Can you hear it? The Christmas clock is ticking!

If jumping into the holiday shopping rush sounds hectic, why not pull out your DIY supplies? Slow down, make yourself some tea and enjoy the process of making a handmade gift for someone. Whether you sew, paint, build, cook or even feel you have no creative ability, there is a project that you can tackle, and perhaps even enjoy. Putting time and care into making a gift for someone else, I believe, can also be a gift to you!

Below are a few ideas that I think look intriguing. Perhaps they will inspire you…

I think these hand painted mugs (or try cups and saucers) would make a beautiful gift.

http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/7-diy-projects-gilded-table/#more-37023

Aren’t these charming? Handmade linen hand towels look expensive but are also useful. Try sewing your own with this tutorial from confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.

http://confessionsofaplateaddict.blogspot.com/2011/07/wisteria-knock-off-linen-hand-towels.html

Personalized stationery makes a classy gift for him or her. Try using alphabet stamps or print your own. There are free templates online that can help you lay out the proper dimensions for your cards. I found this lovely handmade card on Pinterest…

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/258464466085394906/

This is a wonderful idea. Gather the ingredients for mulled wine and make gifts for friends, neighbors, teachers…anyone really! Sometimes the best gifts given are to people that aren’t expecting it!

http://www.buzzfeed.com/emofly/diy-food-gifts-in-jar?bfpi

The possibilities are endless when it comes to fabric. Worldofpineapple.com made these killer wallets – a perfect gift for dad, son or boyfriend.

http://www.worldofpineapple.com/slim-leather-wallet-for-men-diy-tutorial/

Choose the perfect fabric for him or her and use this easy tutorial from skiptomylou.org to make a scarf.

http://www.skiptomylou.org/2011/06/10/how-to-make-a-scarf-craft-camp/

Think of all the flat cardboard thrown away every day…why not re-purpose it as coasters? Use packaging from tea, coffee, cereals, beer as shown here, or wine boxes!

http://atticlace.blogspot.com/2012/12/7-days-of-gifting-day-3-for-him-dont.html?m=1

These ornaments are just gorgeous. I haven’t tried them myself but you only need paint and plain glass ornaments!

http://soelboutique.blogspot.com/2011/12/diy-ornament.html

I hope some of these projects have inspired you. Handmade gifts are sometimes the most meaningful because there is thought, time and care put into them. Have fun!