Crafting Wedding Gifts: Homemade Ideas For The Big Day

Wedding gifts can be a tricky business, and it can be hard to find something that feels personal and unique. If you're looking for a way to give a gift that stands out, why not make it yourself? DIY wedding gifts are a thoughtful and creative way to show your love and support for the happy couple. From personalised home décor to handcrafted keepsakes, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're a crafting novice or a seasoned pro, there are plenty of options to choose from that will add a touch of sentimentality and warmth to their new life together. So, if you're looking for a gift that's truly from the heart, read on for some inspiration to get you started on your next project.

DIY table settings

Artist-designed table settings

Custom table settings with unique artist designs can be a perfect gift for a couple who loves to host dinner parties. You can include items such as salad plates, serving trays, cloth napkins, table runners, and more. These can be personalised with the couple's names, wedding date, or a special message.

Table linens and napkins

Create unique linens and napkins for the happy couple to use when entertaining. You can use their favourite colours or incorporate patterns and textures to match their style. This can include items such as table runners, placemats, napkins, and other pretty wedding gifts.

Table centrepieces

Add a unique touch to your table with creative centrepieces. Consider using unexpected items such as blue, orange, and marbled candles, or a large heart-shaped piece of wood with string wrapped around nails. You can also use flowers, garlands, or even late-season heirloom tomatoes and persimmons for a more rustic look.

Tableware and glassware

Design and handmade quality coasters, mugs, or a set of glasses for the couple. These can be personalised with their names, wedding date, or a special design. You can also include gold or brass accents, such as gold-trimmed agates or brass bracelets that double as napkin rings.

Place settings

Make each place setting special with personalised touches. For example, you can use tiles hand-painted with guests' names, wooden cutting boards with each guest's name, or unique menus with laser-cut designs. You can also add small favours or gifts, such as shot glasses, bracelets, or tiles, to make each guest feel welcomed and appreciated.

Customised coasters

Coasters are a great choice for a wedding gift as they are practical, universal, and can be customised to match the wedding theme. Here is a step-by-step guide to making your own customised coasters as a wedding gift:

Materials:

• Small foam paintbrushes
• Ceramic tiles (these can often be found at hardware stores for a low price)
• Mod Podge (glossy or matte, depending on your preference)
• Photos (printed on matte-style paper)
• Waterproof acrylic sealer spray
• White acrylic craft paint
• Felt, fleece, or cork scraps for backing
• Hot glue gun

Method:

• Paint the rough, unfinished side edges of the tiles. Allow the paint to dry completely.
• Trim your photos into squares that will fit the tiles.
• Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the back of each photo using a sponge applicator, then press it down onto the tile. Allow this to dry completely.
• Apply a layer of Mod Podge over the top of the photo using even left-to-right strokes. Allow this to dry completely.
• Repeat the previous step with two more layers of Mod Podge, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
• Take the coasters outside and lay them on wax paper. Spray them with the acrylic sealer. This step is important to ensure the coasters are waterproof and can handle wet glasses. Apply a total of 5 coats of sealer, allowing each coat to dry completely overnight before applying the next.
• Add a backing to the coasters using felt, fleece, or cork. Attach the backing with a hot glue gun and allow it to dry completely.

Now you have a set of customised coasters that make a thoughtful and practical wedding gift! You can stack them up and add a bow for an extra touch.

Hand-painted glassware

Supplies:

First, gather your supplies. You will need glassware, such as wine glasses, which can be purchased from dollar stores or thrift stores. Ensure that the glassware is clean and free of any dirt, dust, or grease. You will also need glass paint, which is specifically designed for use on glass and provides a vivid look. Look for paint that is dishwasher-safe and comes in a variety of colours. Other supplies include rubbing alcohol or white vinegar, soft-bristled paintbrushes, foam daubers or spouncers, stencil tape, and Q-tips for dotting.

Prepare the Glass:

Before painting, thoroughly clean the glassware with warm soapy water, then rinse and let it dry. Next, use a paper towel dampened with rubbing alcohol or white vinegar to remove any remaining soap film. Set the glassware aside to air dry for about 15 minutes.

Tape Off the Area:

If you want to create a specific pattern or design, use stencil tape to tape off the desired area. For example, if you want to paint polka dots, use tape to section off the bottom three-quarters of the glass, ensuring you don't paint the top where the mouth will touch.

Paint Your Design:

Now it's time to paint! Dip your brush into the paint, but don't overload it—keep the paint on the bottom third to half of the brush. Start painting the glass, expecting to do a thin first layer. Don't brush over the same areas when wet to avoid removing the paint. Paint in layers, letting each layer dry before adding the next. It may take 3-4 coats to cover the glass.

You can also use Q-tips to dab paint onto the glass, creating perfect polka dots. Start with one colour at the bottom of the glass, and work your way up, allowing each colour to dry before adding another.

Cure and Bake:

Once you've finished painting, let the paint cure. This process can take at least four hours, or even a few days, depending on the paint. After curing, place the glasses in a cold oven and set the temperature to between 275-350°F. Bake for about 30 minutes, then turn off the oven and let the glass cool completely inside.

Care Instructions:

After curing and baking, your hand-painted glassware is ready to use! Hand washing is recommended, but if the paint is dishwasher-safe, place the glasses on the top shelf of the dishwasher.

Personalised wall art

Planning your design:

First, decide on the image or text you want to include in your wall art. A great way to personalise the gift is to use a memorable photo of the couple, such as their engagement photo or a picture from the night they met. Alternatively, you could use vinyl letters to spell out a meaningful verse or their first dance song on a prepared canvas.

Gathering your materials:

The materials you will need depend on your chosen design. For a simple printed canvas, you will need a high-resolution digital image and a canvas. If you want to add text or graphics, you can use vinyl letters or print out your design and transfer it onto the canvas. You can also get creative and use materials like gold leaf, paint, or permanent markers to decorate your wall art.

Creating your wall art:

Once you have your design and materials, it's time to start creating! If you are using vinyl letters or a prepared canvas, you can simply apply your design to the canvas and add any additional decorations. If you are using a digital image, you can upload it to an online printing service, which will allow you to customise and preview your wall art before printing.

Framing and finishing:

Finally, consider whether you want to frame your wall art. Framed prints can add a polished look to your gift and are easy to hang. You can choose from a variety of frame options, such as wood, metal, or acrylic, to suit the couple's taste and the style of the artwork.

DIY charcuterie board

A charcuterie board is a great DIY wedding gift that can be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It is easy to make, fun to create, and pleasing to the eye. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a charcuterie board as a wedding gift:

Step 1: Plan the Food

Firstly, decide whether the charcuterie board will be an appetizer or the main dish. If it is an appetizer, opt for toned-down flavors that complement the main course. If it is the main dish, you can include spicy, sweet, and dessert options. Calculate the amount of food required, keeping in mind that appetizers require 1-2 ounces of meat and cheese per person, while a main dish requires 3-4 ounces.

Step 2: Choose the Ingredients

Select a variety of cured meats, such as salami and prosciutto, as they are key to a successful charcuterie board. Include both soft and hard cheeses with varying sharpness, such as brie, blue cheese, cheddar, and provolone. Offer a range of bread, crostini, or crackers in different sizes, shapes, and flavors.

Step 3: Add Fruits, Nuts, and Dips

Contrast the savory flavors of the cheese with fresh or dried fruits like grapes, berries, and apricots. Include nuts like pistachios, cashews, or almonds for added crunch. You can also add hummus or other dips and serve them with carrot sticks, radishes, or peppers.

Step 4: Presentation

The presentation of the charcuterie board is essential to making it a statement piece. Use multiple presentation pieces to add depth to the board. You can use brown craft paper as a base and then elevate some items on smaller wooden boards or tiered servers. Avoid a flat look by piling items on top of each other to create layers. Use dishes like ramekins for certain items to avoid messes. Label the items, especially the different types of cheese, with small chalkboard signs or signs that fit the wedding aesthetic.

Step 5: Garnish and Decorate

Fill any empty spaces on the board with herbs or flowers like fresh rosemary sprigs or simple white daisies. Olives, nuts, and fruits can also add a pop of color and texture to the board.

Step 6: Utensils and Drinks

Don't forget to include small spoons, tongs, and cheese knives for your charcuterie board. Pair the board with bubbly beverages like rosé or wine, which go well with the cheese and cured meats.

A DIY charcuterie board is a wonderful way to celebrate the happy couple and is sure to be a well-loved gift at the wedding.

Frequently asked questions