1. DIY Sugar Scrubs

Treat your loved ones to a little self-care with a homemade sugar scrub. These are perfect for pampering and so simple to make!

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup sugar (white or brown)
• ½ cup coconut oil (melted)
• 10–15 drops of your favorite essential oil (e.g., lavender, peppermint, or citrus)

Instructions:

1. Mix the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
2. Spoon the mixture into a small mason jar.
3. Add a festive label and ribbon for a finished look.

2. Homemade Candles

Create cozy vibes with handmade candles using thrifted containers like jars, teacups, or mugs.

What You’ll Need:

• Soy wax flakes
• Wicks
• Essential oils for scent
• Heatproof container

Instructions:

1. Melt the wax in a wax warmer. I share my favorite one in this post.
2. Place a wick in your container and secure it.
3. Pour the melted wax into the container and let it set.
4. Add a decorative touch with twine or a gift tag.

3. Customized Photo Ornaments

Turn family memories into keepsakes with these thoughtful photo ornaments.

What You’ll Need:

• Clear plastic or glass ornaments
• Family photos (trimmed to fit)
• Ribbon for hanging

Instructions:

1. Roll the photo to fit inside the ornament.
2. Add faux snow, glitter, or other small decorative items for a festive touch.
3. Tie a ribbon to the top for hanging.

4. Upcycled Painted Signs

Transform thrifted wood pieces into charming home decor with a bit of creativity!

What You’ll Need:

• Wooden plaques or boards (thrifted or new)
• Acrylic paint
• Stencils or freehand designs

Instructions:

1. Sand the wood if necessary.
2. Paint a festive or inspirational message using stencils or your own design.
3. Seal with a clear coat and package as a thoughtful gift.

5. Hot Chocolate Gift Jars

Warm hearts with this sweet and simple gift!

What You’ll Need:

• Mason jars
• Cocoa powder
• Sugar
• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Layer the cocoa powder, sugar, chocolate chips, and marshmallows in the jar.
2. Add a tag with instructions for making the hot chocolate (e.g., “Add 2 tablespoons to a cup of hot milk and stir!”).
3. Tie a festive ribbon around the jar for presentation.

6. Handmade Jewelry

Add a personal touch to your gifts with custom jewelry pieces.

What You’ll Need:

• Beads, charms, or pendants
• Jewelry wire or elastic cord
• Clasps (if needed)

Instructions:

1. String the beads onto the wire or cord to create a necklace, bracelet, or earrings.
2. Secure the ends with clasps or tie securely for elastic designs.
3. Package in a small gift box or fabric pouch.

7. Baked Goods in Cute Wrapping

Nothing says “holiday love” like homemade treats!

What You’ll Need:

• Your favorite cookie, fudge, or bread recipe
• Festive tins, plates, or bags (thrifted works great!)

Instructions:

1. Bake your goodies and let them cool completely.
2. Arrange them in your chosen packaging and tie with a ribbon or gift tag.
3. Add a handwritten recipe card for an extra special touch.

8. Personalized Tote Bags

Create a functional and stylish gift with a personal flair.

What You’ll Need:

• Plain canvas tote bags
• Fabric paint or markers
• Stencils or freehand designs

Instructions:

1. Lay the tote bag flat and use stencils or freehand designs to decorate.
2. Let the paint dry completely before wrapping.
3. Pair the bag with small treats or goodies inside for an added surprise.

9. DIY Tea Blends

For the tea lovers on your list, create a custom blend of their favorite flavors.

What You’ll Need:

• Loose-leaf teas (like green, black, or herbal)
• Dried herbs (like lavender, mint, or chamomile)
• Small jars or tea bags

Instructions:

1. Mix loose-leaf tea with dried herbs in a bowl.
2. Spoon the blend into jars or tea bags.
3. Add a label with the tea name and steeping instructions.

10. Homemade Room Sprays

Help friends and family freshen up their space with these last-minute homemade gift ideas.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1–2 tablespoons witch hazel
• 10–20 drops essential oils (e.g., eucalyptus, peppermint, or orange)
• Spray bottles

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle.
2. Shake well before use.
3. Add a festive label and bow for gifting.

Tips for Presentation of Your Last-Minute Homemade Gift Ideas;

• Use reusable or thrifted packaging, like mason jars, baskets, or tins.
• Add personalized gift tags, handwritten notes, or decorative labels.
• Keep the wrapping simple but festive with ribbons, twine, or sprigs of greenery.

Last-minute homemade gift ideas don’t have to look like they were “last-minute”. They are a wonderful way to show you care without breaking the bank. They’re fun to make, customizable, and meaningful for the recipient. Which of these ideas will you try this year? Share your creations on social media and tag @mycreativedays—I’d love to see what you make!

To see more of my DIY ideas, head over to my YouTube channel HERE! I am sharing new DIY videos every week!

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