14 Inexpensive DIY Gift Ideas

I'm usually one of those people who does all of my holiday shopping three days before Christmas, but this year I have vowed to change that. Not only is it more expensive to wait, it's also a lot harder to put thought into your gifts when you are under the gun.

It seems we have to give a gift to everyone lately so I've decided to put together a crafty list of gifts that are full of heart, but don't break the bank!

1- DIY Graphic Sweater

For your fashionable friend... make it even more thoughtful by putting a word or phrase that they use. Mine would be "totes."

Credit: http://www.refinery29.com

Get more info here >> www.refinery29.com

2- DIY Rope Bracelet

This is so simple but very cute.

Get more info here >> apairandasparediy.com

3- DIY Map frame

For your friend who loves to travel... put a picture from their most recent adventure.

Get more info >> www.popsugar.com

4- DIY Sharpie mugs

Get more info >> www.popsugar.com

5- DIY Recipe Book

Put together this super thoughtful gift by combining family recipes and having a book made. Shutterfly and other online printing companies make this idea super simple.

6- Song Lyric Print

This is an easy, yet thoughtful gift for the music lover...put the gift receivers favorite song lyrics on a canvas.

7- DIY Sugar Scrub

This is so easy and a great small gift for your child's teacher, your hair-dresser or even a co-worker. It's thoughtful yet, very inexpensive.

Get more info >> www.iheartnaptime.net

8- Homemade BBQ sauce in Mason Jars

People love a good BBQ sauce, so whether you have a good family recipe (I'm not allowed to share mine) or you can find a good one on the internet. Homemade BBQ sauce is always a hit as an inexpensive gift. You can make label like below or tie a wooden glazing brush and write their name on it (like in the small pic below).

Credit: http://www.ohhowposh.com

Credit: http://www.campwander.blogspot.com

9- Caramel popcorn

This is such an easy idea and can satisfy a ton of people. There is no need to buy caramel popcorn this year, when you can simply make it yourself. Extra points if you buy tin containers and put the popcorn inside.

Get more and the recipe info >> www.popsugar.com

10- Tie phone case

This is such a fun idea for the man in your life. Take a old tie of his and repurpose it.

Get more info >> www.popsugar.com

11- Love canvas

Spread the love all year round with this creative gift.

Get more info >> heylaurenrene.com

12- Chalkboard serving tray

This is so inventive and seems relatively easy to make!

Get more info >> lilluna.com

13- Personalized painted flower pot

This is a great idea for a neighbor or a coworker. Buy some plain flower pots and personalize them for your friends. Put a plant in it and they will have a gift they can enjoy all year long.

14- DIY Necklace + Bracelet (super simple!)

Michael's has a great deal on dainty jewelry. You can make simple jewelry for your friends for under $5. The charms are $1.99 and the combination pack with one necklace and one bracelet is $1.99. That's two different gifts you can make, a necklace and a bracelet for under $5 (see the bottom picture)!

Credit: CW44 Tampa Bay

Tara Wikoff | CW44 Tampa Bay