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When the skies are grey, and the rain softly taps against the windows, there’s nothing quite like spending time indoors with cosy, heartwarming activities.
Autumn is a season that encourages us to slow down, find comfort in the little things, and immerse ourselves in creative hobbies that connect us with nature’s seasonal beauty.
If you're like me and adore the thought of turning a rainy day into an opportunity for comfort and creativity, then you will enjoy these ideas for cosy hobbies, inspired by my latest video.
So, grab a blanket, light your favourite candle, and let’s dive into these cosy autumnal pastimes!
Baking an Apple Pie
Nothing is more autumnal than the aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. Whether it’s a classic apple pie or a more creative version (like my sunflower-topped mini pies), baking with autumnal fruits is the perfect rainy-day activity to pair with your favourite hobbies. The process itself can be meditative and rewarding. Plus, you get to enjoy a delicious treat with a hot cup of tea or coffee at the end—what can be better than that?
Baking Homemade Bread
Baking doesn't have to be only for sweet treats. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen also screams cosy!—especially when paired with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup. Check out my pumpkin-shaped bread and three-colour braided bread recipes for inspiration! More recipes on my latest magazine, The Autumn Companion.
Sipping Homemade Brews with Autumn Scents
Another favourite activity for a rainy day is brewing something special in the kitchen. Whether it’s a homemade chai tea blend, a spiced hot chocolate, or a fragrant herbal infusion, crafting your own brew allows you to experiment with different seasonal spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and star anise. The smell alone will fill your space with a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing with a good book. If you are not into spices, you might enjoy experimenting with ginger, lemon and orange peels and dried apple.
Making Handmade Scented Sachets
Creating a handmade scented sachet is such a simple yet satisfying craft. All you need is some dried lavender, one or two cinnamon sticks, and small fabric pouches—which you can easily make with some fabric scraps. It’s a wonderful way to infuse your drawers or linen closet with a natural, long-lasting fragrance and prevent moths. You can also add some cloves or dried rosemary. This craft is featured in this video.
Sorting & Labelling Autumn Herbs and Spices 🍂
For those who love the practical and soothing nature of organising, early autumn is the perfect time to sort through your herb and spice collection, making sure your winter pantry will have everything you need. Take the time to label jars, dry fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and create a seasonal spice drawer that includes all your favourite flavours for cooking and baking. The simple act of labelling and organising gives a sense of order and calmness to your space, making it a great activity for a rainy afternoon.
Read my blog post "Cosy up your home with Cottagecore Printable Labels" for more inspiration and visit my Etsy Shop to get your printable labels.
Reading Seasonal Stories
There's nothing like getting lost in a good book that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. I would love to know your favourites.
If you are looking for some cosy short stories like Thursdays at the Book Cafe and Autumny Diaries, make sure to check out my e-books!
Pressing Leaves
Collect fallen leaves on your walks and press them between heavy books. Later, use them for crafting autumnal decorations or simply as memories.
Making Candles
Making your own candles is a lovely, simple way to create something handmade to enjoy during long, cosy nights. It is also a great way to repurpose old candle containers. Here you can find my favourite brands for handmade candles and kits in the US and Europe.
Upgrading Old Woolen Garments
If you’re looking to breathe new life into an old woollen sweater or scarf, why not try your hand at embroidery? Autumnal-coloured yarns—deep oranges, rust reds, golden yellows—can turn a plain garment into something beautiful and personal. You don’t need to be an expert at embroidery to add a few decorative stitches, a leaf motif, or a few simple sunflowers like the ones I did. It’s a wonderful way to bring autumn’s colours into your wardrobe, while also making something old feel fresh and unique.
Knitting or Crocheting
Working with thick yarn on a rainy day feels like wrapping yourself in warmth, one stitch at a time.
Learning a New Skill
Autumn is the perfect time to embrace the cosiness of home by learning a new skill like knitting, wood carving, a new language, candle-making, or baking artisan bread—anything that keeps your hands busy and your heart warm.
Want more Hobby Ideas for Rainy Days? Get Inspired by This Cosy Playlist
Autumn Journaling
Start a seasonal journal to reflect on your thoughts, nature walks, and favourite autumn moments. You can also collect leaves or small findings in it.
Going Out in the Rain with Wellies
Don’t let rainy days keep you indoors all the time—slip on your favourite wellies, head outside, and feel the pure joy of splashing through puddles like a carefree child, soaking in the crisp, refreshing air of autumn.
Enjoying a Themed Afternoon
Create a cosy escape by dedicating an entire afternoon to an autumn-themed experience, or immerse yourself in the world of your favourite book or movie. Some of my favourites are Harry Potter, Anne of Green Gables and Practical Magic—complete with fitting snacks, decor, and a warm beverage in hand.
For more ideas, tips, and seasonal inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Autumn e-book, The Autumn Companion 🍂, where I share all the cosy activities, recipes, and rituals you’ll need to make the most of this enchanting season!
Wishing you the cosiest of autumn days ahead. May your rainy days be filled with warmth, creativity, and a sense of peace.
With love,
Indoora