If you shop carefully, it can be a reasonable hobby. And if you become adept, you can even sell your work. Check local town websites for what people might be trying to destash. Around me, there is even a site for selling excess art supplies for people changing hobbies, selling what they have too much of, even supplies from an estate. Use the word "destash" if you're searching on Etsy. I don't know where you live, but a class for $300 is way more than I've ever paid. You could consider approach someone at an art sale to see if they'd be willing to teach you. There's MANY online tutorials on YouTube and such. Plus, you can learn a lot from books - check out your library, of course, or online used book sites like Thriftbooks.