It might be the season to be jolly but it’s certainly one of the most expensive times of the year. Buying something for everyone and keeping within our budget can be a real challenge and leave us feeling as though we have short changed some one this time around with our gift selection.
So how can we make this time of year more affordable and yet give gifts that their recipients will treasure?
The answer is simple; handmade gifts. In fact I’m amazed at how delighted people are when they receive a handmade gift. But the truth is a handmade gift, despite the often minimal cost price, demonstrates a large amount of thought and effort and is generally a unique present.
Even if you are not a particularly crafty mum here are a few ideas for getting your Christmas gifts sorted this year.
Children
Dress ups – we have a few tutorials here that might help which include masks, princess dresses, and a dinosaur costume.
Eye spy bag – this sensory tool is a travel friendly resource that keeps children occupied for long periods of time.
Clothes – our simple skirt pattern with matching necklace and harem pants are made for the beginner sewer. And our toddler dress can be adapted for any occasion or season.
Headbands – use leftover fabrics for cute and inexpensive gifts.
All in one toy bag and playmat – handy and practical even the parents will love this present.
Letter cushions – for children’s rooms these are a simple gift idea that look amazing.
Babies
Bandana bibs – find our tutorial here.
Sensory tag blanket – this is a simple and easy project you can make with stuff you have lying around the house.
Women
Feeding apron – new mum? A feeding apron for modest breastfeeding might just be the ticket.
DIY ring sling for baby wearing – help a new mum become ‘hands free’ at home.
Scarf – this infinity pattern is relatively simple and will work with most fabrics, including light fabrics which are perfect for this time of year.
Bracelet – this is a simple tutorial but what a beautiful end result.
Cushion covers – simple but thoughtful presents for the family who might like to improve their interior design but don’t have the funds.
1950’s housewife apron – a very cute gift idea!
Men
I personally consider this category to be the hardest to buy for at the best of times but here are a few options:
Decorated photo frame – collect some nuts and washers and adhere them with superglue to a store bought frame. You can paint it or leave as is. Print a photo for inside and you’re all set!
Personalised mugs – grab a few plan coffee mugs and let the kids decorate them with sharpie markers.
Nuts about you – fill a jam jar with mixed nuts, or a single variety, and pop the lid on. Cut a circle of fabric and fit over lid, securing in place with a rubber band. Add a tag or label that says ‘Nuts about you’ and attach to the jar.
DIY BBQ apron – aprons are quick to sew up, and you can get your kids to decorate them with fabric paints for a personal touch.
Family gifts
Instead of individual presents why not give a combined gift for the whole family?
Shortbread – grab a Christmas themed biscuit tin and fill with homemade shortbread. There are so many varieties of shortbread that you could tailor make one to suit each family!
Cheesecake – these are not terribly complicated to make and are something the whole family can enjoy.
Snap/memory game – this is a simple project you can make using your own images. Print your images onto card and cut out. If you have one, a laminator will make the cards for durable. You will need at least 24 cards.
Prayer intentions canvas – thrifty and practical, this one’s a winner.
Hamper – grab a cane basket and fill it will homemade treats.
Homemade jam – this recipe is the easiest one I’ve ever come across and it never fails. Simply grab a large microwave safe bowl and throw in 500g of your chosen fruit, 11/2 cups of white sugar and 1/3 cup of lemon juice. Heat on high for 4 minutes, stir and return to the microwave and cook for another 15 minutes or until it reaches setting point. This time will vary depending on the wattage of your microwave. Our previous microwave was 1200W and it took 21 minutes all up including the initial 4 minutes. Our current microwave is 800W and it takes 26 minutes. (To test this, cool a small plate in your freezer then add a teaspoon of your jam and return to freezer for 2 minutes. Remove from freezer and run your finger along the top of the jam, if the top layer wrinkles under your fingers you’re good to go. If not continue to cook at 1 minutes intervals until you reach setting point). Instead of strawberries you can use raspberries, plums or apricots. Or if you’re adventurous you could try mixing things up a little. I made a strawberry, raspberry and rhubarb jam that was so delicious and has quickly become a family favourite!
I hope this helps your gift planning for Christmas this year! Share any other ideas below!!
Originally posted 2014-12-16 22:29:25.