Nothing says “I love you” or “I appreciate you” like a gift. Yes, Christmas is behind us, but maybe some people slipped through the cracks or you just love giving presents. Either which way, New Year is a great occasion to give someone a present…

The more thought and effort you put into that gift, the more personal that message becomes.

Investing your time and energy in a handcrafted gift is unquestionably the best way to go. It is less expensive and the recipient will treasure it for the rest of their lives.

We’ve compiled a list of five DIY gift ideas that will show your loved ones just how much you appreciate them!

A personalized mug is always a winner

A coffee mug with your favourite photo of you and your loved one. To complement this gift, fill the mug with their favourite cappuccino, hot chocolate and a few chocolates to enjoy while relaxing.

A personalised cutting/cheese board

A cutting board is always a useful tool in the kitchen. Whether chopping vegetables or serving cheese and wine, it is unquestionably a kitchen must-have. Instead of giving your loved ones a plain cutting board, jazz it up by having it engraved with a personal message. You can also have the board cut out in a one-of-a-kind design.

Beautiful and unique pot plants

Pot plants can appear bland and boring, so why not spice things up by painting the pots with unique designs? Mosaic patterns are always trendy and can be quite colourful. After painting the pots, apply a layer of modge- podge to ensure the paint is sealed and the pot can be washed without damaging the artwork.

Homemade candles in a glass

Do you have old candles lying around that you no longer use? You can save money by repurposing them. If possible, save the candle wicks; otherwise, pick up a few at your local arts and crafts store. Print a special message on a sticker and stick it to a glass. After that, melt your old candles in a pot. Once melted, pour the wax into the glass and let it harden. You can complement this gift with some bubble bath and a box of chocolates.

Glitter and glam wine glasses

This is a really fun, unique, girly-girl gift for those of us who adore glitter, gold and, of course, wine! A wine glass, glitter, modge-podge, masking tape and a few vinyl stickers are all you need. Firstly, tape off any areas of the glass that you don’t want glitter on. Then paint the rest of the glass with modge-podge before sprinkling glitter all over the painted area. Remove the masking tape and place vinyl on the glass’s clean area. When you’re finished decorating the glass, use a double-thick clear glaze to spray all around the outside of the glass and you’re done! Fill the glasses with mini bottles of their favorite drinks, lip balm, confetti and possibly a cute animal-print headband or hair scrunchies.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Ladysmith Gazette, a sold newspaper distributed in the Ladysmith area.