That is precisely what I have been doing. I spend considerable amounts of time learning about web technologies and refining my skills, and it really has nothing to do with making myself employable. On average I would rather experiment with Seaside than play a video game.
I am 21, and actually already have considerable experience in the work field so far, but have been unsatisfied. I think I would find a startup much more to my liking. Perhaps I will have to follow your lead and develop a pet project into something impressive.