If you feel you’ve exhausted all the available gift options for someone, fear not – you can always make them something. That’s easier said than done, of course, but this article is here to help you. Here are five great DIY gift options anyone can try, and anyone will appreciate!

1. Personalized Photo Calendar

Unfortunately, real photographs have somewhat gone by the wayside in our increasingly digital society, so what better opportunity than now to give a heartfelt personalized photo calendar? It’s nice and simple to do: 

• Choose 12 meaningful photos (one for each month) – these can be whatever you like, just make sure that they hold special value to the person. 
• Use free software like Canva to design a layout, which once again, can be up to you, but be certain the person has enough space to write down key notes and dates. 
• Print it on study cardstock and then using a hole punch and some ribbon/string, bind it all together (for printing on cardstock, you may need to use the professional-grade printer at your local print or stationary store)

2. Homemade Scented Candles

Candles are a great gift, but they’re also something that’s given very often to the point they’ve become a bit boring. That’s not the case for a candle you’ve made all by yourself, though.

The process can be a little more in-depth than most DIY gifts, but it’s definitely worth it. Check out this YouTube video for full instructions, and bear in mind the following:

• Decide whether you want to use beeswax or soy, which candle wicks to get, and the glass jars (sizes) you’re going to go for. 
• Think about what sort of scent the person would like, and then choose a select few essential oils.
• Don’t forget to add an extra decorative touch with ribbon, twine, or hand-drawn labels. 

3. DIY Terrarium

Given how unique and variable they can be, terrariums are a great DIY gift for the right person – especially if they’re a plant lover. Here’s how to make one:

• Get a glass bowl of whatever size you like and layer it with pebbles, activated charcoal, and high-quality soil. 
• Add a variety of small plants, such as succulents or air plants. You can also add moss to diversify the biome. 
• Personalize your terrarium by adding decorative touches of your choosing, which could be little ornaments to go inside, a decorated exterior, or both.

Here are some ideas to get you started!

4. Customized Dice for Board Game Fans

Adult board games and fantasy role-playing games have become increasingly popular over the years, and even those who don’t play them can appreciate the cool-looking multi-sided dice used. The coolest part, though, is that you can quite easily make your own. 

These dice are known as sharp-edge dice, and it’s recommended to pick up some handmade ones first to get an idea of the look and feel. From there, you can attempt the following to make some yourself:

• Buy a silicone dice mold and some clear resin.
• Use pigment powder and glitter to add color and style.
• When the resin hardens, sand and polish to give a gleaming finish.
• Use a very fine paintbrush to paint the numbers (metallic paint works best)

Here’s a great beginner tutorial covering the process. 

5. Hand-Painted Tote Bag

Reusable tote bags are all the rage these days, and a personalized one is sure to go down a treat with eco-conscious friends and family. Here’s how to make one:

• Buy a couple (one and a spare) of plain canvas bags and some fabric paints.
• Sketch out your design beforehand on a tablet or notepad, and then get to work (you can also cut cardboard stencils to help you).
• Let the paint dry fully to ensure durability (some require the application of heat).

Take a look at this article for a primer!