Easy DIY and Eco-friendly Gifts Guide: A Meaningful Way to Give This Holiday Season
The festive season is here!
With the holidays around the corner, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush to find that “perfect” gift. But sometimes, the best presents don’t come with hefty price tags or flashy packaging—they come from the heart, created with thought and care. Instead of reaching for something generic and mass-produced, why not try making gifts or think of something new this year?
Whether you prefer getting crafty or simply want to make more thoughtful choices, why not try a mix of DIY and eco-friendly gifts this year? From heartfelt handmade items to eGift cards that support local businesses, or experience gifts that bring people together, there are plenty of ways to show you care without adding to the holiday waste pile.
Why Choose DIY and Eco-Friendly Gifts This Year?
When it comes to gift-giving, it’s the thought that counts. Think back to a time when you received a handmade card or a personalised present. It felt special, right? That’s because someone took the time and effort to create something just for you. DIY and eco-friendly gifts capture that same sentiment. They’re more than just “stuff”—they’re memories in the making, whether it’s a jar of homemade bath salts or a thoughtfully chosen experience that can be shared and cherished.
But it’s not all about crafting. Going for eco-friendly gifts could mean choosing a digital gift card to your favourite local café, or planning a unique experience like a pottery class or a nature walk. These eco-friendly gift ideas might not fit into a box, but they come packed with the promise of quality time and connection.
So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer eco-friendly gift ideas that don’t require scissors and glue, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s explore some easy, thoughtful, and eco-friendly gift ideas to make your holiday season truly memorable!
1. Get Crafty: DIY Projects
For those who love to get hands-on, there’s nothing like creating a gift from scratch. A few fun DIY and eco-friendly gift ideas include:- Upcycled Candle Holders: Turn empty jars into candle holders with just a few simple decorations. Add a bit of twine, some paint, and voilà—a beautiful piece that lights up any room.
- Homemade Bath Salts: Combine Epsom salts with a few drops of your favourite essential oils, and package them in a glass jar for a pampering gift that’s as relaxing to make as it is to use.
- Personalised Recipe Book: Fill a notebook with your favourite recipes or create a themed collection like “Family Favourites” or “Quick Weeknight Meals.” Not only will it be a treasured keepsake, but it’s also a gift that keeps on giving with each dish.
These are just a few ways to show that you put thought and care into your sustainable gifts—plus, they’re a great way to spend time with family and friends while you create!
2. eGift Cards
Not feeling crafty? That’s okay! eGift cards are an excellent sustainable gift choice that still keep sustainability in mind. Choose an eGift card from a local store or café, or even one for an online platform offering eco-friendly products. For example, you could opt for an eGift card from a sustainable fashion brand, a local organic market, or a bookstore that focuses on environmentally friendly publications. These gifts are great for reducing waste—no plastic card, no wrapping paper—and they give your recipient the freedom to pick what they truly want or need.3. Experience Gift Ideas
Instead of wrapping up another “thing” that might get lost in the shuffle, consider gifting an experience. Here are some experience-based and eco-friendly gift ideas to inspire you:- Art Classes or Workshops: Sign someone up for a pottery class, painting workshop, or cooking lesson. Not only does this provide a unique and fun experience, but it also allows them to learn a new skill and meet new people.
- Nature Adventures: Gift a hiking or camping experience! You could plan a weekend trip to a national park, complete with a picnic and guided tours. Alternatively, consider a day of kayaking, rock climbing, or wildlife spotting for a more adventurous outing.
- Concerts or Theatre Tickets: Check out local listings for upcoming performances and purchase tickets to a show your loved one would enjoy. This is a great way to support local artists while giving the gift of a memorable night out.
These experience gifts are all about spending quality time together, making them the perfect way to show you care. And since they don’t come with any packaging, they’re a sustainable gift choice too!
4. Handmade Cards & Gift Tags: Add a Personal Touch
If you’ve got some extra cardboard or paper lying around, get creative! Use recycled materials to create personalised gift tags or holiday cards. Add drawings, doodles, or handwritten notes to make each card unique. You can even include a photo or a memory associated with the gift. This small effort goes a long way in making your present feel special.
5. Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping Solutions
Before reaching for traditional wrapping paper, think outside the box! Here are some eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas:- Old Newspaper, magazines or Maps: For a vintage feel, wrap gifts in old newspapers, magazines or maps. You can even add a sprig of dried flowers or a small pinecone as a decorative touch.
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Fabric Wraps: Use old tea towels, scarves, or fabric scraps to wrap your gifts. Not only does this eliminate waste, but the recipient can also reuse the fabric for their own purposes later.
- Reusable Gift Bags: Invest in a few reusable gift bags or fabric pouches that can be gifted and reused year after year. They’re not only practical but also add a charming touch to your presents.
- Eco Cheeks Bamboo Toilet Paper and Paper Towel Rolls: If you have some rolls from Eco Cheeks bamboo toilet paper or paper towels, get creative! These can be transformed into unique gift holders. Simply cut the roll to your desired height, decorate it with natural twine, recycled paper, or even paint, and place your small gifts inside. This not only reduces waste but also gives a fun, rustic vibe to your gift presentation.
6. Digital Gifts for a Sustainable Twist
Beyond eGift cards, there are plenty of digital gifts that support sustainability. Consider:- Subscriptions: Give the gift of subscriptions to services like streaming platforms, music apps, or even digital magazines. This allows your loved ones to enjoy entertainment or stay informed without the need for physical products.
- Charitable Donations: Make a donation in your recipient's name to an environmental charity or local initiative. You could choose a cause that aligns with their interests, whether it’s wildlife conservation, reforestation efforts, or supporting sustainable agriculture.