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37 Diy Wedding Gifts (Cheap But Look Expensive)

While weddings are a joyous celebration filled with music, food, and dancing, they’re also an opportunity for friends and family to show their love and appreciation for the newlyweds through thoughtful gifts. As the big day approaches, the happy couple is likely looking forward not only to the ceremony itself but also to the special presents that will be showered upon them.

However, in the rush to find the perfect gift, it’s easy to settle for something generic or fall back on a registry without putting much thought into it. To add a personal touch and make your gift truly memorable, consider crafting something unique and meaningful. Here are 37 DIY wedding gift ideas to get you started and help you show your love and appreciation in a way that will be cherished by the couple for years to come.

DIY Personalised Tray

DIY Personalised Tray

Transform a humble black tray into a unique and thoughtful wedding gift by personalizing it with the couple’s last name or special date. To start, cut out vinyl letters spelling out their surname, as well as their wedding date if desired. Use transfer tape to simplify the process of transferring the letters onto the tray. Next, carefully remove the paper backing, align the letters on the tray, and press them firmly into place.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful DIY tray that’s sure to delight the happy couple.

DIY Gift Using Cricut Explore Air

DIY Gift Using Cricut Explore Air

Imagine a stunning box frame adorned with delicate decorative paper flowers – a truly unique and personalized gift for any newlywed couple. To create this masterpiece, simply add the bride and groom’s last name and wedding date to make it extra special. If you’re already familiar with your Cricut Explore Air 2, you’ll be well on your way to crafting this beauty. You’ll also need a few additional supplies: red-tone cardstock paper, a hot glue gun, and a shadow frame.

As for the flowers themselves, be prepared to create a multitude of blooms depending on the size of your frame and desired finished product – but don’t worry, your Cricut Explore Air will make quick work of cutting out all the necessary pieces.

Photo Coasters

Photo Coasters

There’s something undeniably special about personalized items featuring cherished memories – whether it’s a mug, frame, or even tile coasters. The combination of sentimental value and functionality makes them timeless treasures in this case. With just a few ceramic tiles, a foam brush, and your favorite photos, you can create a truly unique and meaningful DIY wedding gift.

While a trip to the store for adhesive cork sheets is also necessary, the core ingredients are minimal – simply select some stunning images and you’re ready to go.

Pressed Herb Candles

Pressed Herb Candles

For newlywed couples setting up their new home, a thoughtful gift is always appreciated. Consider presenting them with a set of six pressed herb candles, each infused with a unique scent and purpose. Lavender promotes relaxation, rosemary boosts energy and focus, while thyme and chamomile offer calming properties. To create these natural wonders, simply select your preferred herbs, combine them with beeswax or soy wax in glass jars, and add a candle wick.

Just be mindful of the melting process to avoid any accidents.

Wood Slice Portrait Christmas Ornament

Wood Slice Portrait Christmas Ornament

Make this gift a part of the newlywed’s first Christmas together, even if you’re not celebrating it with them. To create this special present, you’ll need some basic materials: a drill, twine, and wood slices. Don’t forget to choose your favorite photo of the happy couple – or select multiple photos that capture memories you’ve shared with them. They might even appreciate seeing a picture of you hanging on their tree too.

Wood Pallet Coaster

Wood Pallet Coaster

Crafting rustic wood pallet coasters is a simple yet effective way to add a touch of elegance to your coffee table. To get started, gather a few jumbo popsicle sticks and some ⅜ inch dowel rods. The latter will serve as the foundation for your coasters, providing stability and elevating them ever so slightly above the surface. To achieve that authentic pallet look, consider distressing the popsicle sticks before assembly.

This subtle detail will not only add visual interest but also pay homage to the original rustic charm of wooden pallets.

Bling Ring Dish

Bling Ring Dish

To complete the look with a newly adorned finger, consider gifting a matching ring dish that’s almost as stunning. This is where your DIY skills come in handy. For this project, you’ll need to get creative with oven-bake clay and a craft cutter machine, such as Silhouette Cameo or Cricut Explore Air. Additionally, grab some vinyl for cutting out custom letters. Once you have all the necessary supplies at your disposal, it’s time to get hands-on and shape that clay into a beautiful ring dish.

Tassel Wall Hanging

Tassel Wall Hanging

Trade in traditional art for a bold and contemporary statement piece. This modern tassel wall hanging is an unexpected yet thoughtful gift for newlyweds, as well as a great option for housewarmings. With just a few simple materials – a wooden dowel and round wood beads – you can create this unique decor item. Add some threads in your preferred colors or go for a sleek all-black design, depending on the couple’s style.

Painted Dishes

Painted Dishes

When it comes to outfitting a new kitchen, there’s no such thing as having too many mugs and cups. If you have friends who are newlyweds setting up their dream cooking space, consider gifting them something truly unique – like dishwasher-safe painted cups that can be used for years to come. To create these thoughtful gifts, start by picking up some plain white tea or coffee cups. Next, grab a selection of porcelain paints in your favorite colors or patterns.

Once you have your materials, it’s time to get creative. Use your paintbrush to add unique designs and personal touches to each cup. After you’ve finished painting, simply bake the cups at a low temperature to make them dishwasher-friendly. Finally, wrap up your masterpiece with some festive flair – like a ribbon or bow – and you’ll have a one-of-a-kind gift that’s sure to be treasured by the happy couple.

Gold Dipped Jewelry Tray

Gold Dipped Jewelry Tray

When it comes to jewelry, there’s no such thing as having too much. And when it comes to storing them, having enough compartments is a must-have for any jewelry enthusiast. For the stylish bride-to-be, gifting her a luxurious gold-dipped tray is an excellent idea. To create this stunning piece, start by preparing your workspace with painter’s tape and newspapers next, grab a can of high-quality gold spray paint and get ready to give your tray a glamorous makeover.

Simply mask off the areas you don’t want to paint, set up your newspaper barrier, and begin spraying that golden goodness.

DIY Knot Pillow

DIY Knot Pillow

This plush pillow requires no touch to convey its exceptional softness. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for various settings, including sofas, armchairs, beds, and even window sills as a decorative piece. Furthermore, they can serve as thoughtful wedding gifts. To create one of these pillows, you’ll need the standard sewing essentials like needles, thread, and scissors, as well as some stretchy fabric and polyester fiber filling.

A cardboard tube comes in handy for stuffing the filling into the fabric once it’s been sewn.

Striped Gold Foil Wooden Bowl

Striped Gold Foil Wooden Bowl

Envision this wooden bowl serving as a thoughtful wedding gift, doubling as a fruit display or key holder. The gold foil adds an air of sophistication, elevating its overall appeal. To achieve this look, you’ll need a standard paintbrush and a soft-bristled brush specifically designed for working with metallic foils. Additionally, gather painter’s tape and glue to ensure a smooth application process. Feel free to get creative with the pattern or opt for timeless stripes.

Simply section off the area of your choice, apply adhesive, and carefully press the gold foil into place.

Blanket Ladder

Blanket Ladder

A blanket ladder is an often overlooked yet invaluable addition to any living room. It not only keeps your blankets tidy and wrinkle-free, but also serves as a stylish accent piece that can instantly elevate the aesthetic of the space. A touch of wood can work wonders in a room, adding warmth and coziness. To create this practical and visually appealing feature, you’ll need a drill, wooden dowels, wood beams, and appropriate-sized screws.

Once constructed, the only remaining task is to decide how best to present it as a thoughtful gift to the special couple.

DIY Fringed Pillows

DIY Fringed Pillows

For newlyweds, a thoughtful and personalized gift is just the thing to celebrate their special day. One such idea is creating a set of fringed throw pillows that can be tailored to their unique style. To get started, gather some colorful yarn, weaving skills (or a willingness to learn), and the necessary sewing supplies. If you’ve already been creative with other DIY projects, you might have some polyester fiber stuffing on hand – it’s perfect for this project too.

When choosing colors, play it safe with neutral tones like beige or cream. These fringes exude a bohemian charm that’s hard to resist. With these elements combined, you’ll be crafting a one-of-a-kind gift that the newlyweds will treasure.

DIY Pom Pom Pillow

DIY Pom Pom Pillow

When tasked with creating a plethora of pillows as wedding gifts, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of fabric and filling. But have you considered taking a cue from the textile industry and investing in polyester stuffing? It might just become your new go-to resource for keeping those pillows plump and comfortable.

DIY Chunky Knit Blanket

DIY Chunky Knit Blanket
DIY Chunky Knit Blanket

Consider pairing the handcrafted ladder with a cozy, chunky blanket for a thoughtful wedding gift. For the latter, opt for bulky yarn, readily available online. What’s more, abandon traditional knitting needles or crochet hooks – instead, let your hands do the work. This labor-of-love gift not only provides warmth but also conveys the value you’ve placed on the recipient’s special day.

DIY Splatter Planter

DIY Splatter Planter

Splatter planters are a creative twist on traditional planters. They’re essentially containers adorned with colorful paint splatters. To get started, grab a terra cotta pot from your local nursery or online retailer, and some acrylic paint – both the base white coat and various colors for the splattered design. A bristle brush is all you’ll need to bring this project to life. Once you’ve got your planter in hand, it’s time to think about what kind of greenery you want to feature.

For a thoughtful wedding gift, consider pairing the splatter planter with some quality planting soil and a low-maintenance succulent or other hardy plant. Succulents are always a safe bet, but feel free to get creative and choose your favorite flora.

Wooden Candlestick Holders

Wooden Candlestick Holders

The rustic charm of wooden, beaded candlesticks instantly elevates any setting, imbuing it with a beachy ambiance that’s refreshingly lacking in more ornate alternatives. As gift options go, these humble candlesticks outshine their stodgy counterparts hands down. To get started, procure some wooden beads – feel free to add a pop of color with paint or stick with the natural finish for a more understated look.

You’ll also need some wooden cork stumps to serve as bases and a few thumbtacks to keep your candles in place. When it comes to candles themselves, the sleek, slender profiles of taper varieties pair beautifully with these candlesticks.

Faux Ceramic Utensil Holder

Faux Ceramic Utensil Holder

My approach to storing utensils has always been straightforward – I simply toss them into a drawer and consider it done. This is why a thoughtful gift like an utensil holder stands out. To give your utensil holder some extra flair, you’ll need a plain one, spackling paste for filling in any grooves, and a putty knife for the task. You can get creative with paint or stick to a classic white finish that complements the ceramic look. And why stop at just an utensil holder?

Consider crafting a matching planter for the newlyweds to keep alongside their new kitchen companion.

Etched Cutting Board

Etched Cutting Board

Consider elevating your kitchen decor game by gifting a customized cutting board with natural, earthy etchings. This thoughtful present allows for creative expression, enabling you to add personal touches such as the newlyweds’ last name and wedding date. To bring this idea to life, acquire an etching kit that typically includes various patterns to guide your design. For added cohesiveness, consider pairing the cutting board with a matching bamboo cheeseboard, available at [insert link].

This thoughtful combination will surely delight any kitchen enthusiast.

DIY Marble Tray

DIY Marble Tray

Imagine the possibilities with this stunning cheese board tray. Not only is it perfect for presenting an assortment of artisanal cheeses, but it also doubles as a versatile serving piece for bread, canapés, and finger foods. In fact, I think it would make a thoughtful and unique wedding gift – far more memorable than a traditional gravy boat.

To create this beautiful display, you’ll need just a few simple materials: copper drawer pulls to add a touch of elegance, felt pads like these to protect your surfaces, and a marble slab to provide a sophisticated backdrop.

Metallic Leather Coasters

Metallic Leather Coasters

The allure of Metallic Leather Coasters lies in their enigmatic nature – are they metal or leather? The answer lies in a clever combination of both. To create these unique coasters, start by sourcing leather circles or patches from your local craft store. Next, add a metallic twist with silver paint. After applying the paint, seal it with a finishing spray to ensure a long-lasting finish.

Marble Dipped Vessels

Marble Dipped Vessels

Elevate your home decor with a touch of elegance by creating stunning marble-finish vessels. They make thoughtful and unique wedding gifts, don’t they? To get started, gather some ceramic vessels and if you have gray and black nail polish on hand, it’ll be perfect for adding realistic marble veins. Before diving in, lay down some newspapers to protect your workspace from any messy mishaps that may occur. And for more inspiring wedding crafts, check out our curated collection.

DIY Quote Pillow

DIY Quote Pillow

Imagine adding a personal touch to your throw pillows with meaningful quotes or special dates. For instance, you could print a saying that resonates with the married couple or even their last names and wedding date. To achieve this unique look, you’ll need a few simple materials: letter stencils, a fabric marker, tape, a ruler, and a pencil. Once you have these essentials, simply choose your pillowcase linen and begin the stenciling process.

Teacup Candles

Teacup Candles

To create unique teacup candles, start by melting beeswax pellets in a saucepan. Next, infuse the melted wax with the essence of dried herbs for added depth and character. For an extra pop of color, introduce a few drops of food dye to the mixture. The subtle nuances of essential oils can also be leveraged to craft a scented candle that exudes warmth and ambiance.

Once the wax is ready, carefully pour it into the teacup, secure the wick, and allow the candle to dry overnight, patiently awaiting its reveal as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

DIY Japanese Printed Bowls

DIY Japanese Printed Bowls

While miniature patterned bowls may not be as flashy as other decorative items, their versatility ensures they remain timeless. They can effortlessly serve as vessels for condiments and dips, discreet storage containers for small treasures like jewelry or trinkets, and even a convenient spot to corral loose change. When it comes to gifting, these DIY creations make thoughtful wedding presents.

To get started, gather essential materials: a Sharpie marker, acrylic paints in various colors, paintbrushes, and a porcelain bowl as the foundation. Draw inspiration from traditional Japanese prints and let your artistic side shine by transforming the bowls with vibrant patterns.

Gift Basket

Gift Basket

Gift baskets and hampers are among my favorite ways to show thoughtfulness. The excitement of discovery is part of their charm, as you never know exactly what treasures lie within. When considering a unique gift for newlyweds, I often turn to the idea of a cozy morning gift basket. This thoughtful present can be tailored with items that cater to their shared interests and tastes.

For instance, you might include a plush throw blanket, a pair of matching his-and-hers mugs, herbal tea, specialty coffee beans from Colombia, a vintage-inspired coffee grinder, and sweet mini scones. Place these goodies in a beautifully crafted basket, add a charming ribbon or bow, and voila: A truly special gift is born.

DIY His And Hers Towel Hooks

DIY His And Hers Towel Hooks

Ditch the conventional his-and-hers towel setup and elevate the game with custom-made towel hooks. The sleek design is sure to catch the eye, isn’t it? To create these unique hooks, you’ll need a combination of pinewood blocks, a ruler, composite square, decorative hooks, and your preferred wood stain. Once you have all the necessary materials, simply grab a paintbrush and add some finishing touches to the ‘his-and-hers’ signs, and you’re ready to go.

His and Hers Key Holder

His and Hers Key Holder

To recreate this DIY project, you’ll require a similar arsenal of materials used for previous ‘his and hers’ towel hooks. However, instead of large hooks, consider smaller ones that will fit your design goals. Additionally, why not take the opportunity to stencil some visually appealing patterns onto the wood? Options can range from playful pawprints and floral designs to geometric shapes or even simple stripes – any of which can significantly elevate the overall aesthetic.

Hubby Wifey Glass Set

Hubby Wifey Glass Set

Etsy is renowned for its extensive collection of customizable and made-to-order gifts that cater to various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a unique wedding present, a thoughtful housewarming gift, or creative party favors, Etsy’s got you covered. One of the standout features of these gifts is their ability to be personalized, allowing you to infuse them with a touch of individuality. For instance, take this delightful glass set designed specifically for newlywed couples.

Its charm is undeniable.

Wedding Embroidery Hoops

Wedding Embroidery Hoops

Consider gifting a unique and thoughtful wedding souvenir to the newlyweds by creating a beautiful embroidery hoop. To make this special gift, start by acquiring an embroidery hoop from a reliable source, as well as vibrant threads in your preferred colors and a suitable embroidery needle. Then, use your sewing skills to embroider the happy couple’s names and the wedding date onto the hoop, adding a personal touch to the gift.

DIY Sharpie Wedding Mugs

DIY Sharpie Wedding Mugs

For our DIY project, we’ll need a few basic supplies: two white ceramic mugs and a set of oil-based paint Sharpie markers. If you don’t have these on hand, feel free to stop by your local craft store to pick some up. For designs that require precision and intricate details, opt for fine-tip markers instead. Once your mugs are painted and dry, it’s time to complete the final step: baking them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a full 30 minutes.

Hand Stamped Vintage Spoons

Hand Stamped Vintage Spoons

Vintage spoons exude elegance, making them an enchanting wedding gift option. To give them a personal touch, you’ll need a metal stamp set to add the couple’s names or create a ‘his and hers’ set. However, be mindful of name length – you wouldn’t want the newlyweds’ monikers to overwhelm the spoon’s surface. As for using a ladle as an alternative, while unconventional, it might just spark a unique conversation piece.

DIY Wedding Cornhole Board Set

DIY Wedding Cornhole Board Set

Consider gifting a personalized vinyl-printed cornhole board set to the newlyweds. To make it an even more thoughtful present, consider adding a monogram, their names, or the special dates of their wedding. Alternatively, you could opt for a meaningful quote that resonates with the couple’s love story. If DIY is your thing, you can create your own custom board or explore available options online.

Once you’ve chosen your design, select the perfect wood stain to bring it all together and make it a one-of-a-kind gift.

Personalized Couple Name Sign

Personalized Couple Name Sign

This Is Us, a heartwarming TV show that celebrates life and marriage, is the perfect inspiration for a unique wedding gift. A quote from the series with the couples’ names below would make it an even more meaningful present. To create this special keepsake, all you need is a simple white frame and your preferred font or color. You can print the sign and then laminate it or have it professionally mounted in the frame to give it a polished look.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to commemorate the happy couple’s big day, be sure to check out these DIY wedding sign ideas that are sure to inspire.

DIY Bath Caddy

DIY Bath Caddy

The indulgence of bath caddies is undeniable. Once you’ve experienced the luxury of these divine creations, there’s no turning back to mundane bubble baths. The perfect wedding gift, it’s only natural that they’ll be a staple on every bride’s registry in the future. With the option to customize with design or monogram and choose from various wood types, the possibilities are endless. Just ensure you have the correct measurements for your bathtub before embarking on this delightful project.

DIY Hot Pads

DIY Hot Pads

The DIY no-sew hot pad is the final item on our list of creative wedding gifts that will make a lovely addition to any dining table. Its vibrant colors and ease of creation make it an ideal project for crafty couples. The best part: you can also create matching coasters to complete the look. Imagine setting up a beautifully accessorized dining table with placemats, hot pads, and coasters – it’s a thoughtful touch that will surely impress your newlywed friends.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our comprehensive list of wedding gift ideas.