Homemade for the Holidays: DIY Gifts Everyone Will Love

There’s nothing better than a gift made straight from the heart. In this guide, I’ll walk you through 4 simple yet stunning DIY gifts that you can make at home. These projects are a great way to get creative (and take it easy on the wallet). Let’s dive in!

1. Hand-Poured Candles

Candles are a classic, cozy gift that everyone appreciates. Customize them with your fav scents and even up cycle old crystal jars or seashells.

What you’ll need:

• Wax Flakes (I use soy wax)
• Wicks with adhesive on the bottom
• Heat-safe containers (crystal jars, glass containers, or seashells work great!)
• Essential oils
• A double boiler or a metal bowl over a pot of boiling water
• Wooden skewers or chopsticks

Instructions:

1. Secure the wick at the bottom center of your container.
2. Melt the wax flakes in a double boiler, stirring occasionally until completely liquid.
3. Once melted, remove from heat and add 15-20 drops of your preferred essential oil or fragrance.
4. Pour the wax into your container, holding the wick upright by tying it to a skewer balanced across the container’s top.
5. Let the candle cool and harden 4-6 hours. Cut the wick to about ¼ inch.
6. Wrap with a ribbon and tag for gifting!

2. Ornament Frames

Create beautiful, miniature photo frames to hang on the tree, perfect for family keepsakes or sentimental gifts.

What You’ll Need:

• Small wooden or metal picture frames
• Twine or thin ribbon
• Paint, glitter, or decorative paper (optional)
• A printed photo or festive quote
• Hot glue or craft glue

Instructions:

1. If desired, paint or decorate the frame. Let it dry completely.
2. Print and cut a photo to fit inside the frame.
3. Attach a piece of twine or ribbon to the top of the frame with hot glue for hanging.
4. Slide in the photo, secure the back, and your personalized ornament is ready!

3. Homemade Vanilla Extract

This luxurious and practical gift is perfect for bakers in your life—and it only requires two ingredients!

What You’ll Need:

• Vanilla beans (3–4 beans per bottle)
• Vodka (or bourbon for a richer flavor)
• Glass bottles or jars with tight-fitting lids
• Labels or tags

Instructions:

1. Slice the vanilla beans lengthwise to expose the seeds inside.
2. Place the beans in your glass bottle.
3. Fill the bottle with vodka, completely submerging the beans.
4. Seal the bottle tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 6–8 weeks, shaking it gently once a week.
5. Add a festive label or tag with instructions to “shake before use” and note that the extract will continue to deepen in flavor over time.

4. Simmer Pot in a Jar

Simmer pots are an easy way to fill a home with the warm, inviting scents of the season. Gift a "simmer pot in a jar" kit for a fragrant and thoughtful present.

What You’ll Need:

• Glass jars with lids
• Dried orange slices (or fresh slices if gifting immediately)
• Cinnamon sticks
• Whole cloves
• Star anise
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Gift tags or labels

Instructions:

1. Layer the ingredients in the jar. Start with dried orange slices, add cinnamon sticks, sprinkle in cloves, and finish with rosemary and star anise.
2. Seal the jar and attach a tag with simmering instructions: “Empty contents into a pot, add 2–3 cups of water, and simmer on low heat for a festive aroma!”
3. These kits can be customized with additional spices or herbs based on your preferences.

Handmade gifts don’t just save money—they show love, thoughtfulness, and creativity. Plus, they’re an eco-friendly alternative to buying new. Bonus: these projects make for the perfect girls’ night activity with Healthy Hot Chocolate in hand!

Which DIY will you try first? Whether you’re making candles, simmer pots, or homemade vanilla extract, each project is sure to bring joy to both you and the recipient. Share your creations with us on social media—tag us @SurflyClub on instagram to show off your Thrift-Giving magic.

Happy crafting!

 

xoxo,

Lindsay