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DIY Gift Guide for the 2020 Holiday Season

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

2020 has felt like one of the fastest yet slowest years of my life! It’s crazy to think that we’re already in the month of December and have to start thinking about what to give our loved ones this holiday season. Since this year has been such a mess and so many people are struggling due to losing their jobs because of the pandemic, I figured that it would be a good idea to give everyone some holiday gift ideas that are cheap, homemade and fun to make! So, if you’re looking to not break the bank this season and want to get crafty with your holiday gifts, keep on reading!

1. Twisted Candles

I don’t know about everyone else, but with being stuck inside 24/7 I’ve been burning candles nonstop every single day. They make my room feel so much more cozy and they’re a great addition when trying to spice up your home decor. Twisted candles are all the rage right now on social media and they’re super simple to make. Just get any colored candlestick you have at home or from your local craft store, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes until bendy, press the soft candle flat and twist away! Then leave it in cold water until it’s hard again, and ta-da! A beautiful new decor piece that’s a great gift for anybody in your life. If you’re looking to complete the ensemble, head to your local thrift store and pick up a vintage candlestick holder!

Photo by Nicola Fioravanti on Unsplash

2. Tie Dye Sweatsuits

Another essential item for being quarantined the majority of the year has been sweatsuits. Once again, they’re all the rage on social media. These tie dye sweatpants and sweatshirts are being sold at prices ranging from $50-$150! Luckily, they’re incredibly easy to make at home and are just as comfy. So, to start on this project, either grab some old sweatshirts and sweatpants from your closet or try and search for some at the thrift store. Amazon should be your last resort, but you can find affordable ones on there too! Make sure to pick up some tie dye and rubber bands either from your local craft store or online. Then, band up your pieces in whatever design you wish, apply the dye, let it sit for 8-12 hours, rinse your pieces in cold water and pop them in the wash! You’ll end up with a personalized gift that anybody would love to receive and they’ll be reminded of you each time they wear it. 

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3. Jewelry

When I was in high school, I loved to make my own earrings, necklaces, you name it! Making jewelry at home is a lot easier than some people might think. Everything you need can be found at the craft store and a basic list of materials would include beads, beading cord or thread, clasps, chains for necklaces, earring hooks and backs and pliers. The more in depth your project is, the more materials you will probably need, but any questions you have can be answered by the workers at the craft store or by looking up a tutorial on YouTube. I’ve found making your own jewelry is an incredibly soothing activity and it’s a great way to make personalized gifts for the loved ones in your life! 

Make sure to have fun, and have a great holiday season!

Hi! My name is Isabella Sohn and I am a Junior at UIUC studying communications with a minor in leadership.
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