Simple Ways to Save: Hobbies that will save you cash and make you cash

There is only so far we can stretch our money. It gets to a point where the only budgeting strategy left is to earn more, ideally without working any extra hours. After all, what is the point of working so hard if we don't have any time left for friends, family and hobbies.

What if I told you there are a number of ways to monetise some of those hobbies? You're doing them anyway. By stepping them up a notch you will find yourself saving money or even earning money.

Here are five hobbies that could save you money, and make you money to improve your budget.

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1. Gardening

You may think you don't have room to garden, but a quick trip to Kmart or Bunnings and you'll find a variety of pots and planters designed for small spaces including apartment balconies.

You can grow your own lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchinis, spring onions and herbs including basil and rosemary. Not only will this save you money at the supermarket, you'll have the satisfaction of eating your own produce.

2. Refurbish pre-loved items

One person's trash is another person's treasure. Instead of adding pre-loved furniture items to the council clean up, try refurbishing it and selling it instead. This can be as simple as making some basic repairs, sanding back the surface and adding a coat of paint.

You can add any money you make to your budget or use it to buy items you do need.

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3. Cooking and baking

Most of us have one or two dishes and desserts were have perfected over the years. You can sell these items to local cafes or even online to families looking for convenient dinner options.

If you're a particularly good baker and cake decorator, there is significant money to be made by focusing on special occasion cakes.

4. Arts and crafts

If arts and crafts are a hobby you love, try and sell some of your creations online on websites such as Etsy. This works particularly well with anything that can be used as a gift.

You can also take special orders for specific colours and designs.

5. Pet sitting and pet grooming

Pet sitting services are lucrative and so much fun if you love animals. You can pet sit in people's homes, bring pets to your home for periods of time or even just walk dogs in your local area.

Make extra money by grooming pets for their owners.