During this period of self-isolation and social distancing at home, many may find themselves running out of activities to do. Some may find themselves lying on their beds watching Netflix, unaware of the passing hours. However, there are several ways to be creative and entertained at home.
One idea is to build props and miniature sets. With styrofoam, cardboard and patience, it is possible to build anything, from decorations to a full miniature room filled with miniature objects. If it is hard to gather materials, there are a multitude of kits and sets online to help get one started. This activity is known to require some time, which is perfect, considering the current situation.
There are several ways to be introduced to this activity. One way is a quick Google search, which will prompt thousands of videos and resources on building these sets and sculptures. For materials, items like cardboard and paper can be used, or one can order a set online on websites like Amazon. However, the latter may be the best for beginners, as a full set of instructions comes included within. Prices are quite affordable, and there are sets for as low as 15-20 dollars. For this price, the set includes everything needed to construct a miniature room; wood, felt, scissors, and even paint.
I recently ordered the “DIY Miniature House” from SoHo House, to explore this activity, as I also found myself with many free hours. Upon opening the box, I found a full set of instructions (also including pictures), along with labeled materials. There were even scissors, tweezers, and a jar of paint. The instructions served as a helpful guide to decoding the labels and also taught me how to piece the materials together. I just had to follow them step-by-step, while scrutinizing the images to make sure I was on the right track. Assembling this set served as a great way to pass the hours, as time seemed to fly by as I concentrated on making sure every piece was perfectly fitted.
By using one’s creativity, it is possible to find fun and productive activities to pass the time. Building sculptures and props not only gives you something to do, it also gives you the satisfying feeling of seeing the end product. Something made with one’s own hands can serve as a symbol of hard work. After the long hours of assembling the SoHo House set, I found myself with a final product that I was proud of. In conclusion, this is an activity that you can do at home to easily pass the hours and to be productive at the same time.
Kate Jang, Grade 9
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences
