I think there's an important distinction here. Monetizing metalwork or woodwork (which I do, and have done) doesn't seem to ruin the fun for me. The hobby is ab

I think there's an important distinction here. Monetizing metalwork or woodwork (which I do, and have done) doesn't seem to ruin the fun for me. The hobby is about output, and more time spent equals more practice equals more skill. So, with some hobbies, it really benefits to get commercial. I've found that commercial work as a craftsman has pushed me to learn much more than my own designs are. I think this is akin to learning other people's songs when you learn an instrument; if you don't, its much too easy to get stuck in a rut of your own ideas.