By Jayden Nguyen
Valentine’s Day. The time of year to celebrate the people you love the most: friends, family, and — probably who you’re here for — your significant other. Do-it-yourself or DIY gifts have become popular in recent memory to celebrate your loved ones as opposed to buying a gift from the store. Making a gift yourself shows how much you care, instead of just buying something. And for good reason too by putting effort into a gift yourself, you show the person how much you care.
Simple
One thing I’m sure we’ve all been making since grade school: cards. Although very basic in concept, the ability to personalize each card makes it such a great gift idea. Some supplies you need to make a card include paper, some decorations like ribbons and something to write the card.
A little more effort
If you want to spend a little more effort for a loved one, a home-cooked meal is the way to go (unless you’re terrible at cooking). If you’re not sure what to make, cook whatever you would like. At the end of the day, you’re making the dish with love, and that love will be seen in your efforts. What I’ve made for my mom every year for Valentine’s is Katsu-curry, a fried cricket cutlet matched with a warm curry with potatoes and carrots, all over rice.
A charming idea for the more artistically inclined of us is a painted mug. This gift is for those who are always seen with a cup of coffee or some other drink, so why not gift your loved one something that will constantly remind them of you? Some supplies you may need are a blank mug, some paint and a little bit of creativity.
A lot more effort
If you really are lost and still have no idea what to make, a gift basket is a great idea, although you will be buying most of the gifts in the basket. But, the sentiment remains with you compiling many things that your loved one enjoys. Staples of gift baskets are candy, other baked goods like cookies, fuzzy stuffed animals and socks. The beauty of gift baskets is that you can put whatever you want into them.
The hardest gift to make on this list (and the most time commitment) is origami flowers. There are so many different types you can create, from roses, tulips, lavender to whatever you desire. Paper flowers are so special because they show the effort needed to make them with the bonus of lasting longer than real ones.
Valentine’s Day is one to appreciate your loved ones; here are some ideas that you can try if you’re not sure what to make!
