Minimalist gifting doesn’t have to feel… minimal. In fact, some of the best gifts are the ones that say, “Hey, I thought about you,” instead of “I panicked in the Target aisle and hoped for the best.”

This year, we’re leaning fully into Less Is More Gifting with DIY ideas that are clean, cute, and totally doable—whether you’re a college student with three finals, a mom hiding in the pantry for a moment of peace, or a wellness friend who loves things made with intention (and maybe essential oils).

These gifts use everyday, clean-living ingredients and simple tools that make you look like you have your life together—even if you definitely forgot wrapping paper again.

Below are four DIY gifts, from “I can literally make this before class” to “this is my cozy Sunday self-care craft moment.”

1. Cozy Citrus Room Spray

If your friends love that “my space feels clean even if everything’s in a pile” vibe, this one’s for them.

You’ll Need:

• A simple glass spray bottle

• Distilled water

• Witch hazel

• Essential oils (try orange + vanilla or lemon + lavender)

How to Make:
Fill the bottle halfway with witch hazel, top with water, add 20–30 drops of essential oil, shake, and gift with a cute handwritten label.

2. Self-Care Shower Steamer Trio 

Think bath bomb vibes… but for the shower. Great for your “I want spa energy without the full routine” people.

You’ll Need:

• Baking soda

• Water

• Essential oils

• Silicone mold (heart or star shapes are adorable)

How to Make:
Mix baking soda with water until it forms a thick paste. Press into molds, let dry overnight, and add essential oils on top once hardened.

Packaging Tip:
Wrap three in compostable parchment paper with twine and a simple tag.

3. Glow Getter Sugar Scrub

This is the most giftable “clean girl era” staple—simple, luxe, and foolproof.

You’ll Need:

• Organic cane sugar

• Coconut, olive, or sweet almond oil

• Essential oil

• Optional: Vitamin E oil 

• Small reusable jars

How to Make:
Mix sugar + oil until it’s a fluffy paste, spoon into your jars, scent with essential oils, and add a cute note.

4. Aromatherapy Roller Blends 

These are tiny, thoughtful gifts that feel surprisingly personal. Create custom blends based on the friend: “Emotional Support Roller", "Good Vibes Roll-On", "Peace, Please", etc.  

You’ll Need:

• 10ml roller bottles

• Carrier oil (like fractionated coconut or jojoba)

• Essential oils

How to Make:
Add essential oils to the roller bottle (3–8 drops total), fill with carrier oil, shake, and label. Simple and so cute in a stocking.

Less Is More Gifting… And It Still Feels Luxe

The magic of DIY gifting isn’t how fancy the gift is—it’s the thoughtfulness behind it. You’re giving something made with clean ingredients, simple tools, and heart. That’s the very essence of Less Is More Gifting.

And if you end up making any of these gifts, tag us @freelivingco—we’d love to see your creations!