1. Map Coasters

Estimated cost: $15-$20 for a set of 4

You will need: Bathroom tiles, decoupage glue, pour-on finish, maps, round felt stickers

I've made this project many times for gifting and selling and they are always a hit. I start by cutting the maps to fit the coaster, then I glue the map pieces to the tiles and cover each completely with decoupage glue to seal it. I then pour a two-part resin (which you can purchase here) completely over the coasters. After a few days, they are set and dry. I put felt stickers on the bottom (so the tiles don't scratch the coffee table) and then they are ready for wrapping!

2. Recycled CD Picture Frame

Estimated cost: $5

You will need: A picture frame, picture, CD, scissors, hot glue/tacky glue

I made this for my mom's birthday one year and she loved it. It's a simple project that costs little to make. I found an inexpensive picture frame at the thrift store and painted it to look new. Then I found some old CDs and cut them into random small shapes (thank you, Spotify, for making the destruction of my CD's something I would actually do). Then I glued the pieces onto the frame mirror-side up. It took some time, but the end result was a lovely gift that anyone would appreciate.

3. Hand-Stamped Stationery Set

Estimated cost: $5-10 per set

You will need: blank stationery, stamps (or an sponge to make a stamp), paint/ink

Stationery is a useful gift because nearly everyone will write a letter or note to someone at some point in time. If you don't already have stamps, you can make one by cutting a dish sponge into shapes. If you have nice handwriting or letter stamps, you can add words to your stationery!

4. Twig Candle Holders

Estimated cost: $5-10 per set (including cost of candles)

You will need: jars, small twigs, glue, votive or other candles

This project can be completely recycled if you use jars from your kitchen. Start with a clean jar and simply glue twigs around the sides for a cute decoration that matches most types of home decor!

5. Basket Woven from Plastic Bags

You will need: a yarn needle, scissors, tape, plastic bags.

I love this project because it recycles one of the largest pollutants in our ecosystem, plastic bags. It's a bit hard to explain, so instead I'll link a YouTube video tutorial.

6. Decorated Journals/Notebooks

Estimated cost: $1-5 each

You will need: Blank notebooks, fabric/paint/maps/pictures, decoupage glue

I love this project because it's so simple. Take blank notebooks, or even composition books will work. Then cover with newspaper, maps, fabric, paint, or other decor. I've done this project many times to give as gifts or sell for fundraisers. This is a great project to make in bulk and give as smaller gifts.

7. Recycled T-Shirt Woven Potholders

Estimated cost: $10 one-time cost (for the loom)

You will need: t-shirts or other stretchy fabric, potholder loom

Don't throw away that old t-shirt! You can cut t-shirts into strips with a slit in the middle to make a loop, then weave them into potholders for your kitchen. I often make these out of random old t-shirts as housewarming gifts for friends. Here is a tutorial.

8. Pallet Mug Hanger

Estimated cost: $10-$20

You will need: A wooden pallet, sandpaper, stain or paint (if desired), mug hooks

I found my pallet next to a dumpster at my university and stripped off the unnecessary wood. I then sanded it down and used a blowtorch to seal the wood and give it some color. You can paint, stain, or varnish your pallet depending on the look you want. I then measured where I wanted each mug hook to go and screwed them in by hand.

9. Coin Magnet Set

Estimated cost: $7

You will need: Magnets, coins, super glue

I glue super magnets to the back of random coins I keep from my travels. This is a quick project and very affordable. You can use coins or get creative with seashells, rocks, buttons, or other items.