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Nothing is quite like the excitement of finding the perfect gift for your friend or family member. Around the holidays, though, the list of people you want to get a gift for might be longer than you anticipated. If you have a little less money and a little extra time (or just want to make really thoughtful gifts), consider making homemade gifts. Here are three options:

1.     Cookies: It’s a Christmas tradition in many families to bake cookies together. Consider baking your cookies a little earlier this year and placing them in a cookie tin or decorated bag. Having a variety of 2-3 types cookies is perfect. This thoughtful gift is something you don’t have to worry about not getting used, as your friend will eat them quickly!

2.     Candles: Making candles is so much easier than you would expect. In fact, making a single candle can be done in less than 15 minutes. You need to buy wax, wicks, a thermometer, and jars. You melt the wax in a double boiler, add essential oils to make it smell, raise the temperature to 140 F and then transfer the mixture to a jar which has the wick attached on the bottom. Done! A simple and thoughtful gift which is much cheaper and more eco friendly than buying candles at the store. 

3.     Bags or pouches: This is the most difficult of the three ideas, but sewing or knitting a gift is another thoughtful gift idea. Making these Christmas gifts is a great excuse to learn how to sew or knit if you’ve always wanted to. You learn a skill while making something beautiful that your friend could use.

Practice

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of making homemade gifts?
  • Do you celebrate Christmas? If yes, describe a tradition in your family. If not, describe your favorite holiday and how you celebrate it.