It’s about that time in the holiday season when we get a little panicky about finding the perfect gifts for everyone we know. If you’ve resorted to clicking around randomly on Amazon or eBay, if you’ve accused your significant other of being “impossible to shop for,” or if you’ve found yourself thinking that maybe fruitcake is a decent idea after all, stop right there! This post is for you. DIY gifts are the perfect way for you to show off your crafty side, and they’re great for small budgets. Plus, since they’re homemade, your friends and family will cherish them all the more.
1. DIY Scarf
Buy a couple of yards of chic fabric and you’re almost done—no, really! All you have to do is fringe the ends to create a standout scarf. See the full tutorial at Francois et Moi.
2. Spa in a Jar
Just imagine a mason jar chock full of body scrubs, foot soaks, eye masks, and all the other little toiletries you can’t live without. Then throw in some tea light candles for good measure. Feeling relaxed already? See the tutorial at The Gunny Sack.
3. Jar of Sweets
These sweet favors have all the makings of a perfect winter night in front of the fire: cocoa mix, chocolate peppermint squares, marshmallows, and kahlua. The decorative pink ruffled fabric and candy cane hearts work better than any wrapping paper could! See the full tutorial at Hey Gorg.
4. Hand-Painted Mug
Hand-paint a mug to add some flair to that morning cup of coffee. Don’t forget to bake the mug after the paint dries. See the full tutorial at Wit and Whistle.
5. Photo Block
Purchase a wood block letter from your local craft store, print some photos, and start pasting! Depending on how many photos you have, you can stick with an initial or spell out a full name. See the full tutorial at the DIY Network.
6. Bottle of Memories
To make a “bottle of memories,” aka the one DIY gift that’s guaranteed to make the receiver cry, fill a bottle with little trinkets that represent all your favorite memories together. See the full tutorial at Thirty Handmade Days.
7. DIY Corkboard
Your new excuse for drinking wine in the middle of the day: gathering corks to create this fun corkboard! See the full tutorial at MarthaStewart.com.