In years past, I celebrated Galentine’s Day. But this year, I’m actually looking forward to spending the sappy holiday with my boyfriend.
Still, the day arrives amid my leftover Christmas spending regret. It hits at a moment when I’m hesitant to open my bank app after splurging too much over the holidays.
So, my boyfriend and I decided to cut costs on gifts this year by making them ourselves. You know… straight from the heart.
9 DIY Valentine’s Day Pinterest-Inspired Gifts for Under $10
When all else fails, turn to Pinterest.
I always consult Pinterest for crafty ideas; it rarely disappoints. But rather than going with the traditional 52 reasons I love you jar or the classic love coupons, I wanted to branch out. (Although one of the ideas actually involves a box.)
And since DIY projects can get pricey, I set a firm budget cap of $10.
Ready to see the Pinspired presents?
1. Cheers with a beer candle.
When I’m stumped, I often turn to candles as easy gifts. But making one yourself? Even better — especially when it’s this clever.
Let’s not overcomplicate candle-making. Pick up some wicks from your local craft or home-decor shop — even Target carries them. Choose a color and scent you like — don’t spend more than $5.
Next, grab your partner’s favorite beer. I won’t judge if your choice is aesthetic.
I might grab Coors Light for my boyfriend or a Denver Broncos Bud Light can (his top pick). Or, for a change of pace, I’d opt for a craft beer like Fireside Chat — something with a retro, artisanal vibe.
Then follow instructions for removing the top of the can, and use these steps to prep the wick and pour the wax.
Now you’ve got a romantic candle to light while enjoying your favorite brew.
2. Personalize a coffee mug.
I adore my mug collection, and anyone who enjoys coffee would cherish a customized cup from their person. It also doubles as a pen caddy or succulent planter.
All you need are some oil-based Sharpies and a plain white mug from the Dollar Tree, per the Destination Decoration guide. Dollar Tree mugs are recommended since they lack a heavy glaze.
Scout out a design you like. I used Pinterest for inspiration.
- For the one you met on Tinder
- For the Star Wars fan
- For the long-distance love
- For the pun aficionado
- For the cheesy romantic
Feeling motivated? After decorating the mug, follow these baking directions to make your design permanent — just like your commitment (fingers crossed).
3. Frame your first conversation.
I won’t divulge the first thing my boyfriend said to me — it was awkward, and he’d be mortified. It happened through a dating app, too.
Still, preserving the first exchange you had — whatever form it took — can be a sweet, heartfelt keepsake. Plus, it’s simple to make.
Print or handwrite the dialog on nice paper and frame it, or go with a canvas (a pack of 12 costs under $10). You could also create a rustic look by painting the words onto a piece of wood like this.
4. Cross-stitch a witty message.
My Southern relatives used to adore these — hence the framed sayings sprinkled through my house, my aunt’s and my grandmother’s.
It may feel old-fashioned, but these pieces are making a comeback (thank you, hipsters). Cross-stitch is straightforward once you learn the basics.
Start with a counted cross-stitch kit, like the ones on Etsyfor $10 or less. If you’re already familiar with the craft, buy hoops, threads and fabric in bulk — it’s more economical.
You can also tweak patterns, and many printable or ready-made designs on Etsy cost under $5 (for example, this Stormtrooper pattern).
Either way, this timeless hobby is fun, customizable and personal.
5. Make Jenga romantic.
A childhood game turned romantic? It totally works.
If you don’t have an old Jenga set, pick one up. I found one on Amazon under $10.
Then grab a Sharpie and write sweet messages on the wooden blocks. List things you love about your partner or write prompts like “I love your…”
If you’re feeling spicy, jot down some flirty options — but I’ll leave those choices up to you.
6. Map your relationship.
When unsure, chart it out.
I’ve been thinking about making this for my boyfriend. It’s ideal for travel fans or couples in long-distance relationships.
Find maps online and print them for free. For a more polished look, print on matte photo paper.
Use a printed heart stencil if your scissors hand isn’t steady, or crop the map before printing (I just use Microsoft Word!).
Display meaningful locations in a frame or on canvas. Pick a pretty font, use letter stamps or handwrite captions with city names or significant spots.
7. Create a photo box.
Scrapbooking can get pricey fast. There’s the book, stickers, pages… the costs add up.
Keep it modest. Find an unfinished wooden box. I likethis one on Etsyfor $10, butthis Jo-Ann optionis just $2.99.
Sand the wood and apply a coat of primer, then paint with acrylics to design it. Or use Mod Podge to create a photo collage.
Another route is buying a wood engraver. It’s not as intimidating as it seems, and you’ll likely use it again. You can find models under $20.
Fill the box with printed photos (we don’t print enough anymore, in my view), or let your partner store sentimental trinkets inside.
8. Puzzle them with a custom puzzle.
Because she has a “piece” of your heart. Or he loves you “to pieces.” Maybe she’s your missing “piece.” He probably just “completes” you.
Either way, a personalized puzzle makes a sweet gift. Turn a favorite photo into a jigsaw.
Several sites will make custom puzzles, but I loved this creative take from a Pinterest user. Find an old puzzle at home or a thrift store. Print a photo to match its size. You can print on your home printer or use a local office supply shop for larger sizes.
Mod Podge the photo onto the puzzle. Once dry, use an X-Acto knife to trace the pieces through the photo layer.
Then plan a cozy date night: turn on Netflix, spread the pieces on the floor, and build it together. When finished, frame it for display.
9. Transfer a photo onto canvas.
This one’s a crowd-pleaser. Transfer a favorite picture onto canvas to preserve it forever.
Our bookkeeper, Natalie W., did this for her fiancé and even arranged a whole table of their travels using this technique.
I’d suggest starting with a small piece. YouTube makes the process easy — we used this tutorial and followed the steps.
Begin with a canvas — or a wood panel if you want to splurge a bit. Print your image mirrored on a laser printer (important). Smear photo transfer gel (about $10) over the canvas, press the photo face-down, and smooth it out.
Allow it to dry overnight. Then wet the surface with a sponge and gently rub away the paper; the image will remain on the canvas.
Carson Kohler is a staff writer at Savinly.
