20 Creative DIY Christmas Gifts For Coworkers

DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers are thoughtful and budget-friendly ways to show appreciation during the holiday season.

Desk Calendar

One of my favorite DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers has to be a desk calendar. Honestly, who doesn’t love flipping to a new month and seeing something cheerful on their desk? I once made one with funny quotes that were totally “inside jokes” from the office, and it was such a hit. You don’t have to be a design pro either. I’ve found that printing simple photos—like snapshots from team lunches, random coffee breaks, or even scenic pictures you love—can make it feel super personal. Slip them into a small wooden stand or bind them together with a clip, and suddenly you’ve got a thoughtful little desk buddy that makes the workday lighter.

To be fair, the best part is how flexible this idea is. If your coworker is more into motivation, go for quotes. If they’re all about pets, print adorable animals. I once included “reminder days” like birthdays or random “treat yourself” notes, and people actually told me they looked forward to flipping the page. It’s such a low-cost, high-impact kind of gift that doesn’t feel generic—and every time they glance at it, they’ll think of you.

Scented Candle in a Mason Jar

Now, I know candles might sound a little cliché, but making one in a mason jar feels so much more personal. I remember the first time I tried it—I had wax spilled on my counter and a very questionable vanilla scent wafting through the house, but it turned out adorable in the end. All you need is some soy wax, a wick, and a fragrance oil (I’m partial to cinnamon or pine around Christmas, they just feel cozy). Melt the wax, pour it in, and let it set, and suddenly you’ve created something that looks store-bought but carries your personal touch.

In my opinion, what makes this extra special is decorating the jar. I’ve tied little bits of twine around the top, added tags with funny notes like “For stressful Mondays,” or even painted small snowflakes on the glass. One year I made a batch of these and handed them out at the office party—people literally asked me if I bought them at a boutique. To be fair, it feels good when something so simple turns into a gift that people actually use and appreciate.

Hot Chocolate Mix in a Jar

Hot chocolate mix in a jar is my go-to when I want something quick but still heartwarming. I mean, who doesn’t love curling up with a hot mug in December? I layer cocoa powder, sugar, a pinch of salt, and then top it with marshmallows (sometimes even crushed candy canes if I’m feeling extra). The layers look so pretty in a glass jar—it’s one of those gifts that feels festive even before it’s opened. I once left a jar on a coworker’s desk with a tiny spoon tied to it, and they told me later it was their “favorite thing to make on rainy evenings.” That kind of reaction honestly makes the effort worth it.

What I love is that you can customize it so easily. If you know someone prefers dark chocolate, just swap out the cocoa. I’ve even added mini chocolate chips between the layers so it melts into extra richness. To be fair, the presentation is half the fun. I like writing a little “instructions” tag—something silly like “Add hot milk, stir, and enjoy like you’re in a Christmas movie.” It’s such a small gesture, but I’ve found it never fails to bring a smile.

Handmade Christmas Coasters

Coasters are a practical and decorative gift that can add charm to your coworker’s desk or home.

Materials Used:

• Cork coasters
• Acrylic paints or markers
• Mod Podge or clear sealant
• Paintbrushes

Steps:

1. Take cork coasters and clean them if necessary.
2. Use acrylic paints or markers to decorate the coasters with Christmas themes or personalized designs.
3. Once the paint is dry, apply a layer of Mod Podge or clear sealant to protect the design.
4. Allow the coasters to dry completely before gifting.

Customizable Notebook

A notebook is always useful, and customizing one makes it a thoughtful and personal gift for your coworkers.

Materials Used:

• Plain notebook
• Fabric or decorative paper
• Glue gun
• Scissors
• Ribbons or buttons for decoration

Steps:

1. Measure the fabric or decorative paper to fit the cover of the notebook.
2. Cut the fabric or paper accordingly and glue it to the notebook.
3. Use ribbons, buttons, or stickers to personalize the notebook further.
4. Let everything dry before wrapping it up as a gift.

DIY Cookie Mix in a Jar

A cookie mix in a jar is a delightful and useful gift that allows your coworkers to easily bake cookies at home.

Materials Used:

• Flour, sugar, and other baking ingredients
• Mason jar
• Ribbon or decorative fabric
• Recipe card

Steps:

1. Layer the dry ingredients for cookies (flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.) into the mason jar.
2. Seal the jar tightly and tie a ribbon or fabric around the lid.
3. Attach a card with instructions for baking the cookies.

Personalized Embroidered Handkerchief

A handkerchief is a practical gift, and by embroidering it, you add a personal and sentimental touch.

Materials Used:

• Plain handkerchiefs
• Embroidery thread
• Embroidery hoop
• Needle

Steps:

1. Choose a simple design or monogram to embroider on the handkerchief.
2. Place the handkerchief in the embroidery hoop and start stitching the design.
3. Once finished, wash and iron the handkerchief for a neat presentation.

Knitted Scarf

A knitted scarf is a cozy and stylish gift that your coworkers will appreciate during the winter season.

Materials Used:

• Yarn
• Knitting needles

Steps:

1. Choose a soft yarn and select a knitting pattern.
2. Cast on the required number of stitches and begin knitting the scarf.
3. Continue until the scarf reaches the desired length.
4. Bind off and weave in any loose ends before wrapping the scarf for gifting.

DIY Succulent Planter

A small succulent in a personalized planter makes for a refreshing and low-maintenance gift.

Materials Used:

• Small planter pot
• Paints or markers for decoration
• Succulent plant
• Soil

Steps:

1. Paint or decorate the planter pot with festive designs or your coworker’s name.
2. Fill the pot with soil and place the succulent in it.
3. Water the plant and let it settle before gifting.

DIY Bath Salts

Bath salts are a relaxing and pampering gift that your coworkers can enjoy after a long workday.

Materials Used:

• Epsom salt
• Essential oils
• Dried flowers or herbs (optional)
• Glass jar

Steps:

1. Mix Epsom salt with a few drops of essential oil.
2. Add dried flowers or herbs for a decorative touch.
3. Store the mixture in a glass jar and seal it tightly.

Decorative Christmas Ornament

A handmade Christmas ornament is a lovely keepsake that will remind your coworkers of your thoughtful gesture every holiday season.

Materials Used:

• Clear ornament balls
• Glitter or fake snow
• Ribbon
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Fill the clear ornament with glitter or fake snow.
2. Attach a ribbon for hanging.
3. Optionally, personalize the ornament with a message or name.
4. Seal it and let the glue dry.

Personalized Mug

A personalized mug is an everyday gift that your coworkers will find both practical and endearing.

Materials Used:

• Plain ceramic mug
• Permanent markers or ceramic paint
• Oven

Steps:

1. Use permanent markers or ceramic paint to decorate the mug.
2. Personalize it with the coworker’s name, a funny quote, or a holiday design.
3. Allow the design to dry, then bake the mug in the oven to set the paint.
4. Let it cool before gifting.

Aromatherapy Sachets

Aromatherapy sachets are a thoughtful way to help your coworkers relax, and they’re easy to make in bulk.

Materials Used:

• Dried lavender, rose petals, or other herbs
• Small fabric pouches
• Ribbon or string

Steps:

1. Fill small fabric pouches with dried herbs.
2. Tie the pouches closed with ribbon or string.
3. Add a personal note or label for extra charm.

DIY Lip Balm

Lip balm is a useful gift, especially during the cold winter months, and it can easily be customized with different scents.

Materials Used:

• Beeswax
• Coconut oil
• Essential oils
• Empty lip balm containers

Steps:

1. Melt beeswax and coconut oil in a double boiler.
2. Add a few drops of essential oil for scent.
3. Pour the mixture into empty lip balm containers.
4. Let the lip balm cool and harden before gifting.

Handcrafted Soap Bars

Handmade soap bars are a luxurious and practical gift, perfect for coworkers who appreciate self-care.

Materials Used:

• Soap base (glycerin, goat milk, etc.)
• Essential oils
• Dried flowers or herbs (optional)
• Molds

Steps:

1. Melt the soap base according to instructions.
2. Add essential oils and dried flowers for fragrance and decoration.
3. Pour the mixture into molds and let it harden.
4. Unmold the soap and wrap it in decorative paper.

DIY Christmas Wreath

A Christmas wreath is a classic holiday decoration that your coworkers can hang on their doors or walls.

Materials Used:

• Wire wreath frame
• Pine branches, holly, or other greenery
• Red ribbon or decorations

Steps:

1. Attach greenery to the wire frame using floral wire.
2. Add decorations like berries, small ornaments, or ribbons.
3. Secure everything tightly and hang the wreath with a bow.

Personalized Keychain

A keychain is a small yet practical gift that can be personalized to suit each coworker’s style.

Materials Used:

• Keychain rings
• Small charms or beads
• Leather or fabric pieces for personalization

Steps:

1. Attach charms or beads to a keychain ring.
2. Personalize it with fabric or leather tags, stamping or painting a name or design.
3. Ensure everything is securely fastened before gifting.

DIY Snow Globe

A homemade snow globe adds a magical touch to any desk or home during the holiday season.

Materials Used:

• Glass jar with lid
• Small figurine (Christmas tree, snowman, etc.)
• Glycerin
• Fake snow or glitter
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Attach the figurine to the inside of the jar lid with hot glue.
2. Fill the jar with water and glycerin.
3. Add fake snow or glitter.
4. Seal the jar tightly and shake for a festive snow globe effect.

Hand-Stamped Gift Tags

Gift tags are a small but thoughtful addition to any Christmas gift. Hand-stamped ones are easy to make and look unique.

Materials Used:

• Blank gift tags
• Stamps and ink pads
• Ribbon

Steps:

1. Stamp a design or message onto the gift tags.
2. Tie a ribbon to each tag for a decorative touch.
3. Attach the tags to your coworkers’ gifts.

DIY Jewelry Dish

A jewelry dish is a functional and pretty gift that can help your coworkers keep their rings or small trinkets organized.

Materials Used:

• Air-dry clay
• Acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes

Steps:

1. Roll out air-dry clay and shape it into a small dish.
2. Let the clay dry according to the instructions.
3. Paint the dish with acrylic paints in your coworker’s favorite colors or patterns.
4. Let the paint dry before gifting.

Homemade Granola

Homemade granola is a delicious and health-conscious gift that your coworkers can enjoy as a breakfast or snack.

Materials Used:

• Rolled oats
• Honey or maple syrup
• Nuts and dried fruit
• Baking sheet

Steps:

1. Mix oats, honey, and nuts on a baking sheet.
2. Bake at a low temperature until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Add dried fruit once the granola has cooled.
4. Package the granola in a mason jar or a clear bag with a festive ribbon.

Beaded Christmas Tree Ornament

A beaded ornament is a beautiful and unique decoration that your coworkers can hang on their Christmas tree.

Materials Used:

• Beads in various colors
• Wire
• Needle-nose pliers
• Ribbon for hanging

Steps:

1. Thread beads onto wire in a desired pattern to form a tree shape.
2. Use pliers to twist and secure the ends of the wire.
3. Attach a ribbon at the top for hanging on a Christmas tree.

 DIY Cinnamon Ornaments

These cinnamon-scented ornaments will add a festive fragrance to any coworker’s home or office.

Materials Used:

• Ground cinnamon
• Applesauce
• Cookie cutters
• Ribbon

Steps:

1. Mix cinnamon and applesauce to form a dough-like consistency.
2. Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create shapes.
3. Make a small hole at the top of each ornament for hanging.
4. Let the ornaments dry completely before adding a ribbon.

DIY Beaded Bracelets

A simple yet thoughtful gift, these bracelets can be customized with your coworker’s favorite colors and charms.

Materials Used:

• Beads in different shapes and colors
• Stretch cord
• Clasp (optional)

Steps:

1. String the beads onto stretch cord in a design of your choice.
2. Tie a secure knot at the ends, adding a clasp if desired.
3. Cut off any excess cord and gift wrap the bracelet.

Cookie Cutter Gift Set

A set of holiday-themed cookie cutters is perfect for coworkers who enjoy baking during the holiday season.

Materials Used:

• Cookie cutters in festive shapes
• Ribbon for packaging
• Small recipe card

Steps:

1. Package the cookie cutters in a small gift box or bag.
2. Tie the package with a ribbon for decoration.
3. Include a small recipe card for making holiday cookies.

Hand-Painted Flower Pots

A hand-painted flower pot can brighten up any desk with its colorful design and potential for a small plant.

Materials Used:

• Plain flower pot
• Acrylic paints
• Brushes

Steps:

1. Paint the flower pot with a fun design or a personalized message.
2. Let the paint dry completely before wrapping the pot for gifting.

Reusable Fabric Gift Wrap

Skip the wrapping paper and gift your coworker with reusable fabric wrap for an eco-friendly Christmas.

Materials Used:

• Fabric in Christmas patterns
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut the fabric to a size suitable for wrapping your gift.
2. Fold the edges to prevent fraying and tie with a ribbon.
3. Gift the fabric wrap alongside your gift.

DIY Sugar Scrub

A sugar scrub is a luxurious and pampering gift that your coworkers can use to unwind after a long day.

Materials Used:

• Sugar (white or brown)
• Coconut oil or olive oil
• Essential oils

Steps:

1. Mix sugar and oil in a bowl until it reaches a scrub-like consistency.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance.
3. Store the scrub in a jar and gift it to your coworkers with a ribbon.

DIY Painted Glass Jar Lanterns

These painted glass jar lanterns add a warm glow to any space, making them perfect holiday gifts.

Materials Used:

• Empty glass jars
• Acrylic paint
• Tea light candles

Steps:

1. Clean and dry the glass jars.
2. Paint festive designs on the outside of the jars.
3. Once the paint is dry, place a tea light candle inside each jar.

Homemade Hot Sauce

A small bottle of homemade hot sauce is a spicy and fun gift that will definitely stand out.

Materials Used:

• Chili peppers
• Vinegar
• Garlic, salt, and other spices
• Glass bottle or jar

Steps:

1. Blend chili peppers with vinegar and spices to create the sauce.
2. Bottle the hot sauce in glass containers.
3. Label each bottle and gift it to your coworkers.

Final Tips for Making Holiday Gifting Fun and Meaningful for Coworkers

The holiday season offers a perfect opportunity to show appreciation and spread joy among colleagues. While gifting in the workplace can sometimes feel formal, it can also be a chance to connect and create lasting memories. Here are a few final tips to help make holiday gifting enjoyable and meaningful for your coworkers:

1. Know Your Budget: Set a spending limit to avoid any awkwardness, ensuring all gifts are thoughtful yet affordable.
2. Personalize the Gift: Try to incorporate each coworker’s interests or personality. A personalized gift shows you put thought into it.
3. Secret Santa or Gift Exchange: Organize a fun Secret Santa or gift exchange to make the process lighthearted and inclusive.
4. Keep It Professional: Avoid overly personal gifts that might make others uncomfortable. Stick to gifts that are universally appreciated or office-appropriate.
5. Consider Group Gifts: Pool together with other coworkers for a larger group gift, such as a team outing or a communal item that benefits everyone.
6. Handmade or Thoughtful Touches: Homemade gifts or small personalized touches like handwritten notes add a heartfelt element to the gift-giving.

FAQ

What are some easy DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers?

Some easy and thoughtful DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers include homemade candles, personalized mugs, knitted scarves, baked goods like cookies or brownies, and hand-decorated picture frames. These gifts are simple to make and can be customized to suit your coworker’s tastes.

How do I make sure the DIY gift is appropriate for a coworker?

When selecting a DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers, it’s important to consider the relationship you have with the coworker. Keep it professional by avoiding overly personal or expensive gifts. Aim for something that shows appreciation but isn’t too extravagant or intimate. Opt for practical or neutral items, such as office supplies, desk organizers, or handmade treats.

Should I include a personal note with my DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers?

Yes, a personal note can make a DIY gift more meaningful. A simple card with a heartfelt message or a note of appreciation will show your coworker that you value their hard work and the relationship you share in the workplace.

How much should I spend on DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers?

DIY gifts tend to be more budget-friendly than store-bought ones, but it’s still important to be mindful of how much you spend. Aim for gifts that are thoughtful but not overly expensive. Typically, DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers can range from $5 to $20, depending on the materials you use.