From needlework to reading the classics, Tatler explains the skills to learn during lockdown

Tatler has revealed that lockdown is the perfect time to become ‘accomplished’ by ‘turbo-charging’ your vocabulary or taking up needlework. 

While some of us have taken to binge-watching Netflix or scrolling through Instagram, the British society bible has revealed that now is the ultimate time to add strings to your bow. 

The list of traditional accolades hark back to when women were confined to the home, and were urged by their mothers to become ‘accomplished young ladies’ through singing, poetry and gardening. 

Some of the greats have produced their most famous work during a period of isolation, including William Shakespeare who is believed to have written King Lear while isolating from the Bubonic Plague in the 17th century.   

So from sowing seeds to reading literary greats, here is how to flourish during lockdown, according to Tatler. 

Playing a musical instrument 

Tatler lists playing a musical instrument as the ‘ultimate’ accomplishment during lockdown. 

People can order sheets of music online and seek digital expertise from online professionals. 

And despite not having an audience, you can live stream to social media and video call friends and family to show off your musical achievements.

Needlework

From embroidery to knitting, Tatler advises using spare time to create napkins, tablecloths and even clothes while in isolation. 

Children can also get involved by putting on a virtual fashion show for friends and family via video call.

Painting 

While many parents have paint and crafts for their children while home-schooling, many are reluctant to pick up a paintbrush themselves. 

Tatler advises using watercolour, oil pastel and even potato prints to create a masterpiece and people can share their artwork by posting it online.

Learning a foreign language 

With flights grounded and borders closed, now is the perfect time to get a head start on learning a new language before booking your summer holiday. 

By setting aside an hour a day, people can focus on learning vital vocabulary in languages such as Italian, French or Mandarin. 

And Tatler advises using Zoom to connect with other foreign language speakers in order to practise conversation.

Write a screenplay

Putting pen to paper and writing a play after working on a laptop could be the perfect way to soothe your mind. 

It is believed that William Shakespeare wrote King Lear during a lockdown period, so now could be the ultimate way to shut yourself away to let your creativity run wild.

Gardening 

Gardening is an ideal way to soak up the sunshine and get your hands dirty after being cooped up inside.

And planting vegetables such as lettuce and tomatoes could also help while supermarket shelves are sparse. 

Setting up a time lapse could also prove a rewarding way to see your achievement in action.

Reading classical texts 

Reading the works of Shakespeare at length, or dropping in Dickens’ sayings could ‘turbo-charge’ your dinner party conversation in the future, according to Tatler. 

It is also the perfect conversation starter and people can impress their friends with intelligent quips on video call during lockdown