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5 DIY Presents for Your Parents

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at C of C chapter.

Shopping for presents for your parents can be hard, especially when it feels like they have everything they could possibly want.  If that’s the case, you can always go the do it yourself route.  Not only will the appreciate you put in the time and effort to create them something, but they’ll keep it around (if it’s not edible) for years to come.  So make your parents happy and proud this holiday season with these 5 DIY present ideas.

1. Jar Recipes

Photo from Pinterest.  

Grab a mason jar and layer in the ingredients for their favorite holiday cookies and treats!  This simple gift will show them you care about the things they like and even give you both some time to spend together in kitchen making the goodies.  Awesome ideas for these cookies can be found on Pinterest.  

2. Knitted or Crocheted Items

Photo from Pinterest.

Now, this is where you can get really creative.  Make your parents handmade gifts by knitting or crocheting them a hat, scarf, socks or even a blanket (if you’re really ambitious).  If you’re a beginner to the craft, start small with something like a pot holder.  If you’re a seasoned pro, however, go all out.  Make them Harry Potter house themed scarves or knit them a blanket that will keep them cozy through the winter months.  

3. Cross Stitch Patterns

Photo from Pinterest.

Similar to knitting or crocheting, you can get creative with cross stitching.  If you’re not familiar with the art form, take a look at pillows in at your grandparent’s house or even puruse Pinterest.  Although this might seem dated the craft is coming back into style.  Cross stitch your parents something to go on a pillow or a tea towel, or even try to cross stitch a funny phrase to be framed (there’s even “dirty” cross stitch patterns available on the internet now).  These gifts will sure be a hit with your family.  

4. Coffee or Tea Mugs

Photo from Pinterest.

Sure, you could buy a pre-made mug that has no personal flair, but where’s the fun in that?  Make your parents a mug they can use and cherish for years to come.  If you’re going to school in a different state, consider a set of two mugs with both states on them or even a “home is where the heart is” type mug.  Or, if you’re feeling creative make a mug with fun or witty phrases that will describe your parent’s state before they have their morning cup of coffee.  These gifts will keep their hands, drinks and hearts warm throughout the holiday season and months after.  

5. Scrapbook

Photo from Pinterest.

This is where you can get really sappy and sentimental with your family.  Create a scrapbook from a trip, your childhood or even from your time away from your family (you know the pictures you can share).  This will allow your parents to look back and remember all the good times or times they may have missed while you were away.  Not only will this be extremely personal but it’s something they can keep to show your future family for after college.  

Shopping for Christmas presents can be unbearable and very impersonal.  Try this year to create something and give your parents gifts they’ll remember for years to come.  Plus, these DIY presents will be a lot lighter on your wallet.  For more DIY present ideas, check out our Pinterest.  

Born and raised in the northernmost state, Alaska, Marissa flew south to College of Charleston for a little more sun and a little more heat.  She believes a good life involves coffee, puppies, and more coffee and free time is her favorite thing not to have.