DIY Christmas Gifts: How to Curate Your Own Thematic Gift Boxes

In this post: Looking for creative ideas for DIY Christmas gifts? Why not try curating your own thematic gift boxes based on the recipients’ interests?⇒

I never met a gift basket I didn’t like.

Well, that’s not entirely true, but I tend to believe if one gift is good, a basket of gifts is even better.

I’m the person who is typically elected to be in charge of group gifts, because I never just buy the one large gift. If we’ve decided on a special handbag, I always set aside enough money for a scarf to tie around the handles and perhaps a pair of coordinating gloves.

Maybe it’s leftover from my fashion design days, but a well merchandised gift grouping makes each individual piece look even better.

The same concept can be applied to holiday gifts. If there’s someone on your list who doesn’t need one more sweater or tie, maybe it’s time to think outside the box – or more accurately, inside the box. A curated box of items that comprises a thematic gift, particularly one that focuses on a specific interest, can be fun to receive and would be far more unique than a simple gift. Bonus points if the container is actually part of the theme, too.

For the Hostess

A gift basket of holiday tableware would make a terrific hostess gift for a seasonal party you might attend earlier in the month, so your hostess has the option of using the pieces for a more intimate holiday dinner. I’m smitten with these vintage salad plates that come with 4 different Christmas motifs and pair beautifully with plaid dinner plates and homespun napkins in varied patterns. Tuck them into a dough bowl for a lovely presentation, then wrap it all up in cellophane wrap with a bow.

For the Movie Lover

This one is perfect for this time of year! Have you got a friend who loves cozy movie nights at home? Or even binge watching hours of Netflix? Select a plush buffalo check throw to roll up in, add in a soft faux fur pillow and top it off with a charming bucket for popcorn. 

If you can find a basket that is large enough, it could function as a fabulous container for the gift. Or if there’s too much spillover, you can use a large gift bag with tissue paper. Toss in an oversized bag of popcorn and your gift is complete.

If the gift is for a family, you can also get smaller individual popcorn buckets.

For the Candle Lover

It seems to me you’re either a candle person or you’re not.  Those of use who love candles think nothing of spending a nice sum of money on the luxury of a delightful scent. And for people like that, having an endless supply of pretty candle holders is simply a must. You can never have too many and they look wonderful mixed and matched together.

For your gift, you can select both candles and holders for the optimal display. Pick a color scheme to tie it all together and be cognizant of varying heights and some distinction in shape. The goal is coordination, yet enough variety for interest.

For the Experimental Foodie

There are certain cuisines that require specific vessels for the types of dishes that typify that cuisine. Years ago when I used to travel to the Far East regularly for business, there were countless stores that offered dinnerware sets in traditional patterns for Asian cuisine.  These days with our more global tastes, I prefer plain white dishes that can accommodate a broader array of foods, but I still enjoy the uniquely sized pieces that are perfect for things like sauces and dipping oils, or rice bowls and the like.

A basket of a few such uniquely shaped dishes can be matched with table linens and seasonal mugs for a lovely holiday gift, perfect for the adventurous foodie. You can wrap a few pieces in a basket for the presentation and keep the spares nearby in a larger box.

For the Wine Enthusiast

Accessories for the bar are perfect for the wine and spirits lover. Sure you can just bring a bottle of their favorite elixir, but why not go a bit further and add in goblets, coasters and a champagne bar set? A galvanized tub could make a terrific container for these items, too.

For the Book Lover

What does a lover of reading need more than a blanket and pillows to cuddle up on the couch with?  Try a sweater knit pillow or throw blanket with a seasonal plaid pillow and top it all off with a copper mug set. Fireplace not included. But you may throw in a vintage book if you like!

It’s fun to get creative with gift giving and to put thought into what the recipient is most interested in. In a way, you’re giving an experience more than just giving a blanket or a mug set.

With well priced items like the ones suggested here, you can compile a charming grouping together and offer a gift box or basket that your family and friends will love!