My 35 Favorite DIY Christmas Gifts (2026) That I’ve Made Over The Years

Written byDanielle Alvarado On

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I’ve made and given away DIY Christmas gifts for years now, and the ones people remember aren’t the fanciest. They’re the sourdough starter that’s still alive on someone’s counter, the lip balm a friend keeps refilling, the pressed-flower frame my mom never took down.

These are 35 of my favorites: eco-friendly, budget-friendly, plastic-free, and easy to customize to whoever you’re making them for. From non-toxic beauty recipes to handmade decor to edible treats, every one of these is something I’ve actually made myself, not just an idea I found and liked the sound of.

Pinterest graphic for 35 creative DIY gifts anyone can make at home, featuring bath products, embroidery, a chunky blanket, terrarium, homemade treats, candles, and other handmade gift ideas.

That’s the real case for handmade gifts: not less waste, though there’s less of that too, but more staying power.

They’re the ones that turn into an inside joke, or a yearly tradition, or the thing someone brings up months later because they’re still using it.

A hand-knitted blanket that ends up on the back of the couch permanently. A jar of jam that gets requested again the next year. A playlist someone actually replays.

That’s what this list is: 35 sustainable, handmade Christmas gifts I’ve actually made myself, each one simple enough to pull off without special skills, and thoughtful enough that it becomes the one people remember giving, and receiving.

My 5 Favorite DIY Christmas Gifts…

P.S. Don’t forget to check out my ultimate guide to the best non-toxic gifts for everyone on your list, for every season and occasion. I’ve personally gifted every single item featured, and each one has been carefully vetted by the SKL team.

DIY Gift Planner

Why choose DIY gifts this Christmas?

Handmade gifts show a kind of thought a gift card never can. You can’t buy someone’s time and attention off a shelf, but you can hand it to them in a jar, a frame, or a hand-knit blanket.

Some of the most cherished gifts I’ve ever received were incredibly simple: a plant cutting from a friend’s favorite vine, a candle that smelled like someone’s actual home, a scrapbook page with a joke only the two of us understood. None of it was perfect. All of it was intentional.

To be clear, not everything on your list needs to be handmade, and I’m not suggesting you DIY your whole Christmas. A few thoughtful handmade gifts mixed in with the rest of your shopping can mean just as much as an entire homemade holiday.

If you want a mix of both, my non-toxic gift guide covers everything else, hundreds of tested, sustainable picks for whoever else is on your list.

Whether you’re mixing natural ingredients, baking from scratch, or working with materials you already have around the house, that’s the whole idea: use what you have, make it meaningful, and let the gift say something a store-bought version couldn’t.

So, without further ado, here are 35 of my favorite creative, low-waste, budget-friendly DIY Christmas gift ideas for 2026.

35 Best DIY Holiday Gift Ideas That Anyone Would Love

1. Homemade Bath Salts

Time: 10 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Homemade bath salts in a glass jar with dried lavender and a handwritten gift tag.

Homemade bath salts are one of my go-to gifts when I want something simple but meaningful.

Combine 2 cups of Epsom salt, 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and 2 tablespoons of dried organic lavender or organic chamomile.

For fragrance, mix 10–15 drops of lavender essential oil with a bath-safe essential oil dispersant according to its directions, then stir into the salts.

Divide between three small glass apothecary jars and finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag.

Add a little note like, “Soak for 20 minutes with candles lit.” Simple, pretty, and perfect for teachers, friends, or neighbors.

2. DIY Brown Sugar Body Scrub

Time: 10 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

DIY brown sugar body scrub in a glass jar styled with coffee beans, coffee grounds, and a wooden body brush.

This easy DIY brown sugar body scrub makes such a pretty little homemade gift.

Combine 1 cup of organic brown sugar, 1/2 cup of organic sweet almond oil, and 1 teaspoon of pure vitamin E oil. You can also swap the almond oil for organic coconut oil.

Add about 10 drops of peppermint essential oil or vanilla botanical extract, following the brand’s topical dilution directions.

Divide between two small 8 oz glass jars and finish with natural jute twine and an FSC-certified kraft gift tag.

It takes about 10 minutes to make and feels surprisingly luxurious for such a simple DIY. Perfect for besties, coworkers, teachers, or stocking stuffers.

Use Note: Keep water out of the jar and scoop with dry hands or a small spoon to help the scrub stay fresh longer.

3. DIY Eucalyptus Shower Bundles

Time: 10 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Bundle of fresh eucalyptus stems tied with natural twine for a hanging shower bundle.

Gather 4–5 fresh eucalyptus stems from a florist or farmers market.

If fresh isn’t available, these naturally dried eucalyptus stems are a good Amazon alternative.

Bundle the stems together at the base and tie tightly with natural jute twine, leaving a loop long enough to hang from the showerhead.

Finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag that says, “Hang near the showerhead, out of the direct water stream, and let the steam do the rest.”

It smells incredible, doubles as bathroom decor, and can last for a few weeks. Replace it once the scent fades or if you notice browning or mold.

Pet Note: Keep eucalyptus where pets can’t chew on it, since eucalyptus can be toxic if ingested.

4. DIY Lip Balm

Time: 20 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Homemade lip balm poured into small zero-waste tins.

Another go-to DIY beauty gift.

Melt 1 teaspoon of candelilla wax, 6 teaspoons of organic coconut oil, and 2 teaspoons of organic unrefined shea butter in a stainless steel double boiler over low heat.

Remove from heat and stir in about 8 to 9 drops of Plant Therapy Organic peppermint Essential Oil, or leave it unscented.

Pour immediately into reusable 0.5 oz aluminum tins, remelting gently if the mixture begins to harden.

Let cool completely before adding the lids. This batch should make about three small lip balms.

5. Homemade Bath Bombs

Time: 20 Minutes (Plus 24 Hours to Dry) | Difficulty: Easy

Round homemade bath bombs in a silicone mold before drying.

DIY bath bombs are fun to make and even more fun to give.

Combine 1 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of citric acid, and 1/2 cup of Epsom salt.

Mix 10–15 drops of your favorite essential oil into 2.5 tablespoons of melted organic coconut oil, then slowly work it into the dry ingredients.

Press the mixture firmly into a 304 stainless steel bath bomb mold, packing it tightly. Let dry for 24 hours before gently removing from the mold.

Once completely dry, wrap in 100% recycled kraft paper and finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag that says, “Drop, fizz, relax.”

Use Note: The coconut oil can make the tub a little slippery, so step out carefully.

6. Homemade Rose Body Mist

Time: 5 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Homemade rose body mist in a clear glass spray bottle with pink rose petals on a wooden table.

This homemade rose body mist is one of those DIY beauty gifts that looks much fancier than the effort involved.

Fill a 2 oz glass spray bottle with organic rose hydrosol. For a stronger floral scent, blend a few drops of rose absolute with Solubol essential oil dispersant, following the brand’s dilution directions, then stir it into the hydrosol.

Add an FSC-certified kraft gift tag, and you’re done. Simple, pretty, and especially lovely for anyone who loves a soft rose scent.

Use Note: Because this is an unpreserved water-based mist, make small batches and use within about 2 to 3 weeks.

7. Melt-And-Pour Honey & Shea Butter Soap

Time: 20 Minutes (Plus Setting Time) | Difficulty: Easy

DIY melt-and-pour soap making setup with pink heart-shaped soap bars, soap base cubes, silicone molds, and botanical ingredients.

I made a batch of these with honey and shea butter as party favors, and they were such a hit.

Melt 1 pound of shea butter melt-and-pour soap base in a stainless steel double boiler, then stir in 1/2 teaspoon of organic raw honey.

Pour into food-grade silicone soap molds and let the bars set for a couple of hours until completely firm.

For a little scent, you can also add a skin-safe essential oil, following the brand’s topical dilution directions.

They’re incredibly easy to make, but still feel like such a thoughtful little handmade gift.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Melt-and-Pour Soap Tutorials

8. Morning Ritual Kit

Time: 15 Minutes (To Assemble) | Difficulty: Easy

Morning ritual gift kit wrapped in linen with tea, candle, and journal.

A Morning Ritual Kit is such a thoughtful way to make someone’s morning feel a little more intentional.

Gather some organic ceremonial matcha or organic loose-leaf tea, a non-toxic candle, a small bottle of energy essential oil blend, and The Five Minute Journal.

Write a few affirmations or intentions on an FSC-certified kraft gift tag, then wrap everything in a vintage scarf or reusable linen cloth you already have at home, furoshiki-style.

Especially sweet for new moms, teachers, friends, or anyone starting a new chapter.

Gift Note: If you’re gifting this to someone who is fragrance-sensitive, simply leave out the essential oil.

9. DIY Botanical Air-Dry Clay Ornaments

Time: 30 Minutes (Plus Drying Time) | Difficulty: Easy

Handmade botanical air-dry clay ornaments with pressed and hand-drawn wildflower designs, twine, and wooden beads.

These botanical air-dry clay ornaments make such a lovely handmade gift, especially when you want something personal without being complicated.

Roll out all-natural air-dry clay, then cut it into circles with stainless steel cookie cutters or a small glass.

Gently press organic dried lavender, organic chamomile, leaves, or herbs into the clay to create botanical impressions.

Poke a small hole near the top before drying, then let the ornaments dry completely and thread with natural jute twine.

Each one turns out a little different, which is part of the charm. They’re beautiful tied onto gifts, hung on the Christmas tree, or given as a keepsake on their own.

Prefer to Watch? 3 DIY Air-Dry Clay Ornament Tutorials

10. Homemade Snow Globes

Time: 30 Minutes | Difficulty: Medium

Homemade snow globe with a miniature figurine glued inside the lid.

Homemade snow globes tap right into childhood wonder.

Start with a small glass jar with a tight lid and fill it almost to the top with distilled water.

Add about 1 teaspoon of organic vegetable glycerin to help the “snow” fall more slowly.

Attach a small glass or glazed ceramic figurine to the inside of the lid with aquarium-safe silicone, then let it cure completely according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Add a small pinch of finely crushed, clean white eggshell for a plastic-free snow effect, screw the lid on tightly, and flip to check.

Such a sweet little keepsake for teachers, grandparents, or handmade gifts from the kids.

Use Note: Make sure the silicone is completely cured before adding the water, and check that the lid is tightly sealed before gifting.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Homemade Snow Globe Tutorials

11. DIY Macramé Plant Hanger

Time: 1-2 hours | Difficulty: Medium

Macrame plant hanger made with knotted cotton cord.

Macramé is my go-to when I want a gift that feels grounding, useful, and beautiful.

Cut 8 lengths of OEKO-TEX certified recycled cotton macramé cord, each about 12 1/2 feet long, plus one shorter piece for the finishing knot.

Fold the cords in half to create a hanging loop, secure them with a wrapping knot, then divide the strands into four sections.

Work simple square knots down each section before joining neighboring cords together lower down to create the plant cradle.

Test it with a small planter, finish with a gathering knot, and trim the ends into a soft fringe.

Add an FSC-certified kraft gift tag with a note that says, “Made with love, and a whole lot of knots.”

Prefer to Watch? 3 Easy Macramé Tutorials

12. DIY Homemade Candles

Time: 30 Minutes (Plus Several Hours To Set) | Difficulty: Medium

Homemade soy wax candle poured into a repurposed glass jar.

Something is grounding about pouring your own candles, like bottling up a little calm to give someone you love.

Melt 2 cups of natural soy wax beads in a stainless steel double boiler, using a stainless steel digital thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature.

Remove from heat and stir in your favorite essential oil, following the brand’s candle-making guidance.

Secure a 100% cotton wick inside a heat-resistant glass candle jar with a dab of melted wax, then slowly pour in the melted soy wax.

Let the candle set undisturbed, then trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting.

Candle Note: Test-burn one candle from your batch before gifting, and keep dried flowers, herbs, or other flammable decorations out of the wax. The National Candle Association has specifically warned that botanical materials embedded near a candle flame can become a fire hazard.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Homemade Candle Tutorials

13. Bohemian Rope Baskets

Time: 1 Hour | Difficulty: Medium

Handmade bohemian rope baskets with woven handles and colorful stitched details, displayed on a wooden table beside houseplants.

You can make gorgeous rope baskets at home, no sewing machine required.

Coil recycled cotton cord into a tight spiral for the base, securing each coil with a small amount of hot glue from a hot glue gun.

Once the base reaches the width you want, start stacking the cord upward to build the sides, continuing to secure each row as you go.

Leave small loops near the top for handles, or keep it simple with a clean round edge.

Use them to hold plants, skincare goodies, or small gifts. I love making a few different sizes and gifting them as pretty little catch-all baskets.

Prefer to Watch? 3 DIY Rope Basket Tutorials

14. DIY Painting

Time: 1-2 hours | Difficulty: Easy

Person painting a red flower on a small canvas with acrylic paint and a wooden tabletop easel.

What I love most about this gift is that it does not have to be perfect to feel meaningful.

I am absolutely not a trained painter, but some of my favorite handmade gifts have come from simply sitting down with a canvas and giving it a try.

Set up with acrylic paints, a 100% cotton canvas panel, and one or two natural-bristle paint brushes. Pick a simple subject, like a flower or leafy plant.

Block in the main shapes first, then go back with a smaller brush for the details once the paint starts to dry.

I have made well over 20 painted gifts over the years, and I promise, they do not need to look professional to feel special.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Easy Painting Tutorials

15. Dried Orange & Cinnamon Garland

Time: 20 Minutes Active (Plus 3-4 Hours Baking) | Difficulty: Easy

Dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks strung on twine as a holiday garland.

We make one of these at home every single year, more as a holiday tradition than a gift, but it would make a genuinely lovely one too.

Slice organic oranges into thin, even rounds and pat them dry. Bake at 200°F for 3 to 4 hours, flipping occasionally, until completely dried but not browned.

Once cooled, thread the slices onto natural jute twine, alternating with organic cinnamon sticks.

It smells incredible and looks beautiful strung across a mantel, doorway, or Christmas tree.

Use Note: Make sure the orange slices are completely dry before stringing or storing them. Any remaining moisture can encourage mold.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Dried Orange Garland Tutorials

16. Beeswax Wraps

Time: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Homemade beeswax food wrap folded around a bowl.

I gifted a set of homemade beeswax wraps years ago to a friend who had just gone zero-waste, and they are surprisingly easy to make.

Cut organic cotton fabric into a few different-sized squares and prewash it before starting.

Lay each piece between two sheets of unbleached parchment paper, sprinkle evenly with beeswax pastilles, then iron on low heat until the wax has completely melted through the fabric.

Peel away the parchment while still warm and let the wrap cool for a few seconds until set.

Make a little set of three sizes, tie them together with natural jute twine, and finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag.

Use Note: Wash in cool water with mild soap and air-dry. Avoid using beeswax wraps with raw meat, fish, or hot foods.

Prefer to Watch? 3 DIY Beeswax Wrap Tutorials

17. Wood-Burned Cutting Board

Time: 1-2 Hours | Difficulty: Medium

Wood-burned cutting board personalized with grandparent names.

I gave my parents one of these with “Grandma and Grandpa” burned into the wood, along with our kids’ names, and it is still one of my favorite handmade gifts.

Sketch your design lightly in pencil on an untreated solid hard maple cutting board, keeping the design toward the edge or on the back so the main cutting surface stays smooth.

Slowly trace the design with a wood-burning pen, letting the hot tip do the work instead of pressing hard.

Once finished and completely cool, wipe the board clean and condition it with food-grade cutting board oil.

Safety Note: Only wood-burn bare, untreated wood. Avoid painted, stained, sealed, pressure-treated, or mystery composite boards, since heating finishes and adhesives can create unwanted fumes.

18. DIY Calendar of Love

Time: 30-45 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Handwritten DIY calendar of love filled with notes and memories.

This one is extra special. A DIY Calendar of Love is more than a gift.

It is a whole year of little reminders that someone is seen, loved, and appreciated.

Download a free calendar template and print it on 100% recycled paper. Fill in birthdays, anniversaries, and favorite memories, then scatter handwritten notes, inside jokes, and encouraging words throughout the year, especially on completely ordinary days.

Bind the pages with natural jute twine or simply hang them together. It is such a personal gift, and one they get to keep discovering all year long.

19. Pressed Flowers

Time: 15 Minutes Active (Plus 1-2 Weeks Pressing) | Difficulty: Easy

Pressed wildflowers framed as handmade wall art.

There’s something wildly sentimental about preserving flowers and turning them into art.

Lay fresh flowers flat between sheets of 100% recycled paper inside a heavy book, then stack a few more books on top. Leave them for 1 to 2 weeks, or until completely dry and flat.

Arrange the pressed flowers behind the glass of a thrifted frame, or use a solid wood and glass picture frame if you need a new one.

You can also turn smaller blooms into handmade cards using 100% recycled cardstock.

Flowers from a special bouquet, garden, or meaningful day make this one especially sweet.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Pressed Flower Tutorials

20. Scrapbook

Time: 1-2 Hours | Difficulty: Easy

Handmade scrapbook page with photos, pressed flowers, and handwritten captions.

Scrapbooks are making a comeback, and for good reason.

Start with a stack of 100% recycled cardstock and gather printed photos, pressed flowers, old ticket stubs, handwritten letters, and any other little memories worth keeping.

Arrange the photos with acid-free paper photo corners, then use a small amount of neutral pH archival adhesive for ticket stubs, letters, or other paper keepsakes.

Leave space beside each photo for handwritten dates, captions, or little stories you do not want to forget.

Punch holes along one edge and bind the finished pages with natural jute twine.

I’ve made these as friendship books, travel journals, and “our year together” retrospectives. They are the kind of gift that only gets more meaningful with time.

Prefer to Watch? 3 DIY Scrapbook Tutorials

21. Old School Mixed Tape or Playlist

Time: 20 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

QR code card linking to a personalized holiday playlist.

Bring back the charm of the classic mixtape, just in a 2026 kind of way.

Build a playlist song by song on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube, choosing tracks tied to memories with your recipient.

Give it a theme like “songs for slow mornings,” “our year in songs,” or simply “us, in songs.”

Copy the playlist link, turn it into a free scannable QR code, and print it onto 100% recycled cardstock.

Add the playlist name and a little handwritten note underneath, then scan the QR code yourself before gifting to make sure it works.

22. Family Recipe Book

Time: 1-2 Hours | Difficulty: Easy

Handmade family recipe book filled with handwritten recipe cards.

My au pair made me one of these when she left us, filled with every recipe we cooked together during her year with our family.

It is one of the most special gifts I have ever received, not because it was fancy, but because it was ours.

Collect at least 10 to 15 handwritten or typed family recipes and print them onto 100% recycled cardstock.

If you have old handwritten recipe cards, scan or photocopy a few so you can preserve the original handwriting too.

Organize the pages into sections like breakfast, mains, sides, and desserts, then punch holes along one edge and bind them together with natural jute twine.

Add the family name and year to the cover, then tuck in a little note about why you chose the recipes. This is the kind of gift that can turn into a family heirloom.

23. Photo Calendar

Time: 20 Minutes To Design | Difficulty: Easy

Custom photo calendar printed with family photos for each month.

I do this one constantly, so many years running at this point, and it has become the gift my dad looks forward to most.

Pick 12 favorite photos, one for each month, and print them on FSC-certified photo paper.

Print or draw each monthly calendar onto 100% recycled cardstock, then attach the photos with acid-free photo corners.

Punch two small holes at the top and bind the pages together with natural jute twine.

Each month my dad gets a new photo of him with the kids, so there is a fresh little memory waiting on his office wall all year long.

24. Personalized Key Rings

Time: 20 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Handmade macrame keychain with a personalized charm.

Tiny, useful, and full of personality.

Start with a 316L stainless steel key ring and cut a few lengths of recycled cotton macramé cord.

Fold the cord through the ring, then knot or braid it into a simple pattern.

Finish with a secure knot and trim the ends into a small fringe.

Personalize each one with the recipient’s favorite color, or work in a little scrap of fabric or leather you already have at home.

They are quick to make, easy to customize, and such a cute little gift for friends, teachers, or stocking stuffers.

Prefer to Watch? 3 DIY Key Ring Tutorials

25. Handmade Jewelry

Time: 30-45 Minutes | Difficulty: Medium

Hands making colorful cord bracelets with beads and metal charms on a craft table.

Handmade jewelry is such a personal little gift, especially when you choose colors or stones with the recipient in mind.

Cut a length of 100% hemp jewelry cord, then thread on a few natural gemstone beads or an optional 316L stainless steel charm.

Finish with a secure knot or adjustable sliding closure, then make a few coordinating bracelets if you want to turn it into a little set.

Add an FSC-certified kraft gift tag explaining why you chose the colors, stones, or charm.

Simple, personal, and much more meaningful than something picked off a jewelry rack.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Handmade Bracelet Tutorials

26. Knitted Blanket

Time: Several Weeks | Difficulty: Advanced

Woman wrapped in a cream chunky hand-knitted blanket made with oversized yarn.

This one is for the patient makers.

Using 100% merino wool chunky yarn and 40-inch wooden circular knitting needles, cast on enough stitches to reach the width you want. A simple garter stitch is perfect if you are newer to knitting.

Knit row after row until the blanket reaches your desired length, then bind off and weave in the loose ends.

The amount of yarn will depend on the finished blanket size, so choose your dimensions first and buy enough skeins from the same dye lot.

It is definitely a slower gift to make, but that is part of what makes the finished blanket feel so special.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Chunky Knit Blanket Tutorials

27. Embroidery

Time: 1-2 Hours | Difficulty: Medium

Person hand embroidering white and yellow flowers onto mustard fabric held in a wooden embroidery hoop.

My husband’s grandmother once embroidered over a sweater of mine I thought was completely ruined, and turned it into something beautiful instead of throwing it out.

Embroidery does not have to start from scratch. It can also rescue or personalize something someone already loves.

For woven fabric, secure it gently in a beechwood embroidery hoop, then sketch a simple flower, name, or small motif in pencil.

If you are working on a knit sweater, keep the tension light so you do not stretch it out of shape.

Thread a stainless steel embroidery needle with two to three strands of cotton embroidery floss.

Use a basic backstitch for outlines and satin or lazy daisy stitches for petals and leaves. A small design can usually be finished in an afternoon.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Hand Embroidery Tutorials

28. DIY Plant Cuttings

Time: 10 Minutes Active (Plus 2-4 Weeks Rooting) | Difficulty: Easy

Rooted plant cutting growing in a glass propagation jar.

No need to buy a fancy new plant when you can gift a cutting straight from your own collection.

Using clean, sharp scissors or pruners, snip a healthy 4–6 inch stem just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves.

Place the cutting in an 8 oz glass jar or, if you want to make it a little more decorative, a glass propagation vessel, keeping at least one node below the water while the leaves stay above it.

Set it somewhere with bright, indirect light and refresh the water about once a week, or sooner if it starts looking cloudy.

Rooting time varies by plant, so rather than watching the calendar, wait until you have a healthy little root system before gifting.

Finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag with the plant name and a few simple care instructions. I love this one because the gift keeps growing long after you hand it over.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Plant Propagation Tutorials

29. Terrarium

Time: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Small glass terrarium with moss and a succulent.

I made one of these for my nephew years ago when he was completely obsessed with terrariums.

For a succulent version, start with a wide-mouth glass terrarium jar, leaving the lid off so there is plenty of airflow.

Add a shallow layer of natural pebbles to the bottom and, if you have it, a thin layer of organic horticultural charcoal.

Next, add 2–3 inches of organic succulent and cactus potting mix, then nestle one or two small live succulents into the soil. Skip the moss for this one.

Succulents prefer much drier conditions, so I like finishing the top with a few extra natural stones instead.

Add just a small amount of water around the soil rather than soaking it, then place the terrarium somewhere with plenty of bright, indirect light.

Such a sweet little gift for plant lovers, kids, or anyone who would enjoy having their own tiny garden.

Prefer to Watch? 3 DIY Succulent Terrarium Tutorials

30. Homemade Sourdough Starter

Time: 10 Minutes (To Package) | Difficulty: Easy

Active sourdough starter in a labeled mason jar.

There’s something symbolic about gifting sourdough. It grows with care, feeds people, and gets better with time. I was gifted a starter years ago, and mine is still going strong.

Give a small portion of your active, bubbly starter in a clean food-grade glass jar, leaving plenty of room for it to rise.

Rest the lid loosely on top rather than latching the jar airtight while the starter is active.

Attach an FSC-certified kraft gift tag with the date you last fed it and a few simple instructions: “Keep 50g starter and feed with 50g flour + 50g water. Feed daily if kept on the counter, or refrigerate and feed about once a week.”

Wrap the outside of the jar in a piece of linen you already have at home, or one of the homemade beeswax wraps from gift #16.

If you’d rather buy one, this organic cotton bee’s wrap is a beautiful reusable option. Such a simple gift, but one that can quite literally be passed down for years.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Sourdough Starter Tutorials

31. Shortbread Cookies

Time: 45 Minutes (Plus 30 Minutes Chilling) | Difficulty: Easy

Stack of homemade shortbread cookies tied with compostable twine.

Is there anything better than a simple, buttery shortbread cookie made with love?

Cream 1 cup of organic unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of organic cane sugar until smooth and lightly fluffy.

Mix in 2 cups of organic all-purpose flour and a pinch of fine sea salt, stopping once the dough comes together.

Shape the dough into a log, chill for 30 minutes, then slice into even rounds and bake at 325°F for about 15–18 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let the cookies cool completely before packaging.

Wrap a few into little stacks with unbleached parchment paper, tie with our natural jute twine, and tuck them into a reusable stainless steel food container.

Simple, buttery, and the kind of homemade gift that usually disappears before the wrapping does.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Homemade Shortbread Recipes

32. Homemade Jam & Jelly

Time: 45 Minutes | Difficulty: Medium

Jar of homemade fruit jam with a handwritten label.

For a shelf-stable version, choose the fruit you want to use and follow a tested NCHFP/USDA canning recipe rather than using one fruit-to-sugar ratio for every jam.

The amount of fruit, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin can change depending on the fruit.

When your recipe calls for granulated sugar, use organic cane sugar. Prepare hot 8 oz glass canning jars with the proper canning lids and bands, following your tested recipe’s instructions.

Ladle the hot jam into the jars, leaving the headspace specified by the recipe; wipe the rims clean, apply the lids and bands, and process in a boiling-water canner for the full recommended time, adjusting for altitude.

Let the jars cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours before checking the seals. Finish each one with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag with the flavor, canning date, and a little note to refrigerate after opening.

Homemade strawberry, raspberry, peach, or blackberry jam tucked into a little glass jar is one of those gifts that feels special without needing fancy packaging.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Homemade Jam & Canning Tutorials

33. Hot Cocoa Jar Mix

Time: 10 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Layered hot cocoa mix in a mason jar with a ribbon and gift tag.

I make these for my kids every single year; it’s become one of our own little traditions.

Layer 1 cup of organic cacao powder, 1 cup of organic cane sugar, and 1 cup of organic whole milk powder in a 32 oz glass Mason jar. For a dairy-free version, swap the milk powder for organic coconut milk powder.

Top with mini marshmallows, screw on the lid, then finish with our natural jute twine and an FSC-certified kraft gift tag.

On the tag, write: “Remove the marshmallows, shake the jar to mix everything together, then stir about 1/4 cup of cocoa mix into 8 oz of hot water. Add a little more mix to taste, then top with marshmallows. Hot milk works too if you want it extra creamy.”

Such an easy little gift, but seeing those layers of cocoa, sugar, and marshmallows in the jar still makes it feel special every year.

The 1/4-cup starting point is much more realistic than the current 2–3 tablespoons. University of Maine Extension uses 1/4 cup dry cocoa mix per 8 oz of hot water in its powdered-milk cocoa recipe.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Hot Cocoa Mix Tutorials

34. Garlic-Infused Olive Oil

Time: 15 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Bottle of garlic-infused olive oil with fresh garlic cloves.

I made this for my dad one year, and he genuinely adored it.

Because fresh garlic stored in oil can create conditions where botulism toxin develops, I use the tested acidification method rather than simply dropping fresh cloves into olive oil.

Dissolve 1 level tablespoon of food-grade citric acid in 2 cups of warm water. Peel and coarsely chop organic garlic into pieces no larger than about 1/4 inch, then place 2/3 cup of the chopped garlic into the citric-acid solution.

Cover and leave at room temperature for 24 hours, then drain the garlic very well. This exact soaking time, concentration, and garlic size matter, so don’t shorten the process or substitute lemon juice or vinegar.

Add the acidified garlic to organic extra-virgin olive oil, starting with roughly 1 part garlic to 10 parts oil by weight, and let it infuse until you like the flavor.

Strain out the garlic when it tastes right. Pour into a clean dark green glass olive oil bottle and finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag with the date and a note to refrigerate for the best flavor.

A little homemade bottle like this is so good for dipping bread, drizzling over roasted vegetables, or finishing pasta.

Note: If you skip acidification and make the quick fresh-garlic version instead, refrigerate immediately and use within 4 days or freeze. Never gift untreated garlic oil as a pantry-stable product.

Prefer to Watch? 3 Garlic-Infused Oil Tutorials

35. Homemade Spice Blend

Time: 10 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Assortment of whole and ground spices for making a homemade spice blend, including paprika, black pepper, cardamom, dried herbs, and chilies.

A homemade spice blend is such an easy gift, but it feels far more thoughtful than grabbing another jar from the store.

For my smoky all-purpose blend, combine:

Mix everything really well, then spoon it into a clean, completely dry borosilicate glass spice jar with a bamboo lid.

Finish with an FSC-certified kraft gift tag with a few ideas for using it: roasted vegetables, potatoes, chicken, tofu, soups, or anywhere you want a little smoky flavor.

I’d also write, “Start with 1–2 teaspoons and add more to taste.” Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, the blend should taste its best within about six months.

🌍 Sustainable DIY Gifting Tips for the Season

  • Make it a family thing. Get your kids involved in making salt dough ornaments or painting cards!
  • Skip the wrapping paper. Use scarves, old maps, newspapers, or upcycled fabric. Check out our guide to eco-friendly gift wrapping!
  • Label with love. Add a handwritten tag explaining your DIY or sharing a memory.
  • Give the experience. Include a little “how-to” card or a link to the tutorial if you want the recipient to make it with you next time.
DIY Gift Planner

FAQs About DIY Christmas Gifts

Are homemade gifts really better than store-bought?

IIn many cases, yes. Homemade gifts feel more personal and thoughtful, especially when made with real intention, and they tend to generate less waste and allow for total customization. A handmade lip balm or a photo book of memories carries a kind of care a last-minute gift just can’t match.

I’m not very crafty. Can I still make a meaningful DIY gift?

Absolutely. Not all DIY gifts require artistic talent or fancy tools. Some of the easiest ideas, like a plant cutting in water, a curated playlist, or a jar of homemade bath salts, are also the most meaningful. Pick something you genuinely enjoy making and keep it simple. Thoughtfulness beats perfection every time.

Will I really save money by making my own gifts?

Most likely, yes, especially if you’re using items you already have or sourcing materials secondhand. DIY gifting also helps you skip holiday markups, and if you’re making gifts in bulk, like cookies or scrubs, the savings add up fast. A smart option if you’re watching your budget.

How do I make my DIY gift look more polished?

Presentation makes a real difference. Use reusable or compostable packaging, glass jars, kraft paper, cloth wraps, and add a handwritten tag or care instructions. A clean, intentional look elevates even the simplest handmade item, and imperfections are part of what makes it feel human.

What are the best DIY gift ideas for coworkers or acquaintances?

Stick to simple, universally appreciated gifts: homemade cookies, soy candles, mini jars of jam, bath bombs, or lip balm in a compostable tin. Thoughtful and low-pressure, festive without feeling too personal.

What’s the most sustainable way to wrap a DIY gift?

Skip new wrapping paper for fabric scraps, a vintage scarf, brown kraft paper, or even newspaper. Tie it with natural twine or yarn, and add dried orange slices, herbs, or cinnamon sticks for a festive, compostable touch. Beauty without the waste.

How can I involve my kids in making holiday gifts?

Kids love crafting, and it’s a lovely way to nurture that. A shared batch of bath salts, a hand-painted card, or a cookie mix jar are all easy enough to make together as a family, and it teaches kids the joy of giving something they made themselves.

Made With Love (And a Little Less Waste)

A handmade gift is never really about the thing itself. It’s the time you spent on it, and the fact that you thought of someone specific while you were making it, not a general “someone” but them, exactly as they are.

That sourdough starter, that lip balm, that frame still on my mom’s wall, none of them were expensive or perfect. They were just made with someone particular in mind. That’s the whole trick.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or making your first bath bomb this weekend, I hope something on this list finds its way into your holiday, and into someone else’s hands, this year.

Looking for more gift guides?

We love a great sustainable gift guide, check these out:

📌 Save This DIY Christmas Gift Guide

Save this guide to Pinterest so you can come back to it again and again! Whether you’re gifting last-minute or planning your next sustainable craft day. This one’s worth pinning. 

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    Danielle Alvarado is the founder of Sustainably Kind Living and a leading educator in non-toxic living, ingredient safety, and sustainable products. For more than a decade, she has researched consumer products, analyzed ingredient labels, and personally tested hundreds of products to identify the safest, most transparent options for families.

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