Every year there is a mad rush to buy loved ones the ultimate Christmas gift. We usually have a few prerequisites that determine what we should get them. Will they love it? Will they use it? Does it have a specific meaning for them? Was it pricey enough? Will they know it came from the heart? Those are some serious stipulations to place upon yourself and we think we have an awesome way to cover all bases.

This year it’s time to get crafty! Nothing says Christmas more than a heartfelt, homemade, handcrafted prezzie. Think about the last present you got that was a DIY job. Regardless of how it actually looked (let’s be honest, some of them are a bit, wonky), you felt instant love for it. You know that person went out of their way to create something special for you. Crafty gifts are priceless, timeless and a total winner in our books.

Speaking of which, if you have received or made any in the past, we would LOVE to see them as we are launching a “Crafty Christmas” Competition.

WHAT YOU WIN.

£150 of John Lewis vouchers.

HOW TO ENTER.

Head over to our Facebook page and post a picture of a gift idea you made or received in the comments section of the “Crafty Christmas Competition” post (It will be the first post you see when you land on the page)
OR
If you don’t have a Facebook account you can use, post a picture of your fav homemade gift in the comments section of this post (scroll alllllllllllll the way to the bottom) and we will post it on our Facebook page on your behalf.

HOW TO WIN.

The winner will be selected by public opinion. The pictures with the most likes, loves, thumbs up (reactions) on Facebook will win. So not only do you want to post your pic but you might want to get your friends and family involved by sharing our post and getting them to cast their vote too (obviously, this does not guarantee they vote for you but it certainly increases your chances ;P)! You can add as many gift ideas as you like.

Closing date is midnight on November the 21st (Wednesday) and we will announce the winner and send their digital vouchers on the Thursday in time for Black Friday shopping.

If you have never entered the world of DIY Christmas gifts that’s ok! To help you get inspired here are 25 DIY Christmas Gifts for you to consider on this year’s gift list (25 because you know, Jesus was born on the 25th).

1. Polaroid Tile Coasters

Using some of your favourite pictures, perhaps of you and that particular loved one having a laugh. Make this Polaroid-inspired drink rests from colour photos and square tiles (pick up tiles for less than 3 quid at most DIY shops). First, trim a photo to 3 3/4″W x 3 1/4″H to give it the Polaroid look. Then using a foam brush, spread some PVC 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 more PVC 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. Hey presto, you smashed it! (well not literally we hope)

2. Champion Bottle Stopper

A total prize winner crafty gift coming at you. First, use a drill to make a 1/8-inch-wide hole halfway down into a new cork. Next, twist off the top of a trophy (typically a few pounds each online, or find the bargains in second-hand shops and car boot sales). Apply superglue to the underside of the trophy top’s base and the screw that extends from it. Insert the screw into the cork and twist the pieces together until flush and a tight bond forms. Allow one hour of drying time before using your prize design. BOOM.

3. Crafty Christmas Tree Decorations

The gift that keeps on giving we think. You make a beautiful decoration a loved one can hang on their tree and you are guaranteed to see it reappear each and every year. Get the children involved and create family themed decor. One for each member of the fam. Using all the crafty bits you can find in the local haberdashery and craft shop the design options are endless. Sparkly, shiny, uber modern, classic Christmas, humour related, deep and meaningful. Make it pop.

4. Christmas Cross Stitch Gift

If you’re handy with a needle and thread, stitch a super-cute Christmas motif that your loved one can display year after year. Or go for a slightly less Christmas themed motif and they can use it all year around. Our Paula (the awesome GoRaise Community Manager we all know and love) hangs a motif she got given. It’s proudly displayed in the office all the days of the year. She loves it!

5. Marigold, Honey, and Oatmeal Soap

These creamy cleansers aren’t just beautiful, they also pamper your skin: Marigold soothes, honey, moisturizes, and oatmeal gently exfoliates. #dreamy. First get yourself some delicious soap base like Melt & Pour and dry out a bunch of Marigolds. Prepare the melt and pour as per the instructions and when the soap is melted stir in some runny honey. Add in the Marigold petals. Stir in a few heaped tablespoons of coarse oatmeal and remove the entire pot from the heat. Next, using a tartlet tin (which has been greased using some lovely almond oil) evenly divide the mixture among cavities. Once the mixture is in, tap the tin on a work surface to disperse any air bubbles from the mix and allow to dry. This could take up to four hours, but when they are done they will tap free. Smell you later.

6. Christmas Tea Tree

We all have a loved one obsessed with herbal tea! A cup of Yorkshire tea is sacrilegious for them, their tea must be infused wonderfulness and heaven forbid you ask if they want it with sugar! Well, we have the perfect gift for them. Arm yourself with a glue gun, some of their favourite tea bags, and a styrofoam cone, and you’ve got yourself the perfect gift for the tea-lover in your life. Throw in a cup & saucer and you’re winning!

7. Up-cycled Apron

As much as we encourage giving unwanted clothing to a charity shop, if certain items of clothing can be repurposed and given a new lease of life, we strongly support that too! How about saving old shirts and turning them into aprons for those loved ones who love to surround themselves with kitchen ingredients or enjoy getting green fingers in the garden or spend hours tinkering in the garage. Here’s how:

1. Make a template for your design (it must fit within the seams of your shirt when flat) by drawing round another apron on paper.
2. Do up the shirt buttons, turn it inside out, then iron flat. Place the template on it, top edge just below the collar, and draw round it with a fabric pen. Repeat on the back of the shirt, or on contrasting fabric, and cut out.
3. Lay out the button-free piece, right side up. Pin two lengths of ribbon as ties at the top corners of the wider part of the apron and another piece as a neck loop, ensuring they are running in towards the centre.
4. Place the buttoned-up piece, face down, on top with the ribbons tucked inside, then pin.
5. Machine stitch all the way around, 1-1.5cm from the edge, sewing backwards and forwards over the fabric when you reach the ribbons to hold them firmly in position.
6. To turn the apron the right way out, undo a few buttons and push the fabric through.

8. Humorous Handkerchiefs

How is your embroidery skills? Hmmm, well practice makes perfect. This one is a little fiddly but this gift will not only get used endlessly but will always put a smile on their face!  For each, handwrite the phrase of your choice in the bottom-right corner with a water-soluble marker. Then embroider over the letters using a standard stem stitch (check out this quick tutorial to learn how). Remove any stray marks with a dab of water.

9. Mason Jar Lid Coasters

Now, it’s nothing new to see the trusty mason jar come to the rescue of the craft inspired gift. What can you not do with a mason jar I ask! However, we aren’t focusing on the jar this time around, we are focusing on the lesser talked about but totally essential mason jar lid! These bad boys are the unsung heroes and actually make a really awesome gift too! First, gather four lids with bands: They come in different finishes so some can look vintage even. Place your lids upside down on top of adhesive cork shelf liner. Trace around the lids with a pen, then cut out the circles. Next, stamp your custom image (you can get super creative) into the centre of each cork circle—using solvent-based ink, which won’t smear when wet. Let the ink dry at least one minute, then peel the backing off the cork circles, affix within the lids, and crack open a cold one with your loved one on Christmas day!

10. Cups & Pots Creativity

I have decided I am most def doing this one! Its awesome! What better than a beautiful blank object to get creative on. First step is to get yourself some plain ceramic dishes, this could be cups, teapots, plates, mugs… Next, you need the correct markers to create your masterpieces,  then you just have to let that ink flow! Don’t worry if you make a mistake, the ink can be washed away for up to 72 hours. Allow at least 24 hours’ drying time, then bake the items for 35 minutes in a 300°F oven. Let cool completely, and wash (the ink’s dishwasher safe!) before wrapping and tagging. So excited for you!

11. Warm & Witty Gloves

I love this one as well actually, another fiddly effort but after you have mastered the art of embroidery with your “Humorous Handkerchiefs” this one will be a breeze. Same principles apply, hand-write the phrase of your choice in the bottom-right corner with a water-soluble marker. Then embroider over the letters using a standard stem stitch. This Christmas give that loved one the knuckle tattoo they have always wanted.

12. Super Trendy Button Rings

Take a look at this trend-tastic use for something you probably already have lying around the house! And if you feel like taking it next level, Etsy has a tonne of vintage buttons to really crank up the craftiness. Start with an adjustable brass ring so one size fits all. If your button has a shank on the back, snip it off with wire-cutting pliers and sand down the back surface. Apply a thin layer of metal-bonding glue to the back of your button, then stick it to the top of the ring. Let it dry for 24 hours and you have nailed, well, glued it! GO YOU!

12. Personalised Picture Pillows

Give the gift of a memory and make sure something or someone special is never too far from thought with a picture pillow. This not only looks fab but it will really warm the heart of a loved one. When you can combine handmade with customisation you are onto an absolute winner. First, you need to select your pic of choice and get it onto the computer using a scanner. Make the necessary editing (sometimes changing a picture to black & white adds a really cool vibe) and sizing adjustments then you need to print it onto some ink-jet fabric sheets. If necessary, trim the fabric, then cut a same-size piece of backing fabric, like linen or broadcloth. Pin the two pieces of fabric together, right sides facing. Stitch around the pillow. Leave a four-inch-wide opening on one side so you can stuff it full. Use small scissors to clip the corners, then turn the pillow right side out. Push out the corners, iron out any wrinkles, and stuff the pillow with loose fiberfill stuffing before blind-stitching the opening closed. Perfecto.

13. Vintage Candle Cups

Another one I will totally try this Christmas is the vintage teacup candle. It’s a beautiful gift that can get used all year round or come out with the Christmas decorations again and again. Get yourself some candle wax for melting and pouring (don’t get mixed up and buy soap mix you hear!) Meltdown your wax and pour into whatever wonderful vessels you have found in the charity shop or online. Etsy always has some really nice options.

14. Personalised Mouse Pads

We all have that uber geeky loved one. Well, give them something they will love too! A custom mouse pad no less. These are super gifts an really easy to create. All you need is a picture or illustration you know what will get a giggle from, print it off on ink-jet fabric sheets use some glue to keep the fabric picture in place and purchase some blank mouse pads to stick the picture onto. The hardest part will be decided what image you are going to go with! If you can’t get the one you want you can always use a free stock imagery site like Pexels to give you the look you want.

15. Made With Love Recipes

Make them a gift they can make over and over again! If you know a favourite recipe or have a family recipe you want to share and keep alive then put it down on paper and pass it on. It can be handwritten or typed up either way so long as it sounds like its come from you, its a great gift. It could be an entire book of recipes or a one-page wonder. Get crafty with the finish you go with. Design it as you know they would love it. You really can’t go wrong (well, unless you accidentally write down a rouge ingredient!)

16. Bath Bombs

Who doesn’t love a bath, from babies to oldies they are awesome and therefore this gift will go down a treat. Bath bombs are quite popular these days. They are a fun way of adding some great nourishing ingredients to your bath. The basic bath bomb ingredients have amazing benefits for your body just on their own. However, let’s get festive with a GingerBread scented bomb! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup epsom salt
• 1/4 cup citric acid
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 Tbs melted coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp molasses
• A spritz of water if needed
  
  Directions:
• Whisk all dry ingredients in a bowl.
• Add the melted coconut oil and molasses to the dry ingredients and mix well.
• You want to be able to mould your mixture in your hand but it still needs to be more dry than wet… too wet and you will lose all your fizz before your bath even starts!
• If you still need a bit more moisture, spray water onto the mixture little by little until the proper consistency is reached.
• Pack mixture into your gingerbread men mould (or any mould will do but gingerbread men is where it’s at!)
• Let them dry for 24 hours before removing them from the mould.
• Store in a dry place until ready to wrap them.

Obviosuly you can use any mould and any scent you want. Let us know what you think is an excellent mix.

17. Oversized Knitted Blankets

This is, literally, a beast of a gift, but for the nibble knitter out there it’s not a difficult one to achieve. I am utterly useless at knitting (I have tried at least 5 times to create one row! I don’t have the patience, I wish I did, I don’t, please don’t hate me!) my partner is amazing at it though so perhaps this is one for them to attempt! Check out this great tutorial we found on the tube. Pick the most festive colours you want to use and get stitchin’.

18. Hand finished Tea Towels

This Christmas why not give the gift of a tea towel but not just any tea towel, this tea towel has been hand finished by you or your children. All you need is some blank tea towel canvases and some Permanent Sharpies or fabric paints and create a cute tea towel for a loved one who loves their morning cup of joe.

19. Dip Dye Kitchen Utensils

Gift a foodie friend with these colourful paint-dipped kitchen utensils. Extra bonus point if you match their kitchen colour scheme! All you need is an eye for detail, some masking tape and paint (use tester pots from your local paint shop to cut costs).

20. Custom Cow Hide Coasters

Use scraps of old leather to cut out the cutest little faux-cowhide coasters. I mean, ultimately you could cut up anything you wanted and create coasters, denim, standard leather. You could use sample lino patterns from the local floor shop and create coaster sets from mosaic floor liners too. However, I know someone who will love this Alpine Chalet vibe. Using a pattern you will create for the shape you want simply trace this one to the material you decide to use and with a good pair of scissors start cutting (but be careful now you hear?)

21. Bougie Book Marks

For the bookworm, we all know and love give them a bookmark they will love. To assemble your custom bookmark, cut velvet ribbon into nine-inch lengths. Purchase ribbon clamps the same width as your ribbon, then use flat-nose jewelry pliers to affix clamps to both ends of each ribbon. Finish by attaching charms, trinkets, or vintage earrings, to the clamps with jump rings.

22. Super Serving Tray

For for a loved one who is always entertaining they are going to love their totally customisable chalk finish serving tray! So you can attack this gift from two angles. You go out and buy a wooden serving tray that you will finish off with chalkboard spray paint. Or you get next level and build the entire thing from scratch. This will include a trip to the local wood shop to have a piece of wood you pick custom cut to the size you want. Then you will want to stain the wood of choice to seal it. Then you will want to attach handles to the piece, this could be really creative, go nuts! Finally, you tape around the area you want to spray and add the coat (or two) of Chalkboard Spray Paint. Option two will take that bit longer, but it will work out cheaper AND way more personal.

23. Keep It Simple Silly Children’s Card Game

This is old school, but there is no school like the old school and I know I loved playing “Pairs” when I was a youngster. This is a really simple gift to create for a younger loved one and it might remove their noses from an ipad for 15 minutes! Especially if you offer to play it with them every time you call around! Print out two copies of each images you pick (a great idea would be family members!) onto 8 1/2″ x 11″ card stock. With a foam brush, apply good old craft glue to the back of each card-stock printout before adhering it to coloured mat board. Let dry for two hours, then top with an additional coat of craft glue (test your printer ink to ensure it doesn’t smudge before applying glue). Allow another hour drying time. To keep game pieces from sticking together when stacked, lightly wipe both sides of the board with baby powder and a cloth. Finally, cut out the game pieces out then stash them in a cute catchall, like this toy truck. Wonderful!

24. Totes Amazing

Who doesn’t love a tote bag, they are a genius lightweight, stuffable, washable, hassle-free bag for everyday use. So it makes tote-al sense that they are given as Christmas gifts. All you need is some blank tote canvases and that awesome imagination of yours!

Using permanent Sharpies, fabric ink, or inkjet fabric paper you can customise each tote to perfectly reflect its new owner.

25. BBQ Starter Kit

For the man or woman who has everything, give them this homemade gift set complete with some BBQ grilling essentials. Now you might have some family recipes to fill in for the following but if you don’t click to see try these homemade ketchup and dry rub. Next pick up some skewers, a basting brush, and cutting board (and remember you can customise this really easily see number 22 on this list). Smokin’

BTW, We want to know how you get

Good luck and remember we want to see any homemade gifts you attempted in the past or received. You could be in the running to win £150 worth of vouchers to help with your own Christmas shopping this year! Share your picture with us on our Facebook page or if you don’t have a facebook account, post in the comments section here and we will forward them onto FB for you.

Remember closing date is midnight on the 21st November 2018 (Wednesday) and we will announce the winner and send their voucher on the following day (Thursday 22nd Nov) in time for Black Friday, Yeehaw!