Tired of the mountain of toys that seems to double in size every December? Does the thought of another holiday season focused on plastic and price tags leave you feeling a little empty? You’re not alone. Many of us are searching for a more meaningful way to celebrate, a way to shift the focus from getting to giving, especially for our kids.
The real magic of Christmas isn’t found in a crowded store aisle. It’s in the quiet moments spent together, creating something with love. The challenge is finding projects that are simple enough for little hands but result in a gift that is genuinely beautiful and cherished. You want something that Grandma will proudly display, not just tuck away in a drawer.
Homemade Christmas gifts kids can make are cherished because they capture a moment in time, offering a personal, heartfelt alternative to store-bought items while teaching children the joy of giving. Popular ideas that are both easy and beautiful include sentimental handprint art, classic salt dough ornaments, and personalized decorated mugs.
Tired of Toy Clutter? How to Create Christmas Gifts Kids Can Make That Are Actually Cherished
Homemade Christmas gifts that kids can make are a cherished and meaningful alternative to commercial presents because they encapsulate a child’s unique creativity and love. They serve as tangible memories, freezing a moment in time—a tiny handprint, a wobbly drawing, a proud signature. For family members like grandparents and parents, these personal keepsakes hold far more emotional value than any store-bought item. This process also teaches children a valuable lesson about the joy and thoughtfulness behind the act of giving. As a parent who has navigated countless holiday seasons, I’ve discovered the gifts that truly stand the test of time aren’t the most expensive, but the ones made with the smallest hands and the biggest hearts.
9 Adorable Homemade Christmas Gifts Kids Can Actually Make This Weekend
The best kid-made gifts are simple to create, use common craft supplies, and result in a beautiful item anyone would be happy to receive. We’ve curated this list based on years of crafting with kids, focusing on projects with the highest “wow” factor and the lowest frustration level for both kids and adults. From sentimental keepsakes for grandparents to practical gifts for teachers, you’ll find an idea here that your child will be excited to create and proud to give. Each project includes simple, step-by-step instructions to get you started this weekend.
1. Handprint Keepsake Art (Vases & Ring Dishes)
Save this precious keepsake idea to your ‘Christmas Crafts’ board!
Materials Needed:
* Block of white air-dry clay
* Rolling pin or smooth glass bottle
* Parchment paper
* Small knife
* Fine-grit sandpaper
* Acrylic paints and brushes
* Clear gloss sealant (like Mod Podge)
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Roll out a 1/4-inch thick slab of high-quality, soft air-dry clay on parchment paper.
2. Have your child press their hand firmly into the clay.
3. Carefully trace around the handprint with a knife, leaving a small border.
4. Gently cup the clay hand into a shallow bowl to give it a dished shape.
5. Let it dry completely according to the clay package directions (usually 24-48 hours), flipping it once.
6. Once dry, lightly sand any rough edges.
7. Let your child paint the dish. A gold or silver painted edge adds a beautiful touch.
8. Finish with two coats of clear sealant to protect the paint.
Pro-Tip: Make sure to press down on each finger individually to get a clear, deep impression. If the first try isn’t perfect, just ball up the clay and roll it out again!
2. Personalized Salt Dough Ornaments
Pin this classic Christmas recipe for your holiday baking day!
Materials Needed:
* 4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 cup table salt
* 1.5 cups warm water
* Parchment paper
* Rolling pin
* A set of festive Christmas cookie cutters
* A straw or skewer
* Acrylic paints and sealant
* Twine or ribbon for hanging
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands until a smooth, pliable dough forms.
3. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and let your kids cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
5. Place the shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a straw to poke a hole at the top of each ornament for the ribbon.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until completely hard and dry. The time will vary based on thickness.
7. Let cool completely before decorating with paint.
8. Finish with a clear sealant to preserve them, then thread a ribbon through the hole.
Lesson Learned: Don’t bake at too high a temperature! The ornaments will puff up and lose their shape. Low and slow is the key to perfectly flat, hard ornaments.
3. Cheerful DIY Sharpie Mugs & Coasters
A perfect gift for coffee lovers! Save this idea now.
Materials Needed:
* Plain white ceramic mugs or tiles
* Oil-based Sharpie paint markers (critical for permanence)
* Rubbing alcohol and cotton balls
* Oven
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Thoroughly wash and dry the mugs and tiles. Wipe the surface to be decorated with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
2. Let your kids draw their designs directly onto the ceramic surfaces.
3. If they make a mistake, you can quickly wipe it away with rubbing alcohol before it dries.
4. Let the designs air dry for 24 hours to fully set.
5. Place the mugs/tiles in a cold oven. Turn the oven on to 350°F (175°C).
6. Once the oven reaches temperature, bake for 30 minutes.
7. Turn the oven off and let the items cool down completely inside the oven. This prevents cracking from temperature shock.
8. The designs are now permanent and top-rack dishwasher safe!
Pro-Tip: It’s essential to use oil-based paint markers, not regular Sharpies. Regular permanent markers will wash off over time. The oil-based version is what makes the design last.
4. Homemade Fizzy Bath Bombs
Give the gift of relaxation! Pin this easy DIY recipe.
Materials Needed:
* 1 cup baking soda
* 1/2 cup citric acid
* 1/2 cup Epsom salt
* 1/2 cup cornstarch
* 2.5 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
* 1 tablespoon water
* 10-15 drops of essential oil (lavender or peppermint are great)
* A few drops of food coloring
* A bath bomb mold kit or silicone molds
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, and cornstarch.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the wet ingredients: melted coconut oil, water, essential oil, and food coloring.
3. VERY slowly, add the liquid mixture to the dry mixture, one teaspoon at a time, whisking constantly. Add it too fast and the mixture will start fizzing!
4. The final mixture should have the consistency of damp sand and clump together when squeezed.
5. Firmly pack the mixture into your molds. If using a two-part sphere mold, overfill both sides slightly then press them together firmly.
6. Let the bath bombs dry in the molds for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight.
7. Carefully remove from the molds and let them air dry for another 24 hours before packaging.
Pro-Tip: Humidity is the enemy of bath bombs. Make them on a dry day if possible. If your mixture starts to expand out of the molds, it means there’s too much moisture; try adding a bit more cornstarch.
5. Layered Hot Chocolate Mix in a Jar
The coziest gift idea! Save it for a chilly day.
Materials Needed (per 16 oz jar):
* One clean, dry 16 oz mason jar with a secure lid
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 cup powdered milk or dry coffee creamer
* 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
* Ribbon and a gift tag
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Make sure the jar is completely dry inside.
2. Help your child carefully spoon the ingredients into the jar in distinct layers. A funnel can help minimize mess.
3. A good order for clear layers is: cocoa powder, powdered milk, sugar, chocolate chips, and marshmallows on top.
4. Gently tap the jar on the counter after each layer to help it settle evenly.
5. Seal the jar tightly with the lid.
6. Decorate with a ribbon and attach a gift tag with the instructions.
7. Tag Instructions: “Pour mix into a large saucepan. Add 4 cups of hot water and whisk over medium heat until smooth and heated through. Enjoy!”
Pro-Tip: For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cocoa layer and a pinch of salt to the sugar layer. It really enhances the chocolate flavor!
6. Artistic Watercolor Bookmarks
A beautiful gift for the bookworms in your life. Pin it!
Materials Needed:
* A sheet of heavyweight watercolor paper
* A non-toxic kids watercolor paint set
* Paintbrushes and a cup of water
* Ruler and scissors
* Hole punch
* Bookmark tassels or ribbon
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Let your child paint all over the sheet of watercolor paper. Encourage them to use lots of water and blend colors to create beautiful, abstract patterns.
2. Try techniques like sprinkling salt on the wet paint to create a starry texture, or dabbing with a paper towel to lift color.
3. Let the painting dry completely. This is very important.
4. Once dry, use a ruler to measure and cut the paper into 2-inch by 6-inch strips. Each strip will be a unique and beautiful bookmark.
5. Punch a hole at the top center of each bookmark.
6. Loop a colorful tassel or a piece of ribbon through the hole to finish.
Pro-Tip: Cut the bookmarks after the painting is dry, not before. This allows kids to paint freely without worrying about staying in the lines and results in more organic, interesting compositions on each bookmark.
7. Magical Tissue Paper Votive Holders
Light up their holiday! Pin this magical craft idea.
Materials Needed:
* Clean, dry glass jars or votive holders
* Assorted colors of tissue paper, cut or torn into small 1-inch squares
* Mod Podge in a matte or gloss finish
* A foam brush
* Battery-operated LED tea lights
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Set up a protected workspace, as this can get a little sticky.
2. Using the foam brush, paint a small section of the outside of the jar with Mod Podge.
3. Have your child stick pieces of tissue paper onto the gluey section, overlapping them to create a stained-glass effect.
4. Continue working in small sections, painting glue and adding tissue paper, until the entire outside of the jar is covered.
5. Once covered, paint one final, even coat of Mod Podge over the entire surface to seal all the tissue paper down. It will look milky but will dry clear.
6. Let the jars dry completely (several hours).
7. Once dry, pop an LED tea light inside and watch it glow!
Pro-Tip: For a less messy experience with toddlers, pour some Mod Podge onto a paper plate and let them dip the tissue paper squares in the glue before sticking them to the jar. Always use LED tea lights for safety.
8. Colorful Homemade Playdough Kits
The perfect gift for little ones! Pin this no-cook recipe.
Materials Needed:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 cup salt
* 4 teaspoons cream of tartar
* 2 cups boiling water
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* A high-quality gel food coloring set for vibrant colors
* Airtight containers, cookie cutters, and other small toys for the kit
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
2. Carefully pour in the boiling water and vegetable oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until it comes together into a sticky ball.
3. Let the dough cool on the counter for a few minutes until it’s safe to handle.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it’s perfectly smooth and no longer sticky.
5. Divide the dough into as many balls as you want colors.
6. Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each ball and knead thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed. Wear gloves to avoid stained hands!
7. Package the playdough in airtight containers and assemble your gift kit with cookie cutters, a small rolling pin, and other fun trinkets.
Lesson Learned: Cream of tartar is the secret ingredient! Don’t skip it. It makes the playdough incredibly soft and helps it last for months in an airtight container.
9. Cozy No-Sew Fleece Tie Blanket
The ultimate cozy gift! Pin this no-sew tutorial.
Materials Needed:
* 2 pieces of coordinating anti-pill fleece fabric, same size (1.5 yards for a good lap blanket)
* Sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter and mat
* A ruler or measuring tape
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Lay the two pieces of fleece on the floor, one on top of the other, with the “wrong” sides facing together. Smooth out any wrinkles.
2. Carefully trim the edges so both pieces are exactly the same size.
3. From each of the four corners, cut out a 4×4 inch square through both layers of fabric. This will remove the bulk at the corners.
4. Now, cut the fringe. Starting from one corner, cut 4-inch deep slits, about 1-inch wide, along all four sides of the blanket. Make sure to cut through both layers of fabric at the same time.
5. Once all the fringe is cut, it’s time to tie! Take the top and bottom fringe strips together and tie them in a simple, tight double knot.
6. Continue this process all the way around the blanket. Kids can easily help with the tying part.
7. Fluff up the fringe, and your cozy blanket is complete!
Pro-Tip: Using a rotary cutter and a self-healing mat makes cutting the fringe much faster and straighter than using scissors, but requires adult supervision. Anti-pill fleece is worth the small extra cost as it won’t get bumpy after washing.
@iamkimberlynikole Alright back with a candy gift option for your kid’s classmates. This was easy and I think it would make a memorable gift. Anyway if you have any questions, let me know. #Christmas#christmasgift
Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Adorable Homemade Christmas Gifts
- For Grandparents: Handprint Keepsake Art or Personalized Salt Dough Ornaments are timeless treasures.
- For Teachers & Hostesses: DIY Sharpie Mugs, Layered Hot Chocolate Jars, or Magical Votive Holders are thoughtful and useful.
- For Younger Cousins/Friends: A Colorful Homemade Playdough Kit provides hours of fun.
- For Anyone: A cozy No-Sew Fleece Blanket is a universally loved gift that older kids can help make.
- Key to Success: Choose a project appropriate for your child’s age and focus on the fun of creating together, not on perfection.
People Also Ask About Homemade Christmas Gifts From Kids
What can kids make for Christmas presents?
Kids can make a wide variety of wonderful Christmas presents that are both personal and fun to create. Simple and popular ideas include personalized salt dough ornaments, handprint art on canvases or clay dishes, decorated mugs, homemade bath bombs, layered hot chocolate mix in a jar, and no-sew fleece blankets. The best gifts are those that come from the heart.
What are some easy homemade gift ideas?
Some of the easiest homemade gift ideas involve simple materials and minimal steps, making them perfect for kids. Artistic watercolor bookmarks, tissue paper votive holders using Mod Podge, and layered edible gifts in a jar are all very easy. A no-cook playdough recipe is also a simple and fun project for younger children to help with.
How do you make a gift feel special and not just “homemade”?
To make a homemade gift feel special, focus on presentation and finishing touches. Use high-quality materials where it counts, like anti-pill fleece for blankets or oil-based markers for mugs that last. Package the gift beautifully with nice ribbon and a handwritten tag from your child. Most importantly, the love and time spent creating the gift together are what truly make it a cherished item.
Final Thoughts
This holiday season, give the gift of time, creativity, and love. These adorable homemade projects are more than just crafts; they are memories in the making. You’ll not only create beautiful presents but also start meaningful traditions your family can look forward to year after year. Happy crafting!
What are your favorite homemade gifts you’ve received from a child? Share your stories in the comments below
Last update on 2025-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
