Are you looking for Christmas gift ideas that don’t look like you put them together at the last possible moment? These DIY gifts are easy, cute, and much more personal than anything you can find in a store. I promise, even your ‘hard–to–shop–for’ friend will appreciate it.
Here’s the reality of gifting: we all want to be thoughtful gift givers, but by the time December rolls around, it seems we all get consumed with cooking, shopping lists, cookie swaps, and “Oh no, I totally forgot someone!” moments. It is indeed the busiest time of the year.
Not to mention how much leaves your bank account regularly. This is where DIY presents come in handy. They can most time be cheaper than buying presents, plus they come across as more thoughtful and special.
The good news is, you don’t need a craft room with a whole shelf of glitter or free time to customize something thoughtful for someone.
These DIY Christmas gift ideas are super cute, don’t break the bank, and are doable for anyone (even if your level of glue gun skill is questionable).
For instance, cozy cocoa jars, or homemade candles that smell like they came from a fancy boutique, or personalized mugs that look like they were bought from Etsy (but are much cheaper).
It’s about creating something special that feels customized enough for the person, without spending a fortune.
Maybe the gift is for your bestie, or your mom, or the neighbor who always bakes too many baked goodies for this time of year—these will all hit “that” note of cute and meaningful.
So, gather a hot cocoa, put on your Christmas playlist, and let’s create some Christmas magic—this year’s batch of Christmas gifts might just beat out the store-bought version!
1. Cookie Baking Kit
Okay, who wouldn‘t like a cookie-baking kit? It is like giving someone Christmas in a box.
You can throw in some cookie mix, some cute cookie cutters, and a tiny spatula—super simple and cozy, and it is guaranteed to make them smile.
Perfect for that friend who always says they “can‘t bake“. Spoiler alert—they sure can with this.
2. Jar of Cranberry and Pistachio Biscotti
The thing is, biscotti feels fancy, but it is basically really easy. Cranberries and pistachios have that festive red and green but aren‘t challenging at all.
Throw it in a clear jar and add a ribbon, and it looks like it belongs in a boutique.
3. DIY Wine Bottle Candles
You know those empty wine bottles that we all swear we’ll “do something cute” with? This is that cute thing.
Candles in wine bottles are genius—they’re warm, they’re classy, and they give off just the right energy of “I shop at Anthropologie.”
Bonus: you can customize the scent for whoever you’re gifting it to!
4. Hot Chocolate Gift Basket
Honestly, we all know this is a no-brainer. A basket of hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, candy canes, and maybe a cute mug to boot—it is basically a hug in a box.
It goes for everyone—coworkers, friends, and your kids’ teacher. And it‘s so easy to throw together last-minute if you are a procrastinator (no judgment).
5. Christmas Terrarium
This is for that friend who loves a fun DIY decor moment. Christmas terrariums look fancy but take ten minutes to put together.
Just add some faux snow, mini Christmas trees, and a tiny reindeer or two—it looks fun and sparkly, and it makes a cute centerpiece on the mantel or coffee table.
6. Sweater Hot Cocoa Mug
This might be one of my personal favorites. Like really, what‘s cuter than a mug dressed in a mini sweater?! Adorable.
It just adds a little something extra to a cozy fall or winter gift. It‘s giving grandma-chic but make it Pinterest.
And if you were to top it off with a little packet of cocoa mix or even a candy cane, it‘s small, but everyone would think it‘s ridiculously cute.
7. Snow Globe Jar Ornament with Photograph
Honestly—sentimental gifts will always win. A little snow globe jar with a photo tucked inside is both creative and heartfelt.
It‘s one of those gifts that looks like you spent three hours making it when you really tossed that together in 15 minutes for $10 total in supplies.
Not to mention, people love seeing their own memories sparkle in fake snow.
8. Knit Santa and Snowman Wine Bottle Cover
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Okay, but these are just fun. Dressed up wine bottles like Santa and a snowman?
Absolutely not one person will not want to hear the backstory, and I promise they will love whatever is inside the bottle.
Also, whether it‘s one of the cheap bottles from the grocery store or a quite reasonably priced bottle from a local vineyard, it makes the vino appear even more festive.
And when you think of how many people have one, well, quite frankly, that‘s a holiday miracle unto itself.
9. Wine and Nuts Gift Box
If you want classy but simple, this is gold. You really don‘t have to overthink it.
A bottle of nice wine, some gourmet nuts (it would be even cuter with the cute packaging), and a sweet little tag – you‘re done!
It‘s elegant but not too over the top and works for neighbors, co–workers, or just about anyone you want to bring an evening snack moment too.
10. Baking Essentials
This is the ideal present for your friend who loves to bake! Just imagine measuring spoons, vanilla extract, and festive sprinkles—all neatly presented in a basket.
This gift is both thoughtful and practical but feels personal. You know those gifts that make people say, “Oh my gosh, I actually needed this“? This is one of them.
11. Yarn Wrapped Santa Treat Cups
These cute Santa cups are super simple to make! Wrap yarn around a paper cup, add some accessories, and you have the perfect party favor.
Fill them with candy or bake up some tasty treats, and these cups are sure to please kids and adults alike!
12. Christmas Simmer Pot
This homemade gift is an underrated craft. A simmer pot is perfumed with cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and all the scents that create warmth in your house.
So easy to put together, and an adorable, sentimental gift for a friend!
13. Christmas Treat Mug
You can‘t go wrong with a mug filled with goodies, and again, the personalization factor is high on the aaawwwww factor, which everyone appreciates.
This is simple, inexpensive, and hence great to personalize with your own special touch.
Throw in some hot cocoa, candy canes, or even a small ornament to make a small, thoughtful gift that will feel more special than its price tag.
14. DIY Gingerbread Man Gift
Nothing says Christmas like Gingerbread Men! It’s fun and inspiring to create homemade gift theme while being so easy.
Whether a cookie, soap, or even an ornament, little gingerbread collections are CUTE!
You can tie it together with a ribbon; it makes for a sweet little holiday gift to give or a charming little decoration in your home.
15. 5-Minute Christmas Mason Jar Candles
If you are short on time (and patience), these candles will really hit the spot for a redeeming quality gift.
Mason jar candles are nice to look at and deliciously fragrant, but take practically no time at all.
They are one of those gifts that make people think you have your life all put together (when you really don’t).
16. Christmas Cookie Making Kit
If you have a friend who loves to bake (or simply loves cookies) a basic cookie kit might be just right for them.
You want to fill a small holiday bag or box with cookie mix, some holiday cookie cutters, and a tube, or two, of decorating icing– and you are set!
You are giving them an enjoyable holiday craft and a dessert all wrapped up in one.
17. DIY Granola Jar
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Granola just feels comfy and cozy—don’t you think? Healthy, tasty, and amazing in a glass jar tied with a little ribbon.
You can tote an addition of nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips, and this simple gift, you know, everyone secretly loves.
18. DIY Movie Night Basket
You can never have a bad movie night kit. Popcorn, candy, comfy socks, and maybe a mini blanket; whatever comforts are available, they will be enjoyed.
Not to mention they easily require you amount of effort to be all fancy for them, and I love something that looks fancy but doesn‘t require the effort.
19. DIY Baking Kit Gift
This is great for your friend who is always baking or just starting out. Toss in some measuring spoons, a whisk, some holiday sprinkles, and a recipe card or two.
It is thoughtful, practical, and way more fun than just another candle.
20. Cocoa Santa & Reindeer
Okay, this might be the cutest idea: little pouches of hot cocoa decorated to look like Santa and Rudolph? It is simple, creative, and will make anyone smile, even if they don‘t intend to.
Great for stocking stuffers, classroom gifts, or simply to spread a little extra cheer.
21. DIY Christmas Chocolate Wreath
If you know a chocolate lover, this is the gift for them! All you have to do is mold your favorite chocolates in the shape of a wreath, attach a ribbon, and boom – festive and edible!
This is so creative and beautiful, and they will definitely be asking you, “Where did you get that?” (Is there a better compliment to DIY?).
22. Homemade Vanilla Extract
This is surprisingly elegant and will make you look like you really know your way around the kitchen.
It is literally just vanilla beans and vodka, but the way you present it is definitely cuter. Tie a fun label onto the bottle, and it‘s the type of thing that people will actually use.
23. Hot Cocoa Mix in a Jar
Seriously, you can‘t go wrong with hot cocoa mix gifts. They are cozy, they are simple, and you can always count on them to make someone smile.
Placed in the jar, one layer of cocoa, a layer of marshmallows, and a layer of peppermint bits – it is adorable and looks like you pulled it directly off Pinterest.
Get the Tutorial
24. Coffee Lovers Gift Basket
For those people who can‘t function without coffee (hi, and I‘m one of them), this gift is perfect!
You could throw in a cute mug, some gourmet beans, some biscotti, or maybe a little jar of syrup or cream. Simple but thoughtful, not too extra, and so cozy!
25. Loaded Holiday Cookie Mix in a Jar
For all intents and purposes, it‘s gifting the experience of baking without the mess.
You layer dry ingredients, loop a recipe card around the jar, and that‘s it! It‘s colorful and pretty, and it‘s something you know will be used around the holidays.
26. DIY Snow Globe
This one is super nostalgic. All you need is a mason jar, water, glitter, and some kind of holiday little figure.
It‘s simple enough to make, but the thought behind it is kind of magical and so much fun.
27. Salt Dough Ornaments
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These are such a sweet and personal gift! These are super easy, and you can make them with your children.
You can stamp names or a cute little design and they can literally last for years! One of those gifts that is the best kind of homemade!
28. Snowman Wrapped Chococolate
What a fantastic idea this is! Just get a chocolate bar, wrap it in white paper, draw a snowman face, and add a little scarf. It is a super quick idea, and great for giving to friends, neighbors, and teachers.
29. Snowy DIY Mason Jar
This one is all about cozy, clear winter vibes! You could add fake snow, a little greenery, maybe a tiny ornament inside, and just like that you are adding your Pinterest-worthy, cute touch by using cost-effective items.
Easy, inexpensive, and looks much more expensive than it is!
Get the Tutorial
30. DIY Sangria Kit
Sangria is not only for summer. This DIY sangria has all the flavors of the season here, including cinnamon, oranges, and cranberries.
Place everything in a nice jar or basket, and it’s the perfect grown-up holiday gift.
More Content You May Like
● 24 Easy Christmas Crafts for Kids of All Ages
● 29 Easy Christmas Crafts for Adults to Make
● 30 DIY Christmas Gift Basket Ideas That Are Perfect for Anyone
These are wonderful gift ideas. I’m definitely going to make some.