16. Patterned Hair Clips
Patterned hair clips take about one minute each, which makes them the fastest project on this list. Measure a strip of patterned paper to the size of a plain metal barrette and cut it out. Brush Mod Podge on the top of the clip, press the paper on and let it dry, then brush another coat over the paper to seal it. Printable patterns from the internet cost nothing, so a whole set in florals, polka dots, chevron and stripes costs about as much as the clips.
Get the full tutorial at Pretty Life Girls.
17. Colorful Bangle
A colorful striped bangle uses the nail polish already sitting in the bathroom drawer as paint. Start with a plain wood bracelet and try it on first, because it can’t be resized later. Wrap masking tape around the bangle, leaving stripes of bare wood, and paint those stripes with one polish shade. Once it’s dry, peel the tape and tape a new set of stripes for the next color. Nail polish is durable and glossy, so no sealer is needed. Mix stripe widths for a less uniform look.
Get the full tutorial at TonyaUtkina.
18. Peppermint Soap
Peppermint soap is about as fast as a homemade gift gets, roughly ten minutes from block to bar. Cube a shea butter melt and pour soap base and melt it in a measuring cup in 30 second bursts, stirring each time. Stir in six to ten drops of peppermint essential oil, pour into a soap mold, then drop a little red soap colorant on top and swirl it with a toothpick for a candy cane marble. Just over half a pound of base makes three bars. Work quickly, since it sets fast.
Get the full tutorial at Happiness is Homemade.
19. Hanging Wood Slice Plant Stand
A hanging wood slice plant stand looks like a little swing for succulents, and it needs only three supplies. Spray paint a curved hanging plant bracket gold, then drill four holes near the edge of a wood slice from the craft store. Loop two suede strips through the holes and knot them underneath, adjusting until the slice hangs level (that takes a little trial and error). Thicker suede looks far better than thin cord. Mount the bracket on the wall and set small potted succulents on top.
Get the full tutorial at Brepurposed.
20. Animal Key Chain
An animal key chain made from stiff leather looks like a tiny 3D bear or dog head, and the template does most of the work. Trace the template onto sturdy leather and cut it out. Punch two little holes for eyes and stitch the face details, or skip the sewing and let kids draw the face with markers. Fold the head into shape and set an eyelet through the top to hold it, then add a key ring. Vinyl, foam sheets or heavy felt work too if they’re stiff enough.
Get the full tutorial at Between the Lines.
