66+ Crafty & Loving DIY Great Grandma Gifts

DIY Great Grandma gifts are thoughtful and personal creations made with love to celebrate and honor your great grandmother. DIY Great Grandma gifts can range from cozy crafts like knitted scarves or photo albums to custom artwork or personalized keepsakes. Whether it’s something sentimental, practical, or just fun, a DIY Great Grandma gifts allows you to add a personal touch that makes the gift extra special for your great grandma. It’s a beautiful way to show appreciation and create lasting memories.

DIY Great Grandma Gifts

DIY Great Grandma gifts are an excellent way to show love, appreciation, and creativity. DIY Great Grandma gifts go beyond store-bought items by offering a personal touch that reflects the bond between you and your great grandmother. DIY Great Grandma gifts can be customized to fit her interests, hobbies, and personality, making them meaningful and unique.

DIY Photo Memory Book

A photo memory book is a heartfelt way to preserve and celebrate family memories for your great grandma. It allows her to reminisce about special moments with loved ones.

Materials Used:

• Scrapbook or photo album
• Family photos
• Decorative stickers or embellishments
• Adhesive (glue or photo corners)
• Pens or markers
• Paper for journaling

Steps:

1. Gather photos of your great grandma’s life, including family gatherings, holidays, and milestones.
2. Choose a scrapbook or photo album that suits the amount of photos you have.
3. Arrange the photos on each page in a way that tells a story or follows a timeline.
4. Use decorative stickers or embellishments to add a personal touch to each page.
5. Write captions or short journal entries on each page with markers to add context to the photos.
6. Assemble the pages and glue the photos or attach them with photo corners to ensure they stay in place.
7. Give it as a thoughtful gift to your great grandma, and watch her smile as she flips through her precious memories.

Handmade Knitted Blanket

A cozy and warm knitted blanket is perfect for your great grandma to snuggle under during cold evenings. Handmade with love, it will become a cherished possession.

Materials Used:

• Yarn in your grandma’s favorite color
• Knitting needles
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

Steps:

1. Choose a soft yarn in your great grandma’s favorite color or pattern.
2. Cast on a number of stitches depending on the desired width of the blanket (typically 80-120 stitches).
3. Knit the blanket in a simple garter stitch (knit every row) until the blanket reaches the desired length.
4. Cast off the stitches and cut the yarn, leaving a small tail.
5. Use a yarn needle to weave in any loose ends and ensure all sections are secure.
6. Fold the blanket and wrap it up in a ribbon or gift box.

Custom Hand-painted Mug Art

A hand-painted mug is a personalized and functional gift for your great grandma. You can paint a beautiful design or even write a special message just for her.

Materials Used:

• Plain ceramic mug
• Ceramic paint or paint markers
• Paintbrushes
• Baking tray

Steps:

1. Choose a plain ceramic mug and clean it thoroughly to remove any dust or grease.
2. Use ceramic paint or paint markers to design the mug. You can paint flowers, hearts, or even a simple “Best Grandma” message.
3. Allow the paint to dry for several hours.
4. Once dry, place the mug on a baking tray and bake it according to the instructions on the paint packaging (usually around 350°F for 30 minutes) to set the paint.
5. Let the mug cool before wrapping it up for your great grandma.

Personalized Handwritten Recipe Cards

If your great grandma has a special recipe she’s known for, creating personalized handwritten recipe cards would be a thoughtful gift. This allows her to share her culinary secrets with the family for generations to come.

Materials Used:

• Blank recipe cards or paper
• Pens or markers
• Decorative stickers or washi tape
• Ribbon or twine (for bundling)

Steps:

1. Collect your great grandma’s favorite or most treasured recipes.
2. Write each recipe on a separate blank recipe card using neat handwriting or calligraphy for a personal touch.
3. Add any notes or tips she might have passed down over the years.
4. Decorate the cards with stickers or washi tape for added flair.
5. Tie the cards together with a piece of ribbon or twine.
6. Present the bundle of recipe cards as a heartfelt gift.

Floral Arrangement in a Jar

A simple, yet beautiful, floral arrangement in a mason jar can brighten up any room. This DIY project is easy to make and brings a touch of nature indoors.

Materials Used:

• Mason jar or glass container
• Fresh flowers (roses, daisies, etc.)
• Floral foam (optional)
• Water
• Ribbon or twine

Steps:

1. Choose fresh flowers in your great grandma’s favorite colors.
2. Trim the flower stems to fit the height of the jar.
3. Fill the jar with water and, if necessary, place floral foam inside the jar to help keep the flowers in place.
4. Arrange the flowers inside the jar, starting with larger flowers and filling in with smaller blooms.
5. Tie a ribbon or piece of twine around the neck of the jar for a decorative touch.
6. Present the jar as a lovely centerpiece for your grandma’s home.

Homemade Bath Salts Art

A soothing and luxurious gift, homemade bath salts can provide your great grandma with a relaxing experience. Customizing the scent makes it even more special.

Materials Used:

• Epsom salt
• Sea salt
• Essential oils (lavender, rose, eucalyptus, etc.)
• Dried flowers (optional)
• Glass jar or container

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts Epsom salt and sea salt in a bowl.
2. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to the salt mixture and stir well.
3. If desired, add dried flowers like lavender or rose petals for extra beauty and fragrance.
4. Transfer the bath salts into a glass jar and secure the lid tightly.
5. Add a decorative label to the jar with instructions (e.g., “Add 1-2 tablespoons to your bath”).
6. Gift the jar of bath salts for a relaxing spa experience.

Personalized Handcrafted Coasters

Personalized handcrafted coasters are a practical gift that will also add a personal touch to your great grandma’s table. You can use photos, quotes, or designs that she loves.

Materials Used:

• Blank wooden coasters or ceramic tiles
• Photos or decorative paper
• Mod Podge (for decoupage)
• Paintbrush
• Clear acrylic sealer

Steps:

1. Select blank wooden coasters or ceramic tiles as the base.
2. Choose photos, scrapbook paper, or printed quotes that your great grandma would appreciate.
3. Cut the photos or paper to fit the coaster size.
4. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the surface of the coaster using a paintbrush.
5. Place the photo or paper onto the Mod Podge-coated surface and smooth out any air bubbles.
6. Once dry, apply a layer of Mod Podge over the entire surface to seal the design.
7. Allow the coasters to dry completely, and then spray them with a clear acrylic sealer for extra protection.
8. Gift the coasters wrapped in a nice box or bag.

Homemade Scented Candles Art

A homemade scented candle can be a wonderful gift, especially if you choose a scent that your great grandma loves. This DIY project allows you to create a calming atmosphere for her home.

Materials Used:

• Wax (soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax)
• Wick
• Essential oils for scent
• Candle jar or container
• Dye (optional)

Steps:

1. Melt the wax in a double boiler until it becomes a liquid.
2. While the wax melts, attach the wick to the bottom of your candle jar using a bit of melted wax or a wick holder.
3. Once the wax is melted, add a few drops of your chosen essential oil for fragrance.
4. If you want to add color to the candle, stir in some candle dye.
5. Pour the wax carefully into the jar, leaving a small space at the top.
6. Allow the wax to cool and harden completely.
7. Trim the wick to about 1 inch above the surface of the candle.
8. Wrap the candle in a decorative box or gift wrap.

Personalized Hand-painted Flower Pot

A hand-painted flower pot is a lovely gift that your great grandma can use to plant flowers or herbs. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to brighten up her garden or home.

Materials Used:

• Clay flower pot
• Acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes
• Clear acrylic sealer

Steps:

1. Choose a plain clay flower pot and clean it to remove any dust or dirt.
2. Paint the pot with acrylic paints in your great grandma’s favorite colors or patterns (flowers, stripes, etc.).
3. Allow the paint to dry completely between coats.
4. Once you’ve finished painting, apply a clear acrylic sealer to protect the design and make it water-resistant.
5. Let the sealer dry, then fill the pot with soil and a small plant or flower.
6. Gift the pot along with the plant, or leave it for your grandma to fill herself.

Quilted Pillow Cover

A hand-quilted pillow cover is a great way to make a practical, cozy gift. Your great grandma will love the thoughtfulness behind this project, which also adds warmth to her living space.

Materials Used:

• Fabric in different patterns
• Needle and thread (or sewing machine)
• Batting
• Zipper or buttons (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut fabric into squares or rectangles, depending on the design you want (such as a patchwork pattern).
2. Sew the pieces together, either by hand or using a sewing machine.
3. Add a layer of batting for extra cushion and sew the front and back pieces together.
4. Add a zipper or buttons to the back for easy removal and washing.
5. Stuff the pillow with batting or a pillow insert, then close up the opening.
6. Your grandma will appreciate the cozy addition to her couch or chair.

DIY Hand Scrub

A soothing and exfoliating hand scrub is a perfect gift to pamper your great grandma’s skin. Made with simple ingredients, this scrub is easy to customize with her favorite scent.

Materials Used:

• Sugar or sea salt
• Olive oil or coconut oil
• Essential oils
• Jar or container

Steps:

1. In a bowl, mix equal parts sugar (or sea salt) and olive oil (or coconut oil) until you get a thick paste.
2. Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance (lavender, rose, or citrus).
3. Mix the ingredients well and transfer the scrub into a jar or container.
4. Decorate the jar with a ribbon or label, including instructions to massage the scrub onto hands before rinsing.
5. Gift the scrub for a luxurious self-care experience.

Handmade Lip Balm

Lip balm is a practical and thoughtful gift that your great grandma can use every day. This simple recipe can be customized with her favorite scents and flavors.

Materials Used:

• Beeswax
• Coconut oil
• Essential oils (optional)
• Small containers or tubes

Steps:

1. Melt the beeswax and coconut oil in a double boiler until fully liquid.
2. Remove from heat and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance.
3. Pour the mixture into small containers or lip balm tubes.
4. Let it cool and harden.
5. Seal the containers and gift them with a personalized label.

Custom Family Tree Painting

A custom family tree painting is a meaningful and artistic gift. It’s a beautiful way to show your great grandma how her family has grown and flourished.

Materials Used:

• Canvas
• Acrylic paint or watercolors
• Paintbrushes
• Family names or photos (optional)

Steps:

1. Sketch the outline of a tree on a canvas, leaving space for branches to represent family members.
2. Paint the tree trunk and branches in earthy tones, and add leaves or flowers to each branch.
3. You can either paint the family member’s names directly onto the tree or attach small photo cutouts of family members to the branches.
4. Allow the painting to dry, and frame it for a special presentation.
5. Gift the family tree painting as a timeless piece of family history.

Personalized Calendar

A personalized calendar filled with family photos, important birthdays, and special dates can be a wonderful gift that your great grandma can use all year long.

Materials Used:

• Blank calendar (or printable template)
• Family photos
• Markers
• Stickers or embellishments

Steps:

1. Select a blank calendar with enough space for writing notes on each day.
2. Insert family photos for each month, ensuring each photo represents a special memory or milestone.
3. Write important birthdays, anniversaries, and other events on the calendar.
4. Decorate each page with markers, stickers, or embellishments to make it extra special.
5. Gift the calendar, and let your great grandma enjoy it all year.

Handcrafted Jewelry Box

A handcrafted jewelry box is a meaningful and beautiful gift that your great grandma can use to store her cherished jewelry or keepsakes.

Materials Used:

• Wooden box
• Paint or stain
• Decorative knobs
• Foam or velvet lining

Steps:

1. Start with a plain wooden box that has compartments for jewelry.
2. Paint or stain the box in colors or patterns your great grandma loves.
3. Add decorative knobs or handles to give the box a unique touch.
4. Line the interior with foam or velvet fabric to create a soft space for storing jewelry.
5. Present the jewelry box as a special gift, filled with some of her favorite pieces.

DIY Cookie Jar

A DIY cookie jar filled with homemade treats is a sweet way to show your great grandma how much she means to you. You can customize the jar and cookies to match her preferences.

Materials Used:

• Mason jar or glass jar
• Ingredients for cookies (flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.)
• Recipe card
• Ribbon or twine

Steps:

1. Layer the dry ingredients for cookies (flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.) in a mason jar, starting with the dry ingredients at the bottom.
2. Add a decorative tag with the recipe and baking instructions.
3. Tie a ribbon or twine around the lid for extra charm.
4. Include a note encouraging her to add any wet ingredients (like eggs or butter) and bake the cookies.
5. Present the jar as a sweet gift filled with love.

Crocheted Shawl

A crocheted shawl is a lovely handmade gift that can keep your great grandma warm during colder months. The delicate stitches and beautiful yarn make it a treasured gift.

Materials Used:

• Soft yarn
• Crochet hook
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Choose a soft yarn in a color your great grandma will love.
2. Start with a basic chain stitch to create the foundation row, then crochet each row with a simple stitch (like a double crochet stitch).
3. Continue crocheting until the shawl is the desired size.
4. Tie off the end and weave in any loose yarn ends.
5. Fold the shawl and present it as a thoughtful, cozy gift.

Beaded Bookmark

A beaded bookmark is a practical and beautiful gift for your great grandma, especially if she loves to read. The colors and beads can be personalized to match her preferences.

Materials Used:

• Beads
• String or wire
• Scissors
• Bookmark end (such as a charm or tassel)

Steps:

1. Cut a length of string or wire that is long enough to create a bookmark.
2. String beads onto the wire or string, creating a pattern or design that appeals to your great grandma.
3. At one end, attach a charm or tassel as a decorative finishing touch.
4. Trim any excess string or wire and secure the beads in place.
5. Gift the beaded bookmark with a book or as a standalone present.

DIY Framed Family Quote

A framed family quote is a heartwarming way to share a sentiment that resonates with your great grandma. The quote can be something meaningful to her or a family favorite.

Materials Used:

• Frame
• Decorative paper
• Pen or calligraphy tools
• Stickers or embellishments

Steps:

1. Choose a meaningful family quote or phrase that will resonate with your great grandma.
2. Write the quote on a decorative piece of paper using a pen or calligraphy tool.
3. Add any embellishments or stickers to the paper to make it more visually appealing.
4. Place the quote into a frame, ensuring it’s securely attached.
5. Gift the framed family quote as a reminder of love and connection.

Homemade Fruit Jam

Homemade fruit jam is a delicious and thoughtful gift that your great grandma can enjoy on toast, in yogurt, or by the spoonful. It’s a great way to share the fruits of the season with her.

Materials Used:

• Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
• Sugar
• Pectin
• Mason jars

Steps:

1. Select ripe, fresh fruit and wash it thoroughly.
2. Crush the fruit and combine it with sugar in a large pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then stir in the pectin according to package instructions.
4. Cook the mixture until it reaches the desired jam consistency.
5. Pour the jam into sterilized mason jars while hot, and seal the jars tightly.
6. Allow the jam to cool and set, then gift it in a basket or box.

Embroidered Handkerchief

An embroidered handkerchief is a delicate and sentimental gift. You can embroider your great grandma’s initials or a simple design to make it personal and special.

Materials Used:

• Plain handkerchief
• Embroidery floss or thread
• Embroidery hoop
• Needle

Steps:

1. Place the handkerchief in an embroidery hoop to keep the fabric taut while you work.
2. Choose an embroidery design, such as your great grandma’s initials, a flower, or a small symbol.
3. Carefully stitch the design onto the handkerchief using your chosen embroidery thread.
4. Once finished, trim any loose threads and iron the handkerchief to remove wrinkles.
5. Fold and present the handkerchief in a gift box.

DIY Ceramic Plate

A DIY ceramic plate with a hand-painted design is a unique and thoughtful gift that your great grandma can use every day or display.

Materials Used:

• Plain ceramic plate
• Ceramic paints or markers
• Paintbrushes
• Clear ceramic sealer

Steps:

1. Choose a plain ceramic plate to decorate.
2. Design a pattern or image that your great grandma will love using ceramic paints or markers.
3. Once the design is complete, allow the paint to dry completely.
4. Bake the plate according to the paint instructions to set the design.
5. Once cool, seal the plate with a clear ceramic sealer for protection.
6. Wrap the plate carefully and gift it with love.

Crafting a Personal Gift with Love and Care

There’s something deeply special about giving a gift that is made with love and care. Unlike mass-produced items, a DIY Great Grandma gifts reflects personal thought, effort, and a true understanding of the recipient’s likes, interests, and needs. Crafting a personal gift shows not only creativity but also the emotional connection you share with the person. It’s a meaningful gesture that can create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

Here are some key points to consider when crafting a DIY Great Grandma gifts:

1. Understand the Recipient’s Preferences
   Tailor the gift to their personality and tastes. Think about their hobbies, favorite colors, and what brings them joy.
2. Incorporate Sentimental Elements
   Include elements that hold special meaning, like shared experiences, inside jokes, or references to significant moments in your relationship.
3. Choose the Right Materials
   Select materials that align with the style of the gift and the person’s preferences. Whether it’s a hand-painted picture, knitted scarf, or custom jewelry, the materials should resonate with the recipient.
4. Add a Personal Touch
   A hand-written note, monogram, or a personal dedication can make the gift feel even more intimate and thoughtful.
5. Focus on Quality Over Quantity
   The effort and time invested in crafting the gift are what matter most. Don’t stress about making it perfect—it’s the love and care that make it precious.

Wrapping and Presentation: Creative Ways to Wrap DIY Gifts

When it comes to gifting, how you wrap and present your handmade treasures can make the experience even more special. Creative gift wrapping not only enhances the excitement of unwrapping but also shows how much thought and care you’ve put into the gift. Here are some fun and unique ways to wrap your DIY creations:

1. Gift Bags with a Twist: Opt for colorful or patterned gift bags, and personalize them with fun accessories like dried flowers, stickers, or fabric swatches for a unique look.
2. Tissue Paper Art: Create layers of delicate tissue paper in your gift box or bag for an elegant and textured effect. You can also use tissue paper to craft beautiful flowers or bows for added decoration.
3. Ribbons and Twine: Instead of the usual satin ribbons, try natural twine or colorful yarn. These can add a rustic or bohemian flair to your gift. You can also tie small charms, tags, or sprigs of greenery for a more personalized touch.
4. Custom Gift Boxes: Get creative with boxes—decorate plain boxes with paint, washi tape, or fabric to reflect the recipient’s style or the occasion. Handmade boxes can be a keepsake in themselves.
5. Handwritten Labels and Cards: Personalize your wrapping further by adding a handwritten card or tag. Use unique stationery, or even make your own from scrap paper, to create a meaningful note that connects to the gift.

FAQ

What are some great DIY Great Grandma Gifts?

There are many thoughtful DIY Great Grandma Gifts , including handmade photo albums, knitted scarves or blankets, personalized picture frames, memory jars, and custom-painted mugs. Anything that reflects her personality and your love will be a perfect gift.

How do I make a personalized photo album for my great grandma?

To create a personalized photo album, gather old photos of family members, special occasions, and moments that are meaningful to her. Add captions or short messages next to the pictures to give it a more personal touch. You can either craft the album by hand or use a photo book service online.

What materials are needed to knit a scarf for my great grandma?

To knit a scarf DIY Great Grandma gifts, you’ll need yarn, knitting needles, and scissors. Choose a soft yarn that your grandma will love, perhaps in her favorite color. Simple knitting patterns like garter or ribbed stitch work well for beginners.

How can I make a memory jar for my great grandma ?

To create a memory jar, take small slips of paper and write down heartfelt memories, funny anecdotes, or things you love about her. Fill a jar with these notes, decorate it with ribbon or stickers, and give it to her so she can read one each day or whenever she needs a smile.