Homemade Christmas Gifts: 21 DIY Ideas People Love
Homemade Christmas gifts are personal, affordable and easy to make. Here are 21 DIY ideas, from edible treats to crafts you can make with kids.
A homemade gift shows time and care, and it often costs less than a store gift. Choose projects that match your skills and the recipient’s taste. Here are 20 ideas.
Edible Gifts
- Cookies or shortbread in a tin. Reliable crowd-pleaser. See our food gift recipes.
- Hot cocoa mix in a jar. Layer cocoa, sugar and marshmallows.
- Spiced nuts. Easy to make and keeps well.
- Homemade granola. Good for breakfast lovers.
- Jam or chutney. For cooks and cheese fans.
- Flavored salt or sugar. Simple and stylish.
Crafts with Kids
- Salt dough ornaments. See our salt dough ornaments.
- Handprint ornaments. Keepsakes for grandparents; see handprint ornaments.
- Mason jar snow globes. Cute for friends; see mason jar snow globes.
- Homemade cards. See homemade Christmas cards with kids.
- Cinnamon ornaments. Smell wonderful; see cinnamon applesauce ornaments.
Home and Cozy
- Hand-poured candles. Use a simple kit.
- Knitted or crocheted scarf. For people who love handmade.
- Bath salts. Mix salt, oil and dried herbs.
- Lip balm or hand salve. Simple recipes with beeswax.
- A sewn tote bag or pillow cover. Practical and personal.
Personal Keepsakes
- A framed print of a drawing or photo. Inexpensive with a good frame.
- A family recipe book. Compile favorites with photos.
- A memory jar. Fill with notes about favorite moments.
- A coupon book. Promise help and time.
- A hand-lettered poem or quote. Personal and quick.
How to Choose
- Pick a project that matches your skill level.
- Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Check allergies for edible gifts.
- Package nicely; see how to wrap gifts neatly.
- Label food with ingredients and storage.
Quick Picks
- Best for beginners: hot cocoa mix in a jar.
- Best with kids: handprint ornaments.
- Best for cooks: homemade jam.
- Best for cozy lovers: hand-poured candles.
- Best personal: a family recipe book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are easy homemade Christmas gifts?
Baked treats, hot cocoa mix in a jar, simple candles, ornaments, framed art and handmade cards are all beginner-friendly.
When should I start making homemade gifts?
Start in early November for crafts and a week or two before for baked goods so they are fresh.
Are homemade gifts cheaper than store-bought?
Often yes, especially food gifts and jars, but craft supplies can add up. Choose projects that use what you have.
