It first begins with the removal of Halloween decorations and the trickling in of eager beaver shopkeepers stenciling snowflakes onto their shop windows. Then, the supermarkets start to slowly get involved, with their seasonal promotion shelves displaying advent calendars, selection boxes and bottles upon bottles of Baileys.
Soon after that, it is the battle of the Christmas advertisements, each trying to win our affection and stand as the klaxon ringing in the festive period. Christmas lights get switched on and illuminate high streets up and down the country, turkeys get pre-ordered, Christmas trees are decorated, and then all of a sudden, it is Christmas Eve - and you still haven't bought a single present.
The festive season is almost upon us, and we all know how quickly Christmas Day rolls around once it starts. Though the big day may still seem far away, we believe it is time to start thinking about gifts. You'll thank us next month.
So, now that your brain has shifted into present-buying-gear, why not try something extra special this year and make a gift? We know, we know, homemade presents can either go extremely right, or be a downright disaster. We are here to ensure that you avoid the latter, and receive a lot of Christmas love instead. But beware - these DIY gifts are so great, you may end up keeping them for yourself.
Spiced Pear Vodka
This simple yet delicious recipe is bound to get you onto to the 'nice list' this year. There is nothing quite like the festive spices of cloves and cinnamon, and with the added freshness from the pear and ginger, this tipple will definitely be a party season favourite.
Find a recipe here via boulderlocavore.com
Image Credit: boulderlocavore.com via Pinterest
Decorative cinnamon and vanilla candles
These DIY candles will not only add a dash of festive charm to any home, but will also fill the air with the cosy scents of Christmas, sure to put a warm smile across the face of the Grinch/Scrooge/general wet blankets.
Find instructions here at sheknows.com
Image Credit: sheknows.com via Pinterest
Peanut Butter Fudge
What's not to love about this gift? Fudge - good. Peanut butter- good. The fact that it consists of only four ingredients that you will probably find in your cupboard right now - VERY GOOD. Be sure to whip these up, lock them tight and deliver them ASAP, otherwise, they'll never make it out the door...
Find a recipe here at sallysbakingaddiction.com
Image Credit: sallysbakingaddiction.com via Pinterest
Gingerbread body scrub
Body scrubs are always an excellent gift idea, so why not put a festive twist on this classic present and add a splash of gingerbread. Warning: try not to eat the mixture as you go - a gingerbread man to nibble on whilst you make the scrub should remedy this temptation.
Find a recipe here at wallflowergirl.co.uk
Image Credit: wallflowergirl.co.uk via Pinterest
nutella liqueur
Yes, you heard us correctly. This genius collaboration of Nutella, cream and vodka is perhaps one of the best presents you can bestow upon your friends or family. Let's be honest, it doesn't get much better than drinkable Nutella.
Find a recipe here at celebrationgeneration.com
Image Credit: celebrationgeneration.com via Pinterest
Woven chain bracelet
If you fancy yourself as quite the braid master, why not give this project a go? By intertwining coloured thread of your choice through a chain link bracelet, you will create a fantastic gift for someone who loves statement jewellery. We like to think of it as a grown-up friendship bracelet.
Find instructions here at honestlywtf.com
Image Credit: honestlywtf.com via Buzzfeed
Infused Olive Oil
Infused oils are easy to make, extremely versatile and one of life's more practical gifts. Garlic, rosemary, chili or lemon are delicious ingredients to infuse in good quality olive oil, and we're sure your foodie friend will have a few ideas up there sleeves. Your dinner party invitation is on its way.
Find a recipe here at justputzing.com
Image Credit: justputzing.com via Pinterest
Holiday Biscotti
Biscotti- the biscuit of the gods. Enjoyed over coffee or nibbled at breakfast, homemade biscotti is the perfect gift to give if you are really looking to impress. Make sure to bake an extra large batch - you aren't going to be able to part with all of these tasty treats, some will definitely need to stay behind.
Find a recipe here at lickthebowlgood.blogspot.co.uk
Image Credit: lickthebowlgood.blogspot.co.uk via Pinterest
Kitchen tablet holder
Have a recipe on your tablet, but don't have a stand? We understand the struggle - having to constantly pick up our precious tablet with our food-covered hands is a pain no one should ever have to bear. So this extremely easy to make yet chic and sophisticated tablet holder will be the perfect addition to any kitchen. Grubby fingerprints, we bid you adieu.
Find instructions here at mamiejanes.blogspot.co.uk
Image Credit: mamiejanes.blogspot.co.uk via Pinterest
Blackberry and apple gin
Unlike sloe gin, this masterful concoction doesn't need months to mature. A mere 4 weeks of infusing, and this delicious tipple is ready to be gifted and spread merriment across the land. We applaud you for spreading all of that Christmas cheer.
Find a recipe here at larderlove.com
Image Credit: larderlove.com via Pinterest
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