We know. It’s not even Halloween, let alone Thanksgiving and we’re already talking about the holidays. In this blog, our focus is on DIY Gifts so add a special personal touch to holiday giving this year without completely stressing yourself out, now is the time to think about gathering some ideas and supplies.
Funky Cow Gift Certificates
Let’s just be honest. Some of you are NOT DIY people and we get that. Give the gift of time and a sweet and savory experience. Our gift certificates are the perfect stocking stuffers! Or consider, since you are thinking so far ahead, why not gift someone with a holiday meal from our catering menu? The possibilities are endless and we would be honored to be a part of the gifts you give this season!
If you are a DIY person, Country Living just updated their 97 DIY Homemade Christmas Gifts for the Whole Family list. Please note these gifts are perfect for Hanukkah or Kwanzaa and/or any holiday you celebrate throughout the season. Here are a few of our favorites:
Hot Chocolate Stirrers
Gift a sweet treat that’s perfect for celebrating the holidays on cold, nippy nights.
To make: Dip ends of candy canes in melted semisweet chocolate. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes; place on a parchment paper–lined plate, and chill. Lightly mist large marshmallows with water. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Editor’s note: we love this twist on the stirrer idea by using candy canes. Consider adding a bottle of Baileys or Frangelico for an instant adult beverage.
DIY Fleece Blanket
Give the gift of warmth this holiday with a cozy fleece blanket you can make yourself.
Get the tutorial at It’s Always Autumn.
Editor’s Note: Imagine this blanket in the beautiful blues, whites, and silver of the Hanukkah celebration or the bold hues of Kwannza. Or to truly personalize, find fleece colors that match the decor of the person you are gifting so you can extend its use through the winter season.
Festive Pillow
Take a plain pillow from ho-hum to ho-ho-ho by simply wrapping it like a present. (Yes, it’s that simple.) Add a sprig of greenery or a festive ornament for an extra bit of flourish.
Editor’s note: If you’re going to make that fleece blanket, accessorize with a pillow! We love this special touch that reminds us, every day is a gift!
Ceramic Tile Coasters
Refocus plain ceramic tiles as snappy coasters. Blogger Brittany Moser of darkroomanddearly.com made these Polaroid-inspired drink rests from color photos and square tiles (a steal at 98 cents apiece). First, trim a photo to 3 3/4″W x 3 1/4″H. Using a foam brush, spread Mod Podge on the back of the image; then position it on a tile, leaving a 1/4-inch border at the top and sides, and a 3/4-inch border at the bottom. Let dry for 30 minutes. Spread Mod Podge over the photo and exposed tile borders and let dry for one hour; repeat two to three more times. Spray with clear sealant and let dry for 24 hours. Finally, affix adhesive felt pads to the underside corners of your picture-perfect tiles.
Editor’s Note: Mod Podge can be magnificent! Imagine personalize these coasters with pics of special friend and family times!
Christmas Tea Tree
Arm yourself with a glue gun, some tea bags, and a styrofoam cone, and you’ve got yourself the perfect gift for the tea-lover in your life.
Get the tutorial at Thirsty for Tea.
Editor’s note: These greens and whites are beautiful! Don’t be afraid of adding a pop of color so you can truly gift their favorite tea!
These are just five ideas out of 97 ideas in one article. A simple search will yield even more possibilities. As we see the holidays peeping around the corner, let’s remember the gift we are to each other. In the hustle bustle of the holiday season, we hope our cafe is safe and special place to catch up with a friend or catch up on self care. We can’t wait to see you!