13 Elegant DIY Christmas Gifts That Look Expensive But Aren’t
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Now that the holiday season is upon us, there is the challenge of what to give others as gifts. We all know that holiday shopping can wear out your wallet and your energy. Luckily, creating your own gifts is the answer. DIY presents are not only a special touch, they also show your loved ones how much you care.
However, if you are looking to make a big impression without burning a hole in your wallet, this list is for you. These DIY Christmas gifts are stylish and simple – it doesn’t have to cost you a lot to feel like you’re giving a luxury gift. Not only that, but these ideas can all be made by anyone, whether you’re a seasoned crafter or someone just dipping their toes into DIY projects, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Gourmet Flavored Salts
Any kitchen will benefit from flavored salts that add a gourmet touch. Coarsely mix with lemon zest, smoked paprika, or truffle oil. Wrap the items in small jars and you’ve got a very fancy gift for the home chef!
Homemade Sugar Scrub
Give your loved ones the spa experience at home with a homemade sugar scrub. Add granulated sugar, coconut oil, and some drops of essential oils and you’ve got an exfoliating treat. You can even add a wee bit of food coloring for a fun and striking visual. For a finishing touch package it in a small glass jar and write a handwritten label. Everyone’s skin will feel soft and rejuvenated after having a little pampering in this little jar.
Custom Photo Coasters
Capture your precious memories with DIY photo coasters. Take small photos and merge them onto plain ceramic tiles. All you have to do is seal them with a waterproof topcoat and voila! Not only do these coasters protect surfaces, they add a smile with every sip of coffee. They make for a great functional gift and a way to share cherished moments.
Personalized Tote Bags
Adding anything to a simple canvas tote bag can completely add to your style. Add designs, quotes, initials of the recipient, or whatever you want using fabric paint or iron on vinyl. In fact, a Statista survey found that more than 65% of Americans now use reusable shopping bags, which makes this trend and practical gift. It’s a great mix of fashion and function.
Infused Olive Oils
Gourmet gift, with minimal effort, for the foodie in your life? Infused olive oils. For a decorative bottle, combine high-quality olive oil with garlic, rosemary, or chili flakes. This stuff cannot be opened once. Let it sit for a few days to impart its full flavor then wrap the bottle with a festive bow.
Chunky Knit Blankets
A chunky knit blanket screams cozy more than few things. Arm knitting is easier than you think and you don’t need any special tools if you’ve never tried it before. Using thick, plush yarn, you can make a blanket in a few hours. Etsy found that searches for hand knits increased during the holiday season last year, so consider adding these to your list.
DIY Bath Bombs
A relaxing soak in the tub is something everyone loves, right? They are a fun and easy project with infinite customization. Mix a bit of water, essential oils, and coloring with baking soda, citric acid, cornstarch, and Epsom salts. Give them a festive shape like a snowflake or ornament and you have a gift that will turn bath time into bliss time.
Hand-Poured Candles
In my opinion, nothing quite says holiday like the glow of a candle. However, you’d be surprised how easy hand-poured candles are to make, and how you can tailor the scents to reflect the season—cinnamon, pine or vanilla’ The only thing you will need is wax, a wick, essential oils, and a container (anything from mason jars to pretty bottles will work). Purchase a jar and decorate it with a festive ribbon and you’ll have a gift that you know will light up someone’s day.
Painted Plant Pots
Use acrylic paints to make patterns, designs, or even make a monogram. If you want to, pair the painted pot with a little plant, such as a succulent or herb, for a decorative no-fussy gift. Stress reduction and improvement of air quality are gifts that keep on giving—and plants have been scientifically proven to do both.
Homemade Hot Cocoa Kits
Get DIY hot cocoa kits to help warm up the season. Put some layer cocoa powder, powdered milk, sugar, and mini marshmallows in a clear jar. To finish, add some sprinkles on top, and one new candy cane for stirring and wrap it up with a ribbon to get the festive mood on. National Today found, in a 2021 survey, that hot cocoa is still one of the top comfort drinks during winter, meaning this is an instant hit.
Beaded Jewelry
Making jewelry might sound complicated but it’s surprisingly easy when you have the right materials. Make bracelets or necklaces stringing beads on elastic. For a high-end look, go for a mix of metallic and glass beads. Handcrafted jewelry is personal and stylish – it shows you paid attention to every detail.
Upcycled Sweater Mittens
Turn an old sweater into some cozy mittens. Cut mitten shapes out of the sweater, sew the edges, and if you like, line them with something soft. This sustainable DIY project is just what you need to learn that eco-friendly can be elegant, as it repurposes materials you already have.
Handmade Journals
A handmade journal is great for any writer or dreamer in your life. Make a little something out of decorative paper and cardboard, and bind it with ribbon or thread. This gift is perfect for the holidays as it is equally heartwarming, and induces some reflection and self-expression.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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