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Cheap & Easy DIY Christmas Gifts for Last Minute or Budget Shoppers

Cheap & Easy DIY Christmas Gifts for Last Minute or Budget Shoppers

DIY Christmas gifts are a a game-changer for all of us watching our wallets this holiday season. If you’re anything like me, you love seeing the faces of your friends and family light up when they unwrap a thoughtful gift. But let’s be real, when your budget is tighter than Santa’s belt, it can feel like a challenge to make that happen. Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s totally possible to create something memorable and meaningful without emptying your piggy bank.

This article is all about getting crafty and clever with your Christmas presents. We’re talking gifts that are big on heart and small on cost – the kind that show it’s the thought, creativity, and love that count, not the price tag. Whether you’re a wizard with a glue gun or just someone who wants to try something new, I’ve got a sleigh full of ideas that are perfect for anyone who wants to give a little homemade happiness this holiday season.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the festive spirit of giving. From yummy treats that’ll have your friends begging for the recipe, to adorable crafts that even the kids can help with, we’ve got a little something for everyone. Get ready to spread some major Christmas cheer, DIY style!

Quick & Easy Treats

As the holiday season twinkles into view, it’s the perfect time to sprinkle some homemade magic with DIY Christmas gifts. In our ‘Quick & Easy Treats’ section, we’ll explore delicious and simple ideas that anyone can whip up, adding a personal touch to your festive giving. From emergency chocolate to handcrafted delights, these treats are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your loved ones.

Emergency Chocolate

Let’s start with the Emergency Chocolate. This one’s for those moments when only chocolate will do.

Grab your favorite chocolate bar (the bigger, the better – because, emergencies, right?). Next, unleash your inner designer and create a funny or heartfelt label on your computer. Think “In Case of Cranky Pants” or “Break Open When Smiling is Hard.” If you want to make this one of the easiest DIY Christmas gifts ever, you can grab this free label from By Jillee instead.

Print that masterpiece out, wrap it around the chocolate bar like it’s a little chocolate mummy, and secure it with tape. Voilà! You’ve just created the perfect mood-lifter.

Stirring Spoons

Moving on to the Stirring Spoons. This is where you can get a little messy – in a fun way.

Melt some chocolate (dark, milk, or white, your call) in the microwave or a double boiler. Dip plastic spoons in the chocolate, ensuring a generous coating. Lay them on parchment paper and resist the temptation to lick them. Let them harden (a quick chill in the fridge helps).

To jazz them up, sprinkle some crushed nuts, mini marshmallows, or colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets. Package these beauties in cellophane and tie with a ribbon. Hot chocolate nights just got an upgrade!

Baked Goods

Now, let’s talk Baked Goods. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who just found out where the oven is, this is your time to shine. Cookies, bread, cakes – the world (or oven) is your oyster. Go for classic chocolate chip cookies or try your hand at banana bread.

The key here is to bake with love (and maybe a little bit of butter). Wrap your goodies in festive packaging, or deliver them warm (because nothing beats a warm cookie).

Homemade Salsa or Sauce

Then we have Homemade Salsa or Sauce. This one’s for the flavor wizards among us. Whip up your special salsa or a family-secret sauce. Is it spicy, sweet, tangy? Whatever it is, bottle it up.

Decorate the jar with a ribbon, fabric, or a custom label. Every time your friends dip a chip or smother their pasta, they’ll think of you.

Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Last but not least, Chocolate-Covered Pretzels. This is like a snack and a dessert rolled into one. Melt chocolate in a bowl, then dip pretzels in for that perfect sweet and salty combo. These were a childhood Christmas staple in my house, so they’re one of my favorite DIY Christmas gifts.

Lay them on parchment paper, and if you’re feeling extra, sprinkle on some…well, sprinkles. Let them cool and harden, then pack them up. They’re like little edible wands of happiness.

chocolate covered pretzels are easy DIY christmas gifts

Original Ornaments

Of course, ornaments are a quick, easy and affordable gift. As Christmas time approaches, it’s easy to find ornaments everywhere. I love to grab these on clearance from craft stores after the holidays have ended, because you can scoop up a lot of them for 75-90% off.

Hot Cocoa Mix Ornaments

First up, let’s talk about the Hot Cocoa Mix Ornaments. This is an adorable and memorable way to package up a very affordable gift.

Grab some clear round ornaments (empty, please, we’re filling them up!). Layer in hot cocoa powder, then go wild with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and anything else that screams ‘cozy hot chocolate.’

If hot cocoa’s not your thing or if your loved one just isn’t into chocolate, you can create soup, dip, or cookie mix ornaments instead. Just think of them as mini edible care packages. Hang them on the tree, then watch as they disappear faster than Santa’s cookies.

Scrabble Tile Ornaments

Next, we have the Scrabble Tile Ornaments. This one’s for the word nerds and thrift store treasure hunters.

Find some Scrabble-style games at your local thrift store or pick up some letter tiles in bulk on Amazon. Then, it’s time to get crafty. Hot glue the tiles together to spell out festive words like ‘JOY,’ ‘SNOW,’ or ‘LOL’ (if that’s more your vibe). You can also spell out names or inside jokes.

Attach a ribbon for hanging, and bam! You’ve got yourself a pile of DIY Christmas gifts that are both festive and vocab-savvy.

Picture Frame Ornaments

This one’s for those who love a walk down memory lane.

Find some small, inexpensive frames (bonus points if you can snag them at a dollar store or thrift store). You can paint them, add glitter, or leave them as is for a rustic look. Pop in some family photos, pictures of pets, or even drawings from the kiddos. Attach a ribbon or a hook at the back, and there you have it – your very own gallery of cherished memories hanging from your Christmas tree.

These ornaments are thoughtful, personalized DIY Christmas gifts that bring back heartwarming memories year after year.

Salt Dough Ornaments

Moving on to Salt Dough Ornaments. These are an annual holiday tradition at our house! We invite all the cousins over, make a big batch of dough and break out the cookie cutters. You can’t go wrong with this simple three-ingredient recipe and some paint!

When I was younger, my mom made sets of little red-and-white stocking ornaments with each family member’s name on them. She gave these sets as gifts to our extended family and everyone loved these adorable DIY Christmas gifts. At the time, I thought she was just really crafty but in hindsight I think it was also because it was cheap.

As Elizabeth said in the comments, “My kids and I make salt clay ornaments, the older they get the more elaborate the ornaments get. Its cheap and you can make anything you can imagine!”

Tea Light Snowman Ornaments

Last but certainly not least, Tea Light Snowman Ornaments.

Start with a battery-operated tea light (we’re keeping it safe here). The lit part? That’s your snowman’s carrot nose. Add googly eyes and a ribbon scarf. Hot glue helps to keep everything in place.

These little guys are not only adorable but also light up, bringing a whole new meaning to ‘merry and bright.’

Magical Mason Jars

Mason jars are like the Swiss Army knives of the crafting world. So versatile, so full of potential! When we surveyed our readers, our audience spoke loud and clear. Star, Tiffany, Denise, Tina, Joanna and Deneva all described making homemade DIY Christmas gifts like these for their friends and family.

In my opinion, mason jars are the king of Christmas gift-giving because it’s so easy to make them festive and fun. As Amanda Smith wrote in the comments, “I’ve done jar gifts. You put either hot chocolate or a baking item in it, put a bow on it and BAM! It’s a gift.”

Here are five nifty ideas to transform them into delightful DIY Christmas gifts.

Santa Belt Jars

First, let’s talk about the Santa Belt Jars. This is as cute as it is easy.

Fill the jar with colorful candies – M&Ms work great because they’re like little edible ornaments. Then, cut a strip of black paper for the belt and a smaller square of gold or yellow paper for the buckle. Wrap them around the jar to give Santa a run for his money.

These jars are perfect for adding a festive touch to any room, and even better for satisfying a sweet tooth!

Sugar Scrubs

Next up, Sugar Scrubs. These are great for pampering during the chilly season.

Mix sugar (white or brown), with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for that spa-like aroma. Lavender for relaxation, peppermint for a refreshing kick – you choose.

Pack it in the jar, tie a ribbon around it, and you’ve got a spa in a jar!

Layered Baking Mix

How about a Layered Baking Mix? Choose a simple recipe for cookies, brownies, or scones. Layer the dry ingredients in the jar like a beautiful edible sand art. Attach a tag with the baking instructions. It’s a delicious, ready-to-make treat that adds a personal and practical touch.

Miniature Terrarium

Let’s go green with a Miniature Terrarium. Layer pebbles, charcoal, soil, and then add some small plants or succulents. You can even add tiny figurines for a whimsical touch. It’s a little ecosystem in a jar – perfect for nature lovers or to add a bit of green to urban spaces.

Homemade Candle

Lastly, we’ve got the Homemade Candle. Melt some wax, add a wick (centered and held in place), and pour it into the jar. You can add fragrance oils and even color. As the candle burns, the jar will create a cozy, glowing effect. It’s warmth and light, all wrapped up in glass.

Dollar Store Gift Ideas

Heading to the dollar store doesn’t mean skimping on creativity or thoughtfulness. In fact, it’s a treasure trove for DIY Christmas gifts that are heartfelt without the hefty price tag.

Let’s dive into some easy and delightful dollar store gift ideas:

Easy Candle Upcycling

First, let’s talk about Cinnamon Candles. This one is as easy as it gets and smells like heaven.

Just wrap a pillar candle (you can find these at any dollar store) with cinnamon sticks. Secure them with some twine or a ribbon for that rustic, cozy look. Not only does it look chic, but it also adds a lovely cinnamon scent to any room.

It’s like a hug in candle form and it only costs a few bucks. No crafting or hot glue required!

Cookie Cutter Candles

Next up, Cookie Cutter Candles. This is a bit of a crafty adventure.

Melt some wax (yes, you can find wax at the dollar store or you can melt down an existing candle), and pour it into a cookie cutter placed on a flat surface. Add a wick before the wax sets. You can make these in all sorts of fun shapes – stars, hearts, Christmas trees, you name it. There’s no limit on how you can customize these crafty DIY Christmas gifts!

It’s a personal touch that’s sure to light up someone’s day.

New-Sew Heat Packs

Moving on to No-Sew Heat Packs. This one’s a lifesaver for chilly nights. I keep one on my desk all winter long!

Grab a pair of new socks from the dollar store. Fill them with rice (also found at the dollar store), tie the end, and add a few drops of essential oil to mask the warm rice smell.

Microwave them for a cozy, soothing heat pack. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day.

Personalized Mugs

Let’s not forget about Personalized Mugs. Pick up a plain mug and some permanent markers. Draw a design, write a quote, or even just a simple ‘Best Dad Ever’ or ‘World’s Okayest Sister’ – whatever floats your boat.

Bake the mug in the oven to set the ink, and you have a personalized gift that’s both practical and sentimental.

DIY Spice Mixes

For the foodies in your life, try DIY Spice Mixes. Purchase a variety of spices from the dollar store and mix them to create unique blends. Think taco seasoning, Italian herb mix, or a spicy curry blend. Put them in small jars or shakers, label them with their names and suggested uses, and maybe include a recipe card.

It’s a practical and flavorful gift that adds a little zest to the kitchen!

Dollar Store Christmas Baskets

Creating themed baskets is a fantastic way to give personalized and thoughtful DIY Christmas gifts without overspending. The Dollar Store is a great place to stock up on many of these items!

Art Caddy

An Art Supplies Caddy is perfect for the budding artist. Fill a caddy with crayons, colored pencils, paints, coloring books, stickers, and more. It’s a colorful way to encourage creativity and keep supplies organized.

Cupcake Basket

The Cupcake Basket is a sweet idea for baking enthusiasts. Use a cupcake tin as the base and add cake mix, cupcake liners, sprinkles, and homemade toppers. It’s a delightful gift for anyone who loves to bake (and eat) treats.

Cozy Slippers

A Comfort Slippers Basket is ideal for relaxation. Fill a pair of cozy slippers with items like small lotions, bath bombs, a sleep mask, and maybe some herbal tea bags. It’s like a warm hug for the feet.

Cookie Mitt

Your Cookie Basket idea is great for cookie lovers. Tuck cookie mix, a cookie cutter, and other baking essentials into an oven mitt. It’s a cute and practical gift for anyone who enjoys homemade cookies.

Movie Night Box

Create a Movie Night Basket with a big bowl, package of popcorn, candy, a list of movie suggestions and maybe a cozy blanket. It’s perfect for a fun and relaxing night in.

Gardening Basket

For the green thumbs, a Gardening Basket is a great idea. Fill a flower pot with gardening gloves, seeds, small tools, and perhaps a plant or flower. It’s a lovely way to encourage a love for gardening.

Spa Basket

A Spa Basket can include items like scented candles, bath salts, a loofah, face masks, and soothing lotion. It’s a luxurious and relaxing gift for anyone who deserves a bit of pampering.

Breakfast Basket

Put together a Breakfast Basket with pancake mix, a small syrup bottle, a spatula, and a mix for hot cocoa or coffee. It’s a wonderful way to start someone’s morning with a smile.

Fitness Basket

For fitness enthusiasts, a Fitness Basket could include items like a jump rope, a water bottle, a yoga mat, and a towel. It’s a great way to support someone’s healthy lifestyle.

Craft Basket

Lastly, a Craft Basket for the crafty folks. Fill it with items like yarn, needles, craft paper, glue sticks, and scissors. It’s a creative and fun gift for DIY lovers.

Crafty Creations

Crafting your own DIY Christmas gifts creates a personal touch that can’t be bought in stores. Here are a few crafty gift ideas that range from simple to a bit more involved, but all are fun to make and give:

Knitted Scarves or Hats

Knitted Scarves or Hats are a classic DIY gift. If you know how to knit or crochet, this is a great way to make a warm, personal gift. For beginners, using a loom can make the process easier and just as enjoyable. Choose yarn colors that you know the recipient will love. It’s like wrapping them up in a cozy, handmade hug.

Scented Room Spray

A Scented Room Spray can transform the ambiance of a space. Mix water, a bit of rubbing alcohol, and a few drops of essential oils in a spray bottle using this easy recipe.

You can create different scents based on the essential oils you choose – lavender for relaxation, citrus for an energy boost, or peppermint for a refreshing feel. It’s a simple yet elegant gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

Homemade Lip Balm

Homemade Lip Balm is a delightful and practical gift. Melt together beeswax, coconut oil, and your choice of essential oils for scent. Here’s a cheap and easy recipe.

Pour the mixture into small containers (you can find these in craft stores or online). They’re perfect for keeping lips moisturized, especially in the winter months.

Hand-Painted Tote Bags

For a gift that’s both stylish and eco-friendly, try making Hand-Painted Tote Bags. Use fabric paints to decorate plain canvas tote bags. You can go for abstract designs, floral patterns, or something more personalized. It’s a great way to encourage reducing plastic bag usage while still being fashionable.

Customized Photo Albums

Lastly, consider making Customized Photo Albums or Scrapbooks. This is especially meaningful if you share memories with the recipient. Decorate the cover and add personal touches inside. It’s a gift that can beautifully encapsulate memories and moments.

Memories & Thoughtful Gifts

Creating DIY Christmas gifts that are rich in sentiment and low in cost is all about tapping into your creativity and personalizing each item. Here are ten ideas that are practically free but invaluable in terms of thoughtfulness and care:

Photo Collage

A Photo Collage is a timeless and heartfelt gift. Gather favorite family photos or snapshots of special moments, and arrange them artistically on a poster or in a frame. It’s a visual celebration of cherished memories.

Recipe Book

A Recipe Book filled with family favorites is not just a collection of recipes; it’s a legacy. Write down those treasured recipes, add a few personal notes or memories associated with each dish, and compile them into a book. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.

Framed Handwritten Poem or Quote

A Framed Handwritten Poem or Quote can be a deeply personal and inspiring gift. Write a poem, a favorite quote, or a personal message, and place it in a simple frame. It’s a way to share a piece of your heart. These were the DIY Christmas gifts I gave most often when I was younger!

Bookmarks

Handcrafted Bookmarks are perfect for the bookworms in your life. Use cardstock, ribbon, and beads to create unique and colorful bookmarks. You can even add quotes or personal messages to them.

Mix CD or Playlist

A Mix CD or Playlist of favorite songs is like a soundtrack to your relationship. It’s a musical journey through shared memories and moments. With streaming services, creating a personalized playlist is easier than ever and can be shared instantly.

DIY Puzzle

Creating a DIY Puzzle from a family photo is a unique and interactive gift. Just make sure to have a duplicate of the photo. It’s a fun and memorable way to revisit a special moment together.

Hand-Painted Rocks

Hand-Painted Rocks can be both charming and meaningful. Paint small rocks with designs, messages, or even simple words of encouragement. They can be used as paperweights, decorations, or just sweet reminders.

Handwritten Letters

Handwritten Letters are one of the most personal and touching gifts you can give. Write a letter to each family member, highlighting what you love about them, and recount a few favorite memories. It’s a truly heartfelt way to express your affection and appreciation.

Memory Jar

Create a Memory Jar filled with notes about happy or funny moments you’ve shared with the recipient. Each note can be a quick memory or an inside joke. It’s a jar full of smiles and laughter waiting to be revisited.

Customized Calendars

Lastly, a Customized Calendar can be a practical and sweet gift. You can design and print a calendar, adding birthdays, anniversaries, and special family dates. Personalize each month with a photo or a note that matches the season or a particular memory.

Relief Recap

As we wrap up our journey through a world of creative, heartfelt, and budget-friendly DIY Christmas gifts, it’s clear that the most memorable presents aren’t measured by their price tags, but by the love and thought put into them.

Whether you’re knitting a scarf, compiling a playlist, or crafting a homemade candle, each gift carries a piece of your heart and a spark of your unique creativity. In each stitch, each brush stroke, and each handwritten word, we weave a tapestry of love and care that no store-bought item can match.

As you embark on your DIY gift-making journey, remember that the time, effort, and personal touch you invest in each creation will make these gifts truly invaluable. So, let your imagination run wild, let your hands get a little messy, and let your heart lead the way. Wishing you a holiday season filled with warmth, joy, and the priceless pleasure of giving gifts that come straight from the heart. Merry crafting and happy holidays!

This article is the product of a team effort! Multiple authors from the Low Income Relief team have contributed to this post. We have also used AI tools to organize data and refine the writing in accordance with our Responsible AI Use Policy. All articles on our website are reviewed by our founder and resident poverty expert, Nicole Thelin, prior to publication.