Crafts you can take your time on

There’s something uniquely satisfying about crafts that take time to create. If you’re up for a longer project, dig into one of these.

91. Have you ever seen something as ephemeral and beautiful as this leaf membrane art? The final product is worth the weeks of waiting.

92. Enfleurage is a simple way to capture the scent of your favorite flowers at their peak. All it requires is a little patience (and coconut oil).

93. Natural dye takes some time to make, but it creates fabrics that rival those of our favorite sustainable clothing brands!

94. This food scrap art is almost too darling for words. Be sure to budget plenty of time for your food scraps to dry between book pages.

“Have you ever seen something as ephemeral and beautiful as this leaf membrane art? The final product is worth the weeks of waiting.”

95. Start a scrapbook to update with your favorite memories as time goes on. Here’s an easy way to make a scrapbook base at home using glue, paper, and cardboard you may already have.

96. Create your own paint-by-numbers, then take your time filling it with color.

97. Create gorgeous, organic-looking paper at home without any special supplies.

98. You probably have everything you need to make a natural wood stain and update your furniture at home.

99. Did you find some pretty rocks? Polish them by hand for a soothing long-term project. They’ll look great in a glass bowl with candles when you’re done. ✨

There you have it! There are tons of ways to indulge your creativity without buying expensive equipment or mastering a complicated new skill. Let us know which crafts you try in the comments. We can’t wait to hear about it!

Nicole Ahlering is a wellness writer living in Southern California. When she’s not writing, she’s combing the beach for shells, at the Pilates studio, sipping matcha, or doing crafts with friends. She believes the secret to happiness is slowing down.

Arm Knitted Cozy Chunky Blanket

At this point, we're sure you've seen those gorgeous chunky arm-knit blankets that have taken over our Instagrams and Pinterest Boards. Make someone in your life very, very happy by gifting them this blanket that you've DIY'ed. Arm Knitted Cozy Chunky Blanket from Made Up Style

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Upcycled crafts

If you’re trying to live more sustainably, upcycling is a great place to start. Try a few of these crafts to get the (repurposed yarn) ball rolling.

73. We can’t get over these floral greeting cards made from tea bags. (You’ll need pressed flowers for this craft, so bookmark it for later and go forage for some blooms!)

75. Go through that pile of tops you never wear and turn them into something new with these no-sew updates.

76. Make an easy, reusable heating pad with an upcycled sock and some rice.

“Make an easy, reusable heating pad with an upcycled sock and some rice.”

79. Need a handy little basket? Grab an old newspaper and a stapler and get to making!

80. Upcycle leaves or dried flowers into confetti for your next celebration. So much prettier than the plastic stuff.

81. Use tape, parchment paper, and upcycled magazine pages, drawings, or photos to make your own stickers.

73 Inexpensive Homemade Gift Ideas

Emily Manchester is the Editorial & Strategy Director for The Spruce Crafts with over seven years of digital publishing and SEO experience. She combines both her editorial and analytical skills as the leader of The Spruce Crafts, overseeing all editorial processes and strategy decisions.

Updated on 07/03/23

Between holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, and graduations, there are so many opportunities to give gifts in a year—and that's not even including those "just because" moments! While there's nothing better than making a loved one feel special, all those occasions add up quickly. Gifting doesn't have to be something that drains your bank account, it just requires a little craftiness and creativity! A homemade gift is not only inexpensive, but it also feels more personal, is unique, and shows the person that you really went the extra mile for them. We rounded up 70+ inexpensive homemade gift ideas for every occasion and season.

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