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Hunting for presents can be time-consuming and expensive. Who knew being thoughtful could be so exhausting?! We've pulled together our favourite sustainable gift ideas to help you have a greener, savvier, and easier gift hunt this year. Take a look for some inspiration and homemade gifts sure to make anyone's Christmas.  

1) Treat filled jars  

Use old jam jars and stuff them full of all things sweet, whether it’s sweets or home-made jams and chutneys. Or, for a savoury tooth, pack them with spices, pretzels or nuts. Stick a bow round the jar and you’re done!   

5 THRIFTY FOOD GIFTS   

2) DIY Beauty Scrubs, facemasks and more  

Homemade face masks and scrubs are easier than you think to make at home, using basic ingredients you probably already have. Make your own natural cosmetics (there are plenty of super-easy recipes out there), find empty glass containers to store them, and share your favourite ones as a gift. Attach a note with the ingredients and recipe so they can be made again when the jar is empty!   

5 DIY BEAUTY PRODUCTS YOU CAN MAKE YOURSELF 

3) Make your own Christmas card  

This is a great activity to do with kids. It’s easier than you think, and you don’t need any special skills – fold some good quality paper, find some inspo on Pinterest (we won’t judge if you copy), glue some autumn leaves from your doorstep… the possibilities are endless and they’ll put a smile on your loved one’s face! Save any cards from this year and recycle them into gift cards for next year. Cut a gift card shape from the front of the card and punch a hole. You can usually get 2 –3 gift tags out of one card. You’ll be thanking yourself next year, we promise. 

4) DIY pressed flower photo frame  

 Pressed flower frames don’t require too much effort but make a beautiful and thoughtful gift. Have a look at this blog or this video to get the run down on how to make your own.  

5) Cosmetic and toiletries   

Whether it’s haircare, skincare or beard care, everyone loves to be pampered. Sadly, many beauty gifts go unused each year. Avoid the waste and ask your loved ones which brands and products they like before buying them cosmetics or bath bits. Lots of people have wish lists and products they’d love to receive. If you want to go down the homemade and DIY route, you could even try making your own bath bombs. This is a great activity to do with children as a gift for teachers or grandparents. Make sure to check about allergies beforehand!  

6) Gift an experience  

Want to cut the waste whilst gifting this year? Well, our research found that people often prefer to receive experiences over presents. Check out this vlog on zero-waste gifting to get some fab tips, from theatre tickets to massage vouchers!  

7) Plants not pants  

Plants, plants and more plants! Why not gift someone an indoor plant this Christmas? They’ve been proven to reduce stress levels and it shows that you have faith in someone’s ability to keep something alive. Plus, they look pretty! Head to your local garden centre to find the perfect match. 

8) Gift the joy of reusables  

Kit your friend or family member out with a reusable cutlery set, coffee cup or water bottle - or some funky food boxes and sandwich wraps. These reusable gifts can also help save people money throughout the year with the majority of cafes now offering a discount if you bring your own mug; they're gifts that keeps on giving. Check out these 6 tips to reduce single use plastic for some inspiration!  

9) Get thrifty  

Scouting charity shops and vintage stores is a great, thrifty way to find unique gifts. There’ll be something for everyone, whether that’s a cap, some killer boots, preloved books or trinket trays and mirrors. Have a hunt and see what you can find, they’ll love the thought that goes into gift thrifting. If you’re buying for someone who loves platforms like Depop, head to their account and look at their recent likes and surprise them with something they’ve already had their eye on.  

Here are some suggestions of top spots to pick up some thrifted gems in MCR: 

10) Shop local and small  

Search for “ethical, fair trade and handmade gifts” to find one-of-a-kind presents made by people who care about sustainability and quality. Etsy and Trouva are a great place to start. If you’re ordering anything online, order as much as you can in one go and get them sent to collection points that are in walking distance from your home to reduce pressure on delivery staff and reduce the amount of air pollution from vehicles on the road. If you’re shopping in person, make a hamper of local products for your loved ones and check your maps to see which boutiques, delis and bookshops are near you.  

When searching for gifts, always start by asking people what they want. It doesn’t mean you know them less, it means that you’re taking the time to be thoughtful and get something they’ll truly love and use. Get creative, experiment with making things yourself and if you’re looking to buy, look for products that are handmade, locally sourced or come from smaller, independent sellers. 

Ta-da! Christmas gifts, sorted. Got some ideas we should add? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using the #InOurNature hashtag.