Lifestyle
All made up
What
Gifts are great! As long as they're appreciated, that is…
Every year, we give millions of unwanted presents that end up unloved and unused.1 That’s a shame for the giver and receiver, but it’s even worse for the environment.
So here’s an idea. Give homemade gifts this year - you’ll save money as well as natural resources, and that personal touch will make your presents much more lovable.
Why
You can't make something out of nothing. Every time a new product is made, we need to extract fresh resources from the earth – through mining, quarrying or tree felling. New clothes, books, films, electronics, cosmetics…. they're all made from something, and something pretty precious.
How
Whether you're some kind of creative genius or your craft skills peaked at primary school, the possibilities for home made gifting are endless…
Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:
- Cook up some homemade jam or chutney - extra points if you use any leftover fruit and veg)
- Use old jewellery to string a necklace or pair of earrings, or make something else entirely!
- Style a unique bag out of an old pair of jeans
- Put together a pin board out of wine corks
- Create a lovingly curated mixtape (ok, a playlist is probably more appropriate!)
- Compile a collection of recipes, carefully tailored to your lucky recipient’s tastes
- Pledge to fix something your loved one once treasured, or turn it into something a little different, like these 'swants' aka pants made of sweaters.
- Pledge to reuse and recycle things you have lying around the house. Check out these crafts made of bottle caps, and empty tea light holders.
We also love this ingenious list of 100 crafty homemade gift ideas, which features everything from wine racks made from old crates to personalised door mats and dog treats.
Kirstie Allsopp’s book Kirstie’s Homemade Home is also a well of ideas and inspiration for all things homemade.
And don't forget the wrapping paper - why not use an old piece of newspaper finished off with a colourful bow, or reuse paper from last year? If you have to use tape, check out this fun paper tape, or tie it up with some biodegradable twine!
