DIY gifts on a budget under $10

DIY Projects Under $10

1. Personalized Photo Coasters

   • Description: Create custom coasters using ceramic tiles and printed photos. These protect surfaces and add a personal touch with family or friend photos.

   • Materials:

     • 4x4 ceramic tiles ($0.50–$1 each at hardware stores, ~$2 for 4)

     • Printed photos (use home printer or print shop, ~$1–$2)

     • Mod Podge glue/sealant (~$3–$4 for a small bottle)

     • Felt pads for backing (~$1 for a pack)

   • Instructions:

     1. Trim photos to fit tiles.

     2. Brush Mod Podge on the tile, place the photo, and seal with another layer.

     3. Attach felt pads to the bottom to prevent scratches.

   • Total Cost: ~$7–$9 for 4 coasters

   • Why It’s Useful: Protects furniture and serves as a sentimental keepsake.

   • Gift For: Parents, grandparents, or close friends.

2. Hand-Painted Mason Jar Planter

   • Description: Transform a mason jar into a colorful planter for small plants or herbs, perfect for kitchen or desk decor.

   • Materials:

     • Mason jar (recycle one or ~$1 at thrift stores)

     • Acrylic paint (~$1–$2 per color at craft stores)

     • Small plant or succulent (~$2–$3)

     • Pebbles or soil (~$1–$2)

   • Instructions:

     1. Paint the jar with acrylic paint in fun designs (stripes, dots, or solid colors).

     2. Let dry completely (24 hours).

     3. Add pebbles/soil and plant the succulent.

   • Total Cost: ~$5–$8

   • Why It’s Useful: Adds greenery to small spaces and is low-maintenance.

   • Gift For: Siblings, coworkers, or plant-loving friends.

3. Customized Keychains with Beads

   • Description: Make colorful beaded keychains with personalized initials or charms, great for bags or keys.

   • Materials:

     • Keychain rings (~$1–$2 for a pack)

     • Assorted beads (~$2–$3 for a variety pack)

     • Letter beads for initials (~$1–$2)

     • Cord or wire (~$1)

   • Instructions:

     1. String beads and letter beads onto the cord/wire in a pattern.

     2. Attach to the keychain ring and secure with a knot or crimp.

   • Total Cost: ~$5–$8 for 2–3 keychains

   • Why It’s Useful: Helps organize keys and adds a personal flair.

   • Gift For: Teens, friends, or cousins.

4. Scented Sachets for Drawers

   • Description: Sew or glue small fabric pouches filled with dried herbs or essential oils for fresh-smelling drawers or closets.

   • Materials:

     • Fabric scraps (recycled or ~$1–$2 at craft stores)

     • Dried lavender/potpourri (~$2–$3)

     • Essential oil (optional, ~$2 for a small bottle)

     • Needle/thread or fabric glue (~$1–$2)

   • Instructions:

     1. Cut fabric into small squares (4x4 inches).

     2. Sew or glue three sides, fill with lavender/potpourri, and seal the final side.

     3. Optional: Add a drop of essential oil for extra scent.

   • Total Cost: ~$6–$9 for 3–4 sachets

   • Why It’s Useful: Keeps clothes fresh and adds a relaxing aroma.

   • Gift For: Moms, aunts, or anyone who loves home organization.

5. Decorated Bookmark Set

   • Description: Craft colorful bookmarks using cardstock and decorative elements, perfect for book lovers.

   • Materials:

     • Cardstock (~$1–$2 for a pack)

     • Stickers, washi tape, or markers (~$2–$3)

     • Ribbon or twine (~$1)

   • Instructions:

     1. Cut cardstock into bookmark-sized strips (2x6 inches).

     2. Decorate with stickers, washi tape, or hand-drawn designs.

     3. Punch a hole at the top and tie a ribbon for flair.

   • Total Cost: ~$4–$6 for 4–5 bookmarks

   • Why It’s Useful: Practical for readers and adds a personal touch.

   • Gift For: Students, book club friends, or grandparents.

6. Mini Recipe Card Holder

   • Description: Create a small wooden or cardboard box to store recipe cards, painted or decorated for a rustic look.

   • Materials:

     • Small wooden/cardboard box (~$2–$3 at craft stores)

     • Acrylic paint or washi tape (~$1–$2)

     • Blank index cards (~$1 for a pack)

   • Instructions:

     1. Paint or decorate the box with patterns or labels.

     2. Include a few blank index cards for recipes.

     3. Optional: Write one favorite recipe to start the collection.

   • Total Cost: ~$5–$7

   • Why It’s Useful: Organizes recipes in a compact, charming way.

   • Gift For: Cooks, newlyweds, or parents.

7. Handmade Rope Coiled Trinket Dish

   • Description: Craft a small dish from rope or twine to hold jewelry, keys, or small items.

   • Materials:

     • Cotton rope or twine (~$2–$3)

     • Hot glue or craft glue (~$1–$2)

     • Optional: Acrylic paint for accents (~$1)

   • Instructions:

     1. Coil the rope tightly, gluing as you go to form a small dish shape.

     2. Secure the end and let dry.

     3. Optional: Paint the edge or base for a pop of color.

   • Total Cost: ~$4–$6

   • Why It’s Useful: Keeps small items organized and looks stylish.

   • Gift For: Friends, sisters, or coworkers.

Tips for Success

• Sourcing Materials: Shop at dollar stores, thrift shops, or use recycled items (e.g., fabric scraps, old jars) to keep costs under $10. Bulk packs of supplies like paint or beads can be reused for multiple projects.

• Personalization: Add names, favorite colors, or themes (e.g., holiday motifs) to make gifts more special.

• Packaging: Wrap in tissue paper or place in a reused gift bag (cost ~$1) for a polished presentation.

• Time Estimate: Most projects take 1–2 hours, making them ideal for quick crafting sessions.

• Safety Note: Ensure materials are safe (e.g., non-toxic glue/paint) for gifts intended for families with kids.