If life's hustle and bustle has you feeling harried, homemade gifts are a great way to slow down and show the special people in your life how much you care. Bonus: Focus your creativity on home-spa gifts, and you’re likely to get a whiff of aromatherapy from pure essential oils. Remember to save one of whatever you’re making for yourself, so you can enjoy a little luxury when you’re done being crafty!
I like to give moisturizing lotion bars because almost everyone gets dry skin in winter. Since they’re homemade, I get the satisfaction of sharing wholesome ingredients without artificial fragrance or preservatives. The recipe below suggests lavender or sweet orange oil, but you can customize the essential oils to suit your loved ones.
Moisturizing Lotion Bars
2/3 cup beeswax
1/2 cup (118 ml) 365 Everyday Value® Virgin Organic Coconut Oil
1/2 cup (118 ml) cocoa butter
1 teaspoon (5 ml) vitamin E oil 32,000 I.U.
10–20 drops essential oil such as lavender or sweet orange
Optional: dried lavender or dried rose petals
Combine everything except essential oils in a tempered-glass measuring cup. Place measuring cup in a saucepan with 2 to 3 fingers of boiling water.
Stir ingredients until melted (about 10 to 15 minutes). Remove from heat and cool for 3 minutes. Add essential oils and stir. Pour mixture into nonstick silicone mold. (If desired, sprinkle dried flowers into the bottom of mold before pouring.) Allow 3 hours to harden. Wrap in parchment paper and store in a cool, dry place or gift in upcycled tins from teas, mints, etc. Rub directly onto hands, elbows, feet — wherever you need intense moisturizing. Not suitable for wet skin. Use within 6 months.
Essential oils can irritate sensitive skin, mucous membranes and eyes. Use wisely and keep out of reach of children. For external use only.
Now all you need to do is download a gift tag opens in a new tab and voila! You’ve got a gift at the ready.
Do you have a homemade gift that has been a big hit? Share your ideas in the comments.
