DIY Homewarming Gift Basket

Want to make a personalized DIY housewarming gift basket for family or friends? Maybe something that looks a little like this? The following basket features hand-designed mugs, gluten free chocolate chip cookies, Hickory Farms English Breaskfast tea, spreads and mustard. This inexpensive homemade gift is simple to make, and I will be using it as a gift for a good friend.


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I was inspired to make this gift after I visited the Courtice Flea Market, and saw some of the adorable handmade products offered by Abstrakt Studios. The owner of these crafty gifts is Kate-Lynn, and she creates some great cards, mugs and wallets – to name a few. I managed to pick up two mugs, “His” and “Hers”, and reused an old basket from Fruits & Passion.

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I added in some spreads from Hickory Farms. This company makes some fantastic gourmet products, and I added in some miniature jam spreads, tea, and mustard. These products go on sale right after the holidays, so you’re getting them for about 75 per cent off the regular prices.

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And finally, I included a couple of gluten free chocolate chip cookies. Gluten intolerance is more common than some may realize and local supermarkets do have a specialized section for these items. I just added a few, for the couple to enjoy with their tea.

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Once you’ve completed packing your basket, wrap using cellophane and ribbon. It looks beautiful and is something classy to give others.

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DIY Nail polish kit jar

If you’re looking to save money and want to create a cute gift, my suggestion is a nail polish kit jar. It’s really simple.

First off, you’ll want to stop by the dollar store, pick up a clear jar, or reuse an old jam-like jar. Tie a ribbon around it, and decorate the outside. I’ve used a glitter stick-on letter, which I picked up for 50 cents at the local supermarket.

Next, grab a couple of your favourite nail polishes. I recommend Essie or Opi, both a bit pricey, but go on great. Although if it doesn’t fit your budget, Shoppers Drug Mart just released a new line of fantastic nail polish called Essence. I’ve used that brand quite a few times, and it goes on just as well for less than half the price!

DIY Nail polish kit jar
DIY Nail polish kit jar, Essie nail polish

A Special Gift

I recently celebrated my 25th birthday. It was pretty quiet, to be honest. I woke up to a brilliant surprise from Mum and Dad: Pippa Middleton’s Celebrate – a craft and recipe book (I like it, even though the reviews weren’t stellar), and beautiful sterling silver Tiffany earrings, which I have worn every day since.

Despite working on my actual day of birth, I celebrated my milestone in the company of my best cousins the weekend before with wine, dinner and music. It was a great night, something I wish we could do more often.


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