66+ Handcrafted DIY White Elephant Gift Ideas

DIY White Elephant gift ideas are fun and creative presents that are perfect for gift exchanges with a humorous twist. The goal is to surprise and entertain, often with quirky or novelty items that are both unexpected and inexpensive. DIY White Elephant gift ideas can be handmade or repurposed items, ranging from silly, gag gifts to personalized or slightly unconventional presents. The key is to keep it lighthearted and playful, adding a personal touch or unexpected element that makes the gift memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.

White Elephant Customized Mug

A customized mug makes a thoughtful and inexpensive white elephant gift. It’s practical, and you can personalize it to add a fun touch to the gift exchange.

Materials Used:

• Plain white mug
• Permanent markers or ceramic paints
• Stencils (optional)

Steps:

1. Start by choosing a plain white ceramic mug. These are usually available at craft stores.
2. Use permanent markers or ceramic paints to decorate the mug. You can add fun quotes, drawings, or even the recipient’s name.
3. If you’re not confident with freehand drawing, use stencils for a neat design.
4. Allow the mug to dry completely. If you used paint, follow the instructions on how to set it in the oven to make the design permanent.

White Elephant Sock Snowman

A cute and quirky holiday gift, the sock snowman is a great way to get creative with minimal materials.

Materials Used:

• White socks
• Rice or beans
• Ribbon or buttons
• Hot glue gun
• Small fabric scraps

Steps:

1. Take a clean white sock and fill it with rice or beans for the base.
2. Tie a ribbon at the top of the sock to secure the filling.
3. Fold the sock in half to create the snowman’s body and head.
4. Attach buttons down the middle using a hot glue gun.
5. Create a scarf or hat from fabric scraps, and glue them onto the snowman.
6. Add eyes, a nose, and any additional decorations to complete the snowman.

White Elephant Mini Succulent Planter

A miniature succulent planter can be a simple and lovely gift that adds a bit of greenery to anyone’s home or office.

Materials Used:

• Small succulent plants
• Decorative container (cup, jar, or teacup)
• Potting soil
• Small rocks for drainage

Steps:

1. Choose a small decorative container like a cup or jar.
2. Fill the bottom with small rocks to ensure proper drainage.
3. Add a layer of potting soil on top of the rocks.
4. Gently place a small succulent plant into the container and cover the roots with more soil.
5. Water lightly and place in a sunny spot.

White Elephant Personalized Photo Frame

Personalized photo frames make great gifts that allow the recipient to showcase a favorite memory.

Materials Used:

• Plain photo frame
• Paint or markers
• Decorative elements (stickers, beads, etc.)
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Choose a plain wooden or metal photo frame.
2. Decorate the frame with paint, markers, or embellishments.
3. Personalize it by writing a funny quote or adding the recipient’s initials.
4. Once the decorations are dry, insert a fun photo or leave it empty for the recipient to fill in.
5. Optionally, you can wrap the frame creatively for extra flair.

White Elephant Scented Candle

A scented candle is both practical and customizable for any recipient.

Materials Used:

• Candle wax (soy or beeswax)
• Wick
• Essential oils
• Dye (optional)
• Container (mason jar or teacup)

Steps:

1. Melt the candle wax in a double boiler.
2. Once melted, stir in a few drops of your favorite essential oils for fragrance.
3. If desired, add a small amount of dye to color the wax.
4. Attach the wick to the bottom of your container using hot glue.
5. Pour the melted wax into the container and let it cool and harden.
6. Trim the wick, and your candle is ready to be gifted.

White Elephant Funny T-Shirt

Create a personalized, funny t-shirt that will definitely get laughs at the gift exchange.

Materials Used:

• Plain t-shirt
• Fabric markers or iron-on transfer paper

Steps:

1. Take a plain t-shirt in the desired size.
2. Use fabric markers to draw a funny design or write a quirky quote.
3. If you prefer, you can use iron-on transfer paper to print a fun image or saying.
4. Iron the design onto the shirt according to the instructions on the transfer paper.
5. Wrap the t-shirt up, and it’s ready for gifting.

White Elephant Coffee Scrub

A coffee scrub makes a practical gift that’s great for skincare and self-care enthusiasts.

Materials Used:

• Ground coffee
• Sugar or salt
• Coconut oil
• Jar or container

Steps:

1. Combine 1 cup of ground coffee with 1 cup of sugar or salt.
2. Add 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil and mix everything together.
3. Pour the scrub into a small jar or container and seal it.
4. Optionally, add a label with instructions on how to use the scrub for exfoliating the skin.

White Elephant Hand-Painted Rocks

A simple, artistic gift idea is hand-painted rocks that can be displayed as decorations.

Materials Used:

• Smooth rocks
• Acrylic paints
• Brushes
• Sealer

Steps:

1. Select smooth rocks that will make good surfaces for painting.
2. Use acrylic paints to create designs, patterns, or even inspirational quotes.
3. Once the paint has dried, apply a sealer to protect the design.
4. Allow the sealer to dry completely before wrapping the rocks as gifts.

White Elephant Decorative Coasters

Coasters are a functional and beautiful gift that can be easily customized.

Materials Used:

• Cork or wooden coaster blanks
• Paint or markers
• Mod Podge (for sealing)
• Felt or non-slip pads

Steps:

1. Choose cork or wooden coasters as your base.
2. Use paint or markers to decorate the coasters with designs, quotes, or patterns.
3. Once the paint is dry, seal the coasters with Mod Podge for durability.
4. Attach felt or non-slip pads to the bottom to prevent scratching surfaces.

White Elephant Homemade Cookie Mix in a Jar

Homemade cookie mix in a jar is a fun and practical gift that the recipient can use later.

Materials Used:

• Jar with lid
• Ingredients for cookie mix (flour, sugar, baking powder, etc.)
• Recipe tag

Steps:

1. Layer the dry ingredients for the cookie recipe in the jar, starting with the flour and ending with the chocolate chips or any add-ins.
2. Attach a recipe tag with instructions on how to bake the cookies using the mix.
3. Close the jar and decorate it with a ribbon or festive label.

Friendship Bracelets

A friendship bracelet is a thoughtful and meaningful gift that can be made from colorful threads.

Materials Used:

• Embroidery floss or threads
• Scissors
• Beads (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut several strands of embroidery floss to your desired length.
2. Braid or knot the threads to form a friendship bracelet.
3. Add beads to the bracelet if you want to make it extra special.
4. Tie the ends to secure the bracelet, and it’s ready for gifting.

DIY Lip Balm

A natural lip balm is a simple, fun DIY gift that anyone can use.

Materials Used:

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

Steps:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils if desired for fragrance.
3. Pour the melted mixture into small containers or tubes and let it cool and harden.
4. Seal the containers and label them with the scent or flavor.

Bath Bombs

Bath bombs are a relaxing and indulgent gift that adds a fun touch to anyone’s bath time routine.

Materials Used:

• Baking soda
• Citric acid
• Epsom salt
• Essential oils
• Molds

Steps:

1. Mix 1 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of citric acid, and 1/2 cup of Epsom salt in a bowl.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance and mix well.
3. Slowly add water to the mixture while stirring until it holds its shape.
4. Press the mixture into molds and allow them to dry for 24 hours.
5. Remove the bath bombs from the molds and wrap them in cellophane or tissue paper.

 Mason Jar Herb Garden

A simple and practical DIY gift that allows anyone to grow their own herbs at home.

Materials Used:

• Mason jar
• Potting soil
• Herb seeds (basil, parsley, etc.)
• Small stones for drainage

Steps:

1. Fill the bottom of the mason jar with small stones for drainage.
2. Add potting soil on top of the stones, leaving space for the herb seeds.
3. Plant the herb seeds according to the instructions on the seed packet.
4. Water the herbs lightly and place them in a sunny spot.
5. Optionally, you can decorate the jar with a cute ribbon or label.

Personalized Calendar

A custom calendar is a thoughtful gift that can be tailored to the recipient’s tastes.

Materials Used:

• Printable calendar template
• Photos or illustrations
• Printer

Steps:

1. Choose a printable calendar template or create one online.
2. Add personalized photos or illustrations for each month.
3. Print the calendar and bind it or use clips to hang it.
4. Wrap it up and give it as a gift for a year full of memories.

Jar of Positive Affirmations

A jar filled with positive affirmations is a heartwarming and encouraging gift.

Materials Used:

• Small jar with lid
• Paper or cardstock
• Pen

Steps:

1. Cut small pieces of paper or cardstock.
2. Write positive affirmations, quotes, or motivational phrases on each piece.
3. Fill the jar with the folded papers and seal it with the lid.
4. Optionally, decorate the jar with ribbon or a label.

Keychain with Initials

A personalized keychain with the recipient’s initials is both practical and thoughtful.

Materials Used:

• Wooden or acrylic keychain blank
• Paint or markers
• Key ring

Steps:

1. Choose a wooden or acrylic keychain blank.
2. Decorate it by painting or writing the recipient’s initials or a small design.
3. Attach the key ring to the keychain, and it’s ready for gifting.

Decorative Picture Clips

Picture clips are a fun and unique way to display photos or cards.

Materials Used:

• Small wooden clips
• Paint
• String or twine
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Paint the small wooden clips in different colors or patterns.
2. Attach the clips to a length of string or twine using a hot glue gun.
3. Add a few decorative elements, like beads or flowers, to the string.
4. Hang the string up, and the recipient can clip their favorite photos or cards.

DIY Scented Sachets

A scented sachet is a lovely gift that can be used to freshen up any space.

Materials Used:

• Small fabric bags
• Dried flowers or herbs (lavender, rose petals, etc.)
• Essential oils

Steps:

1. Fill small fabric bags with dried flowers or herbs.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils for extra fragrance.
3. Tie the bags tightly and decorate them with ribbon.
4. Optionally, you can add a label with the scent or use fabric paint for decoration.

Reusable Grocery Bag

A reusable grocery bag is both practical and eco-friendly.

Materials Used:

• Plain canvas bag
• Fabric markers or paint

Steps:

1. Take a plain canvas grocery bag.
2. Use fabric markers or paint to create a custom design.
3. Allow the paint or markers to dry completely before gifting.

DIY Bookmark

A bookmark is a small yet thoughtful gift, especially for avid readers.

Materials Used:

• Cardstock or thick paper
• Decorative paper or stickers
• Ribbon or twine

Steps:

1. Cut the cardstock into a long, thin shape to create the bookmark.
2. Decorate the bookmark with stickers, stamps, or drawings.
3. Punch a hole at the top and add a piece of ribbon or twine.
4. Optionally, laminate the bookmark for added durability.

Mason Jar Snow Globe

A fun and creative gift that can be used as a decoration during the holidays.

Materials Used:

• Mason jar
• Small plastic figurines
• Glitter
• Glycerin
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Attach small figurines (like a snowman or reindeer) to the inside of the jar lid using hot glue.
2. Fill the mason jar with water, glitter, and a few drops of glycerin.
3. Screw the lid back on tightly, ensuring it is secure.
4. Shake the jar, and it will resemble a mini snow globe.

DIY Hot Chocolate Mix

A delicious and cozy gift that can be enjoyed immediately.

Materials Used:

• Cocoa powder
• Sugar
• Mini marshmallows
• Jar or mug

Steps:

1. Layer cocoa powder, sugar, and mini marshmallows in a jar or mug.
2. Seal the jar and attach a note with instructions on how to prepare the hot chocolate.
3. Decorate the jar with a ribbon or holiday-themed embellishments.

Felt Animal Keychain

A cute and fun keychain made from felt animals adds a personal touch to the gift exchange.

Materials Used:

• Felt
• Needle and thread
• Small key ring

Steps:

1. Cut felt into the shapes of animals like a cat, dog, or bear.
2. Sew the edges together, leaving an opening for stuffing.
3. Add stuffing to the keychain and sew the opening shut.
4. Attach the key ring and your keychain is ready to go.

No-Sew Fleece Blanket

A cozy and thoughtful gift that requires no sewing skills.

Materials Used:

• Fleece fabric
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut two pieces of fleece fabric to your desired blanket size.
2. Cut small slits around the edges of both pieces of fleece.
3. Tie the slits together to bind the two pieces of fabric into a blanket.
4. The blanket is ready for gifting.

Mini Snowman Kit

Create a fun mini snowman kit that allows the recipient to build their own snowman indoors.

Materials Used:

• Small styrofoam balls
• Buttons, ribbon, and fabric scraps
• Mini carrot (or orange pipe cleaner)

Steps:

1. Glue the small styrofoam balls together to form the snowman.
2. Add buttons for eyes and a ribbon for a scarf.
3. Attach a mini carrot or an orange pipe cleaner for the nose.
4. Pack everything in a box or small container and gift it as a DIY kit.

DIY Fruit Infused Water Bottles

A healthy and refreshing gift that promotes hydration.

Materials Used:

• Clear plastic or glass bottle
• Fresh fruit (citrus, berries, etc.)
• Mint leaves

Steps:

1. Wash and cut the fruit into small pieces.
2. Add the fruit and mint leaves to the water bottle.
3. Fill the bottle with water and refrigerate it for a few hours to infuse the flavors.
4. Wrap the bottle up and gift it for a refreshing experience.

Macrame Keychain

A handmade macrame keychain is both decorative and useful.

Materials Used:

• Macrame cord
• Key ring
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut macrame cord into several strands.
2. Tie knots in the cord to create a decorative pattern or design.
3. Attach the key ring to the top of the keychain.
4. Trim the edges and your keychain is ready for gifting.

Handmade Soap Bars

A beautifully crafted bar of soap can be both practical and luxurious.

Materials Used:

• Soap base (glycerin or shea butter)
• Essential oils
• Molds
• Dried flowers or herbs (optional)

Steps:

1. Melt the soap base according to package instructions.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance.
3. Pour the melted soap into molds and let it harden for a few hours.
4. Optionally, decorate with dried flowers or herbs before the soap sets.
5. Once hardened, remove from molds and wrap the soap bars.

Desk Organizer

A functional gift that keeps any workspace neat and tidy.

Materials Used:

• Wooden box or small container
• Paint or markers
• Decorative elements (stickers, buttons, etc.)

Steps:

1. Choose a wooden box or container for the organizer.
2. Paint or decorate it using markers, stickers, or buttons.
3. Add compartments or dividers inside to organize pens, paper, or other supplies.
4. Allow the paint to dry completely before gifting.

Tips for Wrapping DIY White Elephant Gifts

Wrapping DIY White Elephant gifts can be just as fun as picking the gift itself! A well-wrapped present adds an extra layer of excitement and humor to the gift exchange. Here are some creative tips for wrapping your White Elephant gifts that will surely bring smiles and laughter to the party:

1. Use Recycled Materials

• Eco-friendly Options: Give your gift a personal touch by wrapping it in recycled newspapers, old maps, or magazine pages. Not only does this reduce waste, but it can also create a fun and unique look.
• Old Fabric or Scarves: Repurpose old scarves, t-shirts, or fabric remnants to create a no-fuss, eco-friendly wrap. This adds a stylish and unconventional twist to your gift.

2. Go for Oversized Boxes

• Bigger is Better: Place a small gift inside a huge box, and fill it with crumpled newspaper or bubble wrap to create a ridiculous, oversized effect. Watching the recipient struggle to open a large box for a tiny gift will add to the fun.
• Stacked Boxes: For an extra challenge, use multiple boxes within boxes. Each layer could contain a clue or a part of the gift, making it even more engaging to unwrap.

3. Embrace Unusual Shapes

• Unexpected Shapes: Don’t stick to traditional rectangular boxes—wrap your gift in a way that makes it look odd or abstract. Think about wrapping it in the shape of a balloon, a shoe, or a strange object to throw off the guesswork and amp up the mystery.
• Challenge the Norm: You can also wrap your gift in a creative, non-box shape like a tube, bag, or even a stuffed item to confuse and amuse the recipient.

Personalization and Creativity in Choosing the Perfect White Elephant Gift

Choosing the ideal White Elephant gift requires a blend of creativity, thoughtfulness, and a personal touch. While these gifts are often meant to be humorous or quirky, adding a bit of personalization can elevate the fun and make the gift exchange even more memorable. Here are some key points to consider when picking the perfect White Elephant gift:

1. Know Your Audience: Tailor the gift to the personality and preferences of the group you’re buying for. Consider inside jokes, shared experiences, or group interests to guide your decision-making.
2. Creative Presentation: Packaging can turn an ordinary gift into something extraordinary. Get creative with wrapping, like using unexpected materials or adding amusing decorations, to make the gift even more of a surprise.
3. Humor with a Personal Twist: Humor is at the heart of White Elephant exchanges. While a funny gift is a must, make it personal by choosing something that resonates with the recipient’s tastes or quirks, like a funny mug or a custom-made gag item.

FAQ

What are some fun DIY White Elephant gift ideas?

Some DIY White Elephant gift ideas include homemade candles, quirky photo frames, hand-painted mugs, personalized socks, bath bombs, or custom keychains. You can also make funny “re-gifted” items like old books wrapped in funny ways or create a “mystery box” with random household items.

How do I make a DIY White Elephant gift ideas unique?

To make a DIY White Elephant gift ideas unique, consider personalizing it with a humorous twist. For instance, a custom t-shirt with a silly slogan, or a “spa kit” that includes mismatched items like a loofah and a rubber duck. The key is to think outside the box and have fun with the gift.

What’s a good budget for a DIY White Elephant gift?

A budget of $5 to $20 is typical for a White Elephant gift exchange. DIY gifts can often be crafted from materials you already have at home, so they’re a great way to stick to the lower end of that budget while still providing something fun and creative.

Can I make a DIY White Elephant gift ideas that’s practical?

Yes! DIY doesn’t always mean quirky or silly. You can create something practical, like hand-sewn reusable bags, a handmade notepad, or a cozy scarf. Practical gifts with a personal touch are always appreciated, even in a White Elephant exchange.