Fantastic DIY Christmas Gifts Dad Will Actually Use
- 1/64
Fantastic DIY Christmas Gifts Dad Will Actually Use
If there’s anyone that appreciates a little sweat equity in a present, it’s definitely going to be Dad. If he’s the guy that taught you how to change a tire, operate a drill, or fix a leaky faucet, he’s also sure to smile after opening a homemade gift. And if you’re in search of DIY gifts to treat Dad for Christmas, his birthday, or any other special occasion, then you’ve come to the right place.
If you’ve got children in your life, we’ve found fun crafts like bottle cap fishing lures and easy-to-make air fresheners that are perfect fodder to make with a son or daughter. Prefer to spend time whipping things up in the kitchen? You could cook a delicious breakfast recipe, then present him with a gift of homemade snack mix to take to the office or creative popcorn seasonings to sprinkle on during a Dad-centric movie marathon the whole family will enjoy. Short on time, but not on love? Download a printable coupon template and create a booklet filled with opportunities to do fun things together, or offer to take chores off his to-do list. And if all else fails, what could be better than a mason jar filled with all the reasons you’re grateful for his presence in your life.
Ian Palmer - 2/64
DIY Grilling Apron
The ideal gift for the dad who loves to spend time outback barbecuing a delicious meal for friends and family.
To make: Use fabric markers or fabric paint and a small paint brush to paint "grill master" and a grill on a plain canvas apron. Once dry, have kids dip their pinky fingers in orange, red, and yellow paint and press onto apron, just above grill grates, to create flames.
Shop NowIan Palmer - 3/64
#1 Dad Pinch Bowl
Make Dad a catch-all dish where he can stash those trinkets you collect together on your outdoor adventures.
To make: Pinch and shape oven-bake clay into a small, shallow dish. Bake according to manufacturers directions. Paint as desired with acrylic paint. Once dry, seal with satin-finish Mod Podge.
Ian Palmer - 4/64
DIY Koozie
Dad will be filled with joy while sipping cans of his favorite summer chiller out of this DIY drink koozie.
To make: Cut a length of craft foam that is just shorter than a can. Wrap around can and cut the length so that it just overlaps itself. Have kids draw a picture on the foam with fabric markers. Add a piece of velcro to the back to keep it closed.
Ian Palmer - 5/64
DIY Air Fresheners
Help dad keep his car smelling fresh with a DIY tree-shaped air freshener. Added bonus—they are made with essential oils so no nasty chemicals involved.
To make: Trace the shape of a wooden Christmas tree ornament on a scrap of fabric twice. Cut out and glue to the front and back of the ornament. Once dry, soak the fabric with dads favorite scent of essential oil (we used cedar). Thread twine through the loop for hanging.
Shop NowIan Palmer - 6/64
Customizable Father's Day 'Coupons'
PapermaidStudio
etsy.com
$7.00
These printable Father's Day coupons are not only completely customizable; they're also perfect for a last-minute gift that doesn't feel last-minute in the slightest. Simply personalize, print, punch a few holes, then tie the bunch together with a ribbon and call it a day.
Etsy / PapermaidStudio - 7/64
Personalized Spatula
For an easy DIY gift from the kids, let them decorate a spatula for their grill-loving dad with a sweet message.
Get the tutorial at Skip to My Lou.
Skip to My Lou - 8/64
Homemade Orange Bitters
For the perfect old fashioned, gift Dad these homemade orange bitters that will add a little flavor to his favorite cocktail.
Get the tutorial at Lovely Indeed.
Lovely Indeed - 9/64
Surprise Paper Airplane Box
Remind your dad of all those paper airplanes you made as a kid with this sweet garland idea.
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.
Studio DIY - 10/64
DIY Snack Tin
Make both the snack tin and the tasty mix that goes inside with just a few easy steps.
Get the tutorial at Sarah Hearts.
Sarah Hearts - 11/64
LEGO Cuff Links
Putting these adorable cuff links together with your kids will make for a thoughtful gift from the whole family.
Get the tutorial at Dream a Little Bigger.
Dream a Little Bigger - 12/64
Bottle Tags
Build a six pack of his favorite craft beers and print off these cute tags for a personalized touch.
Get the tutorial at Skip to My Lou.
Skip to My Lou - 13/64
DIY Canvas Tool Apron
Does your dad love to fix things and do work around the house? This tool apron is the perfect DIY gift to present him with for Father's Day.
Get the tutorial at A Merry Thought.
The Merry Thought - 14/64
DIY Canvas Wine Bag
What Dad doesn't love wine? With this fun DIY, you'll be able to spruce up the classic gift with a little homemade love.
Get the tutorial at Paper and Stitch.
Paper and Stitch - 15/64
Tea Gift Box
Tea is the name of the game in this sophisticated gift basket. Even the basket itself is lined with a tea towel! Include a bag of pancake mix, a jar of fresh jam, ripe apples, and loose-leaf tea for a gift that's as delicious as it is nice to look at.
Get the tutorial at Camille Styles.
Camille Styles - 16/64
DIY Candy Dispenser
Does Dad have a sweet tooth? Help him satisfy his cravings with this nifty DIY candy dispenser (you can even pick and choose from his favorite candies to "personalize" it further).
Get the tutorial at The House of Wood.
The House of Wood - 17/64
DIY Agate Coasters
If your dad's into wine, beer, or plain old lemonade, he'll appreciate these gorgeous coasters, both for their utility and their beauty. Believe it or not, they're made of acrylic paint and polymer clay—that's it.
Get the tutorial at The House of Wood.
The House of Wood - 18/64
Meyer Lemon and Pistachio Sandwich Cookies
All it takes is a roll of twine, a small box, and a bit of parchment paper to make homemade cookies into a gift fit for even the greatest dad. Bonus: These lemon and pistachio sandwich cookies happen to taste as delicious as they look.
Get the recipe at Coley Cooks.
Coley Cooks - 19/64
Beer Bouquet
Dad might not care for a dozen roses—but he'll definitely love this super simple present.
Get the tutorial at Unoriginal Mom.
Unoriginal Mom - 20/64
Dad's Stache Jar
This blogger offers a fun free printable for her cute craft.
Get the tutorial at Alice Wingerden.
Alice Wingerden - 21/64
Stamped Leather Tie Clip
Customize this tie clip with your dad's initials, lucky number, or any word that describes him best.
Get the tutorial at Lovely Indeed.
Lovely Indeed - 22/64
Dual-Sided Etched Glass
Gift this engraved glass with a bottle of Dad's favorite brew.
Get the tutorial at Where the Smiles Have Been.
Where the Smiles Have Been - 23/64
World's Greatest Pop Jar
Dad will get a kick out of this jar filled with punny treats.
Get the tutorial at The Gunny Sack.
The Gunney Sack - 24/64
Wood Grain Flask
Wood grain contact paper transforms a basic flask into a DIY Dad will love.
Get the tutorial at Almost Makes Perfect.
Almost Makes Perfect - 25/64
Leather Mason Jar Sleeve
This leather handle might make Dad love Mason jars as much as you do!
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess.
A Beautiful Mess - 26/64
Bottle Cap Fishing Lures
Dad will be reel-y thrilled to receive these homemade lures.
Get the tutorial at 2 Little Hooligans.
2 Little Hooligans - 27/64
Leather Keychain
There's no way Dad will lose his keys when he has this unique keychain attached.
Get the tutorial at Pretty Providence.
Hawthorne and Main - 28/64
Golf Headcover
A cool retro headcover will have Dad as excited as ever to hit the links come springtime.
Get the tutorial at Positively Splendid.
Positively Splendid - 29/64
Monogrammed Leather Dopp Kit
If your father is a frequent flier, he will definitely get good use out of this toiletry bag.
Get the tutorial at Polkadot Chair.
Polkadot Chair - 30/64
Firewood Carrier
Give Dad a helping hand with this easy-to-make piece.
Step 1: Turn a canvas bag inside out, then use a seam ripper to undo the gusseted corners and cut the bag so that it lays flat.
Step 2: Lay the bag out and on the interior, use a pencil and a ruler to draw an 8 1/2-inch diagonal line across each of the bag's corners. Cut the bag along the lines, and discard corner pieces. Next, fold each cut edge over by 1/4 inch and topstitch in place.
Step 3: Cut a piece of faux bois oilcloth that measures 18 1/4''L x 13 1/2"W. Flip the bag over and use bright-orange thread to stitch the panel along the edges.
Step 4: Reinforce the handles by folding each strap back on itself, and pin the strap in place, then stitch it together. Repeat for the second strap.
Audrey Meyer and Jody Kahn - 31/64
Bottle Opener Game
This two-in-one gift is one part bottle opener and one part fun activity that your old man can proudly display in his man cave.
Get the tutorial at Lolly Jane.
Courtesy of Lolly Jane - 32/64
Fringed Flannel Throw
You can make this cozy throw for your pop, which is perfect for tailgating and movie watching, for less than $10.
Get the tutorial at It's Always Autumn.
Courtesy of It's Always Autumn - 33/64
Leather Tool Roll
Dad will love this neat piece made just for him, and Mom will love that you're helping him corral his clutter.
The Minimalist Maker@Youtube - 34/64
Wood Coasters
Customize these DIY coasters with one of Dad's interests, like this hunting-themed set.
Get the tutorial at Unoriginal Mom.
Courtesy of Unoriginal Mom - 35/64
Necktie Zip Pouch
Transform a couple of Dad's old ties into a pouch that can hold all of his odds and ends. It's also nicely sized to act as a toiletry case if he frequently travels.
Get the tutorial at Polkadot Chair.
Courtesy of Polkadot Chair - 36/64
Pre-Shave Oil
Making shaving oil is as simple as mixing a few ingredients together—and it'll leave his face feeling silky smooth.
Get the tutorial at The Merrythought.
Courtesy of The Merrythought - 37/64
Rosemary Pine Beard Balm
Whether Dad has a full beard, a little scruff, or is completely bare, this moisturizing balm is good for his facial hair and skin.
Get the tutorial at Grow Forage Cook Ferment.
Courtesy of Grow Forage Cook Ferment - 38/64
Rustic Popcorn Sampler
This creative gift is perfect for dads who like to enjoy popcorn every time they watch a movie. You can whip up different seasonings with just four or five ingredients each!
Get the tutorial at DIY Projects.
Courtesy of DIY Projects - 39/64
Grilling Apron
With just a flour sack towel and black trim, you can make him an apron for grilling that he'll still feel "manly" wearing.
Get the tutorial at Lovely Indeed.
Courtesy of Lovely Indeed - 40/64
Quality Time
Give Dad the gift of time this year by filling a mason jar with his favorite activities that the whole family can enjoy together throughout the year.
Get the tutorial at One Artsy Mama.
Courtesy of One Artsy Mama - 42/64
Mason Jar Lid Coasters
Give Dad a stylish-looking spot to rest his beer bottle while he watches the big game.
Step 1: First, gather four lids: We used weathered zinc ones.
Step 2: Place your lids upside down on top of adhesive cork shelf liner. Trace around the lids with a pen, then cut out the circles.
Step 3: Stamp an image into the center of each cork circle—ours references the classic Ball jar—using solvent-based ink, which won't smear when wet.
Step 4: Let the ink dry at least one minute, then peel the backing off the cork circles, and affix within the lids.
Alison Gootee - 43/64
Picnic Basket Emergency Kit
Use a sturdy vintage basket to create an emergency kit for Dad's car. Lithographed tin picnic baskets with swing handles, which were originally made from the 1930s through the 1950s, are now popular collectibles. Simply fill with jumper cables, road flares, a first aid kit and other essentials to stow in the trunk.
Andrew McCaul - 44/64
Eyeglass Case
Transform a traditional necktie into a nifty eyeglass case.
Step 1: Lay a tie front side down. Measure and mark 17 inches in from the pointed tip, then cut the tie widthwise. Discard the narrow end of the tie.
Step 2: Using a seam ripper, open the seam along the back of the tie at least six inches, to create a pouch for the glasses.
Step 3: Measure eight inches in from the cut end and mark. Fold the tie at the mark toward the pointed tip; tuck under 1/2 inch of cut edge and pin.
Step 4: Using hand-stitches along the top and sides, secure the folded-over portion of tie to the top layer of fabric beneath it (taking care not to sew the pouch closed). Finish by affixing a set of self-adhesive Velcro dots to keep the case closed.
Lara Robby/Studio D - 45/64
Wool iPad Case
If you enjoy sewing, this wool case makes a wonderful gift for dads who often travel with their iPad. A nifty back pocket allows for storage of other small items like keys or headphones.
Get the tutorial at Polka Dot Chair.
Courtesy of Polka Dot Chair - 46/64
Buttoned-Up Bolsters
The next time Dad tries to throw out his old button-downs, nab a few to use for this crafty pillow project.
Step 1: Iron shirt to smooth out all wrinkles. Button it, then pin the shirt's front and back to each other to keep them together when cutting.
Step 2: Cut out the shirt to match the shape of your pillow insert—adding two inches to both the width and length, and centering the row of buttons down the front. (You'll now have two pieces of fabric.)
Step 3: Repin the fabric so the shirt's finished sides face each other. Sew the pieces together using a 6/8-inch seam. Snip the corners at an angle to ease turning.
Step 4: Unbutton the fabric and turn the pillowcase right side out. Iron, then rebutton.
Step 5: Topstitch around the case twice—first 1/8 inch from the edges, then 3/8 inch from the edges—to finish it.
Step 6: Unbutton the case, insert the pillow, then rebutton and fluff.
Karl Juengel - 47/64
Book Box for Remote Control
A fresh plot line for a used book: storing a remote! You'll need a book at least two inches longer and 1/4 inch deeper than your remote control.
Step 1: Open the book's back cover. Using a foam brush, coat the inside cover and facing page with school glue. Close the book and press down firmly for 10 seconds.
Step 2: Open the book's front cover. Coat the entire stack of pages—all three exposed sides—with school glue, taking care not to get any on the topmost page. Let dry for one hour; repeat. Close the book, weight it with a second book, and let dry overnight.
Step 3: Open the front cover, center your remote on the first page, and trace around it with a pencil, adding 1/4 inch all the way around. Set the remote aside. With an X-Acto knife, cut along the marked line, removing two to three pages at a time. Continue until your remote fits deeply inside.
Step 4: Cut a piece of ribbon that's half the length of your book plus five inches. Trim one end into a fork; dot hot glue on the opposite end, and affix it in the bottom-center of the hollowed-out area—this "bookmark" will lift out your neatly disguised device.
Studio D - 48/64
Watchband Notebook
Give Dad a place to write down his to-dos in a notebook fastened with two matching watchbands.
Step 1: Measure and mark two spots inside the front cover of your notebook: one, two inches from the top; the other, two inches from the bottom; both, 1 1/2 inches from the spine. Next, measure and mark two spots inside the back cover: one, two inches from the top; the other, two inches from the bottom; both, 5 1/2 inches from the spine. Using a hammer and a four-penny nail, punch holes through all four marks.
Step 2: For each of the four watchband pieces, measure and mark a spot 1/8 inch from the end that would attach to a watch. Use the hammer and nail to punch through all four marks.
Step 3: Place one buckle-end watchband piece atop the front cover, aligning the punched holes. Push one 5/16"W × 5/16"L brass rivet through both holes; set according to package instructions. Repeat for the other hole and buckle-end watchband piece. Then flip the notebook over and repeat for the remaining hole and watchband pieces.
Alison Gootee/Studio D - 49/64
Business Card Holder
Stitch up vintage postcards to make a slim wallet or business card holder.
Here's how: Fold the postcard in half with the decorative side face up, and cut a half-moon from the top front of the postcard. Open the card flat and cover with a sheet of clear, lightweight vinyl; stitch all around the postcard, 1/4-inch from its edge. Trim vinyl to fit and refold the postcard in half. Sew the wallet around three edges, leaving the top open.
Wendell T. Webber - 50/64
Book Storage Boxes
Extend the shelf life of outdated secondhand books, and give Dad a way to keep his desk organized.
Alison Gootee/Studio D - 51/64
DIY Watch Stand
This year, get extra crafty, and put together a sturdy stand for Dad's favorite wristwatches. Made from wood and black pipe, it'll be a polished piece for his bedside table.
Get the tutorial at The Merrythought.
Courtesy of The Merrythought - 52/64
DIY Citronella Paint Can Candles
These citronella "mandles" are a great gift for any outdoorsman. Using paint cans, candle wax, wicks and citronella essential oil, give him a way to repel mosquitos in style.
Get the tutorial at Hello Glow.
Courtesy of Hello Glow - 53/64
Rocky Picture Frame
All you need is paint, polished rocks and super glue to turn an old picture frame into a fun gift for Dad. To save a few dollars, collect small rocks from a hike or your yard. Add a picture Dad will love or keep it punny with a print-out expression.
Get the tutorial at Morena's Corner.
Courtesy of Morena's Corner - 54/64
Vinyl Record Bowls
Put his old scratched records to good use—transform them into one-of-a-kind decor using just a bowl and an oven.
Get the tutorial at Stars for Streetlights.
Courtesy of Stars for Streetlights - 55/64
DIY Bottle Opener
Dad will be wowed when you piece together a sophisticated bottle opener with nails, glue, and cedar wood. It'll quickly add a rustic touch to an outdoor barbecue station or indoor man cave.
Get the tutorial at Shanty to Chic.
Courtesy of Shanty 2 Chic - 56/64
Domino Clock
Get creative and surprise your dad with this DIY masterpiece. All you need is a domino set, hammer, nails, clock movements and hands, and some double-sided removable adhesives.
Get the tutorial at The Homesteady.
Courtesy of The Homesteady - 57/64
Hammer Photo Stand
Your handyman will love this stand made from an old hammer, wood base, glue, and construction paper. Use it showcase your favorite memory of Dad, a heartfelt card, or sweet photo.
Courtesy of Togally - 58/64
Homemade Whipped Shaving Cream
Replace your dad's daily shaving cream with this last-minute luxury gift made from shea butter and olive, coconut, and eucalyptus essential oils. When whipped together, these ingredients will give him his freshest shave ever.
Get the tutorial at The Garlic Diaries.
Courtesy of The Garlic Diaries - 59/64
Barbecue Rub Recipe
If he's king of the grill, make him this barbecue rub he can use year-round. This blogger also offers the cutest tag to download for free.
Get the tutorial at Capturing Joy.
Courtesy of Capturing Joy - 60/64
DIY Wood Slice Coasters
The perfect companion to a beer on a hot summer's day, these DIY coasters will get his summer started right.
Get the tutorial at House of Hawthornes.
House of Hawthornes - 61/64
DIY Mason Jar Succulents
Whether or not he's a green thumb himself, he'll appreciate the work you put into crafting these adorable Mason jar succulents. And he doesn't have to be too careful about taking care of them either.
Get the tutorial at The Summery Umbrella.
The Summery Umbrella - 62/64
DIY Wood-Burned Cutting Board
For the dad who's always in the kitchen, this rustic-looking DIY is an excellent way to help him hone his cooking skills.
Get the tutorial The House of Wood.
The House of Wood - 63/64
Homemade Microwave Caramels
These caramels don't require a candy thermometer or any other fancy equipment. Simply pop the ingredients in the microwave, and you've got a DIY gift he'll truly savor.
Get the tutorial at Dinner at the Zoo.
Dinner at the Zoo - 64/64
DIY Grill Cart
Complete with rolling wheels, a paper towel holder for easy clean-up, and a butcher's block, your favorite grill master is bound to love this summer-ready gift.
Get the tutorial at The House of Wood.
The House of Wood
