
Do you prefer to make your gifts for family and friends? Are you still looking for something unique to give someone on your holiday list? If so, this post is for you. It’s brimming with Handmade Gift Ideas from Inspired by Charm.
Today, I’ve gathered more than 12 ideas for handmade gifts. They range from décor to food and drink to what I call feel-good items. Although these gifts are perfect for Christmas, many of them would be appropriate and appreciated at any time of the year.
Handmade Gifts – Décor:
Cookie Cutter Wreath
I made this wreath several years ago during a 12 Days of Christmas series on IBC. I probably wouldn’t be considered a minimalist, but I adore the simplicity of this wreath. You can customize it for any season or event by using different colored ribbon and different cookie cutters. This is a handmade gift you will enjoy designing, crafting, and giving!
Wood Bead Garland
Garlands are a wonderful finishing touch when decorating for the winter holidays or any special occasion. This wood garland is easy to paint and put together with a sturdy string or leather cord. I love it so much that I’ve made several versions. What bead shapes and paint colors will you use?
Colorful Wood Trees
I’m crazy about these trees and I predict the people who receive this handmade gift from you will be as well. Paint the trees various shades of green or whatever colors will complement the recipient’s décor. These colorful trees look gorgeous on a mantel or shelf or nestled among miniature houses and ribbon in a table centerpiece.
Handmade Gifts – Food and Drink:
Homemade Pancake Mix
This has been my go-to pancake mix for years, but I only recently got around to posting it on the blog. For a practical and pretty gift, mix up the dry ingredients and put a jar of the mix in a basket along with my homemade pancakes recipe, a bottle of pure maple syrup, and a whisk. For holiday appeal, add a bright bow, a couple of candy canes, and a cheery tea towel or two.
Hot Cocoa Mix
It’s that time of year…for handmade gifts and hand- and heart-warming drinks. Why not combine the two by tucking a container of this homemade hot cocoa mix in a gift box with a fun Christmas mug, peppermint candies, and marshmallows? The mix is so easy to make. There are also white chocolate and spiced chocolate versions.
Did you know that you can make the classic red pepper jelly rather than buying it at the store? It’s quite simple to do, plus you decide on the level of heat. I should warn you, though – you will probably get requests for this handmade gift every year. It’s that good!
Like many folks, you probably bake a lot during the holidays. Share some of the goodness (and calories!) with family and friends by putting together trays of favorite cookies and confections. Here are a few of mine: Cream Wafer Cookies, Three-Ingredient Fudge, and Sweater Weather Sugar Cookies. (Lots more cookie recipes are linked in the post.)
Apple Pie Moonshine
This handmade gift is as dangerous as it is delicious! Made from 190 proof grain alcohol, apple cider, apple juice, and seasonal spices, this drink is best enjoyed in moderation. To reinforce this, you might present a small bottle of it with a couple of cute shot glasses and a friendly reminder about drinking responsibly.
Handmade Gifts – Feel-Good Items:
Cookie/Gift Card Bags
These gift bags are an alternative to the pricey ones that are commercially available. Don’t worry – no sewing is required. Just iron the free printable transfer on ready-made cotton bags that can be purchased online. The bags are also a clever way to package other handmade gifts or even gift cards.
Clear Glass Ornament Gift Ideas
I like to make these for stocking stuffers or as accompaniments to year-end cash presents for the wonderful people whose services I rely on. I fill clear glass ornaments with something I think each person will like. Examples: sprinkles for baking, bath salts, loose leaf tea, lottery tickets, hot cocoa mix with mini-marshmallows, colorful small candies.
Terrarium
A terrarium is a beautiful handmade gift that allows you to bring the natural world inside. Once you choose a glass jar and gather the supplies, it won’t take long to set up the terrarium. Your family and friends will love tending their little indoor gardens. A green thumb is optional.
DIY Beeswax Candles
This is a handmade gift that can be completed in an evening. Even though candle making sounds difficult, it’s not. For me, the most challenging part is selecting the vessel and making sure I have all of the necessary supplies. As for the scents, I went with lavender and sandalwood.
Bath Bombs
Yes, you can make bath bombs. Stay with traditional holiday colors or go with the recipient’s favorite hues. The fragrance is also up to you. I prefer essential oils that relax and reenergize. (You might pair several bath bombs with a couple of the DIY beeswax candles for an extra special handmade gift.)
Bonus Gifting Ideas:
Christmas Gift Tags
These North Pole Express Delivery Service tags are so much fun. They are another free download from IBC and available in blue and red. Seeing one on a package from you is sure to bring a smile to your dear one’s face!
Plaid Gift Tags
I’ve been mad for plaid wrapping paper for a while now, and it is my pleasure to offer free printables such as these on Inspired by Charm. As one of the gift tags says, “Plaid Tidings of Joy” (from me to you). Which of your handmade gifts will you top with a plaid tag?
Christmas Bottle Hang Tags
If you’re giving someone wine or spirits this season, may I suggest adding one of these clever and festive tags? The printable can be downloaded from IBC for free. As with all of my tags, I recommend printing on cardstock.
I hope these Handmade Gift Ideas inspire you to make life a little merrier for others at Christmas and throughout the year.
Happy DIYing and Giving!