Who says your holiday present needs to be pricey in order to be meaningful? Some of the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart — and your very own hands. This season, consider getting creative with DIY gifts that are destined to impress. Bobbie Thomas, TODAY style editor and author of the Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, presents five fabulous ideas for crafting your own unique presents.
Framed words: After all, it’s the thought that counts
A picture may be worth a thousand words, but you only need to frame a few to make a meaningful gift. Does a certain song always remind you of someone? Do you have a favorite quote that may inspire a friend? Print or handwrite a poem, thought, lyric or personal note and insert it into a photo frame for an easy gift that will be forever remembered.
Gourmet chocolate-dipped coffee spoons: A little chocolate cheer
Whether it’s for the chocolate lover on your list or a group of caffeine-craving co-workers, this inexpensive and easy idea is sure to soothe any sweet tooth. Start by melting chocolate chips in the microwave, then dip a spoon into the chocolate. Select sweets that will melt in a hot beverage, then sprinkle your choice of candy on top. After you dip and sprinkle, lay the spoon flat to cool, then wrap with squares of plastic wrap and tie with a ribbon. Cluster a number of them together to make a pretty package, or serve with a coffee mug (which can be decorated DIY-style as well). It’s the perfect pick-me-up! Handmade holiday ornaments: Bring some bling
Not only is this gift traditional, but by hand-making these holiday ornaments, you’re creating keepsakes that your special someone will cherish for a long time to come. Starting with just a lightweight Styrofoam ball, gather mismatched jewelry, ribbons, fabric swatches and even buttons (silk flowers or feathers are also great accents to add to the ornament).
Straight pins can be pushed through to attach your glitz, or use string to secure your sparkle. Old earrings are great because you’ll have a head start with the post, but don’t be afraid to wrap bracelets or necklaces either. Whether you twist and stick a piece of ribbon to look like flowers or glue glam accents to bedazzle your friends and family, everyone will appreciate that you took the time to make something personal.
Candle containers: Let there be light
Most candles in a can smell good, but it's so much better to receive one in a beautifully decorated container. To make a present that is sure to inspire awe, use decoupage or glue to adhere tissue paper, foil or cellophane to clear jars, vases or glasses. Next, embellish with jeweled accents, ribbons, or even consider fastening a necklace around the top. Even before the candle is lit, this gift is sure to warm your special someone's heart!
Sugar scrubs: Rub-a-dub-dub, make a goody for the tub
Help your friends and family hydrate their skin with this easy, inexpensive bath and body gift. Take raw or granulated sugar to create an exfoliating scrub, then add an equal amount of jojoba, almond or light olive oil. Scent as desired by using peppermint oil, cinnamon, coffee grinds, honey or other natural ingredients. Finish it off by finding a pretty tub or jar to seal your scrub. While the recipient may reap the benefits of this beauty basic, you’re sure to get bonus points for being a smooth gift-giver!