint-by-numbers with a permanent marker, then you can fill it in with paint. It’s probably best to use a more permanent paint such as acrylic. If you use spray paint, be sure to protect your skin with a shield of some kind, such as plastic bags.

In fact, coloring can be stress-reducing, so it has other benefits. [9] X Research source

For example, you could make a heart-shaped wreath by bending a metal coat hanger into a heart shape, covering the metal outline with pool noodles, and decorating the surface with yarn pom-poms. [11] X Research source You could also make a collage with a collection of dried leaves. If you need ideas to get started, try sites like Martha Stewart’s website or Pinterest.

Get an I-9 hook. Crochet hooks are listed either by letter (I) or number (9), though many list both. The I-9 is a medium-to-large hook that is a good place to start. Pick a medium weight yarn (look for the number “4”). Try to pick a solid, bright color to begin. Have a pair of scissors on hand for snipping the yarn. [13] X Research source

Many of these programs are set up in a game style to keep you motivated. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can also use a tablet or a computer.

Some lessons are set up more like a game, while others are just straight-forward tutorials you read through.

Some universities are offering these types of courses directly through their websites. While you won’t get course credit, you can still learn a great deal. One university you can look into is Princeton University.