Although 2020 may seem to have dragged on interminably, Christmas is around the corner once again!
If you’re a last-minute shopper, you’ll be laughing at this statement, but bear with me.
My argument for thinking about Christmas early is that you’re more likely to give really meaningful gifts if you have plenty of time to put some thought into your choices.
Whether you make gifts yourself or have them made, giving an item that is specially made for the awesome people in your life is best of all.
Without words, it tells them how important they are to you, and the reminder will be with them whenever they look at or remember that really personal gift.
From things you can make to things that you can buy, and across a range of (affordable) price ranges, we look at gifts that will be remembered fondly for years to come.
Wall Art With a Sense of Place
Home arts and crafts can be truly beautiful and unusual, but this particular idea requires experts with high-tech tools.
The cost does mean it isn’t for just anyone – this is a special gift for special people – but it is affordable and it will last for many years if not a lifetime.
Just to keep the suspense up before I come right out and tell you what this delightful surprise is, I’ll add that it’s made of wood, a material that somehow says “home” better than any other.
Without further ado, I unveil my prime surprise gift: it’s a city map like no other. Every street and intersection is there.
The intervening spaces are cut out from the map using lasers.
The look is gorgeous and, while retaining the classic beauty of natural wood, it’s still high-tech and thoroughly modern.
Now for the really good part: although there are people who love maps of any kind no matter what they represent, you can choose the city and have your wall art map made for you.
Who doesn’t have a favorite city?
Whether it’s the one you live in or the place where you had an unforgettable holiday, the sense of place adds meaning and a touch of individualization.
Handmade Quilts
As truly amazing gifts that combine practicality with beauty, handmade patchwork quilts are still with us despite the idea being hundreds of years old.
If you’re someone who loves sewing as a hobby, and would like to make one for a double bed, you had better get started now!
Baby quilts, on the other hand, can be a relatively quick project, even if you haven’t made one before.
As for you, you’ll have that sense of achievement one gets from having practiced an ancient art, albeit with modern tools.
As a bonus, you’ll know that your gift will be treasured, and if you choose good materials, your crafty quilt could even be handed down to the next generation.
Home-Made Cookies as Memorable Stocking-Stuffers
Now for those people who would probably have got a box of chocolates for Christmas – you know the ones I mean: casual friends, teachers, neighbors, and family members you stay in touch with but don’t hear from often.
You’re going to make that stocking-stuffer gift special too.
Choose your favorite cookie recipe or browse around online for a new one and get baking!
Remember to make a few extra for your family. When they get a whiff of those delicious baking smells, they’ll be queueing up for a sample.
Presentation is an important part of your gift.
Wrap them up like sweets in colourful cellophane finished with a bow, stack them on coasters before wrapping for added protection, or serve them up in decorated mason jars.
This is a project you can use to get your kids involved and bursting with creativity.
Sure, a box of chocolates is nce to get, but your home-baked cookies say so much more!
Chosen with Love, Given From the Heart
Whatever your Christmas gift ideas may be – from high-end buys to homemade goodies, let them special. It’s easy to do.
All it takes is a little thought and lots of love.
Start your Christmas planning now and you’ll have both love and consideration wrapped up with your gift. It shows, doesn’t it?