Handmade Christmas Gifts

Consider giving a simple handmade gift to a friend or loved one this year.  Nothing shows how much you care more that something that was made from the heart.

Personalize a store-bought candle for an inexpensive Christmas gift. Simply wrap cardstock around the candle, and embellish it with a die-cut accent and letter. No die-cutting tool? No problem -- use stickers instead.  These candles can be picked up at any dollar store.  What a great girlfriend gift!

 Glass paperweights decorated for the holidays make practical and gender-neutral gifts -- ideal for coworkers and teachers. The simple project starts with a glass paperweight kit, available at crafts and hobby stores or online. Decorate the paperweight with scrapbook paper, gift wrap, or an old Christmas Card.  

This pretty-as-a-package pincushion is the perfect gift for a crafty friend. Cover a foam square with fabric (wrap it like a gift) and secure along the edges with fabrics glue. Glue on beads and tie on a ribbon bow.

 It takes only a few minutes and some embroidery floss to make these cute napkins!

Make a candle in a vintage teacup. Scour garage sales for cheap but interesting tea cups. Start with a wick, melted old candle ends, and a little scented oil, such as lemongrass or grapefruit. Find out how to make these candles HERE

Image source: candle, paperweight, cube, napkins, teacups