25+ Handmade Gifts: Ideas for Christmas or Any Occasion

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 ideas for handmade gifts from Inspired by Charm.

I’ve gathered more than 25 handmade gift ideas. They range from decor to food and drink to what I call feel-good items. Although these handmade gifts are perfect for Christmas, many of them would be appropriate and appreciated at any time of the year.

What are the best DIYs to give?

I love to receive anything handmade, but some of the best DIY gifts include:

• Something with function like a candle, bath bomb, sugar scrub, etc.
• Something delicious like hot cocoa mix, pancake mix, cookies, candy, etc.
• Something beautiful like a wreath, tote bags, seasonal decor, etc.
• Something artistic like painting, sculpture, serve ware, etc.

Hopefully that got your creative brain working a bit. Below are a few of my favorite ideas. Each included a full tutorial on how to make them. Just click on through the the post and get crafting!

Handmade gifts to decorate the home

1. Cookie cutter wreath

I made this DIY wreath several years ago and still love it today. 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 ribbons and different cookie cutters.

This is a handmade gift you will enjoy designing, crafting, and giving!

2. 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?

3. 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 would look gorgeous on a mantel or shelf or nestled among miniature houses and ribbon in a table centerpiece.

4. Vintage-inspired Christmas gift bags

Looking for a unique way to give a holiday gift? Let me help! I’m teaching you how to make these festive Christmas gift bags. Made with vintage holiday graphics, these are a beautiful way to wrap up small gifts, or they could be used as decor.

These gift bags are so easy to make! I’ve even shared a free download of the vintage graphics!

5. DIY embroidery hoop Christmas ornaments

Use old plaid shirts and embroidery hoops to craft these DIY Christmas ornaments. This is an easy and budget-friendly craft with stunning results.

I used some of my old shirts (along with thrift store finds) to craft these ornaments. However, you could use a piece of clothing or fabric from a family member that may have passed away to make this gift extra special.

Embellish these any way you’d like. Use them as a gift topper or gift card holder. Get creative!

6. Clay Christmas ornaments

I absolutely adore how well these clay ornaments turn out. They look so smooth and professional, and I’m sure most people won’t be able to tell it’s even handmade. The trick is to use oven-baked clay and stamp-style cookie cutters.

They’re super festive, and it’s simple to make a ton to gift in batches or to accompany larger gifts.

7. Paper star garland

This paper star garland is a perfect option for those who want a budget-friendly gift. It’s unique and slightly rustic, made out of old books and shiny gold paper. It would look good in all kinds of decor and can be used to decorate a tree, garland, mantle, and more.

Ideas for edible handmade gifts

8. 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.

9. 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, and there are even white chocolate and spiced chocolate versions to try.

10. DIY bottle brush drink stirrers

Want something to include with your hot cocoa mix? Why not make some festive holiday drink stirrers? Add the perfect festive touch to any holiday beverage with these bottle brush tree stirrers. You only need a few supplies and a little time to craft these unique and whimsical drink accessories.

11. Red pepper jelly

Did you know that you can make classic red pepper jelly rather than buy 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!

12. Holiday cookie tray

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 this post.)

13. 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.

More inspiring handmade gifts

14. 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.

15. Clear glass ornament gift

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, or colorful small candies.

16. 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.

17. 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 ensuring I have all the necessary supplies. As for the scents, I went with lavender and sandalwood.

18. 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 re-energize.

You might pair several bath bombs with a couple of the DIY beeswax candles for an extra special handmade gift.

19. Peppermint Sugar Scrub

Want something to pair with the bath bombs? Then, let me introduce you to this DIY peppermint sugar scrub for exfoliating and moisturizing your skin. This sugar scrub also makes a thoughtful, easy, and budget-friendly gift idea for any occasion. 

20. Decorative taper candles

These decorative taper candles are quite easy to make for those hesitant to DIY, but they turn out beautifully. What I like about them is that you can customize them any way you like, making them match different colors, holidays, celebrations, and unique tastes and personalities.

Pair them up in twos and tie them together with some decorative twine for a pretty gift.

21. Homemade fire starters

These homemade fire starters are an ideal handmade gift idea for those with a fireplace or woodburning stove or the seasoned camper on your list. Topped off with foraged botanicals and natural elements, they look so stunning you almost don’t want to burn them!

22. Clay cactus garden

If you have a plant lover on your Christmas list, they will love receiving this clay cactus garden. Oven-baked clay is quite simple to use, and you can create all kinds of different succulents, cacti, plants, and flowers that are unique to the person you’re making them for.

Handmade Candy Gifts

Give the gift of candy. I have three delicious candy recipes that, when put together (or even on their own), would make a delicious and beautiful gift idea. I will link to them below. Try one or all three for a tasty gift idea.

23. The BEST Crock Pot Candy

Made with chocolate and roasted peanuts, this crockpot candy is a super simple recipe to make for a last-minute Christmas gift. You can toss everything into a crockpot and then let the appliance do its magic. Serve them in some festive baking cups, and they’re ready to gift.

24. Salted Turtle Candies

This homemade take on the classic contains all the core ingredients: pecans, caramel, and chocolate. Turtles are one of those Christmas candies perfect for gifting because, pretty well, everyone adores the treat. Wrap these up in some cello bags and ribbon, and they’ll be a beautiful gift.

25. Pistachio Cranberry White Chocolate Candy

This pistachio white chocolate treat only requires four ingredients that you can quickly run to the store and get. Like the crockpot candy, you can add white chocolate, dried cranberries, and pistachios together and serve them in some baking cups for easy gifting.

Printable Gift Tags

Now that you have your gift idea in mind, don’t forget to add some beautiful wrapping! Keep the personalization going with these FREE printable gift tags.

26. Christmas gift tags

These North Pole Express Delivery Service tags are so much fun. They are another free download from IBC and are available in blue and red. Seeing one on a package from you is sure to bring a smile to your dear one’s face!

27. Plaid gift tags

I’ve been mad about 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?

28. Abstract art gift tags

Add a unique and festive touch to your gift wrapping with these abstract holiday gift tags. Not only are they fun and easy to make, but they add a personal, homemade touch to any gift. Get the kids involved and have fun creating with paints, markers, crayons, and more!

29. 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.

That’s a wrap on these handmade gifts!

I hope these ideas for handmade gifts inspire you to make life a little merrier for others at Christmas and throughout the year. And don’t worry, there will be more. I will continue to add my handmade gift ideas to this list as I create them.

Happy DIYing and giving!

Love these handmade gifts and want more?

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