You can spread holiday cheer without spending the outrageous amounts others spend every year for Christmas.

Many would not think of making their Christmas presents, but it is actually a very thoughtful gift and you can have fun making it along the way. Here below you will see some ideas on how you can create cute gifts for your friends and loved ones to enjoy and gaze upon. It’ll bring joy and happiness to all, believe me.

1. “The Best Hair Ties Ever”

Measure about 8 ½ inches of elastic of any choice (you can get from your local hobby lobby or Michael’s). Fold it in half and while holding both ends together, tie a simple knot. Do not pull it too tight so you can adjust it later if desired. Trim the ends of the elastic to make it look neat. You’re ready to give some cute and good working hair ties!

2. “DIY Mint Sugar Scrub”

Materials

• Peppermint Extract
• Coconut Oil
• Wide-Mouth Half Pint Mason Jars
• Ribbon

Start off by microwaving ½ cup of coconut oil in the microwave on high for about 15 to 25 seconds. Then, mix in 1 ½  to 2 cups sugar, 1 tablespoon peppermint extract, and one drop of green food coloring to make it fun and not just good smelling, but eye appealing. Finish by scooping portions into wide-mouth half pint mason jars and top it off with an adorable ribbon bow.

3. “Chocolate-Covered Peppermint Brownies”

Ingredients

• 3 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 4 cups mini mint marshmallows
• 6 cups crisp rice cereal
• ½ tsp. mint extract
• 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• ¾ cups peppermint candies, crushed up

Spray a 9-by-13 inch baking pan (or any pan) with cooking spray and set aside for now. Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat. Add mint marshmallows and stir frequently until melted completely. Then, remove from heat and add mint extract and cereal. Stir to coat cereal completely. Press the mixture into baking pan and even out the top.

Place a heatproof bowl over a small saucepan filled with 1 inch of water, over medium-low heat melt 1 cup of the chocolate chips until smooth. Pour melted chocolate over crisp rice mixture in baking pan and smooth out with offset spatula. Next, set aside to cool and harden completely. When cooled down, loosen sides of pan with a knife and turn out onto a cutting board. Cut into 12 equally sized bars.

Melt remaining chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and spread it onto sides and tops of bars. Then, top with crushed up peppermint candy pieces. Allow this to cool and harden completely before serving. Store in an airtight container. Enjoy.