That special couple’s wedding invitation has just arrived, and you’re thrilled at the prospect of being a part of their momentous day. You want to give them something really great, but the cost of travel may not leave you much to spare in the gift-giving department. Don’t despair! With a little effort you can create something personal and memorable that will delight your recipients and be so much more meaningful.
These DIY projects show you how a few basic supplies and tools can be used to make stylish and functional gifts that only look like they’re expensive. If you have the time and energy, why not combine several of these ideas into one very special gift?
1. Jute Wrapped Monogram Wreath
A charming way for the newlyweds to personalize their home! With just a few supplies from the craft store, you can put together this simple and stylish monogram wreath. See how it all comes together at Two Twenty-One .
2. Asian Inspired Coasters
Everyone can use a nice set of coasters and these look all the more professional with their lacquer-like surface. The look is achieved with paper, wood rounds, glue, and an all-in-one glue, sealer, and finish. Using coordinated papers with varied patterns makes these coasters a darling set. Check out the tutorial at Thirsty for Tea.
3. Personalized Wood Cutting Board
Lil Blue Boo shows you how a pre-cut wood paddle, stencils, and a wood burning tool are all it takes to make this clever, monogrammed cutting board which is cute enough to use for entertaining.
4. Wooden Clip Frames
Not only is this cottage chic frame is a practical and thoughtful gift, it’s a great way for a couple starting a new life together to display milestone moments and loved ones. Another great feature is that the photos are easy to change. Shanty 2 Chic has all the instructions to put together your own special gift.
5. Wood Box Centerpiece
This versatile, handmade centerpiece can add a special homey touch to the dining room table for entertaining or up the romance factor for an intimate dinner for two. Love Grows Wild shows you how to put it together and create a unique finish.
6. Personalized Silhouette Magnets
Nothing could be more personalized than handmade silhouettes of the happy couple! When they’re made into refrigerator magnets they become functional and easy to display. Check out the tutorial at Sugar and Charm.
7. Chalkboard Wine Glasses
What couple can’t use a set of wine glasses when entertaining. Always Order Dessert’s project offers a clever way for guests to keep track of their glasses with chalkboard-painted stems.
8. Sharpie Patterned Plates
How about a set of trendy, funky plates? All it takes to add a special decorative touch to plain store-bought plates is a Sharpie and an oven! Find the tutorial at Always wear your invisible crown.
9. Wine Shot Glasses
Here’s another great idea for entertaining – a set of wine and shot glasses all-in-one! Hardware glue or epoxy turns store-bought glasses into a multifunctional set for party fun. Find inspiration at Brit + Co.
10. Song Lyric Wall Art
If you know the couple’s favorite song, take a special phrase and turn it into meaningful wall art. A Beautiful Mess shows how to take an old painting, letter stencils, and paint to make something really special.
11. Light Bulb Vases
If you’re really looking to give something unique, clever and creative, then you definitely want to see Merry the Thought’s tutorial on how to make these vases with light bulbs, wire, and a few simple tools.
12. Jello Shot Kit
Want to give something fun? Gather the ingredients and tools to make sophisticated Jello shots, tuck in the recipe found at Miss Renaissance, wrap in a gift basket, and voila! You’ll have a one-of-a-kind gift.
13. Framed Map Hearts
These sweet little framed map hearts can commemorate the couple’s special cities. So simple but personal! See the tutorial at China Village.
14. Ombre Candles
Gather several unique glass jars or vases to create a set of ombre candles in any color you choose. These at DIY Network are cleverly colored with different amounts of crayon.
15. Woven Cork Tray
http://www.designsponge.com/2010/03/diy-project-woven-cork-ikea-skala-tray.html
Upcycle a basic wooden tray into something trendy and functional with strips of cork and hot glue. Check out Design Sponge to see how.
16. Wood Burned Cooking Utensils
Every new household needs a properly outfitted kitchen. With a wood burning tool and a set of wooden utensils, you can create something thoughtful, personal and functional. Cherished Bliss shows how easy this project is.
17. Beeswax Candles
See how to make classic beeswax candles at Oh Happy Day. Nothing could be simpler to make or more unique!
18. Matching Leather Charm Bracelets
Panda Hall shows you how to take a handful of supplies from the jewelry-making section of your local craft store to create his and hers bracelets personalized by pendants.
19. His and Hers Stenciled Throw Pillows
Help your special couple feather their nest with “his and hers” throw pillows made by you! A little fabric paint and homemade freezer paper stencils do the trick. DIY Network’s tutorial is clear and easy to follow.
20. Ring Dishes
Polymer clay makes crafting unique gifts easy. Shape it into ring dishes and decorate. Hello Glow’s instructions show you how.
21. Personalized Serving Tray
Serving trays are extremely handy and useful when toting food and dining accessories to the table. See how to take a simple wooden tray and make it special at That’s My Letter.
22. Wood Sign
Source
Reusable alphabet stencils, paint and box sign are all that were needed to create this sweet sign at The Wood Connection.
23. Money Origami
If you’re short on time or not quite sure of the bride and groom’s taste, money is always a welcome gift. Why not make it extra special with some artistic flair? Check out the tutorial at Home Made Gifts Made Easy. Scroll through all the ideas to see how the origami idea can be adapted for all occasions!
