Money Smarts Blog

We’ve all been there. You decide to save money on holiday gifts by making them yourself. Armed with Pinterest, a glue gun and some glitter you dive right in. But before you know it you’ve spent more on supplies than you would have if you just bought something from the store.

IH MoneySmarts is coming to the rescue with four DIY holiday gifts that won’t break the bank.

Monogramed canvas totes

These bags are trendy, handy and are sure to impress – especially when the recipient finds out you made it. For this project, we’re assuming you have an iron and scissors at home.

Here’s what you need to complete this craft:

Canvas tote: $9

Paper doily: $2

Fabric paint: $2

Spray adhesive: $6

Freezer paper: $2

Sponge brush: $2

Total project cost: $23

Click here for the full instructions from Oh Pickles.

DIY Chalk Board

Chalk boards are a hot décor item and making this one yourself will ensure the recipient loves it even more. For this project, we’re assuming you have access to a saw, a drill and painters tape. Keep in mind that you can make six chalk boards for the same price, so this could be a fun DIY gift for several people on your holiday gift list.

Here’s what you need to complete this craft:

2” x 12” x 8” board: $12

Wood finial: $10

Wood stain: $5

Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Spray Paint: $4

Total project cost: $31, or $5.17 per gift

Click here for the full instructions from Shanty 2 Chic.

Stemware snow globes

These cute decorations will look great as an accent piece for the table or on the mantle. Use old glasses you’re not using anymore, or go to your local thrift shop for fancy stemware for about $1 a piece. For this project, we’re assuming you have cardboard (from a cracker or cereal box, or greeting card) at home.

Here’s what you need to complete this craft:

Plastic reindeer or pine trees: $5

Artificial snow: $3

Glue gun: $5

Scrapbooking paper: $1

Total project cost: $14

Click here for the full instructions from Family Chic.

Cookies in a Jar

This is another great DIY holiday craft to make in bulk. Just get enough ingredients for your favorite cookie recipe, divide them evenly over a collection of mason jars, then top with a bow or a scrap of holiday fabric.

Here’s what you’ll need to complete this craft:

Mason jars and lids: $17 for a box of 12

Gift tags to write cooking instructions on: $3

Fabric or bows: $5

Cookie ingredients: $10-$20

Total project cost: $35 – $45, or $2.91 – $3.75 per gift