When you have extra time or are trying to beat boredom, this list of fun, easy-to-start hobbies is worth trying this year if you need a little change in your life or you want to hone new skills.

How many velvet garments do you own? It’s a first-world, top-class question — as most clothes crafted from this rich, ruched material are incredibly, inexcusably formal. Velvet tuxedos and velvet bow ...