The holiday season is a time for giving, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune to show someone you care. In fact, some of the most heartfelt gifts are the ones that are handmade with love and creativity. DIY Christmas gifts not only save you money, but they also add a personal touch that store-bought gifts can’t match. Whether you’re giving a gift to a family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor, there are plenty of inexpensive yet thoughtful DIY Christmas gifts that will make everyone on your list feel special.
Here are some creative, budget-friendly DIY Christmas gift ideas—each one under $20—that will be loved and appreciated this holiday season.
1. Personalized Scented Candles
Cost: $5 – $10
Candles are a classic holiday gift, and you can make them extra special by personalizing the scent. To make your own scented candles, all you need is wax (soy wax is an affordable option), wicks, a fragrance oil of your choice, and a container (like mason jars or teacups). You can even decorate the jars with paint, twine, or custom labels to make them more festive. Pick a holiday scent, like cinnamon, peppermint, or pine, to give them a seasonal flair.
DIY Instructions:
- Melt the wax using a double boiler.
- Add a few drops of your chosen fragrance oil.
- Pour the wax into your container, placing the wick in the center.
- Let the candle harden and trim the wick.
- Decorate the jar with paint, stickers, or ribbons.
2. Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
Cost: $5 – $10
Hot chocolate is a winter staple, and a homemade hot chocolate mix in a jar makes a delicious and thoughtful gift. Layer cocoa powder, sugar, powdered milk, and mini marshmallows in a mason jar, and decorate with a festive ribbon. Include a small note with instructions on how to make the perfect hot cocoa. For an extra touch, add a candy cane or a few chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
DIY Instructions:
- Layer cocoa powder, powdered milk, sugar, and mini marshmallows in a mason jar.
- Add a festive label with instructions: “Add 1-2 tablespoons of mix to hot water or milk.”
- Tie a ribbon around the jar and attach a candy cane.
3. DIY Bath Salts
Cost: $5 – $8
A relaxing bath is a great way to unwind, and homemade bath salts make the perfect gift for anyone who enjoys a bit of self-care. Epsom salts, sea salt, and essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can be mixed to create soothing bath salts. Package them in a decorative jar with a ribbon and a cute label for a luxurious yet affordable gift.
DIY Instructions:
- Mix Epsom salt and sea salt in a bowl.
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for fragrance.
- Pour the mixture into a mason jar and seal.
- Attach a label with instructions: “Add 1/4 cup of salts to your bath.”
4. Handmade Scarves
Cost: $10 – $15
A knitted or crocheted scarf can be a warm, cozy, and fashionable gift. If you know how to knit or crochet, this is an affordable and thoughtful way to make a personal gift. Choose a soft yarn in their favorite color or a neutral tone that will complement any outfit. Even if you’re a beginner, there are easy tutorials available online that teach basic knitting or crochet skills.
DIY Instructions:
- Choose your yarn and needles (or crochet hook).
- Use a basic knit or crochet stitch to create a long scarf.
- Add fringe at the ends if desired.
- Fold the scarf neatly and tie it with a ribbon for a polished presentation.
5. DIY Sugar Scrub
Cost: $5 – $8
Sugar scrubs are a luxurious way to pamper the skin, and they’re simple to make at home. Combine sugar with coconut oil or olive oil, then add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance. You can even tint the scrub with a little bit of food coloring for a festive touch. Package the scrub in a mason jar with a cute label, and it will look as good as it feels.
DIY Instructions:
- Mix sugar and coconut or olive oil in a bowl.
- Add a few drops of essential oil (lavender, peppermint, or citrus are great options).
- Add food coloring for a festive look, if desired.
- Spoon the mixture into a jar and tie a ribbon around it.
6. Customized Coasters
Cost: $5 – $8
Coasters are a practical gift, but by personalizing them, they can become something unique. You can create coasters from cork, wood, or ceramic tiles and then add custom designs using paint, stamps, or decoupage. A set of these coasters would make a wonderful gift for someone who loves hosting guests or who enjoys a cozy night at home.
DIY Instructions:
- Purchase cork or ceramic tiles from a craft store.
- Decorate with paint, markers, or decoupage. You could add initials, holiday designs, or abstract art.
- Seal with a clear coat of spray sealer to ensure durability.
- Package them in a small box or bundle with twine.
7. Personalized Picture Frame
Cost: $5 – $10
Personalized picture frames are a meaningful way to display cherished memories. You can find inexpensive wooden frames at craft stores and customize them with paint, stickers, or even beads. Add a heartfelt note or a favorite quote to make the frame even more special. This gift is perfect for someone who loves to display photos of family, friends, or travels.
DIY Instructions:
- Purchase a plain wooden frame.
- Paint or decorate with your design of choice (think holiday-themed or something personal to the recipient).
- Add a family photo, inspirational quote, or a picture of a memorable moment.
- Package it with some bubble wrap to protect it.
8. Knitted Mug Cozy
Cost: $5 – $8
If you’re looking for a practical but thoughtful gift, a knitted mug cozy is an excellent option. These cozies protect hands from hot beverages and are a fun way to personalize a mug. You can easily make one using simple knitting techniques, or you can crochet one for an extra touch of charm. Choose a yarn that matches the recipient’s style for a perfect, cozy gift.
DIY Instructions:
- Choose a yarn and knitting needles or a crochet hook.
- Knit or crochet a rectangular piece to fit around a mug.
- Add buttons or embroidery for decoration.
- Wrap it around a cute mug and tie with a ribbon.
9. Hand-Painted Plant Pots
Cost: $5 – $8
A small plant in a hand-painted pot makes a great gift for someone who loves greenery. You can easily transform inexpensive terracotta pots by painting them with vibrant colors or fun designs. Add a small succulent or herb plant, and you have a charming and unique gift that’s perfect for a friend or family member who loves to garden or decorate their home with plants.
DIY Instructions:
- Purchase small terracotta pots from a craft store.
- Paint with acrylic paint—opt for bright colors, patterns, or personalized designs.
- Once dry, add a small plant, like a succulent or cactus, into the pot.
- Wrap it with tissue paper or twine for a pretty presentation.
10. DIY Cookie Mix in a Jar
Cost: $5 – $8
Who doesn’t love homemade cookies? A DIY cookie mix in a jar is a sweet and thoughtful gift that’s both fun and functional. Layer the dry ingredients for cookies in a mason jar, and decorate the jar with a festive ribbon and a tag with baking instructions. For extra creativity, you could create different types of mixes, such as chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, or gingerbread.
DIY Instructions:
- Layer dry ingredients for cookies (flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.) in a mason jar.
- Attach a tag with instructions: “Add 1/2 cup of butter and 1 egg, then bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.”
- Tie a ribbon around the jar and decorate with a cute holiday tag.
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to give thoughtful, meaningful gifts. These DIY Christmas gift ideas are all budget-friendly and can be made with a little time, creativity, and love. Whether it’s a handmade candle, a cozy scarf, or a personalized picture frame, each gift will feel special because it was made just for the recipient. So, roll up your sleeves and get crafting—these DIY gifts will make this Christmas one to remember!
