Easy and Inexpensive DIY (Do It Yourself) Gifts

Whether you're gearing up for Christmas or in need of a good birthday present idea, there are a number of DIY (do it yourself) options out there. It's always fun to give and receive DIY presents for several reasons. First of all, it can be a more heartfelt gift because of the hard work you put into making it. Secondly, a DIY gift is likely a unique and unexpected one.

Here are three easy and inexpensive DIY gift ideas for you to carry out for your next gift-giving occasion.

1.) Soap

I come from a very large family and some of my fondest memories are from the holidays when we would all work together to make presents for extended family members. One of my favorite things to make and give away was soap and other DIY beauty gifts.

The great thing about soap is that it's practical and customizable. This is an easy soap recipe. (You can make your own from scratch with this recipe from TheFarm.org) Here's what you need -- You can find all these items at your local craft store.

Soap Block. Try this one from JoAnn Fabrics

Soap Molds

Scented oils (your choice)

Other items for your soap (eg. Lavender, oatmeal, almonds, cinnamon, chocolate, etc.)

There are step by step instructions on the soap blocks and it's very difficult to mess up. Melt your soap blocks, add scents and ingredients of your choice and let it sit in greased soap molds until hardened. Remove and place in pretty packages or gift baskets!

2.) Bread and Jam

For you domestic creatures out there, put your skills to use! Everyone loves an edible gift, especially if it's made by you! Jam/Jelly is a very easy item to make, it just takes a little bit longer than some foods. Bread and jam come in a variety of forms, so choose the best one for your recipient.

3.) Blanket

Blankets are also very customizable, making them an ideal gift for any time of the year. Try these different types of blankets:

Crocheted - Choose your recipients favorite colors and have at it! They'll be thrilled with the amount of time and effort you put into their present.

Tied - Buy two different types of fabric that complement each other. Make sure that you get a big enough size that it serves as a blanket. Both fabrics should be the same size. Next, spread the two fabrics on the floor (one on top of another) and cut around the edge. Each cut should be 2-4 inches deep. Next, tie the two fabrics together (double knot). Do this all around the edge of the blankets. Viola!

Customize an already made blanket - One of my favorite gifts from a friend was a blanket that she bought inexpensively and did stitch work on. It was thoughtful and unique!

Quilt - You don't need to necessarily buy quilt material, but you can if you want. Choose several types of fabric that you like and cut them into squares all the same size. Next, sew them all together. Buy another piece of fabric and sew it onto the quilted part of the blanket.

Good luck! If you like these DIY items, check out all the DIY ideas I have in other articles. Simply click "Wendy Gould" at the top of the page and browse around!