Inspired by a boxwood wreath at Home Depot, Mari from crab+fish used clippings from the boxwoods in her landscaping to make a DIY version. She says, “It was the Holy Grail of quick, cheap, and easy to do. The clippings were free and the cost of the wreath frame and bow (dollar store!) were nominal.” And you don’t have to limit yourself to boxwoods. Mari suggests checking out the foliage in your yard and getting creative!
Lauren from The Thinking Closet purchased one of Crate & Barrel’s Hakkari Candle Holders last fall and was inspired to create her own version, but ornament-style! Lauren repurposed an old tin can and shares tips for creating a punched design without indenting the can. To get the soft, glowing effect, Lauren just inserted a Christmas light from the tree. She says, “It’s one of my favorite creations…and is a really inexpensive way to get a high-end look!”
Jaime from That’s My Letter has a slew of tutorials for adorable zipper pouches in different designs and sizes. I love this colorblock one with a handpainted monogram and heavy-duty metal zipper. It was inspired by a pricey clutch from Mark and Graham, but, like Jaime says, you might want to consider making your own for much less. While the pouch is a fabulous gift itself, you could even take it a step further by packing it with goodies!
Caitlin, a contributor on Say Yes to Hoboken, had purchased several unstretched, unframed canvas prints at an auction a couple of years ago and had grand plans for them. They ended up being stored away and forgotten until Caitlin came across an artsy iPad case from Anthropologie with a similar look. Caitlin decided to finally cash in on their DIY potential and sew her own case. Don’t have your own stash of canvases lying around? Caitlin suggests purchasing one for a few bucks online or even printing your own!
Zandi from Radical Possibility shows how easy it is to turn a bland blank book into a gift-worthy moleskine. Basically, all you have to do is use Mod Podge to adhere scrapbook paper or wrapping paper to the journal and wrap it up like a present. Pretty easy, huh?!? My favorite part is how Zandi made the tag from a paint chip. I love all the color options and the fact that it’s free!