Ramadan went by fast, and Eid is just around the corner. While it may sometimes not seem like that, Eid is not just about new clothes and food. Above all else, perhaps, Eid is a celebration of friends and family. And what better way to celebrate the ones close to you than to make them handmade gifts with a personal touch. Here are a few ideas for thoughtful presents that you can craft to make your loved one's Eid even more special.

Eid greeting cards

You can never go wrong with handmade Eid cards. If you are a '90s kid, you probably remember exchanging tiny, colourful Eid cards with friends and family. Eid felt incomplete without those! A handmade card is even more special because of the effort and thought that goes into it. Grab some good quality paper (card paper/poster paper) in festive colours, shape the card as you like, and decorate it with crescents, stars, or floral patterns, using markers, stickers or drawings, that reflect the spirit of Eid. Add a heartfelt note or a wish for a blessed year ahead. And the best part? No matter how simple or fancy your Eid cards are, they will always be cherished keepsakes that speak volumes.

Resin jewellery

As Eid is approaching, everyone is rushing with their last-minute preparations. So what could be better at this time than gifting them a handmade piece of jewellery made by you with love? Handmade resin jewellery can be the perfect finishing touch for your loved ones' Eid looks, giving them a stylish boost. To make your own, you will need some clear resin, dye colour, small keepsakes like dried flowers, glitter, or tiny charms, silicone mould (crescent moon, stars, or any shape you like), and sandpaper. Start by mixing the resin with a few drops of dye and gently stir. Pour the mixture into the moulds and let it dry for at least 24 hours until fully hardened. Once set, carefully remove the resin piece, sand any rough edges, and later attach it to a chain, ring, or bracelet using glue. This will not only add a stylish touch but also will be remembered as a thoughtful gift every time it is worn, making it even more special.

Scented candles

Nothing sets the mood for Eid like a warm, soothing fragrance filling the air on Eid morning. A handmade scented candle is your way to add a relaxing touch to your loved ones' homes. You only need soy or beeswax, a wick, a glass jar, and essential oils (lavender, rosemary, or vanilla) for a calming aroma. Melt in the wax, mix a few drops of essential oils, place the wick in the jar first, and then pour the melted wax. Let it harden for two to three hours, and just like that, you will have your very own beautifully crafted scented candle. To add a special touch, tie any festive coloured ribbon or an Eid tag with a small note to the jar. That's it! After all the Eid celebrations, a soft, soothing scent is just what one needs to unwind. And the best part? They'll think of you whenever they catch a whiff of the fragrance.

Mini coaster or canvas painting

A mini canvas or coaster painting can be the perfect way to create something special for your loved ones. It's incredibly easy to make, and you don't have to be an artist to make it! All you need is a blank canvas or plain coaster, acrylic paints, and a fine brush. You can do calligraphy and paint crescent moon, stars, or even mosques to bring the spirit of Eid to life. Add colours to it to convey the spirit of Eid. Once painted, seal the artwork with sealer or varnish to ensure durability. These tiny pieces, even though they look small, carry love and effort in every stroke.

Handmade gifts are the perfect way to make your loved ones feel extra special. But remember, it's not how beautiful the gifts look but the effort and love you put into each one that truly matters.

Nusrat Meherin Faiza is a writer, tutor, and chronic overthinker. Reach out to fuel her overthinking at [email protected]