If you’re looking for solo hobby ideas to spark your creativity, help you unwind, and even teach you a little about yourself, let me introduce you to one of my absolute favorites: painting. (Okay, I might be a little biased since watercolor is my jam, but hear me out!)

Painting is more than just putting color on paper—it’s an outlet for personal expression, a way to boost your mental health, and an activity that grows with you over time. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone looking for a fresh creative outlet, painting is one of the most rewarding solo hobby ideas you can try.

Today, I’m going to walk you through why I believe painting deserves a top spot on your list of solo hobby ideas (and why you’ll fall in love with it too!).

The Art of Personal Expression

One of the reasons I’ve fallen in love with painting again and again, is because of the freedom it gives you to express yourself. There’s no right or wrong way to paint—it’s your chance to let loose and play. I’ve painted to process emotions, capture memories, or simply because I loved the way the sunlight hit my coffee cup that morning (the simple things, right?).

Painting allows you to create something uniquely yours. Want to paint bold, abstract strokes? Go for it. Feel like blending soft pastels into dreamy landscapes? That’s beautiful, too. Want to follow a tutorial? I’ve got about a million of them for you. It’s all about following your intuition and letting your inner voice guide the brush.

Plus, there’s something so liberating about painting solo. You can be as messy, experimental, or perfectionist as you want (no one is looking over your shoulder, and you don’t even have to share it if you don’t want to). This is your space to be authentically you—and honestly, how often do we give ourselves that gift?

And honestly, this is my favorite reason why painting is one of the best solo hobby ideas. There’s just nothing like the feeling of creating something that’s 100% you!

Mental Health Benefits of Painting

I’ve written before about the connection between art and mental health (if you’re curious, check out my blog here). But it’s worth repeating: painting is an amazing way to improve your mood and reduce stress.

When you paint, you can enter a flow state—a meditative zone where time seems to melt away. (For me, this often happens while blending watercolors. Watching the colors bloom on paper feels almost magical.) This focus and mindfulness can calm an overactive mind and help you feel more grounded.

In fact, painting can even be used as a meditation practice. If that idea intrigues you, I’ve shared tips on combining art and meditation in this blog here. Give it a read—you might find it’s exactly what you need to bring a little more peace into your day.

Progress at Your Own Pace

One of the things I love most about painting as a solo hobby is that there’s no pressure to “be good” or improve quickly. You get to learn at your own pace, whether that means dabbling for fun or setting aside time to practice regularly.

When I first started painting, my work wasn’t exactly museum-worthy (understatement of the year). But over time, I learned to enjoy the process instead of focusing on the result. Every new piece taught me something—how watercolors behave, how colors interact, and, most importantly, how to be patient with myself.

Of course, if you do want to improve faster, I’ve got you covered! Check out this YouTube video for tips and exercises to level up your skills. 

Endless Styles, Techniques, and Materials to Explore

Another reason painting tops the list of solo hobby ideas is its endless variety. There’s always something new to try, whether it’s experimenting with a different style, learning a new technique, or playing with fresh materials. Here are just a few ways you can mix things up:

Explore different mediums:

• Acrylics or oils for bold, dynamic art with rich textures.
• Watercolors for soft, ethereal effects (my personal favorite—so beginner-friendly!).
• Gouache for a blend of bold and matte, perfect for vibrant details.

Experiment with styles:

• Abstract art for bold, expressive freedom.
• Doodles or whimsical designs (like florals) to keep it light and fun.
• Impressionism to capture light and movement.

Try new techniques:

• Wet-on-wet for dreamy watercolor washes.
• Wet-on-dry for adding texture and definition.
• Layering colors to create depth and dimension.

The options are limitless, and the best part? You get to decide what excites you. Personally, I find that mixing it up keeps things exciting. Some days I’ll focus on detailed botanical paintings, and other days I’ll do loose, experimental washes. There’s no pressure to stick to one thing—it’s all about following what feels good in the moment.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Starting a new hobby like painting can feel exciting, but it might also come with some questions or hesitations. (I’ve been there!) Whether you’re unsure about supplies, technique, or just how to begin, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Let’s tackle some of the most common questions about painting as a solo hobby so you can dive in with confidence and embrace your inner creativity!

Do I need to be good at drawing to start painting?

Nope! Painting doesn’t require advanced drawing skills. Many techniques, like abstract or loose watercolor styles, don’t need detailed sketches. Just focus on enjoying the process and letting your creativity flow.

What’s the best way to set up a painting space at home?

Choose a well-lit spot with a sturdy surface. Protect your table with a plastic sheet or old cloth, keep your supplies organized (a caddy works wonders), and make sure you have easy access to water and paper towels. (For more tips on organizing your art space, read on here!)

How much money do I need to spend on supplies to get started?

You don’t need to break the bank! Start with affordable, beginner-friendly options like student-grade watercolors, brushes, and paper. If you’re really on a budget, a starter set can cost as little as $20-$30. (Curious about what my favorite supplies are? Read this).

How do I know which painting medium (watercolor, acrylic, oil) is right for me?

Experiment! Watercolors are great for soft, quick paintings and are beginner-friendly. Acrylics dry fast and are versatile, while oils are rich but require more time and care. Try small projects to see which fits your style.

How do I deal with frustration when a painting doesn’t turn out as I hoped? It’s hard to be a “beginner” at something!

Remember, every piece teaches you something! Step away, take a deep breath, and try to see mistakes as opportunities to learn. Keep experimenting—it’s all part of the process!

Painting is such a rewarding solo hobby, and the best part? You don’t need to have all the answers before you start. The joy comes from experimenting, learning, and discovering your unique style along the way. So grab your supplies, embrace the imperfections, and let your creativity flow—you’ve got this! (And if you’re looking for more tips, you know where to find me!) 

Ready to Get Started? Let Me Help!

If painting sounds like your kind of solo hobby, but you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry—I’ve got just the thing. My Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor is the perfect resource to help you get started confidently and quickly.

This free 40-page eBook is packed with step-by-step instructions and tips to make your painting sessions fun and stress-free. You can download it here.

Or, if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider joining my art course, The Art Within, where we explore painting techniques, creative exercises, and so much more. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your skills and connect with a supportive community of fellow art lovers.

Ready to Try One of the Best Solo Hobby Ideas?

Painting is so much more than a creative outlet—it’s a chance to explore your inner world, relax your mind, and grow in ways you didn’t expect. As solo hobby ideas go, it’s one of the most fulfilling (and fun!) options out there.

So, why not give it a try? Start small, enjoy the process, and see where your creativity takes you. Who knows—you might just discover a new favorite way to spend your time!