Sure, gift cards are nice, but it's usually the DIY teacher gifts that leave the biggest impression on your child's teacher. A personalized gift from the heart not only shows how much a teacher means to your child, but it's also a treasure that can never be duplicated.
“I've received many gifts over the years, including restaurant gift cards, books, mugs, and wine, but the ones that mean the most to me are always the thoughtful, handmade ones,” said Canandaigua, New York. says teacher Shannon Jensen. .
Whether it's Teacher Appreciation Week, the holidays, the end of the school year, or any other special occasion, stock up on craft supplies without going to Starbucks. Here are 31 of her DIY teacher gifts that are sure to earn you an A-plus.
1. Leather tassel keychain
This DIY leather tassel keyring from Lovely Indeed is not only fun to make, but also a super stylish handmade gift for teachers. The DIY part is so easy that just about any age group can participate (with some help!).
2. DIY apple candle
Hmm! Happiness Is Homemade's DIY Apple Spice Candles are both branded for teachers, and they smell amazing to boot.
3. Jute cord planter
What a cute idea! These cute terracotta clay pots covered with jute cord from Craft Ideas are one of the simplest DIY gifts for teachers. And it would look great on any teacher's desk.
4. Coastal wood slice coaster
A DIY teacher gift that your child's teacher will use for years to come. These cool coastal wood slice coasters from Crafts by Amanda aren't just beautiful, they're the perfect way to start summer.
5. Polymer clay plate
A cute little dish to store everything from erasers to earrings, Project Kid's polymer clay dish is one of the coolest DIY teacher gifts for teachers. In fact, you may need to create two.
6. S'mores kit
The ultimate way to start summer! Of course it's the Katie Jacobs s'mores kit. Every teacher will spend lazy days in the sun and cozy evenings around the fire.
This cute personalized pencil tag idea by Sarah K. Adiutori couldn't be easier to make. Simply purchase wooden gift tags at your local craft store and shade them with your pencil colors. Perfect for gifts and looks great on cards and notes.
8. Unique plants
Everyone loves plants, so it goes without saying that teachers will fall in love with this cute DIY planter idea from Stuff She DIYs. Customize the pot and have your child write “Thank you for helping me grow” on a ruler and stick it in the soil. Easy, easy.
9. Homemade bath salts
A cute jar filled with homemade bath salts is a great idea as all teachers can use it for a little stress relief at the end of the day. Back to the Simple Life made hers using lavender, but there are many bath salt recipes to choose from.
10. Bead keychain
Because teachers can never have enough keychains. Rust to Shine Co.'s stylish beaded keychains are easy to make at home with your kids.
11. Coffee mug with supplies
Just like Marissa from A to Zen Life, fill your coffee cup with some classroom essentials and some candy (you're the students, after all). Probably the fastest DIY gift in the world.
12. Teacher Coaster
This cute teacher coaster is sure to be a hit on social media. Kari's The Kraft Shop provides a complete tutorial (always requires parental assistance!)
13. Citrus sugar scrub
Delia Creates' fresh scented citrus sugar scrub recipe makes a great gift for teachers. Children will be happy to help make the materials for this wonderful gift.
14. School-themed jars
Do you have glass bottles and paints? Kids will love helping you create clever pencil and paper themed jars from All Things Stephanie. Perfect for storing paper clips, pencils, and of course rulers.
15.Ruler box
Steph from mama.jots created this simple and lovely handmade ruler box that will have lots of use in the classroom. Can store books and pencil jars. However, as a perfect gift, be sure to send one filled with beautiful flowers.
16. Beaded picture frame
Your kids will love making this simple beaded picture frame for their teacher from Teach Me Mommy. Add class photos and inspirational quotes.
17. Recycled planter
We love this low-cost recycled gift item from Miranda Webster of Shebuilder. Spray paint ceramics from the thrift store to make wonderful little planters. Just add succulents.
18. Colorful paperweight
This melted crayon paperweight project by Red Ted Art is a fun activity for kids and also makes a super cool gift for teachers.
19. Kids Art Etched Wooden Spoon
Here are some fun ideas from Delia Creates. This is a unique gift for teachers who love cooking. A wooden spoon etched with children's art. The last step of this project requires a wood etcher, so if you have young children, an adult will need to be on hand.
20. DIY tote bag
The list of things teachers need to carry with them is endless: books, supplies, documents, etc. So why not let your child make a bright tote bag? These ice cream themed bags Brushes Colors are adorable because they're ice cream.
21. Bottle covered in crayons
What could be more adorable than Donna Herron's crafty DIY jar covered in crayons for felt magnets? Great as a gift on its own. It also makes an even sweeter gift, filled with dandelions, your child's favorite flower.
22. Teacher Survival Kit
Mints, pens, tape, chocolates – no matter the season, every teacher needs a survival kit like the Ashley M 174. Have your child pack a box of teacher supplies and also include some nice printed or handwritten notes.
23. Individual hand sanitizer
The one thing teachers are never satisfied with? Hand sanitizer. Make it even cuter and easier to track by customizing your bottle like 4th grade Flipper.
24. Homemade lemon lip scrub
Liz Palomino has a great recipe for a DIY lemon lip scrub that kids can make too. Teachers will love this gift, especially those who live in cold winter climates.
25. Class school supplies
Fact: No matter what time of year it is, you will always need school supplies. Why not make a cute supplies basket like this one from Kayla Biggs to give to your child's teacher?
26. Crayon art
This lovely initial art made with crayons will brighten up any teacher's classroom. Buy one on Etsy or try making something similar at home.
Where to buy: Framed Double Rainbow Crayon Letter Personalized Teacher Gift ($39, Teacher GiftsByLaura/Etsy)
27. Personalized Mug
Did you know you can use a Sharpie to create your own personalized mugs, like this cute teacher mug? Be sure to use an oil-based Sharpie and then bake it (here's a DIY Sharpie mug tutorial). It makes a fun and functional gift with the teacher's name or a small piece of artwork created by your child.
Where to buy: Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers ($13 for a pack of 5, Amazon)
28. Scrabble character picture
Crayons may get all the love, but Scrabble letters can be artistic too. How cute is this DIY teacher gift idea for her from AJ Designs?
29. Personalized rubber band “Pencil”
How cute is this pencil string art by Stephanie Strings? Not only is it a great sign for teachers to display next to their desks, but it can also be made without paint, markers, glue, or other messy art supplies. can. Victory for teachers, victory for parents.
30. Candy and Supply Tower
Gift towers are not just for baby gifts. Create a tower of teacher supplies, candy, and bubbly drinks like this one from A Bubbly Classroom. Why not? !
31. Sweet scent
At the end of the day, the most important thing about your child's teacher is the impact they have on your child. So while a glittering gift will certainly be appreciated, a heartfelt letter will probably have the longest lasting impact.
“I recently received a letter from a family who moved before the end of last school year,” said Alison Schultz, a teacher in Cranford, New Jersey. “They found my address and told me the impact I had on their families. It was so sweet and unexpected. I can honestly say that over the years I've helped students and families. I have a box of notes from him. They mean a lot to me.”