In these times of austerity handmade gifts have seen a revival. But it's a true shame there had to be an economic reason for the trend to become popular again. Handmade gifts should always be appreciated and not looked upon as a cheap way out. The effort and thought that goes into making these presents should never be underestimated.
To avoid resorting to last minute, frantic shopping in the run up to Christmas, start thinking about making your unique gifts now. 5 months is less time than you think, particularly if it's been a while since you've attempted any arts and crafts. Get those creative juices flowing!
Consider some of these gift ideas for your loved ones this Christmas.
Photobooks or Calendars
To epitomise your friendship or love for someone, put together a personalised photobook or calendar. But don't just settle for photos. Add quotes and memories of times you've spent together, as well as meaningful dates if making a calendar.
Write down why you selected each particular photo, and what it means to you.
You can buy blank scrap books at stationery shops, but if you're really feeling creative, make the book yourself too. Instructions are really easy to find online.
Calendars can be printed at photo shops, but you can add detail to it with marker pens, stickers, paint and other crafty tools.
Jewellery
DIY jewellery has never been easier to make what with the rise of bead shops around the country. These stock vast arrays of charms, beads, casings, clasps and other bits and pieces you might need to make your own necklaces, earrings, brooches and bracelets. Some come in sets that you then just need to assemble, but this is in a way cheating. Why not put together something truly unique based on the recipient's personal tastes and style?
Gift Hampers
If you know a person well, you can put together their ultimate goody hamper. Fill it with food and drinks you know they like. Popular seasonal goods include fruit cakes, winter chutneys, chocolate, liqueurs and cheese. You can also add some non-consumables such as handmade soaps and bath bombs, woolly socks, and mittens.
If you do find yourself struggling for time, bespoke Christmas hampers can be arranged through specialist companies. You'll be able to choose the packaging and contents of the hamper from their stock. While it's not exactly handmade, it is personalised, and there'll be no other quite like it.
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