Don't Let Your Hobby Hobble Your Budget

The way you spend your idle time shouldn't put you on the road to the poorhouse.

In fact, hobbies sometimes can bring in a little cash.

The key is to pick a leisure-time activity that you'll stick with long enough to justify the expenses involved. It can mean the difference between a blatant money-waster, such as trying to break the cross-country speed record by car and one of the many relaxing and rewarding pastimes.

Here are key factors to consider: ...