My, how 2025 has flown! We’re deep into gift-giving season, and instead of sharing a traditional hardware store gift guide, I wanted to take things in a different direction. We’ve all given and received plenty of stuff, but the gifts that really stand out, the ones people treasure, are the ones made by hand.
After taking a walk through the store and doing a little brainstorming, I came up with some handmade gift ideas for a variety of ages. Starting with the youngest crowd, consider making a set of wooden building blocks. For a simple set, all you need is lumber and sandpaper. If you want to go a little fancier, you can personalize the blocks with wood burning, carving, stain, or paint. Another great option for active little hands is a latch or busy board. Mount a collection of locks, latches, and hinges onto a board, and you have created a fun, skill-building toy that helps with hand-eye coordination.
The next idea works for any age: a hinged trinket box. Everyone needs a place to store their treasures, and these boxes can be as simple or intricate as you want. One of our employees received a handmade box years ago, and it now holds her family’s history books, something she will pass down for generations.
For the friend or family member who is always busy or forgetful, try making a chalkboard calendar. Chalkboard paint works on all kinds of surfaces, so you can customize the calendar to fit their style. Just do not forget to include chalk, because let’s be honest, they are probably not going to remember to pick it up themselves.
And for the houseplant enthusiast in your life, let’s revisit the art of macramé. Hanging pots can be surprisingly expensive, but nylon rope or natural fiber twine is not. With a few twists, knots, and braids, you can create a beautiful plant hanger that is sure to make any plant parent smile.
Finally, one of my favorite handmade gifts is a picture frame. One of the best I ever received came with a family photo already in it. I am sure a perfectly good frame could have been purchased for less than the cost of the materials, but the sentimental value of that gift far outweighed the expense.
If you are thinking about trying your hand at making gifts but are not sure where to start, come visit us at the store. And remember, at Randy’s Hardware, we don’t mind your questions. We don’t mind them at all!
