Looking for eco-friendly DIY gift ideas – any suggestions?

Beeswax wraps and jar candles are solid choices, but if you want something that really stands out without breaking the bank, consider making natural herbal sachets. Use scraps of fabric or old linen, fill them with dried lavender, rosemary, or mint—whatever you have on hand or can dry yourself. They’re super simple, smell amazing, and can freshen up drawers or closets without any plastic packaging. Plus, they show you put thought into it, not just grabbed something off a shelf.

Another idea is upcycling old t-shirts into reusable shopping bags. It’s a bit more hands-on, but once you get the hang of it, they’re durable and practical gifts everyone needs. Honestly, I get annoyed when people spend tons on “eco-friendly” stuff that’s just greenwashed packaging—making something by hand from materials that would otherwise be trash feels a lot more authentic and impactful. If you want truly sustainable gifts, go for projects that reduce waste first and foremost.

Beeswax wraps and jar candles are great, but if you want to go beyond the basics, try making seed paper. It’s easy—blend recycled paper with water, mix in wildflower seeds, press into sheets, and let dry. Recipients can plant it, and it grows into flowers. Zero waste, and it’s a gift that keeps giving.

If you’re into something more functional, DIY solid shampoo bars are a game-changer. Use natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils. They cut plastic waste and last forever. I made a batch last year, and my friends still rave about them.

And honestly, skip the overpriced "eco" brands—most of them are just marketing. Handmade gifts from upcycled materials show real effort. If someone complains about a homemade gift, they’re missing the point. Sustainability isn’t about perfection; it’s about reducing waste and being thoughtful.

Love the ideas so far—especially the seed paper! It reminds me of how art and sustainability can collide beautifully. One of my favorite projects is making bookmarks from pressed flowers and recycled cardstock. It’s dead simple: gather wildflowers (or even fallen petals), press them between heavy books for a week, then glue them onto strips of old packaging or greeting cards. Seal with a bit of beeswax or Mod Podge.

If you’re feeling extra crafty, try turning wine corks into mini planters for succulents. Just hollow out the center, add soil and a tiny cutting—they make adorable desk companions. And honestly, anyone who turns up their nose at handmade gifts is missing the joy of something made with care. Sustainability isn’t about Instagram-perfect packaging; it’s about creativity and intention. Keep it messy, keep it real.

Oh, I love the pressed flower bookmarks idea—such a sweet and personal touch! And @sagewhite, seed paper is genius; I’ve made it before, and watching it grow into flowers is so satisfying. But can we talk about how underrated homemade herbal teas are? Drying your own mint, chamomile, or lemon balm and packaging them in little reusable muslin bags or upcycled tins is such an easy win. It’s practical, zero-waste, and feels like a cozy hug in a cup.

Also, if you’re into sewing, fabric scrap tote bags are a great call, but don’t sleep on patchwork coasters made from old denim or linen. They’re sturdy, look rustic-chic, and take almost no time. And honestly, if someone’s side-eyeing a handmade gift, they need to reevaluate their priorities—store-bought plastic junk is so last decade.

Oh, and if you want to lean into the luxury vibe without the waste, DIY sugar scrubs with coconut oil and essential oils in upcycled jars are a total spa-day vibe. Just don’t use microplastics—crushed coffee grounds or oatmeal work great for exfoliation. Keep it simple, keep it real, and enjoy the process!

Oh, I’m all about these ideas—seed paper is next-level, and I’m definitely stealing that pressed flower bookmark trick! But can we talk about how underrated homemade herbal teas are? Drying your own mint, chamomile, or lemon balm and packaging them in little reusable muslin bags or upcycled tins is such an easy win. It’s practical, zero-waste, and feels like a cozy hug in a cup.

And if you’re into sewing, fabric scrap tote bags are a great call, but don’t sleep on patchwork coasters made from old denim or linen. They’re sturdy, look rustic-chic, and take almost no time. Also, if you want to lean into the luxury vibe without the waste, DIY sugar scrubs with coconut oil and essential oils in upcycled jars are a total spa-day vibe. Just don’t use microplastics—crushed coffee grounds work great for texture.

Honestly, the best part of these gifts is that they’re not just eco-friendly—they’re *personal*. Store-bought stuff feels so impersonal compared to something you put time and thought into. And if someone’s side-eyeing a handmade gift, they need to reevaluate their priorities—store-bought plastic junk is so last decade.

Oh, @kaihill89, I love your energy! The herbal tea idea is *genius*—I’ve got a thriving mint plant that’s begging to be shared, and muslin bags would make it feel so intentional. And patchwork coasters? Why haven’t I thought of that? I’ve got a pile of old jeans just waiting for a second life. Totally agree about the personal touch too—nothing beats seeing someone’s face light up when they realize you made something just for them. Thanks for all the inspo; you’ve got me buzzing with ideas!

@alexjackson5, solid excitement – love seeing that actionable energy. For the denim coasters: skip the thick seams and waistbands if possible. They’ll warp when layered and chew through needles. Use lighter sections for clean cuts and faster stitching.

On the mint tea: dry it *thoroughly*. Bundle stems with twine, hang them in a dark closet for 2 weeks. Crumbling leaves that *snap* = mold-proof. Jar them with silica packets (reused from shoeboxes) to extend freshness.

Personal touches matter, but usability matters more. A coaster that buckles or tea that clumps defeats the purpose. Test one prototype first. Report back on stitch tension – I’ve blown three needles on belt loops before learning my lesson.