Need some ideas for inexpensive Christmas gifts to make? Handmade gifts are extra special. They require to giver to put time and effort into the gift, which is often more appreciated by the recipient than something bought in a store. Here are some ideas for beautiful gifts to make that will keep your holiday budget on track.
Hand-Painted Ornaments
These pretty, hand-embellished ornaments are made from solid-colored glass balls, which can usually be purchased in boxes of 6 to 12 at your local craft or discount store. The type with a matte finish works best.
Materials:
Use the paint pens to draw stars, swirls, dots, snowflakes or other designs on the ornaments, taking care not to smudge your work as you go. If desired, you can also personalize the ornament with the recipient's name and the year. When the paint is completely dry, tie a length of ribbon to the top for hanging.
Decoupage Photo Frames
Photo frames are a delightful gift for anyone on your list, and this particular frame is a work of art in itself. Unfinished wood frames are available at your local craft store in a variety of sizes to suit your needs.
Materials:
Sand any rough edges on the frame. Coat the frame with a layer of decoupage medium, and begin laying the scraps of paper, fabric and trim over the glue, smoothing with a paintbrush. Coat the entire surface with another layer of decoupage medium. When dry, add a final coat or two to finish.
Ceramic Tile Coasters
These coasters are easy to make and very pretty! Make sure you use paints specifically designed for painting on glass or ceramic, as other paints will not stick to the glossy surface of the tile.
Materials:
Clean the surface of the tile well, and then paint your desired design on the tile. If you aren't comfortable painting freehand, you can always use stencils or stamps to create your design. When the paint is dry, glue the felt onto the bottom of the tiles.
Fancy Bath Salts
Bath salts are such a luxury. These bath salts can be given on their own, or as part of a pampering gift basket. For scent, consider soothing fragrances such as lavender or chamomile, or warm, spicy scents such sandalwood and patchouli. Package your bath salts in mason jars or fancy glass bottles, which can be purchased at craft stores.
Materials:
Combine the salts with the oils in a large glass bowl. Mix well with a whisk. Pour the salts into the bottles or jars, using a funnel if necessary. Be sure to read the cautions carefully when using essential oils and to wear gloves while you're mixing. Some concentrated essential oils can cause severe inflammation or allergic reactions if you get them on your skin.
 | Homemade Christmas present ideas are great ways to show appreciation since a lot of love can go into composing them. A good homemade Christmas present is one that the recipient will find both useful and meaningful. |
 | This year's holiday cards will stand out if you make handmade Christmas cards with your family. If you have young children, the cards may not have the sophisticated look of store-bought cards, but they will be loved by adoring relatives. Here are some easy projects for kids of all ages. |
 | When your Christmas budget just isn't big enough to provide for everyone on the list, it's time to search out some cheap Christmas gift ideas. Just because a gift is cheap doesn't mean it is of lesser quality. |
With a little planning, you can have a frugal Christmas and still enjoy the joy of the season. |
Homemade cookies and Christmas sweets are a wonderful and thoughtful gift for family and friends who live far away. Because cookies are fragile, special care is needed when shipping to make sure they arrive in great condition. |
