Even before the Halloween decorations come down, retail stores prod consumers to think about their holiday shopping. There's no end to the pressure to scour stores and websites for the perfect gifts — for anyone and everyone from a partner to kids to the kids' teachers to the neighbors, long-distance loved ones, and everyone in between. And despite the many pre-holiday sales, BOGOs, and deep, Black Friday or Cyber Monday discounts that may be floating around out there, sticking to a budget for holiday gifts can be tough. It's an annual expense that is bound to — and all too quick to — add up. The good news is that making desirable DIY holiday gifts has never been easier.
To be fair, at first blush, the thought of giving handmade, homemade, DIY gifts might not seem 100 percent appealing. "Homemade" could bring to mind thoughts of baked goods gone bad or cheesy, tchotchke-esque crafts that may — gulp —Ā end up in the trash. But the fact of the matter is that plenty of gifts that make wish lists year after year can be made by hand. And not only by advanced crafters, people with superior sewing skills, or a talented artisan who has built themselves a fairly successful side (or main!) hustle on Etsy.Ā
Consider that best friends, sisters, moms, and other loved ones might be wishing for on-trend tassel earrings, a signature scent, a pretty planter for a new succulent, a weighted blanket, a cozy new pair of mittens for the daily commute, a sugar scrub or shower steamer or bath bomb for a quick spa-like retreat in their own bathroom. Any of these products could be purchased at a retail store or online, sure. Or they could be personalized, customized, and handmade with love — for less dough!
Here are 20 smart, easy, and actually cool DIY gift ideas that are sure to get rave reviews from gift recipients.
DIY Candle
This simple homemade candle is perfect for the homebody on the holiday list.
Quickie Quilt
Even beginners can make this beautiful, quick, and easy quilt for a loved one.
Cozy Chunky Blanket
No need to drop a ton of dough at a big-name store when it's possible to pull this cozy, chunky blanket together by arm-knitting in 45 minutes.
Peppermint Candy Cane Sugar Scrub
This festive bath DIY sugar scrub recipe from HappyOrganizedLife.com, made from sugar and coconut oil, looks as sweet as it smells.
DIY Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets can be truly comforting gift for anyone, but they're also kind of pricey. Thankfully, it's possible to DIY one with this easy-to-follow tutorial.
30-Minute Infinity Scarf
In just a half hour, arm-knit a cozy, stylish infinity scarf that will not only keep a loved one warm, but also looking chic.
Baby Blanket
For the new mom on the list, this sweet baby blanket is easy to sew and may offer years of use.
DIY Aromatherapy Shower Steamers
Bath bombs are awesome, but these DIY shower steamers from BusyBliss.com are the perfect alternative for busy moms who may appreciate a quicker aromatherapy fix.
Jewelry Dishes
All it takes is polymer clay, a few flowers, and paint to create these adorableĀ jewelry dishes from Heart & Vine. So pretty!
Headband & Mittens
Make new use of an old sweater with this easy DIY headband and mittens tutorial from Hearth & Vine.
Perfume Oil
If the recipient has a favorite perfume, a homemade perfume oil can be a quick, sweet endeavor.
Lip Gloss With Almond Oil & Cocoa Butter
The beauty junkie on the list will love this sweet, customizable lip gloss. Bonus: The recipe was designed by a medically trained esthetician, makeup artist, and beauty blogger.
Solid Perfume Tins
These solid perfumes from Hearth & Vine are easy to DIY with a personalized combo of essential oils. Plus, the artistic packaging makes it look like a gift from an upscale boutique.
Tiny Succulent Pots
These little planters make a pretty gift for the green thumb (or even someone who isn't much of one!) on the list.
Red Tassel Earrings
These red tassel hoop earrings and super on-trend and ridiculously easy to pull together with this fun tutorial.
Charm Bangle
Fans of brands like Alex & Ani are sure to love this handmade charm bangle. The total cost of making four bracelets is just $14!
Wrapped Gemstone Pendant
The magic lover on the holiday list likely adores meditating or otherwise working with crystals. Gift her one she can wear by following this wire-wrapping tutorial.
Bath Bombs
Who doesn't love luxurious bath bombs? DIY the perfect batch for anyone who deserves a spa-like experience STAT.
Unicorn Holiday Ornament
The unicorn lover on the list will smile when they receive this super-cute, whimsical, and sparkly DIY ornament.
