Whether it’s for Christmas or someone’s birthday, a handmade gift is almost always going to be the best thing you can give. But you know what might be even better? A budget-friendly handmade gift that looks like you dropped good money on it.
And if you want some unique and pretty present ideas that look classy, but are very affordable, then this list is for you.
These DIY gifts that look expensive are an amazing way to make someone feel extra special. So scroll and see which present will make your loved one’s day even better.
1. DIY Scented Candle (With Free Printable Labels)
Candles are wonderful. They help you relax and make your home smell amazing. And if you know someone who loves to get cozy and enjoys a nice scent, then this is the perfect gift.
It looks like it would be so much fun to make, and if you want to save a lot of money, then this is a great DIY gift to make.
GET THE TUTORIAL2. House Shaped Coffee Mug Shelf
For the coffee lovers in your friend group or family, this is a fun DIY that’ll definitely impress. It doesn’t scream “homemade” and it’ll add a special touch to your kitchen. So if you’re on the hunt for a present that looks impressive, then this is a great idea!
GET THE TUTORIAL3. Make-It Wall Planters
Now for the nature and plant lovers in your group, this is a super cute and fun DIY gift that’ll dress up their home in an adorable way. And whether you gift it with or without the succulents, I’m sure this thoughtful gift will put a smile on their face.
The original tutorial and site is no longer there, but this is another great option for DIY indoor wall planters.
4. 5-Minute DIY Gold Dipped Coffee Mugs
This is such a great handmade gift idea. Gold dipped coffee mugs are super easy to DIY and look really classy. And whether your friend drinks coffee or tea, they’ll probably feel kinda fancy as they sip from their gold dipped mug.
The original page for this DIY present no longer exists, but here’s a similar gold dipped mug tutorial you can check out!
5. State Memo Board
This is for the friend or significant other that you’ve done plenty with. Also, how creative and awesome is this? Seriously, if someone made this for me, I’d feel so touched and thought of.
It’s a fun, novelty gift that’s great for commemorating your special moments together, and it makes for a beautiful decor piece. And if you’re on the hunt for homemade gift ideas, then I think this should be on your list.
GET THE TUTORIAL6. DIY Wire Felt Necklace
Budget-friendly gifts that don’t look budget-friendly aren’t always the easiest to find. But I think this one might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s a pretty statement piece that doesn’t look cheap and works with so many outfits.
Also, it looks easy to make and if it’s the holidays, you can make multiple for the people in your life who love jewelry.
GET THE TUTORIAL7. Gold Dipped Jewelry Trays
For that awesome necklace you just made, you can also make a gold dipped jewelry tray to go with it. Or if you just have a friend who has a ton of jewelry, then you can forget about the necklace and maybe make a couple of these elegant looking jewelry trays for them. It’s such a pretty and special gift to make that doesn’t look cheap!
GET THE TUTORIAL8. Marbled Clay Ring Dish
Now if your friend loves to wear things that sparkle, then this is also a great idea for an expensive looking gift. These clay ring holders are so pretty and will probably add a nice pop of color to their room. It’s such a unique and pretty gift idea!
GET THE TUTORIAL9. DIY Japanese Printed Bowls
For the friend that loves Asian inspired home pieces, this is a beautiful and super easy gift idea to give them. The colors are absolutely gorgeous and nothing about this handmade gift looks cheap. So if you really want to give them something extra special and unique, then I think this homemade presents is perfect!
GET THE TUTORIALAgain, it doesn’t matter if it’s the holidays or someone’s birthday (or anniversary), any of these gifts will most definitely put a smile on their face. Plus, homemade gifts that come from the heart are the best; they show your loved ones that you care and you’re really about of them.
Now if you have any ideas on expensive looking DIY gift ideas yourself, then let me know in the comments down below. I’d love to hear about them!
Grace Moser is the author and founder of Chasing Foxes, where she writes articles to help women create a life they love in big and small ways. She's been a full-time traveler since 2016 and loves sharing her experiences and exploring the world with her husband, Silas. Her lifestyle and travel advice can also be seen on sites such as Business Insider, Glamour, Newsweek, Huffpost, & Apartment Therapy.