Want to save some money while simultaneously learning a new skill and possibly even a new vocation? You may even get some exercise in the process. Even more surprising is how much you will probably really enjoy learning how to do things yourself and the satisfaction of accomplishment you will probably experience when working on and completing a project that you really care about.
Carpentry
Carpentry is an amazingly useful skill that should be a standard thing to learn in any basic educational system. The fact that many people have a required class at some point in school that teaches them how to make something small and wooden that is usually less than practical is rather silly when people should be learning how to build a small building by the time they graduate from their primary schooling. Learning and performing carpentry yourself is something that will feel truly rewarding once you learn the basics. Another plus is that the basic tools required for general household repairs are generally relatively inexpensive and once you have a decent set they should last for years and years.
Learning how to even make a nice table for your home is a great way to get into carpentry without too much of a commitment to tools. A hammer and a saw and a drill are all you really need to give it a go and see if you like it before buying too many tools. You may just want to pick up a tool kit as it will likely be a more affordable option.
Knitting
Knitting is a popular pastime that has really made a comeback in recent years. There is a huge knitting community online and even new knitting magazines around. It is like a knitting revival is on the loose. There are even new forms of knitting and even new toys being knitted these days. It may even sound more farfetched to hear that there is even a popular video game with knitted characters. If you had told anyone that 20 years ago it is doubtful they would have believed you.
One of the really nice aspects of knitting is that the tools are really pretty affordable. Needles and yarn are really inexpensive and you will easily find information online to get you started knitting right away. A book or magazine may be a good and really affordable investment also as it may be more pleasant to reference while you are learning.
You can knit your own Cajmere sweater for a small percentage of the cost of an equivalent sweater in a boutique. Not only that but you have the freedom to design it as you like! You are no longer limited by what fashion designers and stores happen to have available, you are now your own fashion label!
Have fun and enjoy your new endeavor as much as possible. You will likely be so happy and satisfied when you finish your first project, so go for it and make sure you complete what you start!