Making gifts for the holidays is a thoughtful way to add a personalized touch to the presents you give. Not only are homemade gifts personal and unique, but they are also an opportunity to get in touch with your creative side.  Getting crafty can also help save money during what can often be an expensive time of year. Here are 3 tips below for making your homemade gifts a hit this holiday season.

Plan ahead.
Planning ahead will help to save time and money when it comes time to make your homemade gifts. Sticking to a list of those who you would like to make gifts for will help keep you organized during the process. If you are planning to make multiple homemade gifts, be sure to know what you want to make for each person on your list, especially if you plan to make different gifts for each individual. Having all of the ingredients or supplies that you need in advance will help to save you time when you are ready to assemble each gift.  

Deciding on the right gift.
When giving a homemade gift, you will be a giving a one of a kind, personalized item. It doesn’t have to be elaborate to be thoughtful. Keep it simple when it comes to your gift ideas. There are plenty of practical, edible or decorative gifts you can give that will not consume all of your time. For parents or family members, incorporating photos or memories in your gift is priceless and always appreciated.  Be sure to check out our list of homemade gift ideas below.

Set aside time.
After you have all of the supplies that you need, it is important to set aside a designated time to assemble your gifts.  Work on each project one at a time to keep from feeling overwhelmed.  With a hectic holiday schedule, finding time might be a challenge. Naptime or after your kids go to sleep in the evening may be the perfect time to work on your homemade gifts.

Five easy homemade gift ideas

Painting a letter on a canvas 

Buy a canvas and paint one letter, the first letter of their first or last name on the canvas. Use a color that will match their home. This type of gift works well in an office or as a child’s bedroom decoration.

Baby’s handprint on an ornament

Using any color of round Christmas tree ornament, stamp baby’s hand onto the ornament using nontoxic paint and write the year underneath the hand print. This is a great gift idea for grandparents and aunts and uncles.

Muffin in a jar

Using your favorite muffin recipe, layer the necessary dry ingredients in a jar, and attach the instructions with a list of additional ingredients that need to be added with some ribbon on the outside of the jar.

Baked goods

Baked goods are a classic homemade gift. Give a healthier sweet treat and make mini-loaves of banana bread or pear mini muffins. Try giving this gift to coworkers, teachers and friends.

Photo Coasters

Using 4×4 tiles, mod podge, scrap book paper of your choice and then spray with a clear gloss. Easy-to-assemble and fun to recieve, they make the perfect gift for friends and family!