DIY Gifts You Can Make Quickly
DIY gifts can be created in a short amount of time while still making a thoughtful impression. Simple materials and supplies often found at home or at a local store are all that’s needed for unique, memorable gifts.
Easy Homemade Treats
Homemade food gifts are always a welcome option when time is short. Cookies, brownies, and chocolate bark can be made in bulk with basic ingredients, then portioned into small bags or boxes.
Quick no-bake recipes such as peanut butter fudge or chocolate-dipped pretzels cut prep time even further. Adding a personal touch like hand-tied ribbon or a handwritten label elevates the gift.
For a creative twist, try assembling a “cookie mix in a jar” with layers of dry ingredients and a recipe tag. Anyone can prepare these treats in under an hour and deliver them as a special surprise.
A simple table showing treat options and prep times:
| Treat Type | Prep Time (est.) |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Bark | 20 minutes |
| No-Bake Fudge | 15 minutes |
| Cookies (batch) | 35 minutes |
| Cookie Mix in a Jar | 10 minutes |
Printable Cards and Art
Printable gifts require only access to a printer and a few basic craft supplies. Pre-designed printable greeting cards and wall art are widely available, some for free or at a minimal cost on platforms like Canva, which makes customizing colors and messages fast and simple.
Customized calendars, bookmarks, and coloring pages are also ideal last-minute options. Adding personal photos, inside jokes, or quotes through design tools elevates an otherwise ordinary printout.
Recipients appreciate these tailored gifts, especially when given in a nice envelope or small frame. Digital files can be delivered instantly, or printouts can be presented for an extra-special physical touch.
These projects are easily finished in less than 30 minutes.
Handcrafted Decor
Quick-to-make home decor items make excellent gifts with a personal flair. Common ideas include decorated picture frames, hand-painted plant pots, and scented candles poured into small jars.
Many of these crafts rely on inexpensive supplies and take very little skill or time but yield satisfying results. Macramé keychains or simple beaded ornaments are trendy and can be assembled in under an hour by following easy online tutorials.
Personalizing items with the recipient’s favorite colors, initials, or a short message adds sentimental value. Several DIY decor gift ideas can be completed at a moment’s notice.
Presentation matters, so placing the item in a gift bag or box with tissue paper can make it feel even more special.
Holiday Shopping Strategies for Last-Minute Gifts
Last-minute holiday shopping doesn’t have to mean rushed decisions or settling for less thoughtful presents. There are effective approaches to quickly find gifts that are timely, practical, and have a lasting impression without sacrificing quality or personal touch.
Online Retailer Tips
Busy shoppers benefit from targeting major online retailers known for reliable stock and speedy fulfillment. Websites such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target feature curated “last-minute gift” sections, making it easier to find options that can be delivered on time.
Utilize search filters to sort by delivery date and limit selections to items marked as available for fast shipping. Retailers often highlight digital gifts—such as e-gift cards, streaming subscriptions, or downloadable products—which can be delivered instantly when time is tight.
Personalized digital items, like custom mugs or photo books, may offer expedited processing, but be sure to check cutoff dates for holiday delivery to avoid disappointment. For convenience, explore platforms that allow for in-store or curbside pickup.
This lets shoppers reserve items online and collect them in person, often within a few hours, which is especially helpful during peak holiday shopping periods. Many retailers also provide helpful holiday gift guides featuring unique and thoughtful present ideas, as seen on the A Thoughtful Place gift guide.
Expedited Shipping Options
Express shipping is essential for ensuring gifts arrive before major holidays. Most major retailers offer next-day or two-day shipping for an additional fee, but availability is dependent on inventory and the recipient’s location.
It’s important to review shipping deadlines posted prominently on retailer websites in December to avoid missed deliveries. Consider using services like same-day delivery if shopping online after typical shipping cutoffs have passed.
Grocery and big-box chains often partner with providers like Instacart or Shipt for same-day gift delivery, allowing for a broader selection including food, flowers, and small electronics. To avoid extra expenses, some memberships, such as Amazon Prime, offer free expedited shipping on many products, delivering presents quickly without additional costs.
If shipping to multiple addresses, check if the retailer allows for split shipments to save time and make the purchasing process smoother. More tips for managing fast shipping and retailer options can be found within this list of last-minute gift suggestions.
Tech and Gadgets for Quick Surprises
Tech gifts are popular for last-minute shopping because they are practical and easy to find at major retailers. Many modern gadgets not only impress but are also simple to set up and use right out of the box.
Smart Home Devices
Smart home technology makes everyday routines more convenient, providing voice control and automation at an accessible price point. A popular pick is the Amazon Echo, a hands-free speaker powered by Alexa, which lets users control smart lights, play music, set reminders, and check the weather with just their voice.
For those wanting to simplify home automation, a Tapo Smart Plug turns any device into a smart device in minutes, letting people control lamps, fans, or coffee makers from their phone or using voice assistants. Other options include smart bulbs, which offer app-based or voice control over lighting color and intensity.
Many of these devices are compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, expanding their usefulness. Instant installation and broad compatibility make these smart home devices reliable picks for tech-savvy friends or families looking to modernize their routines.
Wireless Accessories
Wireless tech accessories tend to be compact, affordable, and universally appealing. Wireless earbuds such as Soundcore Liberty 4 NC or JBL GO 4 deliver quality sound without cables, making them ideal for commuting, work, or travel.
Charging is straightforward with most wireless earbuds coming in cases that provide hours of extra battery life. Wireless charging pads and portable chargers are also great for anyone with a smartphone or tablet.
Items like the Pitaka PitaTag multitool for keychains offer practical utility and smart design in a tiny package. For those who use several devices daily, these wireless accessories are both functional and easy to wrap, ensuring a quick yet thoughtful last-minute gift solution.