Since it’s the thought that counts, not every gift has to be a pricy extravaganza. Here are some gift ideas that are more down home than a trip to Williams-Sonoma, but no less precious:

1. A fork bracelet

While it may sound strange, this is actually a very cool and creative gift that both girls and women will love. It’s elegant and funky at the same time, and all it requires is an old fork (the more old-fashioned-looking, the better). The actual process also only takes about 5 minutes, so you can make a few and still have time to spare. Check out this video tutorial for the details.

2. Homemade sugar scrubs

Commercial body scrubs from places like Bath & Body Works are both expensive and often use artificial ingredients, which is a lot less fun than all natural goodness.

Give friends and family the gift of a spa-like experience with all natural fixings: simply buy a big bag of organic sugar (a 2-lb. bag of Fair Trade sugar is around $5), and pick up some essential oils like lavender, jojoba, and/or almond. Mix and match to your heart’s content, and use a blank sticker from a crafts store to make your own personalized labels. A few recipes if you need them.

3. Vinyl Record Notebook

This is a very trendy and creative option for those who have old records lying around. Give them new life and give a truly unique gift to the writers in your midst, those who like to journal, or just those who love records.

You’ll need a few tools for this one, but it’s worth it. In addition to the vinyl record, you’ll need scissors, a hot glue gun, needle and thread, duct tape, recycled paper (it looks prettier than brand new paper), and your oven. Here’s a video tutorial with all the deets:

Good luck, and may all the gifts you make come back to you in kind!