As the holiday season approaches, students are embracing the spirit of giving, not by emptying their wallets but by pouring their hearts into DIY Christmas gifts. These handmade treasures save money and add a personal touch that no store-bought gift can match.

The Message-Filled Mason Jar

Freshman Lilah Rawson’s idea is both thoughtful and cost-effective. She fills a mason jar with handwritten notes, each expressing appreciation and fond memories. “It’s a way to remind someone how much they mean to you, one note at a time,” said Lilah.

The materials are a mason jar, colored paper, and a pen. “I cut the paper into strips, write 50 or so small notes, and then fold them and put them into the jar which I decorate with a bow.” Depending on how much effort she puts into the notes, this takes around an hour.

Themed Ornaments

Ava Weekly, a junior, combines her love for music and crafts by creating custom ornaments. “It’s a small but special gift, especially for music lovers,” Ava explained.

“I used a wooden ornament, Mod Podge, a paintbrush, and decorative paper, including sheet music. It’s a fun project that you can tailor to any hobby or sport,” Ava shared. This DIY gift, taking about 15 minutes to make, is both time-efficient and customizable to fit sports and other hobbies. It can be made for anyone!

Personalized Coupon Books

Maggie Luoma, another freshman, takes a creative approach with custom-made coupon books. Filled with offers to help around the house or provide a special favor, these books are both practical and sweet. “It’s fun to make and gives something meaningful to my parents,” said Maggie.

“I use printer paper, staples, and some coloring supplies to make it visually appealing,” she said. Maggie’s book includes various helpful chores, from dishwashing to laundry, accompanied by hand-drawn illustrations.

Cozy Tie Blankets

Sophomore Ethan Vidlak suggested a gift that combines warmth with sentiment—a handmade tie blanket. Using two pieces of soft fabric, he creates a cozy blanket perfect for chilly evenings. “It’s a hug in the form of a blanket,” Ethan said.

“I laid the two blanket sized pieces of fabric on the floor next to each other. I cut strips into the edge of the blanket about two inches away from each other. Once I do this on both pieces of fabric, I put them on top of each other and tie the knots together to make a blanket.”

These DIY gift ideas offer a personal touch to the holiday season, proving that the best gifts are those made by hand. Whether it’s a jar full of memories, a musical ornament, a book of promises, or a cozy blanket, these gifts carry the warmth and spirit of the season in every stitch and written word.