Holiday System Day 8 - homemade gifts

Update: Sharing this post at Handmade Gift Carnival at Nourishing Gourmet.
I love making gifts for the holiday season- it's frugal, and fun. Making gifts allows me to focus on the true meaning of the season instead of being stuck in the consumerism that can define the holidays if you're not careful.

For years I spent many weeks (and many dollars) each year trying to find the perfect gift for every person. My mother was especially difficult- after 10 or so years and hundreds of dollars- I finally found the perfect gift: homemade candy! Time spent- about an hour. Cost- about $2-$3.

Want to make gifts but unsure of where to start? Here are some of my time-tested tips:

1. Gifts from the kitchen- just about everyone loves homemade goodies. These allow you to really spend time and effort on the gifts, which people notice. The possibilities here are endless- try some flavored vinegars.


2. Gifts suited to the recipient- make your homemade gifts "fit" the person just as you would for purchased gifts. Have family with food sensitivities? Make them special mixes/ treats that fall within their dietary needs.


3. Gifts that look good- wrap the presents with care. Consider making gift baskets with a theme like breakfast- with homemade granola; pancake or scone mix- and fill it out with some purchased items (like some good coffee or tea.) Try using different containers and wrapping, such as a saucepan, metal colander, or kitchen towels. You can get inexpensive cookie and candy tins from thrift stores, clean them in the dishwasher and line them with parchment or colored plastic wrap.

For recipes I love, be sure to visit the links above. See the other posts in the Holiday Series by clicking on the picture. I am happy to share this at Works For Me Wednesday, come see all the great ideas!