Ditch Your Phone: Try This Free, Fun Activity with Friends
This year has already brought a lot of stress, and my usual habit of scrolling through my phone all day is only making it worse. My smartphone and computer are becoming my biggest challenges when I’m trying to avoid yet another overwhelming news story. That’s why I’m turning to the advice of a TikToker, even though it’s ironic for an offline activity, to try a hands-on project with friends that could be the perfect way to unwind.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed by the world around you, a TikToker named @readinglolita suggests taking a break from AI chatbots and social media apps to spend time with friends doing something healing. In this case, a no-spend crafting night where you can personalize a deck of playing cards using collages made from magazine pictures.
Why You Should Have a Phone-Free Night with Friends
“Close that app and go experience the joy of creating real art with your loved ones,” the creator encourages in the video, showing their friends gathered around a table, chatting while working on the craft. Arts and crafts are not only a fun and relaxing way to bond with friends but also help reduce anxiety and other worries by lowering cortisol levels. Focused activities that require your attention in the moment can serve as a great distraction from stress.
Additionally, there’s a sense of accomplishment at the end knowing that you’ve created something enjoyable with your hands. The feeling of creative control can be very satisfying when you’re feeling overwhelmed or helpless.
How to Customize Playing Cards with a Collage
The idea of personalizing playing cards is a creative twist on the manifestation board and collage trends, while also promoting a sense of community and collaboration. After all, you’re working together to transform a standard deck of cards. All you need is glue, like Mod Podge, to attach your collage materials so they dry without peeling. Make sure you can still see the numbers and suits on the cards so they remain playable.
Some people have suggested using tarot cards instead or creating a summer vision board. One TikToker mentioned they’ll be using the DIY card idea to make a gift, which is a great way to save money while giving a friend a unique present.
You can definitely use what you already have at home to make this activity almost free. If you don’t have playing cards, tarot cards, or magazines, you can ask friends and family for items they aren’t using or check out a local thrift store to buy them affordably. You can also find playing cards on Amazon for under $5 if you’d rather shop online and have them delivered directly to your door.
No matter which version you choose to try, you’ll gain hours of meaningful time with friends, along with a beautiful piece of art you can keep and take home. Plus, you’ll spend time using your hands for something other than scrolling through your phone.
