DIY Gifts for Foodies
Confetti Bean Soup in a Jar
It wouldn't be DIY if it didn't come in a jar! This dry soup recipe is loaded with beans, lentils, fiber, and protein. Tie a pretty ribbon 'round the jar's lid, attach cooking instructions in your finest handwriting, and voila: a gift that'll keep recipients warm during those cold December nights.
Homemade Granola
Put some crunch in loved ones' breakfasts with a big batch of low-cal granola. Find some pretty jars or containers for a presentation as pleasing as the creation itself.
Quick Bread in a Bottle
If you're talented enough to recreate the lovely label on this bread-in-a-bottle recipe, then you're probably more qualified to write this article than I. Those of us with a less elegant hand will still be appreciated for giving this homemade bread mix — after all, it has chocolate chips in it.
Whole-Wheat Pumpkin Walnut Biscotti
Just when friends and family thought pumpkin season was over, along you'll come with shining cookie tins packed to the brim with these pumpkin walnut biscotti: the perfect stocking stuffer or party-warming gift.
DIY Gifts for Fitness Freaks
Yoga Bag
Here's yet another (super cool) reason to stop letting old pants take up space in the closet: They can be turned into a yoga tote bag! Any yogi would surely appreciate a protective covering that makes schlepping a mat that much easier — just be sure to wash the pants first.
Sandbag
There is perhaps no greater stress relief than throwing around a big ol' bag full of sand. Pass on the catharsis with this homemade "sand" (er, cat litter) bag.
Medicine Ball
All that's needed to fashion a medicine ball for a gym-shy friend is that old basketball in the back of the garage, a small awl or drill, a funnel, and some sand (okay, so maybe that sounds harder than it really is). It is, however, a neat way to repurpose old sports equipment for new sporting endeavors.
DIY Gifts for Happier Holidays
Terrarium
Just in case you don't live in Brooklyn, I'll let you in on a little secret: Terrariums are the only way to decorate an apartment if you're under the age of 32. But our resident hipsters might be onto something: Flowers and plants are a great way to boost mood and productivity, meaning terrariums aren't just hip — they're yet another gift that keeps on giving.
Eye Pillow
A favorite of yogis and yoginis everywhere, eye pillows are a great gift for any restless friend: They can relax tired eyes, soothe tension, and block out light for a more restful savasana (or nap).
Bath Scrub
Speaking of relaxation: This bath tea soak (made with soothing oatmeal and antioxidant-packed green tea) is sure to delight anyone with access to a bathtub.
Lemon Sugar Hand Scrub
Just in time for dry winter skin, this hand scrub exfoliates and rejuvenates even the most overworked hands.
For 6 more DIY gifts for happier holidays, go to Greatist.com.
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