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5 DIY Holiday Gifts

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Tanya Eligur Student Contributor, Montclair State University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Montclair chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

The sweet smell of cookies in the oven, bright lights, and 25 Days of Christmas, oh my! Somewhere between thanksgiving break and the beginning of finals, the holiday season has made its way to us once again. Tis the season for giving, but let’s face it, your list is long and your budget, well it’s small. With the help from our best friend Pinterest, we have compiled a list of DIY gifts for a collegiate on a budget.

1. For the baker…

Gather colorful and funky designed cupcake liners from stores such as target or dollar tree, sprinkles, cupcake mix, and frosting of course. Assemble the items in a tin or basket that, and you have yourself a gift that will warm the baker’s heart.

2. For the one with the sweet tooth…

Who can resist homemade cookies? That’s right, no one. Instead of the cliché tray of cookies you could send over to your neighbor, try cookies in a jar. Layer the cookie ingredients in a mason jar as follows:

First: (mix) Flour (1 1/3 cup), baking powder (1 tsp), baking soda (1 tsp), and salt (1/4 tsp)

Second: Oats (1 cup)

Third: Chocolate chips (3/4 cup)

Fourth: Brown sugar (1/2 cup)

Fifth: White sugar (1/2 cup)

Be sure to pack each level tightly, include baking instructions, and decorate the jar away!

*They will need to add 1 egg, ½ butter, and 1 tsp vanilla.

3. For the beauty lover…

Don’t spend an unruly amount of money in body shops this holiday season; make your own products with the ingredients in your kitchen!

Vanilla Brown Sugar Scrub

First, mix 2 cups of brown sugar and 1 cup granulated sugar together

Then, add in 1 cup of sunflower oil and 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract

Lastly, mix altogether and scoop into a sealable glass container

4. For the caffeine fanatic…

Leave the caffeine addict in your life a special message for them to read every morning on a mug. All you need is plain white mugs from a dollar store and some sharpies. Write your message on the mugs, bake them for 350°F, and they are ready to go.  

5. For your best friend…

What is a great way to relax after the close of the semester? A spa day of course! Fill a mason jar with lotion, nail polish, and other essentials.