Congratulations! You made it to part 8 of our series 31 DAYS of Giving Handmade! You can find links to the entire series, in order, on our Giving Handmade Index Page. I'll add each new link as that day is published.
{types of handmade gifts}
As I see it, handmade gifts usually fit into one of these three categories:
1) Experiential
2) Useful Items or Tools
3) Objects of Art
Here are some examples of each one to get you started thinking:
Experiential Gifts
i-o-u's or coupons for services, a song or poem, food, a gift basket for movie night, a collection of home movies on dvd, a personalized musical written about me (I've been asking for this for years)
These chicken pincushions were and experiential gift I made for my Aunt Sandy. I gave her one of them, but sold the rest to raise money for her favorite charity.
The great thing about this type of gift is that they don't take up much space. The downside (for some people) is that many of them can be used up, and there is nothing to show for them and "what you got."
Useful Items or Tools
hand-spun yarn, dish towels or wash cloths, paintbrush holder, clothing, bird feeder, collection of sewing items, painted coffee cup, jewelry, lotions and soaps, flower pots, toys (for kids), wooden box or basket, quilt
I gave this jar of cupcake papers to my sister for her birthday. I made the label and assembled the papers in colors she loves. One of the most useful gifts I've given to date, since my sister is an amazing cupcake maker!
For most of the people I have asked in preparation for today's post, this is a favorite. It's something that is useful, so it doesn't matter if it takes up space or not. And a useful gift will be seen more often, and will make you think of the person who made it.
Objects of Art
paintings, drawings, dolls, sculpture, anything fragile or extremely sentimental, photos or photo books
I made this painted stencil portrait of my kids for Donnie.
This is a great choice if you really know the person you are making it for. If not, they could end up with something they don't quite know what to do with.
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Each of us has a favorite type of gift to give and to receive. Think about who you are making for, their lifestyle, hobbies, and living space.
Personally, I prefer experiences or useful items. There isn't much negotiable space in our home, and most of the things we have serve a purpose. Also, I love to make things, so supplies for making them are always at the top of my list.
Whatever type of gift you chose, do your best to make it reflect your sensibilities, as well as the taste of the recipient.
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Can you think of some more ideas that fit into the categories above? Extra points if you can come up with one of each!
