The Best Homemade Gift Ideas this Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy, warmth, and giving. There's something truly special about receiving a handmade gift, crafted with love and care, that makes it stand out from shop-bought presents. If you’re looking to make this Christmas extra special by giving meaningful gifts without breaking the bank, handmade presents are the perfect way to go. Not only are they more personal, but they also show thoughtfulness and creativity.

Here are 6 of my favourite suggestions for the best homemade Christmas gift ideas that will spread cheer and appreciation this Christmas.

1. Custom Scented Candles

Candles are always a go-to gift for setting a cozy, festive mood. Instead of buying one from the store, why not make a custom-scented candle that reflects the recipient's favourite aromas? Whether it’s warm vanilla, lavender, or Christmas spices like cinnamon and clove, you can create a personalised scent just for them.

• How to make it: You’ll need wax, essential oils for fragrance, a candle wick, and a container (like a mason jar or an old jam jar). Melt the wax, while it melting use a dab of glue to secure the candle wick in the centre of the jar base. Stir in the essential oils into your melted wax and once combined pour the mixture into your container with the wick already in place. Let it cool and set, then add a custom sticker or decorate the jar with ribbons and Christmas-themed decorations. You can even add dried herbs or flowers for extra flair.

4. Handmade Bath Bombs

If you're looking for a gift to pamper and relax someone, homemade bath bombs are an excellent choice. You can customise the scent and colours to the recipient’s preferences, turning bath time into a luxurious experience.

• How to make it: Bath bombs require ingredients like baking soda, citric acid, essential oils, and a mould - my top tip is to use an ice cube mould. You can find a simple, tried and tested by me, recipe online here. Combine the ingredients, mould them into fun shapes, and let them dry. Wrap them in cute packaging, and maybe even pair them with homemade bath salts or a candle for a full relaxation kit.

5. Infused Olive Oils or Vinegars

For the foodie in your life, a bottle of homemade infused olive oil or vinegar is a delicious and thoughtful gift. These are perfect for adding flavour to salads, marinades, or just drizzling on bread. They're easy to make on mass and a great accompaniment to a nice block of cheese or small hamper of their favourite foods if you want to splash out.

• How to make it: Fill a glass bottle with high-quality olive oil or vinegar, and add in flavourings like herbs (rosemary, thyme), garlic, chilli peppers, or citrus peel. Seal the bottle tightly and let it sit for a few days to allow the flavours to infuse. Label the bottle with the contents and suggested uses for a finishing touch. Super simple! You could also combine with a pack of quirky pasta shapes, and the promise of a home cooked meal in a little pocket sized 'for you' card.

2. DIY Hot Chocolate Kit

Who doesn’t love a warm cup of hot chocolate during the winter season? A homemade hot chocolate kit is not only delightful but easy to assemble. Customise the kit with high-quality cocoa, marshmallows, and fun toppings like peppermint sticks or crushed cookies to make it extra festive!

• How to make it: In a jar or tin, layer cocoa powder and sugar (or pre made drinking chocolate that you buy in bulk and split into individual jars) and mini marshmallows. You can also add chocolate chips or shaved chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. Include a handwritten recipe or instructions - to mix well into warm milk and enjoy - and tie the jar with a festive ribbon. Personalise it even more by adding a mug and a cute spoon!

3. Memory Scrapbook or Photo Album

A memory scrapbook or photo album is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give. It's filled with moments and milestones shared between you and the recipient. By compiling favourite photographs, notes, and keepsakes, you’ll create a heartfelt tribute to your relationship. We've just launched some new scrap books on the site you could use as your base. They come with stickers for scrapbooking and make such a gorgeous, meaningful gift. We started stocking these scrap books after being gifted one myself, I loved it so much I wanted to share the love!

• How to make it: Start by collecting pictures and mementos that represent the special moments you’ve shared with the recipient. Arrange them in a scrapbook with captions, stickers, or designs that reflect the spirit of the holiday season. Add thoughtful messages throughout to make it more personal. You can also decorate with vintage stamps, washi tapes, and sticky notes to make it more interactive and personal.

6. Customised Recipe Book

On the subject of food, if you and your loved ones enjoy cooking, creating a personalised recipe book is a meaningful way to share family favourites and culinary memories. You can include family recipes, handwritten notes, and even photographs of the dishes.

• How to make it: Compile recipes you know the recipient will love or ask family members to contribute their favourite dishes. Design the pages with fun fonts, decorative stickers, and perhaps some personal anecdotes about the dishes. You could simply print the recipes and make a folder or write them out in a beautiful notebook or scrap book. Add a label and a note about your gift for an extra special touch!

Don't forget to finish off your gifts in style with personalised stickers, beautiful ribbons and our very special Christmas gift wrap!