6 Budget-Friendly DIY Holiday Gift Ideas

It’s less than three weeks before Christmas, and you have grand visions of making do-it-yourself holiday gifts that will impress everyone. Yes, DIY can be cheaper and more thoughtful than the $20 gift card. But if you don’t give yourself enough time, the pile of crafty materials you splurged on at the craft store will just be added to last year’s “Next Christmas' DIY Project” pile.

But give yourself a realistic timeline, a project load you can honestly meet, and work on gifts you think your recipients will truly appreciate, then you can have yourself a merry time making DIY holiday gifts.

Here are a few DIY holiday gift ideas that are thoughtful, fun and anyone can appreciate.

1) Holiday cookies, cupcakes or bread

If it’s edible, delicious and NOT a fruitcake, then you have a DIY gift that can’t go wrong.  Make these in batches and you have gifts for several people for under $20. Choose a recipe that’s doable and you’re sure your recipient will thank you for.  Is he/she a chocolate chip person? What about banana nut bread, pumpkin bread or red velvet cupcakes? Looking for something different? How about coconut cupcakes with cream cheese icing? Head to A&J Cake and Candy Supplies for cake-making tips and supplies.

Put your goodies in a festive basket or tin can, lined with tissue or basket stuffing from your nearest discount store, and you have yourself a holiday gift for the person with a sweet tooth.

2) Create a healthy gift basket

Looking for a more health-conscious basket? Include fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, dried fruits, your favorite drink, or make your own granola. You may find all you need at and

3) Make a candle

Know anyone who likes candles? This tea cup candle is fairly easy to make. Head to a thrift store such as or to find old tea cups.

4) Make jewelry

Ask yourself, ‘Would she wear this? Is this a nice color or style for her?’ If the answer is yes, head to Aubrey’s Beads in downtown Glendora and start working on your next jewelry project. 

5) Crochet a scarf

This would be reserved for those you know would appreciate this labor-intensive project. Crocheting a scarf will take at least a couple of hours nonstop to finish. Never crocheted before? Check out online tutorials and these easy patterns to get yourself started. Any store from Michaels to will have crocheting needles and yarn. These would make great winter gifts for both kids and adults.

6) Make Stationery

Bring back the lost form of handwritten notes by making your own stationery. This DIY stationery will inspire anyone to pick up a pen and write a note of thanks or love.