Many people are looking to simplify the holidays this year, and that often means giving homemade gifts.

Homemade gifts are a great way to express yourself, save some money, and delight the recipients.   But it can be tough coming up with ideas.

Here are just a few ideas for homemade gifts:

Photo gifts.  Frame a special photo or make a photo collage.  Put together a small scrapbook or a calendar.  There are many photo gifts you can create with your home computer, some digital photos and some free time.  Keep your eyes out for photo discounts and deals – they’re everywhere now! (I’ll share some great photo deals in an upcoming post!)

Homemade mixes.  There are a ton of homemade soup, bread, cookie, and beverage mixes that you can create.  Just put them in a glass canning jar with directions and decorate with a ribbon, and you’ve got a great little gift.

Use your crafting skills.  If you know how to needlepoint, cross stitch, sew, knit, or crochet, then you have the skills to make a lovely gift for someone.

Coupon booklets.  Give your recipient a handmade coupon booklet for things you can give the person all year round.  Think of giving coupons like “One night of babysitting” or “One homemade Apple Pie.”  None of the coupons have to cost much money, but may be much appreciated!

Not into making gifts yourself?  There are many great craft fairs going on all over the country right now.  And of course, there is always Etsy.com. 

What gifts are you making this Christmas?   Please share your ideas here!