This past Thanksgiving weekend saw a record-breaking 203 million shoppers, surpassing the 197 million in 2024, according to the National Retail Federation’s Annual Consumer Survey. Americans are gearing up to do more holiday shopping ahead of the holidays. In a world where consumerism often overshadows sentiment, consumers are looking for change.
With around 31% of Americans saying they still have credit card debt from last year’s holiday season, a surprising 74% of Americans still plan to use their credit cards for some of their holiday shopping, according to Nerdwallet’s 2025 Holiday Spending Report. DIY and low-cost gifts provide a refreshing way to express genuine care without stretching your budget.
These gifts aren’t just cost-effective; they also convey the warmth of a personal touch and thoughtfulness that money alone can’t buy. Use these ideas to protect your financial well-being while allowing your genuine emotions to shine through.
5 Low-Cost DIY Gift Ideas
1. Handwritten letter and a photobook
Start with a heartfelt, handwritten letter. In our digital age, receiving a tangible note filled with sincere words can feel like a cherished treasure. Pair it with a custom photo album or scrapbook that captures shared memories to evoke nostalgia and gratitude. The art of writing a letter seems to have been lost in the whirlwind of texts and emails.
When paired with a photo album or scrapbook, it becomes a powerful token of the moments shared and the journey traveled together. This combination not only conveys love but also creates a lasting keepsake that can be revisited time and again.
2. DIY memory jars
Create a “memory jar” filled with slips of paper, each detailing a fond memory, a shared joke, or a heartfelt wish. You can decorate the jar with ribbons or stickers, turning it into a treasure trove of emotions.
Add items such as show tickets and other sentimental memorabilia. This simple yet meaningful gift invites the recipient to relive special moments and feel the warmth of your connection whenever needed.
3. Personalized playlist
Music has an incredible way of bringing memories to life. Compile a playlist of songs that remind you of the person or capture significant moments in your relationship. Share it digitally or create a CD with a customized cover.
Most popular music streaming apps offer a free subscription plan, so you might not have to pay anything to create a digital playlist! It can serve as a soundtrack to cherished times together.
4. Create a recipe book
Food has a unique way of bringing people together. If you share a love of cooking, compile a recipe book filled with your favorite dishes. Handwrite the recipes or print them, adding personal notes on why each dish is special.
Ask older relatives to contribute to making the book even more meaningful. This culinary keepsake not only celebrates your culinary adventures but also inspires future kitchen creations together.
5. Culinary treats
Homemade treats are a testament to the effort you are willing to put in. For the culinary inclined, consider crafting a batch of cookies, candied nuts, jams, or infused oils packaged in mason jars. You can even take a stab at making their favorite snack by hand, a delightful way to share your love through flavors.
6 Low-Cost Crafting Ideas for the Holidays
If your talents lie in crafting, you can create unique items that symbolize growth and care. Skip the credit card debt and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) plans. Here are 6 crafting gift ideas for the holiday season:
1. Candle making
With affordable candle-making kits available, you don’t have to be an expert to craft wonderfully smelling candles to give to your loved ones. These homemade candles not only infuse spaces with warmth and fragrance but also carry a personal touch that store-bought items often lack.
Choose scents that have special significance to the recipient or evoke fond memories, making each candle a bespoke gift that’s as thoughtful as it is delightful.
2. Custom baking kits
Assemble baking kits. Fill a jar with pre-measured dry ingredients for cookies, cakes, or brownies and attach a recipe card. Avid bread maker? Give them a sourdough kit!
This not only makes for a charming gift but also invites the recipient to enjoy a baking experience that feels as though you’re right there with them, sharing in the joy of creating something delicious.
3. Mini herb gardens
For a gift that keeps on giving, consider creating a mini herb garden. Use small pots or repurposed painted containers, and plant a variety of herbs, such as basil, mint, or rosemary. This is a perfect gift for those who love to cook or appreciate greenery in their homes.
4. Homemade soaps
Crafting homemade soaps is a delightful way to combine creativity with care. With a few simple ingredients and molds, you can create beautifully scented soap bars tailored to recipients’ preferences, whether they prefer calming lavender or invigorating citrus.
Personalize each soap with natural additives like oatmeal or dried flowers for an extra touch of luxury.
5. DIY bath bombs
If you’re looking to indulge someone with a touch of spa luxury, making DIY bath bombs is an excellent choice. With ingredients such as baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils, you can craft bath bombs that fizz in water.
Customize them with the recipient’s preferred colors and fragrances to offer a relaxing, personalized bathing experience. These bath bombs can transform a simple bath into a luxurious retreat, showcasing your care and creativity.
6. DIY spa kit
For a touch of indulgence, put together a DIY spa kit with homemade bath salts, scrubs, or scented candles. Package them in a decorative box or even a basket. This thoughtful gesture encourages relaxation and self-care, showing your loved ones that they deserve pampering and peace!
The True Value of Handmade Gifts
Ultimately, the beauty of handmade gifts lies in their ability to convey emotions that words sometimes fail to express. They tell a story, one of time, effort, and a deep-seated desire to make the recipient feel valued and cherished. By choosing to give such gifts, you’re not just offering an item but a piece of yourself, thoughtfully crafted to bring joy and warmth to those you love. You don’t need to go into credit card debt, or worry about breaking your budget, buying expensive gifts for your loved ones. Ultimately, these gifts show that it’s the thought, creativity, and love that count, not the price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why focus on DIY gifts during the holiday season?
A: DIY gifts allow individuals to express genuine care and creativity without incurring excessive financial burdens. They provide a personal touch that store-bought items often lack, making them a meaningful choice for gift-giving.
Q: How can I make a DIY gift feel special?
A: Personalizing a gift to reflect shared memories or the recipient’s interests can make it feel particularly special. Adding handwritten notes, selecting meaningful songs for a playlist, or customizing scents and flavors are all ways to add a personal touch.
Q: Can DIY gifts really help manage holiday spending?
A: Absolutely. By choosing to create gifts rather than purchasing expensive items, you can significantly reduce holiday spending. DIY gifts often use materials you already have or are inexpensive, helping you manage your finances during the holidays.
Q: What if I’m not very crafty?
A: You don’t have to be an expert to create meaningful DIY gifts. Many projects, such as memory jars or personalized playlists, require minimal crafting skills but still offer a heartfelt touch. Start simple and focus on the sentiment behind the gift.
Q: Are homemade gifts well received?
A: Many people appreciate the thought and effort that goes into homemade gifts. They often carry more sentimental value than store-bought items, as they reflect a personal connection and the time invested in their creation.
Q: How can I involve my family in making DIY gifts?
A: Making DIY gifts can be a fun family activity. Encourage each family member to contribute ideas or help with different aspects of the project. This not only makes the process enjoyable but also strengthens family bonds.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
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