At certain times throughout the year, we often find that a number of our close friends and family’s birthdays fall within a short space of time. As much as we would like to spend a decent amount on each gift, sometimes this just isn’t possible. When you are feeling the pinch of overspending, why not try making some amazing home-made crafts that are not only personal and thoughtful, but also economical?
There are many great craft websites out there to browse through for inspiration, ideas and materials, such as www.homecrafts.co.uk. This guide will give you a list of the best DIY gifts that you can make that your loved ones will adore. From wall art to funky bags, you are sure to find something for everyone.
Personalised Wall Art
Giving a gift that shows how much you know about someone is a wonderful way of showing that you care. Using a simple picture frame that you can get in most hardware or hobby shops, all you need to do is fill it with inspirational quotes, pictures, colours and photos that your friend or family member will love. Perhaps you could recreate a holiday that you went on together, or fill the frame with family memories of birthdays past.
Decorative Canvas Bags
A plain canvas bag can be transformed by using fabric paints or transfer stickers, allowing you to create a stunning gift that is both individual and relatively cheap to make. Plain bags can be found in markets and online from sites such as thecleverbaggers.co.uk, while your decorative tools should not cost much either. Plus, you can save money by using them again to make other gifts in the future.
Jewellery
Buying a jewellery making kit online will allow you to make many different presents which will save you cash in the long run. Create individual bracelets, necklaces and earrings using coloured beads, elastic and fastenings that you can tailor to each person’s particular tastes. These kinds of presents not only look fantastic but they also show how much time and effort you put into your gift.
Hand-made Chocolates
This is one of the best ways to treat a loved one on their birthday – who doesn’t love a tasty sweet surprise? The easiest kind of chocolate to make by hand is the truffle and they look very professional when dusted in cocoa powder. Just follow this simple recipe from Channel 4’s How to Cook Like Heston:
• 300ml double cream
• 300g dark chocolate, chopped (minimum 65% cocoa solids)
• 1 tsp salt
• Cocoa powder
Method
• Place the cream in a pan over a medium heat and bring up to a simmer.
• Melt the chocolate in a large bowl over a saucepan of simmering water.
• When the cream is simmering, remove the pan from the heat, add the salt, and add
to the melted chocolate a third at a time, making sure that the cream is thoroughly
incorporated after each addition. Allow to cool slightly.
• Pour the chocolate mixture on to the lined tray and leave to stand at room temperature
for 4 hours. Then place in the fridge for 5-6 hours or until set.
• Using a small melon baller, scoop balls of the chocolate out of the ganache then roll in
cocoa powder before serving.
