50 Times People Turned Extra Time On Their Hand Into Incredible Hand-Made Things (New Pics)
Interview With ArtistMaking something with your hands can be extremely therapeutic. Whether it’s knitting, pottery, woodworking, or painting, it helps to release suppressed emotions and shift one’s focus from stressors and worries. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment and pride one feels when they have a finished project to show for it.
If you’re in need of some inspiration for your next mental health break, look no further. Courtesy of the online community Something I Made, we present you with a list of the most amazing things people created with their own two hands. Scroll down to find them, and don’t forget to upvote the ones you can’t wait to try yourself next!
While you’re at it, make sure to check out a conversation with Ukrainian artist Olga Vyshnyvetska, also known as Mr. Space Lobster, who kindly agreed to tell us all about her love of sculpting fantasy creatures. We also reached out to a maker of tufted rugs and the sole artist behind Gremlyn Rugs, Stephen, and Ian Finch-Field, maker of leather accessories, who kindly agreed to share more about their art as well.
Photos of their work can be found below, too!
This post may include affiliate links.
I Carved A Xoloizcuintle In Wood And Painted It With Colorful Details! What Do You Think?
Wow, lovely carving work, so expressive! And the painting is perfect.
Pronounced "show-low-eats-queen-t-lee". And painted like an alibrije. Absolutely beautiful!
I'm completely blown away with the detail that went into painting that pup.
Needle Felted Dog Made By Me 🤗
Little Jaguar Sculpture I Made! This Was Carved In Wood And Then Decorated With Thousands Of Crystal Beads, This Art Form Is Native To My Country, Called Huichol Art
That’s gorgeous! Wow, the amount of patience and attention to detail that would take!
That's gorgeous. Trying to imagine how fiddly and time consuming placing all those tiny beads would be is wild, I think I'd just be crying the entire time!
Good Lord, my hands would be shaking so bad trying to do those tiny beads and there is no way I could see well enough to be able to place each one. I can't imagine how many hours it would take to do something so beautiful and with so much detail.
No, the beads are placed in wax! I bought a gorgeous Huichol mask on my honeymoon in Mexico.
Load More Replies...Olga tells Bored Panda that what led her to make things by hand was the search for a suitable medium to let out her creativity. “I loved nature and fantasy, and I tried a few artistic media before, but nothing clicked.
Then, during the winter holidays in late 2018, I had some free time and decided to buy a pack of clay and a multitool and give it a try. I couldn’t stop after that. Sculpting just worked for me. I was finally able to work on my own designs and had so much fun in the process,” she shares.
Hand Embroidered Purse Parrot By Me
I love this, even if in order to store my coins I'd have to decapitate the poor parrot
We approve of decapitated parrots, as long as we're invited for lunch.
Load More Replies...Currently, you can find her immersed in creating a series of sculptures called Grimwood Edge. “Each sculpture has its own story, inviting observers to explore this imaginary world and expand on it with their own imagination,” Olga writes on her website.
“Through my work, I aim to reveal the twilight nature of these mystical creatures, balancing sentimental admiration for nature with the phantasms hidden behind the familiar inhabitants of our ordinary world.”
100 Hours Into This Charcoal Drawing 15 Hours To Go
Incredible! I looked at the picture and assumed it was a photo. Amazing, that someone can achieve this degree of realism with charcoal.
Load More Replies...What blows my mind is the average person would only want to pay peanuts for something like this that takes literally weeks of drawing to do. Meanwhile, you have painters paint a canvass blue with a stripe across it selling their "art" for millions.
I have this exact same feeling! Glad it isn't just me being "uncultured"
Load More Replies...I know, super impressive. I hate working with charcoal. I can never keep it where I want it. It's like the watercolor of drawing techniques
Load More Replies...Absolute lie and no artist ever 'times'how long it will take, besides else needs to be done to this photograph.
Berries Barrettes Made By Me From Polymerclay 🍀🍓🍀
When Olga creates, she usually goes with the flow. “My projects usually start with a simple idea: "Oh, that would be cool to make." I love starting without much expectation and seeing where the process leads.
Sometimes, I make a rough sketch to calculate dimensions, but I mostly rely on experimenting and improvising. I like to tell a story through my sculpture, letting it emerge naturally, step by step. This approach can lead to difficulties, but it results in a solid story that evolves rather than being forced.”
Cheetah Sculpture I Made
When asked about her favorite creations up to date, she told us that her most loved projects tend to be her latest ones, as they reflect her current skills and ideas. “While I work on a sculpture, I immerse myself in its story. Once completed, I release it into the world and move on to the next subject, always looking forward to new challenges and inspirations. This cycle works for me, ensuring that each piece holds a special place in my creative journey.”
My Daughters "Sally Witch" Costume I Crocheted
I Have An Extremely Shaky Arm From Brain Surgery I Had As A Kid, So I Paint With My Left Arm
This isn’t all that great but why not try. Needing to touch up on the windows because they are very straight or maybe I should leave it as is
I can't even draw a straight line in Photoshop. This is amazing, and I love the simplicity of it. Keep going, you are doing great!
yes leave as it is, that is a signature, one of the ways people can tell the artists apart~ I have shakes as well, but i try very hard in my paintings and drawings, remember, "happy lil accidents"
Leave it as is. That is the charm of this painting. Perfect lines are too clinical.
I love this, exactly the way it is and don't ever let anyone (yourself included) doubt your talent.
Leave it as is. There is a mirrored look that reminds me of a painting on glass.
She also kindly agreed to provide some recommendations for those who are just starting to get into handcrafting. “Don't be too hard on yourself and have fun. Life is stressful enough, so let your craft be a safe place where you can explore your inner self and find comfort. Sometimes it takes time to get there, so keep exploring and enjoy the journey!”
I Hope You Like My Paintings
Are you sure those aren't photos?!/j wow what talent, makes me think of Bob Ross and Lisa Frank combined!
Just Finished A Batch Of Leather Bags - My Hands Feel Like They Went Through A Meat Grinder
Maker of tufted rugs and the sole artist behind Gremlyn Rugs, Stephen, tells us that he always was drawn to the process of creation, and making things by hand just feels incredibly fulfilling. "It’s the satisfaction of crafting something unique and the joy of working with my own two hands. Plus, there’s something amazing about the act of creating something beautiful out of nothing."
Similarly to Olga, the inspiration for creation usually strikes him from anywhere—nature, art, or even a random thought. "I begin by sketching or jotting down concepts to flesh out the idea. Then I move on to gathering materials and planning the execution," he explains.
"The next step is all about trial and error, adjusting as needed, and refining the details. Once I’m happy with how it looks, I move on to the final step, paying close attention to craftsmanship and quality."
Fox Made Of Cotton Wool, By Me
This Piece Took 350 Hours And Tells The Story Of Me Leaving Religion, Becoming An Addict, Attempting [Self-Harm], Living In A Shelter, And Finally Finding Myself. All Through Symbolism
I am amazed not only by the art but also by how far you had to come to make it.
It's like the paintings native Americans put on their tee pees showing their history. It's your history. It's beautiful
What a wonderful, intricate work! Some details make me think of Jeroen Bosch. Truly wonderful artwork!
Charcoal Drawing 55 Hours
WOW!!! Is this the same artist as the one who did the mother & daughter drawing earlier?
One big challenge that Stephen faces when making his art is managing his time effectively. "The creative process can be unpredictable, and balancing it with other responsibilities sometimes means projects take longer than anticipated.
Additionally, sourcing the right materials can be tricky. Sometimes you have to adapt on the fly if something isn’t available or doesn’t work as planned. Navigating these obstacles requires patience and flexibility, but they also contribute to the growth and learning that come with each project."
Very Elaborate Painting Of This Belgian Tervuren Shepherd (No Im Not Taking Criticism)
Have you heard the term 'primitive art?' It's not an insult. It refers to art prized for its simplicity, expressive power and sincerity rather than accuracy or professional polish. Anyway, I think this is a good example. I find it very expressive.
Men’s Purple Leather Loafers I Made For My Client
I'd love to meet the guy who commissioned these 💜 Edited: I failed to say these are absolutely stunning and you are seriously talented 🤦🏻♀️😍
WOW If I were you I'd call Dion Sanders and ask him to wear them. He always dresses so sharp
Rude. Pimps aren't a fun cartoon character in a fur coat you know, they're real and they're human traffickers. This artist put a lot of work and time and love into these shoes. Keep it classy, don't imply they made beautiful shoes for a human trafficker.
Load More Replies...One of his favorite projects up to date is a snail pull-apart rug he created two years ago. "It begins as a snail rug with an intricate shell, dripping details, and lovely shades of blue, pink, and purple. When you pull it apart, it really brings those colors to life, revealing a dynamic and visually captivating design. I love how it combines functionality with interactive visual elements."
A Sweater I Knitted A While Back
I Invented A New Broom Style That Makes Pictures On The Ends Of The Handles. Which One Is Your Favorite? Least Favorite?
I would become a cleaning FANATIC (or some kind of stylish witch) if it meant I could have these in my life.
It's your lucky day! I'm the artist and I make and sell them! You can find more of my work on Instagram or Facebook under the name Mergwerks 😊
Load More Replies...That cat is everyone on the internet's favorite and everyone in persons least favorite. Thank you!
Load More Replies...Hi, my name is Morgan and these are my brooms. I was not asked for permission to share these images so if you'd like to see more of my work please check out my Instagram or Facebook. You can find me under the name Mergwerks on both.
Thank you! You can find more pictures of my work on Instagram or Facebook under the name Mergwerks!
Load More Replies...Thank you! You can find more pictures of my work on Instagram or Facebook under the name Mergwerks!
Load More Replies...Thank you! You can find more pictures of my work on Instagram or Facebook under the name Mergwerks!
Load More Replies...I have made copper and steel dust pans to go with them. I'm working on an idea for a wooden one and a leather one!
Load More Replies...Thank you! You can find more pictures of my work on Instagram or Facebook under the name Mergwerks!
Load More Replies...All the styles are awesome I love the cat, paw, moons, moon and stars, they're all fabulous 😍
Some advice Stephen gives to aspiring handcraft artists is to embrace the learning process and not be afraid to make mistakes. "Begin with simple projects to build your skills and gain confidence. Experiment with different materials and techniques to discover what you enjoy most.
Remember, the journey is just as important as the end result, so stay curious and keep exploring. Most importantly, have fun and let your creativity guide you. Every mistake is just a step toward mastering your craft!"
Jaguar Sculpture I Made! This Was Carved In Wood And Then Decorated With Thousands Of Crystal Beads, This Art Form Is Native To My Country, Called Huichol Art
"Huichol art broadly groups the most traditional and most recent innovations in the folk art and handcrafts produced by the Huichol people, who live in the states of Jalisco, Durango, Zacatecas and Nayarit in Mexico. The unifying factor of the work is the colorful decoration using symbols and designs which date back centuries." - The Wikipedia article
My Watercolor Of The Blow Chair!
🤯This should be The Test for a master's in art. My daughter is an artist and doesn't believe that this is real.
Ian Finch-Field, maker of leather accessories, costumes, and props and the owner of Skinz-N-Hydez Leather Apparel, tells us that he’s been a maker ever since he can remember. “I come from a family of artists. Mainly painters, but I have been blessed with many inspirational artists and builders in my family. They taught me that my only limitation is my own mind. To expand beyond that and think outside yourself and those imaginary limits.”
One Of The Camel Wool Hoodies That I Made
Is the yarn itchy? Beautiful work, but I wish the trim batched the white wool better.
How It Feels To Be The Child Of A Hoarder. I Drew This With A Pen I Found On The Ground And A Pencil, I'm Very New So I Know It Isn't Amazing But I Had Fun Making It
Ah, I feel this one in my soul. I grew up in a hoarder house, cardboard boxes everywhere. Between all the trash, animal defecation and often broken and overflowing, but yes...I feel this. (Also an ink artist). I feel the distress
It is very hard to capture emotion in such a way. I think you have a rare talent. The picture feels heavy, and makes it hard to breath and is sticky and suffocating. I feel myself sitting with you in the stacks and the muck.
This represent for most of us after living in a same house for more than 10 years with a couples kids. Or living in a mobile home, or an apartment after selling a muti- million dollars for profit.
He finds it hard to describe his creation process, as inspiration for it comes in a dream-like state. “I rarely sketch anything out on paper or have a clear finished product in mind. I piece it together in my mind as I go," he says.
For him, the most challenging part of being an artist is being restricted by the need to make money. ”It feels like my creativity has been limited due to having to produce and re-create product; to be able to survive as an artist. I have machinery to help out, and it does, but it's also limiting. It puts me in a box of limitations rather than me being able to create freely. I miss letting my creativity take over and not worry about the end result of having to make money from it - to survive.”
A Chess Set I Whittled
Watercolour And Ink Paintings Of Fairytales In My Style :)
Bookworthy! So much better than the cartoons produced by 'professionals'.
Very sweet!Absolutely start submitting your work to childrens authors!
His few favorite projects include steampunk gear for Justin Bieber, The Big Bang Theory, Dispatches from Elsewhere, and the band Ghost. “I've also really enjoyed making masks for WWE wrestlers, DJs, musicians, plays, and operas. My most memorable projects I've made were for short films; specifically for Andrew W. Jones and the short films: Doctor Glamour (2012) and Buccaneer Galaxy (2014). Andrew challenged the limits of my creativity. He really helped start my career and further my love to create.”
New Sweater And 🐻 Hand Knit (Christmas Gift For My Friend)
It's a technique called entrelac. I'm not downplaying how good this sweater is, but once you know how to do it, it's not super hard.
Load More Replies...Fabulous. It's a pity you don't see much hand knit stuff these days. Never goes out of fashion.
Which Alpaca Is Your Favorite?
His advice for anyone who wishes to start creating is to experiment, learn, and be inspired by others. “Think outside the box. Think outside the limitations you and others set for you. Create just to create—who cares if it sucks. Next time, it won't suck as bad. Learn from those mistakes and grow to be a better artist/maker.
Being able to create has helped me get through a lot. I don't know where I would be if I wasn't able to create and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels the same way.”
A Guiding Star Necklace I Made With Pigment So It Absorbs Light To Emit Light
On her Etsy shop yes: https://www.etsy.com/shop/aegodesigns/?etsrc=sdt (To find it I used the small link under the bottom left of the pic. It takes you to Reddit.)
Load More Replies...Her Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/aegodesigns/?etsrc=sdt
Load More Replies...I Made Little Elf Dudes!
If you’re looking to support more small businesses that care about sustainability, uniqueness, and quality, make sure to check out our previous articles full of amazing artists and crafters!
I Made A Christmas Centerpiece For My Kitchen Table
Stained Glass {win}dow Corner
I thought that I had really won only if the green of the carpet had been completely covered by the cards :D
I Upcycled A Toy Globe Into A Box And Made A Snail Friend To Carry It As Its Shell 🧭🐌
Abstract Painting I Made
Redhead lady drinking from the river in the forest. Or driving a car. If I turn it, I see autumn forest with sky. If I turn it the other way I see forest fire being stopped with water. I can also see a contrast between heaven and hell, hot and cold. Transition from spring to summer or from autumn to winter.
It's a cat standing in the woods.
Load More Replies...Here’s A Thing I Made Recently
I Made An Engagement Ring Box For My Girlfriend! (She Said Yes :)
I Made A Lot Of Dandelion Spheres To Create Pendants
I think it is resin in a form, but still not sure how she kept them fluffy.
Load More Replies...I Made This To Celebrate Two Years Off Alcohol
Yes. As one who has issues with two weeks, anyone who can go two years is someone to be admired. Thanks for posting this. Keep it going!
Load More Replies...Is that all French knots? Some people think that is the nightmare to do. Nice job
One Of The Hoodies I Made For The Summer
My First Broom. I Learned A Lot And I’m Excited To Make Another!
My Collection Of Birds Wearing Band T Shirts
My Husband Made Our Daughter's Cot Using Our Wedding Arch For The Back!
I Made This Art Toy Set
Been Busy Embroidering These Custom Toebeans 🐾🫘
I Made An Angel Tree Topper
Haha omg actual singing eyeball monster biblically accurate angel!!! If only people knew what those things are REALLY supposed to look like...
I Make Flower Pots From Plastic Bottles To Protect The Environment. Do You Think It's Useful?
Keep it going! I bought a pair of jeans at max that was made from six recycled bottles. Any time you can reuse, do it. Thank you!
Load More Replies...Found a village in Malaysia that was covered in flowers like this. All made from plastic that washed up on the beach. It was beautiful but so sad .
I Transform An Old Hoodie To An “Haute Couture” Hoodie By Hand Embroidery. How Do You Guys Think? Thank You
I Made This For My Friend’s Birthday. I Can’t Tell If It’s Hideous. First Sewing Machine Project.. Feedback Please
Nice work! Keep going! I once made a purse out of a bottom leg part of a pair of jeans I had to cut off due to knee holes. So I put in a liner using $1.00 remnants, tied some glass beads on a piece of leather and sewed in a zipper. Lots of discussion when people saw it. I think you have an eye for this art. Creativity comes from everywhere.
Taught Myself Embroidery This Year. This Is What I’ve Made Since I Started In May
Wow, I recognize more of these than I expected. There's Totoro (big boy in the flowers) and Kiki (witch in the wooden wreath) and Gigi (black cat) from their respective Ghibli movies. There's Kirara (the fox-like creature with the red eyes) from the anime "Inuyasha". There's the unicorn and the cat and skull from the movie "The Last Unicorn". There's the little blue worm thing from the movie "Labyrinth". And the wolf-like creature on the bottom right is an Alpha Grimm from the show "RWBY". The rest look vaguely familiar, but I don't quite recognize them. Does anyone else know? This artist is very well cultured.
Lumberjack cat and the leopard girl are from Kipo and the Age of the Wonderbeasts!
Load More Replies...Adventure Time snail! I have him tattooed on my arm in my Adventure Time half sleeve 💚👋🐌 edited to add: someone please tell me cuz it'll drive me nuts, but that cat in the upper left corner, he's from "The Last Unicorn" but I don't remember his name!!! D:
My Latest Autumnal Crochet Make
My Spiralized Pumpkin
Hahaha I was about to say looks like Taylor Lautners kid brother
Load More Replies...Took Me 5 1/2 Hours But My Daughter Absolutely Loved It. I’m Trying To Make Heirlooms While Breaking The Cycle. 💗
Made My Wife A Pendant For Our 1 Year Anniversary
It's not paper...but I imagine she'll wear it proudly...I'd wear it everyday
I Made This American Girl Doll Size Kitchen Out Of Baltic Birch Plywood
W-wait, this isn't a *real* kitchen?? Aaah I was already fantasizing about cooking* in it 😭 **cooking, for me, means I feed my cats tiny scraps of cheese and bread as they sit on the lovely island while I drink wine and burn water
Made A Koi Pond Rug :)
I Made The Mona Lisa As A Housewarming Gift For My Friend. Should I Add More Facial Features?
Don't. If it's all about her mysterious smile, then no smile at all is even more mysterious 😏
Proud To Showcase My Wife's Debut In Large-Scale Fiber Textile Wall Art Called "The Honey"
Finally Cold Enough For Long Swooshy Skirts! (Skirt And Blouse Made And Patterned By Me)
That whole outfit is amazing. Love the Victorian boots, the Edwardian vibes. That whole thing could fit in my wardrobe! Also, I wear mine year round! Cotton and linen are great for summer swoosh
Wife Wanted To Buy A 6ft Nutcracker, ... I Told Her I Could Make Her One!
I Made A Hot Air Balloon Ceiling Lamp For The Kids’ Room
I Made A Body Form But I Feel Like It's A Big Fail
Thank you for not making it a size 2! Real women come in many sizes.
Looks perfect for the job, more realistic shape than what you can buy in the shops.
This Embroidery I Made Is Dedicated To Those Who Turn Their Bathrooms Into Saunas!
Some Of My Recent Sleeping Bag/ Comforter Jackets
I Made An Abominable Snowman Butler Out Of Garbage
I Made This Waist Chain For An Outfit I Wore The Other Day. I’m Very Proud Of It
I Made A Skeleton Floor Lamp. Didn't Want To Pay £500 For One So Made It For £210
I am into the macabre anyway but to me, design-wise, this is the most chic, stunning thing on this list, it’s gorgeous!
It's usually the other way round - I spend £80 on wool because I'm too cheap to buy a scarf for £30...
Just Finished This Drawing. What Would Be Your Interpretation Of It?
I would say it's walking away, proudly, from all the negativity and noise
Nice to walk away from your Demons, but they are always just behind you lest you should stop.
I Made An Ice Cream Cone Witch Hat! 🍦🤎
YES. A pastel goth ice cream witch aesthetic is something I never knew I needed until right now.
finally the love of spooky and sprinkles can be united
Load More Replies...My Daughter Made This
There Seems To Be A Lack Of Lady Gnomes So I Carved Some!
Crochet Apple Cardigan With Matching Hat
A Rug I Made
Posting On Behalf Of My Wife, Little Macrame Shrimp, What Do You Guys Think?
I Was Broke One Christmas So I Made My Best Friend A Stand For Her Drinking Horn
My Friend Asked Me To Make Them A "Mean Mug"
I've Been Crocheting For 20 Years, But Somehow Have Never Made Myself A Sweater. Until I Finished This Today!
I Needle Felted My Stepdad As A Last Minute Gift For His 70th
Psychedelic Oil Painting I Finished Today, What Should I Title It?
A Weird Project I’ve Been Working On For Over A Year
Hallway / living room wall decoration. You know those tall narrow walls that are good for nothing but art? This would be perfect... Or to use it to separate the space. But I think this piece would look best and reveal it's beauty when placed vertically, not horizontally. Lighting would just bring out the textures. ... Dang. I think I just love it!;)
I Make Naturally Dyed Bags. I Call This Colour Blueberry Milk!
I Carved This Stone Today
I Made This Dark Blue Space Dress!
I've Been Making These Signs To Turn My Garden Into A Botanical Garden. Hand Drawn, Laser Engraved
I’ve Been Crocheting Bird Hats. Here’s The First 2. A Raven And An Owl. I’m Really Tempted To Try A Cockatoo.🤣
The owl one kinda looks like the lions head one Luna wears in Harry Potter. I love it!
I Altered A Thrifted Painting
My South Park Dress Is Finished! It Came Out ~sew~ Cute!
Sea Glass Cat. Well, Several Of Them
I Painted Tyrone Biggums, Oil On Canvas
I would like to just take back my comment. I'm dumb and forgot that's a character he played.
Load More Replies...Spooky Vegan Halloween Ghosts Sushi Rolls
I Made A Edgar Allan Poe Pull Apart Rug
I Made Giant Christmas Lights
Made This Little Debbie Zebra Cake Christmas Tree(:
I Made A Lamp. This Lamp Will Be Sold With This House Because I Am Never Moving It Again. Enjoy Whatever This Is. Also It’s Upside Down
I Made A Dress To Wear On Stage!
Mailbox Post I Made For My Girlfriend
You can collect the mail whilst on the toilet! Bit awkward for the mailperson though.
My Halloween Costume This Year
My New Experiment In Knitting Is A Handmade Cardigan. Looks Like A Llama's Coat, Doesn't It?
Disco Leg
Acrylic On 16x24 Canvas - By Me
I Made These Tiny (Not The Last One) Nose Jewelry, Plus Me Finding New Ways To Make Things Work
*squeals appreciatively* Now I must ART! And ART I SHALL! (Update: These posts always inspire me to do ALL THE ARTS but I end up taking out all of my supplies and making half a sock or an OC design with a convenient lack of limbs and colours before giving up. Forgive me, art community.)
so many skilled people and amazing projects! this is why we come to BP!
*squeals appreciatively* Now I must ART! And ART I SHALL! (Update: These posts always inspire me to do ALL THE ARTS but I end up taking out all of my supplies and making half a sock or an OC design with a convenient lack of limbs and colours before giving up. Forgive me, art community.)
so many skilled people and amazing projects! this is why we come to BP!
