In recent years, the question of what counts as a meaningful gift has been at the forefront of my focus. Inflation remains a top concern, especially in 2023 (coupled with retailers going all-in on Black Friday), and the pressure to buy could be felt as follows: a lot. And as he became more intentional with his gift purchases, he began to look to DIY gift ideas as a creative and lovingly made option.
Featured image from interview with Devon Liedtke Anastasia Pudova.
21 DIY gift ideas everyone will love
If you don’t yet know the deep joy of creating something with your own hands, let me wax poetic about it. While pursuing a handmade home and lifestyle, I learned that striving for a slow life and filling my home with handmade items can be a fun lesson in love. And this holiday, my goal is to remind my friends and family to do the same in small ways to be grateful. And let me tell you, these DIY gift ideas can do just that.
Let’s get started! I feel like each of these gifts is greeted with awe: Had made this? ! ” (Now, who wouldn’t want to hear that?)
Creative Gen plastic bottle vase
As far as DIY gift ideas go, this one offers the best before and after. Have you ever held a plastic bottle in your hand and thought: this Would it make a nice vase? me too. But as I watched the magic happen before my eyes, I began to believe. This gift couldn’t be easier. You’ll love the short ingredients list, even though it’s a bit tedious.
DIY Alice & Lois velvet ornament
I love DIY gift ideas that are a sentimental reminder of your love. These cute velvet ornaments will be so much fun to share with your neighbors. Every year they will display these and be amazed by your generous little gift.
Honest WTF DIY Pearl Daisy Chain Necklace
We can’t get enough of how cute this minimalist daisy chain necklace is. This is the kind of DIY gift I imagine making for myself and sharing with my best friends. Our friend is far away, so this thoughtful gift would be a nice way to remind her that she’s always just a phone call away.
DIY Cottage Core Hair Ribbon by Pin Cut Sew Studio
Hair ribbons are winter’s biggest hair accessory, and while you can certainly find cheaper options, they’re also super easy to make yourself. These cost only $2.50 to make each and just a little tying and sewing. Even teenagers (famously the hardest to please with gifts) wear theirs all year long.
Hand-knitted flax and twine blanket
I’ve seen blankets in everyone’s gift guides and it makes sense. Nothing promotes winter coziness like a soft, warm throw. There are plenty of options online, but there’s something even more special about making your own. This project only takes an hour (!!) and even if you’re new to crochet, it couldn’t be easier to learn.
DIY Polymer Clay Knot Paperweight for DIY from Autumn
Skip the expensive West Elm option and make this simple camo. All you need is polymer clay, a craft knife, and sandpaper. If you’re looking for a way to help your friends further their shelving game, this is it.
DIY Mushroom Lamp by Collective Gen
So. cute. You will fall in love with this adorable lamp. Do you have a design-obsessed friend on your list? This adorable little lamp is perfect for your nightstand or office. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do other than bake treats in a metal mixing bowl, this is your answer.
A Beautiful Mess seamless woven velvet headband
How cute is this headband? And here’s the good news. No sewing is required on your part. Seriously, anyone and everyone can make this trending headband. All you need is a little cutting, gluing, and pinning. How fun would it be to use this as a stocking stuffer?
DIY Fabric Wine Bag by Merrythought
A bottle of wine is always a great gift, but why not add a handmade touch to it? I love sharing simple gifts with friends, but weaving something a little more personal into them. These easy bags serve just that purpose.
Alice & Lois DIY Taper Candle
The colorful, bright and cheerful candle trend is here to stay. This is a bit of a DIY, but the gorgeous end result is worth it.If you want a candle that has a more geometric pattern and is super cutethis bubble candle I’m happy.
Honestly WTF DIY dried flower bouquet
A fresh flower arrangement feels like a Valentine’s Day or anniversary gift. But a dry bouquet? It’s a perfect move. You can buy dried flowers online or go to a craft store. I found several florists in Chicago that also sell dried flowers. Follow our simple instructions to create an arrangement your recipient will be happy to preserve for years to come.
Grooved arch plants stand in two ways from a beautiful mess
I love the bold look of these plant stands. It’s a cute way to enhance your plant family (literally) and take your look to new heights. The best part? From start to finish, it takes just a few minutes to create.
DIY Knit Bandana by Flax & Twine
If you’re a knitter like me, you’ll love this sweet knit bandana. The delicate lace trim is gorgeous, and while this project isn’t for beginners, it shouldn’t be too much of a problem for anyone who’s been honing their skills for a few years.
Faux Stoneware Candle Holder for DIY from Autumn
Even if you’re not interested in making your own candles, this DIY is an easy way to make a simple store-bought candle even more special. What’s the secret to this candle holder’s cool stoneware effect? polymer and sand. Yes, that’s it.
DIY knot pillow made from sugar and cloth
I’ve been coveting these pillows for years, but they never seemed like they were worth the price. (I mean, is it that comfortable?) Thankfully, this DIY showed me the light and convinced me I was right. It feels like I’m cuddling next to a literal cloud. These small items add a soft, sculptural touch to your sofa, accent chair, or bed.
DIY copper vase from home
If you want to go the fresh flower route (I go with a dozen peach peonies, please and thank you), this is the perfect vessel. A little copper metallic spray paint can completely change the look of a galvanized tin container.
Alice & Lois DIY Concrete Bowl
I love the rustic elegance of these simple bowls. Looks gorgeous on a coffee table or as a console catchall. I’ve never thrown my keys into something so stylish.
DIY notebook made with paper and stitching
As a writer who has received many notebooks for Christmas, love love love To find one of these in my stocking. But professions aside, these are great gifts for people who need to doodle ideas before they forget, or for those who always look forward to a good doodle. So…everyone on the list?
Merrythought’s DIY Simple Potholder
When I first started knitting, I used to give my mom potholders every Christmas. She used them often and lovingly, but I think she will appreciate these wonderful things even more. It’s also fun to make them using fabric scraps and recycled towels. An eco-friendly gift? You’ve accomplished the impossible.
DIY Housewarming Gifts from Crafted Life
No one likes moving in the winter. If you have a friend who had to change their home during the cold season, they will be very grateful if they receive this gift. Candles, tea, jam, and a few DIY kitchen towels. I just moved a few months ago and this gift would bring me to tears (I think it’s a good one).
Collective Gen’s DIY Linen Hair Scrunchie
I don’t think the scrunchie trend is going anywhere (cute) and Convenient – double benefit). Did you know it’s super easy to make? If you choose linen, your gift will lean more toward country-girl chic than his 80s aesthetic (and that’s a good thing). This is another great project to use linen scraps!
This post was originally published on December 9, 2018 and has since been updated.