DIY Christmas gifts

Here are some creative ways to show your friends and family you care — without hurting your wallet. 

Mason jars are possibly the most versatile re-usable container. With very little effort and a bit of creativity, you can create a number of presents out of jars. After a quick stop at your local drug store or craft store, you’ll be ready to go.

Don’t have a mason jar? No problem, you can use any type of container: peanut butter, salsa… you name it. To get the labels off just soak them in hot water and peel. Using different types and sizes of jars can add flair to your present.

For Mom:

Wrap two jars in lace or a light fabric (you can also use cut out shapes of newspaper) and tie a ribbon or string bow around each rim. Now, carefully place her favorite scented candle inside each one. If you don’t know her favorite candle, try using a vanilla or spiced scent for the holidays. Ditch the lid and voilá.

Not keen on the lace? Try tinting the jars to give a colorful light for your candle. For that, you will need food coloring and Mod Podge in Gloss (available at your local craft store). Simply mix your colors, paint the inside of the glass, invert and let dry 30 mins. To finish, put them top down on wax paper in the oven. Set on warm for 10 mins and let cool.

For Auntie:

Sad you won’t be home to bake cookies with your favorite aunt this year? Why not share your holiday nostalgia with her by sending her a jar of your traditional holiday treats. Don’t have an oven? Try sending the dry ingredients! You can layer the flour, oatmeal, M&Ms, chocolate chips, brown sugar and white sugar to create an artistic montage of cookie ingredient goodness. Cover the lid with a cute bow. To add an extra touch, you can tie a mixing spoon or cookie cutter to the bow as well.

For brother and sister:

Who can forget the late nights of staying up waiting for Santa and drinking hot cocoa with the siblings. Send them a stylish remake of your favorite cocoa this winter season. Need a recipe for homemade peppermint hot chocolate? Look no further. 

Not such a sugary family? Make your own snow globes instead! Glue cute figurines or memorabilia to the inside of the lid. While that dries, add glitter into the jar and fill with water. Over the sink, screw on the lid. Voilá, a child-friendly, hand-crafted present.

For dad:

How about a new tackle box? Stop by the hardware shop; grab a few fishing lures, some weights, and spool of line. Layer them in the jar with the weights on the bottom and the lures on the top. This way he doesn’t accidentally hook himself while digging through the jar.

I hope this gets your creativity flowing for this holiday season.

Have any ideas of your own? Share them in the comments below!