There’s something special about a handmade gift because it’s personal and thoughtful. All ages can appreciate the love that goes into making and receiving handcrafted gifts because it’s heartfelt and made specifically for the recipient or occasion. If you want to skip the crowded stores and get crafty, gather the family together for these fun projects to make as gifts or holiday decor: 

1. Handmade Memory Jars

It’s a little different than creating a jar with cute decorative items inside. With this project, you can grab a jar or decorative container, and fill it with notes, photos and small mementos that remind you of special moments shared with your loved ones. Each family member can write down their favorite memories or include little messages of appreciation. This is a great project for kids and adults and will serve as a keepsake that can be cherished for years.

How to Make It:

• Use a mason jar or a small decorative box.
• Fill it with colorful strips of paper, photos, ticket stubs or small trinkets from memorable events.
• Decorate the jar with ribbons, stickers or paint to make it personal and festive!

2. DIY Family Recipe Book

If your family has favorite recipes, it could be great for everyone to create a recipe book together so the best ones are always remembered. Everyone can design a page and write breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert recipes to compile into a beautiful, handmade recipe book. This is a practical way to preserve the family’s most-loved dishes and a great way to pass down family traditions. 

How to Make It:

• Get a blank notebook or binder with inserts. You can use construction paper to make it colorful as well. 
• Write or type out the recipes, including notes on why each dish is special.
• Have kids help by drawing pictures or decorating the pages with stickers.

3. Hand-Painted Ceramics

A hand-painted mug, plant pot or other ceramic is a personal, fun and practical gift that can be customized for anyone in the family. You can personalize these items with a family member’s name, a favorite quote or scripture. This project is easy and fun for everyone without the pressure of perfection. 

How to Make It:

• Buy plain ceramic mugs or pots and use special ceramic paints or markers.
• Let everyone paint his or her own design and add a special message or name.
• Bake the mugs according to the paint instructions to set the design.
• Fill them with hot cocoa mix, small candies or starter seeds for a special touch.

4. Personalized Ornaments

A DIY personalized ornament is a classic and timeless holiday gift, perfect for family members and friends. You can make these ornaments using clear glass balls and a multitude of materials to fill them with, like glitter, handwritten notes or small photos. These ornaments have the potential to become holiday heirlooms to decorate your space for years to come! 

How to Make It:

• Buy clear ornament balls and fill them with anything you want! 
• Use paint pens to write names or holiday messages on the outside.
• Hang them on the tree or package them in gift boxes for family and friends.

DIY gift-giving is not about saving money but about creating something meaningful with love and intention. Whether you’re crafting together as a family or packaging it up to give to a loved one, these DIY presents will bring joy, warmth and lasting memories to your holiday season. So, order some supplies, look on Pinterest for even more ideas and get creative!