It’s a simple, low-cost craft night that works for all ages, and at the end of the evening, you’ll have a collection of beautiful, personalised mugs ready to wrap and gift — perfect for teachers, neighbours, grandparents, or Secret Santa swaps.

So gather your friends, pop on some Christmas tunes, and let’s paint some festive magic!

What You’ll Need for a DIY Holiday Mug Painting Night

Hosting a mug-painting evening is easy — and once you’ve set up a little crafting station, the creativity flows naturally. Here’s everything you need:

Materials & Tools

• Plain ceramic mugs (white works best for painting)
• Porcelain paint pens or specialist ceramic paints
• Fine paintbrushes (optional, for detail work)
• Masking tape or washi tape (to secure stencils)
• Cotton pads and rubbing alcohol (for cleaning surfaces)

No products found.

Top Tip: Budget-friendly plain mugs can be found in multipacks at homeware stores or online — look for smooth, matte finishes for the best painting results.

Festive Mug Painting Ideas to Try

The beauty of mug painting is that anyone can do it — no art degree required! Simple, seasonal designs look just as beautiful as intricate ones. Here are some ideas to inspire your guests:

Classic Christmas Motifs

• Snowflakes, holly leaves, or baubles
• Christmas trees or reindeer silhouettes
• Stars and candy canes

Personalised Touches

• Add names, initials, or monograms
• Write “Merry Christmas,” “Hot Cocoa Time,” or a favourite festive quote
• Add a special date or short message on the base of the mug

Creative Ideas

• Create a “his & hers” mug set for couples
• Make a matching family set with everyone’s name
• Add a simple thumbprint robin (like this design) for a sweet kid-friendly option

Tip: Use masking tape to block off straight lines for colour blocking or geometric shapes. Metallic paint pens also add a beautiful festive shine.

How to Set Your Painted Mugs for Durability

To make sure your painted mugs last (and are dishwasher-safe), it’s important to bake them to set the paint. Here’s how:

1. Let the paint dry: Allow the designs to air-dry for 24 hours after painting.
2. Place in a cold oven: Put the mugs on a baking tray in a cold oven to prevent cracking.
3. Bake: Heat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Cool inside the oven: Turn off the heat and let the mugs cool completely before removing.

Once baked, the paint bonds with the ceramic, making your creations durable enough for daily use.

Hosting Tips for a Successful Mug Painting Night

• Set the scene: Play Christmas music, serve hot chocolate, and light a few candles.
• Pre-clean mugs: Wipe them with rubbing alcohol before painting so the paint adheres properly.
• Offer stencil choices: Have a mix of designs available for guests to trace or freestyle.
• Add gift packaging: Provide gift tags, cellophane bags, or kraft boxes so guests can package their mugs as gifts before they leave.

This kind of craft night is perfect for friends, family gatherings, kids’ sleepovers, or even as a festive team activity.

The Perfect Handmade Christmas Gift

There’s nothing quite like receiving a handmade gift — and a painted mug is both thoughtful and practical. Pair your custom mug with a sachet of hot chocolate, a tea sampler, or some homemade biscuits for an extra-special present.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make any purchases after clicking one of these links, I will make a small commission (hopefully enough to keep me in tea all year) – at no extra cost to you! This allows me to keep creating and sharing free tutorials and content for you. Thank you!

Add a little Hawkins-style nostalgia to any room with this hand-drawn, 80s-inspired art print. The retro colours and signature vibes of Stranger Things make this print an instant conversation piece — ideal for a fan’s bedroom, study nook, or living room wall. Whether they want a subtle nod to the Upside Down or a bold tribute to their favourite show, this art piece brings a touch of supernatural style and 1980s charm together.

Treat a Stranger Things fan to something fun and useful with this inspired makeup bag — complete with thematic details fans will love, and enough space for everyday essentials. Whether she keeps cosmetics, skincare or stationery inside, it’s a stylish nod to the spooky-cool world of Hawkins without going over the top. Perfect as a small birthday treat or stocking-filler, it’s an easy win for fans who like a practical gift that still shows off their fandom.

If you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic treat with a fandom twist, this personalised retro sweet gift box is a brilliant pick for a fan of Stranger Things. With old-school sweets and the option to personalise the label (perfect for “From: You”), it feels like something straight out of the 1980s — just the right era for fans of Hawkins. It’s a sweet, affordable gift that really taps into that show-era vibe, great as a stocking filler, birthday surprise or small treat that still feels themed and thoughtful.

This Stranger Things enamel pin is a perfect little stocking filler for fans who love to show off their Hawkins pride. Bold, quirky and instantly recognisable, it’s ideal for jazzing up a denim jacket, backpack or lanyard, and adds just the right amount of fandom flair without being over the top. A small but meaningful gift that lets them carry a piece of the Upside Down with them wherever they go.

Bring a little spooky-season vibe to everyday life with this “Stranger Things” wax melt box — a perfect gift for fans who love subtle ambience and themed home touches. With nostalgic fragrance blends and packaging inspired by the show, it’s a cosy, atmospheric way to add a hint of Hawkins’ supernatural charm to a bedroom or lounge without going over-the-top. Ideal as a Christmas stocking filler or birthday surprise, it’s the kind of gift that lets them enjoy their fandom in small, sensory moments.

For the die-hard fan, this signed print makes a striking keepsake — perfect if they love to display their fandom with pride. It elevates a simple wall print into something special, making it feel more like a collectible than a poster. Whether it’s framed and hung in a bedroom or placed above a study space, it’s a gift that says: “You deserve something unique and stylish, just like your love for Hawkins.”

For the book-loving Stranger Things fan, these personalised bookmarks are a lovely little treat — subtle, useful and full of fandom charm. With custom options and Stranger Things–themed artwork, they’re perfect for marking progress in books, planners or sketchpads, and add a personal, “this is mine” touch to their reading corner. Whether as a stocking filler, birthday gift or just a small surprise, they’re a simple but thoughtful way to celebrate their love for Hawkins with something everyday and practical.

For fans who like to personalise — whether it’s their laptop, water bottle, luggage or school binder — this mixed set of Stranger Things stickers is a fun, affordable pick. The variety of designs — from subtle references to bold icons — lets them mix, match and show off their love for Hawkins wherever they go. It’s the kind of gift that’s perfect as a stocking-filler or birthday treat: inexpensive, fandom-friendly, and guaranteed to make everyday items feel a bit more magical.

This “The Babysitter’s Mixtapes” cosmetic bag is a fun, fandom-loving gift that brings a touch of Hawkins nostalgia to everyday essentials. With Stranger Things-inspired design and practical space for make-up, stationery or small treasures, it makes a lovely choice for fans who want to carry a piece of the show with them. Perfect as a birthday treat or stocking filler, it’s a small but thoughtful gift that blends everyday usefulness with a little bit of parallel-universe magic.

This “Friends Don’t Lie” vanilla-scented soy candle is a gorgeous little nod to Stranger Things, perfect for fans who love cosy vibes with a hint of Hawkins. Hand-poured and themed around one of the show’s most iconic lines, it brings warm vanilla fragrance and a subtle fandom touch to bedrooms, study spaces or chill-out corners. A lovely, affordable gift that feels personal without being over the top — ideal for stocking fillers, teen rooms or anyone who wants their space to smell a bit sweeter while rewatching their favourite episodes.

This “Trust in Dustin” pencil — inspired by the lovable Dustin Henderson from Stranger Things — is a quirky, budget-friendly gift for fans who like a little fandom flair with their everyday gear. Practical enough for notes, sketching or school work, and fun enough to make him smile whenever he grabs a pen, it’s a small but thoughtful way to let him carry a bit of Hawkins with him wherever he goes. Perfect as part of a stationery bundle or as a fun stocking filler.

For the fan who loves collecting everything Hawkins-related, this Stranger Things–inspired mini-figure is a fantastic little treat. It’s a tiny collectible that packs in big nostalgia — perfect for displaying on a desk, shelf or night-stand as a subtle nod to their favourite show. Whether it’s used to decorate a playlist corner, gaming setup or bookshelf, it’s a fun, inexpensive gift that brings a bit of the Upside Down into everyday life.

This striking “Kate Bush – Running Up That Hill” print is a beautiful tribute to one of the most iconic moments from Stranger Things — perfect for fans who know that song brings extra magic. The retro-style poster captures the vintage 80s mood and supernatural atmosphere of the show, making it a standout wall piece for bedrooms, media corners or fan-shrines. Whether hung solo or part of a gallery wall, it’s a gift that honours the show’s music-meets-mystery vibes and says, “I know what you love.”

Whether you’re shopping for a die-hard Stranger Things fan or someone who simply loves the retro, spooky-cool vibe of Hawkins, this Etsy gift guide packs in plenty of fun, nostalgic and thoughtful ideas. From art prints and cosy candles to stationery, stickers and themed accessories, these small businesses deliver that perfect mix of handmade charm and fandom magic. Whatever the occasion — birthdays, Christmas, stocking fillers or just because — there’s something here to bring a touch of the Upside Down into everyday life.

A lot of these are Unisex, I mean my niece is after a wireless charger phone stand and the other one would like bath bombs which both my boys love.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make any purchases after clicking one of these links, I will make a small commission (hopefully enough to keep me in tea all year) – at no extra cost to you! This allows me to keep creating and sharing free tutorials and content for you. Thank you!

Over 75 Teen Boy Stocking Filler Ideas

Grooming and Personal Care

Teenagers care about looking and feeling good, so why not include some grooming essentials?

• Grooming Products: Popular items like Lynx shower gel or styling products. When it comes to face cream Sam Farmer is great as is CeraVe.
• Deodorant: A subscription would be a great stocking filler and you can wrap up the starter pack and pop it in their stocking.
• Aftershave: A fresh scent for special occasions or daily use – See my top teenage boy picks here.
• Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C Serum: A skincare essential for a radiant complexion.
• Neutrogena Makeup Remover Facial Towelettes: Easy-to-use skincare for fresh-faced confidence.
• Burts Bees Lip Chaps: Stockings are a great way to add a little luxury to every item they might use. However, I have ordered a subscription to Wild refillable ones for my Eldest this year.
• Pore and Spot Strips: Inexpensive and they actually work. I love West Barn Co for these, and we also rate CeraVe.
• Personalised Razor: My youngest is a fan of Harry’s and we have got him a subscription for Christmas last year and he loves it so much were upgrading to Harry’s Plus this year.

Clothing and Accessories

Add some stylish and functional accessories they’ll love using every day:

• Socks and Boxers: Opt for novelty or themed designs to make them fun if you kids like that – mine do not it has to be Nike Socks all the way.
• Gaming Socks: Perfect for the gamer in your life.
• Carhartt nylon adjustable industrial belt : A gift that blends style and durability without being flashy. 
• Hat and Gloves: Practical and stylish for winter weather, just make sure they are touchscreen gloves.
• Ray-Ban Clubmaster Classic Sunglasses: A trendy addition for sunny days.
• AirPods Case: A chic accessory for keeping tech safe.
• Minimalist Wallet: A slim, trendy wallet for their cards and cash.
• Trendy Pins or Patches: Accessories to customise their backpack or jacket.
• Bracelets or Rings: Simple designs to suit their style.
• Band T-Shirts: A small folded tee from their favourite band or artist.
• Silk Sleep Mask.

Foodie Favorites

Teenage boys can never resist a snack! Add these delicious treats to keep them happy:

• Terry’s Chocolate Orange: A classic stocking filler.
• Tony’s Chocoloony: Delicious and looks fab too.
• Gift Voucher: Nando’s or Greggs always goes down well! You could also get the a Just Eat or Deliveroo one.
• Hot Chocolate Bombs with Mini Marshmallows and Squirty Cream: A cosy drink for cold days.
• American or Japanese Sweets and Candy: Unique and fun flavours to try. Kelly Loves is perfect for Korean and Japanese snacks and drinks. Or Worldwide Global Brands’ for A&W Cream Soda, Cruncheez  and Toast’Ems.
• Tube of Pringles: A savoury snack option.
• Muddy Bites Waffle Cone Snacks: Bite-sized treats filled with chocolate.
• Packet of Christmas Percy Pigs: Festive gummy sweets.
• Popcorn: My boys love the pop-on-the-cob stuff, but you can also get some fab novelty flavours like KFC.
• Coffee Syrups: Sweeten up those homemade coffees – TK Maxx is great for these.
• Mini cocktail mixer or fun drink accessory – Buzzballz cocktails are a big thing at the moment.
• Popping candy: My boys are obsessed with popping candy!
  

Practical and Fun Gadgets & Games

Teens love cool gadgets that make life easier or more fun:

• Rechargeable Phone Case: A practical solution for on-the-go charging.
• Posh Playing cards: Think Gold or Silver Waddingtons, Bicycle or Theory 11.
• A Nice Pen: STABILO Grow is climate-neutral ballpoint pen that looks great and writes beautifully.
• Beamo MagSafe PodZilla Kit: A great gift for aspiring content creators, but a little on the expensive side for a stocking filler!
• BONOAK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone: For fun singing sessions with friends.
• Poker Set: Fabulous fun and a great way to get them off screens.
• Card Shuffler: This has transformed our game nights!
•  SHASHIBO Shape-Shifting Box: A fun, tactile gift — it’s a puzzle, a fidget toy and a piece of art all in one.
• Mini Rubik’s Cube: A fun brain teaser to challenge their skills.
• Card Games: Compact games like Uno, Exploding Kittens, or Phase 10. I have already bought Uno No Mercy for this year
• Magnetic Fidgets: Such a big hit that Mini took his to work and asked for another one this year!
• Pocket-Sized Puzzle Books: Sudoku or crossword challenges for downtime.
• Desktop Sports Games: Cricket, Mini foosball or air hockey kits for quick fun.

Hobbies and Interests

Keep them active and entertained outdoors:

• Aerobie Sonic Fin Football: A fun activity for the park or backyard.
• Sneaker Balls: Keep shoes fresh and odour-free after sports practice. I also love boot bananas for football boots!
• Mini Model Kits: Airplanes, cars, or sci-fi characters to assemble. I hav got Maxi a small LEGO Formula One car.
• Sketchbook and Drawing Pens: For the budding artist or doodler. If you are looking for something a little different then STABILO CarbOthello are Chalk-Pastel Pencils, they are dry and dusty (like chalk and charcoal) and perfectly blendable.
• Sports Accessories: Wristbands, sweatbands, or a ball pump. Mine are into golf, so I am getting them personalised golf ball stamps to prevent the sibling infighting over whose ball it is!
• Darts accessories: such as this dart sharpener or wall-mounted dart holder.

Experience / Ticket / Digital

• Gift card for a streaming service, app, or game
• Voucher for a coffee or dessert outing
• Subscription box trial (beauty, snacks, etc)
• Movie or concert ticket (if budget allows)
• Voucher for court time for their favourite sport

Quirky and Unique Gifts

Add a touch of humour or uniqueness to their stocking:

• Squashie Stress Ball: A playful stress-relief toy.
• Santa’s Pontefract Stocking Liquorice “Coal” is a cheeky stocking stuffer that’s perfect for the teen with a mischievous sense of humour.
• Magnetic Fidget Toys: My youngest is obsessed with these, and we get different ones each year. This time is is either these colourful stones or silicone magnetic balls.
• Poo slingshot: Like those little men that used to come down the walls, these poop slingshots are silly and a lot of fun.
•  Paper pups are just the perfect small gift – or if they are more into cats, there is a paper cats set. 
• Football Team Wallet or Drawstring Bag: Perfect for football fans.
• Coca-Cola in Glass Bottles: A nostalgic drink option.
• Joke sweets: Like these Fartybiotics – My boys love a laugh and have a great sense of humour.
• Takeaway Dice: Do they have an issue deciding which takeaway to have? Well, leave it to the roll of a dice.
• Putty Keyboard Cleaner: This putty is fun and practical.
• Air Duster: Perfect for cleaning their games machines and computers.
• Car Dashboard Cleaning Brush: This brush is designed for cleaning dashboards and vents.

Tech and Gaming Essentials

If your teen is into gaming or tech, these are the perfect options:

• Powerbank: A great gift for making sure their phones never run out of charge.
• Charging Cabels: stops them pinching yours and they can never have enough!
• Earbud Cleaning Kit: Prolong the life of those expensive earbuds.
• Portable Phone Stand: A compact stand for watching videos or gaming on their phone get one that charges.
• A fun and functional stocking filler, this mini Squid Game Circle Guard phone stand keeps his desk tidy while adding a cool collectable vibe he’ll love.
• LED Strip Lights: Customizable lights to decorate their room or gaming setup. Opt for the rope light (dotless type to be bang up to date).
• KontrolFreek thumbsticks. They make great stocking fillers at under £20.
• Cable Organisers: Keep charging cables tidy and accessible. I got these that are magnetic.
• Bluetooth Earbuds: Affordable wireless earbuds for music or gaming.
•  Foldable screen magnifier : A clever little gadget that enhances your phone’s display by enlarging it.
• PopSocket or Mous Magnetic Ring Grip: A functional and stylish accessory for their phone. My boys think that popsockets are for us oldies, so depending on your teens age you might want the Magnetic ring grip or a Magsafe pop socket!

Stocking fillers don’t have to be expensive or complicated. With these creative ideas, you can build a stocking that’s fun, practical, and tailored to the teenage boy in your life. Whether you go for snacks, gadgets, or quirky gifts, each item will show thoughtfulness and make their Christmas morning unforgettable.

Do you have more ideas for teenage boy stocking fillers? Share your suggestions in the comments below, and don’t forget to save this list for your holiday shopping inspiration!

Now, this Teen Boy gift guide is going to be tech-heavy but then 3/4 of boys this age play video games. This also means that gifts for this age tend to be small in size but large in cost.

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Teen boy gift guide

Consoles, games and accessories

Maxi is currently studying for his A’levels and we have one of these fabulous Mobile Pixels monitors which attach to his laptop to give him a dual display. We have The DUEX Plus portable laptop monitor with a full HD display (and a blue light filter) of 13.3”. The DUEX monitor is attached to Maxi’s laptop with powerful magnets. It is just over half a kilogram in weight and ultra-thin, making it a brilliant addition to any teens laptop. It took longer to attach the monitor than to use it (it has plug-and-play software and connects with USB-C or USB-A ports). You can also buy additional magnets so you can use it on more than one laptop. Once attached you can rotate it, so it can be on the right or left hand side and you can also use it in portrait mode or even detach it and use it as a stand-alone monitor in presentation mode.

It is totally ingenious and really brings the laptop into the modern age – allowing a dual-screen solution utilising your existing laptop. I used dual screens at home and love how this is a solution for upgrading on the go – Oh, it works on Mac too as well as Windows, Nintendo Switch and Android phones.

Gaming

I think at this age you tend to be either an Xbox or a PlayStation family. Frankly, very few can afford to have both! And 2020 brought us all new consoles from both manufacturers.

PlayStation 5 – (UK Link/US Link)

Xbox Series X – We are an Xbox family and again this year the top-spec machine is the series X which comes with 1 terabyte storage and a disk drive and is for 4k TV’s. (UK Link/US Link)

Xbox Series S – This machine is still highly powerful and a big improvement on the old Xbox one. If you are not planning to play on a 4K TV then this is the machine for you. (UK Link/US Link)

SEGA Mega Drive Mini (Electronic Games)

Fancy going old school retro, then the SEGA Mega Drive Mini (Electronic Games) is ace and works straight out of the box with 2 controllers and 42 games. (UK Link/US link)

Mini SNES

The Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System has the same look and feel of the original system only smaller and comes pre-loaded with 21 games including Donkey Kong and Mario Kart (UK Link/US Link)

Xbox Expansion Card – instantly expand the capacity of the most powerful gaming experience Xbox has ever created with the Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S/ The cheapest please we have found for Xbox expansion cards is Very.

For the teen who spends hours immersed in gaming or deep in study sessions, the Elite Gaming Chair from Boulies is a serious upgrade that blends comfort with style (this is what Maxi has). With premium build and materials, fully adjustable 4D armrests, and a sleek high-back design, this chair isn’t just “another seat” — it’s a space built for focus and downtime. What’s more, Boulies backs it with an extended 5-year warranty on the frame, giving you (and him) peace of mind that this is a gift meant to last.

Whether he’s tackling late-night raids or hunkering down for revision, this gift says you believe in his comfort, performance and the future. A meaningful and practical pick that punches above the typical teen-chair.

Games – I think it is essential to make your own decisions when it comes to games. We are OK with Maxi playing the Star Wars game even though it is a PEGI 16. But I will not be sharing 18-rated games.

NBA 2K26

Maxi saved up his pennies over the summer to buy this Basketball game, and he really loves playing it with his mates. (UK Link/US Link)

FIFA 26

This EA Sports FC 26  is a top-tier addition to any teen boy’s gaming lineup. With updated rosters, sharper graphics, and refined gameplay mechanics, it brings the excitement of football (soccer) straight to the screen. Whether he’s a seasoned gamer or just getting into sports titles, this one will give him hours of competitive fun — and maybe even some bragging rights on the virtual pitch.

Xbox Wireless Controller

Apparently, you can never have enough controllers. Both of the boys have put new ones on their Christmas lists this year. (UK Link/US Link) . However, if your child is a serious gamer then they will be after the Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2 or the SCUF Instinct Pro Custom, neither is inexpensive, but they are THE BEST.

Xbox Remote Charger

If you’re shopping for a teen gamer, this battery pack and charger for their Xbox controller is one of those absolutely useful gifts they’ll thank you for every time they switch on. No more scrambling for AA batteries mid-match — it provides long-lasting power, easy use, and means uninterrupted play. For the teen who spends hours gaming, this adds serious convenience and reduces one of their biggest little frustrations.

Keeping a phone alive all day is a must, and this MagSafe 10,000 mAh wireless power bank does just that — it magnetically attaches to the back of a phone, charges quickly, and gives peace of mind for school, outings or gaming all day. Compact but powerful, it’s the tech gift they’ll actually use.

Gaming Headset (wireless)

We have had real issues with wired headsets in the past. I have no idea what the boys’ do with them to go through so many. The best we have tried is Steel Series Arctis 3 Console Headset (UK Link/US Link). This is why both of the boys’ would kill for Steel Series Arctis 7 Wireless Headsets (UK Link/US Link). They are widely recognised as being the best in the business.

The new kid on the wired headset blog is the Razer Kraken Tournament Edition, Wired Esports Gaming and we have only heard good things. (UK link/US Link)

For the teen boy who’s always plugged in—whether it’s gaming, streaming or chatting with friends—these Sony WF-C710N wireless noise-cancelling earbuds in sleek Glass Blue are a brilliant gift. With multipoint connection, up to around 40 hours of battery life, and built-in ANC (active noise cancelling) to mute the world when he just needs to focus, they’re designed for his pace of life.  Lightweight, stylish and dependable, they say: You deserve premium sound, no wires holding you back.

This Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 Smartphone Photo Printer is a super fun gift for any teen who loves capturing moments and making them tangible. It lets you print photos straight from a phone, tweak them with filters and layouts via the app, and watch them appear in seconds. Because it’s compact and battery-powered. Ww have a similar printer and it gets a lot use.

This foldable screen magnifier is a clever little gadget that enhances your phone’s display by enlarging it—perfect for binge-watching, reading or just relaxing without squinting. It’s compact, portable and very lightweight, so a teen can easily slip it into a backpack and use it on the go. It’s one of those unexpected gifts that feels small, but actually adds comfort to everyday screen time.

This Insta360 Flow 2 Pro AI smartphone stabiliser is a seriously cool gift for a teen who loves creating video content, vlogging, or just capturing smooth, cinematic moments. It uses AI to track faces or objects, keeps footage steady even when walking or on the move, and doubles as a selfie stick and tripod — all in one sleek piece of gear. Add this to your guide as a “next-level tech gift” that’s both practical and impressive.

Let’s talk about clothing Brands

When it comes to clothes and teen boys, nothing is inexpensive, unfortunately! Brands that top my boy’s lists are CP Company, Nike (tech fleece tracksuits) Jordon clothing (Maxi), Jodon 1 mid tops, Adidas Spezial’s (mini), Stone Island Jumpers (black or Navy), 9N1M SENSE Clothing Maxi loves the hoodies and graphic T’s, Northface Coats, Champion or Nike Socks. Other acceptable brands are Lyle & Scott, Pretty Green, Weekend Offender Cortiez, Trapstar, Carhartt, Levi do great T-shirts, Essentials Fear of God, Adidas, Champion, Fred Perry and Uniglow for basic t-shirts. When it comes to PJ’s they only want bottoms or shorts and they have to be super soft with drawstrings that go all the way through.

When it comes to jeans Mini loves FCUK ones and we always check out TKMaxx for them as they are half the price. Whilst Maxi is a fan of Urban Outfitters DBG Jeans.

My boys have no issue with preloved and last season’s colours when it comes to clothes. So keep an eye out on Depop, Vimted, and StockEx for trainers. Vintage football tops are also a big hit here and Classic Football Shirts is a great place to pick some up. Just make sure you get the right club and if you are unsure then it is safer to go for an international one.

You can not go wrong with Calvin Klein Underpants, however, this year my 16-year-old wants Hugo Boss ones. Again these were from Mainline Menswear, cheaper than the chains and with fabulous delivery. I can not praise Mainline enough. All of the branded stuff the boys wanted this year is from there and for less than chains with free next-day delivery. Both of my boys prefer lightweight trunk-style underwear. Maxi really isn’t bothered about branding and his favourites are the fruit of the loom ones from the US.

Both my lads love Champion socks and I can attest to their washability. We also have Nike and Adidas Socks too.

Apparently, old school is cool again and this heritage Nike Backpack is on my 15-year-olds wish list this Christmas. My top tip for you is to avoid the big stores and look for an independent. We got this from Mainline Menswear for the same price but free next day delivery.

Whilst we are talking clothes the eldest has an Oodie. We have tried the imitations and they are not as good or as warm (don’t let anyone tell you otherwise). Maxi has a plain blue one and it is so much better made, fully lined and warmer than the imitations. Mini opted for a wearable blanket from Marks and Spencer and he loves it.

The CREP PROTECT Ultimate Oxford Bundle is a super practical gift for any teen who wears sneakers (so, that’s pretty much everyone!). It tackles the everyday battle against scuffs, stains and muddy puddles by combining a premium protector spray with cleaning tools — so their favourite kicks stay looking fresh. It’s one of those gifts that seems low-key but ends up being a hero on rainy days, school commutes, or after that unavoidable grass stain.

Last year we bought our Brand Mad Mini a Ralph Lauren Beanie which Maxi knicked to go skiing with, this year we have got Maxi a North Face one from, yes you guessed it Mainline Menswear!

This Carhartt nylon adjustable industrial belt is a gift that blends style and durability without being flashy. The tough webbing and classic Carhartt buckle make it rugged and reliable — great for everyday wear, urban outfits or layering over outerwear. It’s one of those accessories a teen boy might not think to ask for, but ends up wearing often once it’s in his wardrobe.

Sporty Gifts

I thought that teens would be too old for trampolines, but my eldest has proven me wrong. He uses ours a lot, not only for fun but for stretching and warmups/cooldowns (UK Link/US Link). We opted for an oval trampoline.

This IANONI Padel Racket is a fantastic gift for sporty teens or anyone who loves a challenge. Lightweight yet durable, it’s designed for power and control, making it ideal for beginners or casual players getting into the fast-growing sport of padel. With its sleek design and comfortable grip, it’s the kind of gift that might just spark a new hobby.

If only we had the space for this Full NBA Official Size Basketball Hoop. This is on a couple of teens I know lists (UK Link/US Link). Oh and don’t forget the basketball too (UK Link/US Link)!

You can never have enough footballs and this is the current Premier League Ball (UK Link/US Link)

With football being a winter sport here in the UK, these fleece player gloves are perfect as they allow grip on the balls for throw-ins. (UK Link/US Link)

This England Rugby Ball Light would be perfect for any Ruby fan

The 3D lamp is perfect for the Rugby or Americal Football Fan (UK Link/US Link).

What I love about these lights is you can get them for pretty much any sport (UK Link/US Link).

Ruby balls take some stick, so a new ball is always appreciated (UK Link/US Link).

Experiences

Young Driver Lesson

Anyone aged 10 and over and above 1.42 metres tall can get behind the wheel of a brand new dual control Vauxhall Corsa SRi car with a fully qualified ADI driving instructor. Lessons take place on private property which has been developed into a realistic road system complete with road signs, junctions and car parks. A Drive Diary is kept to monitor progress. More than 740,000 lessons have now been given and there are more than 65 venues to choose from across the UK. A great gift for the teen that has everything.

Indoor Sky Dive

Ever since Maxi did an Indoor Sky Dive in Florida he has been desperate to do another one. So I have got both the boys an indoor skydive experience with Buy a Gift. It is the equivalent freefall time of three 12,000ft skydivers, it’s the perfect gift for any adrenaline junkie.

• Horse riding lessons
• Martial art lessons
• Art classes – we have enrolled on Jennie Maizels online sketchbook classes as a family and love it!
• Craft classes – sewing, knitting, crocheting or even woodworking or pottery making
• Season pass – to a local venue such as forest discovery pass (we have one to Dalby Forest), National Trust, soft play, zoo, petting farm, English Heritage etc
• Subscriptions – magazines (Mini gets an annual subscription from his grandparents for a magazine and he loves it),
• cinema pass
• Circus skills lessons
• Skateboard lessons
• Surfing lessons
• Visit to Go Ape or another outdoor adventure
• Trip to a festival or music gig – Maxi has asked for tickets to Stormzy
• Photography lessons
• Powerboat trip
• A tour of a football ground
• A trip on a steam train
• A sleepover at Whipsnade Zoo

I guess food is an experience and this fab Korean variety box from Kelly Loves is perfect for adventurous teens. I have one for Maxi and I know he will love it

We have gift rules and I love the idea of having a gift of giving in the and this is an ace way. Yes, teen boys will really appreciate this pile of poo card donation which is from Oxfam and costs £12.

This Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler is so much more than just a water bottle—it’s practically a statement piece. With vacuum insulation that keeps drinks cold for up to 11 hours (or even colder when ice is added) and a clever FlowState lid that switches between straw, drinking, and full-cover modes, it’s both practical and fun.  The comfy handle, car-cup-holder-friendly base, and sleek design make it ideal for school, the gym or day trips—basically, a gift every teen will actually use (and brag about).

This Bubbleology Mixology Instant Tapioca Bubble Tea Kit is a quirky and delightful gift for any teen who loves to experiment with flavour and DIY treats. It gives them everything they need to create café-style bubble tea at home — mixing different flavours, pearls and textures — so every drink becomes a fun mini project.

This SHASHIBO Shape-Shifting Box is such a fun, tactile gift — it’s a puzzle, a fidget toy and a piece of art all in one. With its hinged magnets and clever geometry, it can morph into hundreds of shapes, making it endlessly satisfying and stress-relieving. It’s compact enough for a backpack and impressive enough to grab attention — perfect for a teen who loves tinkering or loves a challenge.

Games

The Genius Star is a brain-teaser game is ideal for a teen who enjoys a challenge — roll the dice, place the blockers and race to fill the star using eleven coloured shapes. With 165,888 possible puzzles and a “golden star” bonus mode for an extra edge, it’s a fun solo or two-player test of logic, strategy and spatial smarts.

I do love that fact that my boys and lots of their friends still enjoy playing physical games. Some of these games we love such as Exploding Kittens (UK Link/US Link) and Bears v Babies (UK Link/US Link) others are modern takes on classics such as Fortnite Monopoly (UK Link/US Link).

Other fab games include Pandemic Legacy (UK Link/US Link) – The game starts out with a deadly virus spreading across the world, perfect for teens. Relative Insanity (UK Link/US Link) is kind of like cards against humanity but perfect to play with all the family as it is about the family!

You’ve Got Crabs – this is by the same people as our beloved Exploding Kittens, so bound to be a winner (UK Link/US Link). Or how about When in Rome (UK Link/US Link) and let Alexa be your game host.

This is a strategic card game that let him build a unicorn army with a few tweaks and fun for the whole family. The instructions are deceptively simple at first glance but once you play on they really get a little more complex! (UK Link/US Link)

For the teen who’s got a sharp mind and doesn’t mind challenging himself, the IQ Jigsaw is a perfect pick. With 120 multi-level challenges, nine oddly-shaped pieces and the goal of fitting them into a neat 6×6 grid (with only one correct solution per puzzle), it’s as much logic workout as it is fun. 

Say goodbye to tired detective narratives and explore a fresh take on a much-loved genre. Who Killed Mia? is a brand new murder mystery game for the social media age, where players use a mixture of physical and digital evidence to uncover a killer.

Incoherent where you compete to make sense out of gibberish in this hilarious party game for teens and adults. Try saying ‘fur stew hurled prop plums’ out loud. Can you hear the hidden phrase? Listen closely – you’ve been saying ‘first world problems!’ Can you decode the phrases before the timer runs out?

Gadgets

What teen doesn’t love a gadget, but as a parent, I want to buy ones that they will love and use.

What teen would love the retro styling if the Polaroid OneStep+ Instant Camera plus it is easy to use. Instant gratification shall be theirs (UK Link/US Link)!

Both of my boys love a pop socket (as do I), it sits on your phone case and is great for holding it (UK Link/US Link). Both of my boys’ need an IRoller (UK Link/US Link) which cleans screens without any liquid.

Alexa LED Strip Lights 5 Metre (UK Link/US Link) Again this is on both of my boys’ Christmas lists. Apparently they are all the rage for when you are gaming. Whilst we are talking about light apparently Alexa colour changing bulbs are the bomb too (UK Link/US Link).

We have the death star version of this lamp and it is ace, but this is a real step up and you get 5 options and colour changing. perfect for any Star Wars fan in your life (UK Link/US Link)

Now that personal tech is becoming more affordable they are perfect for teens these Fitbit Inspire Health & Fitness Tracker are great. (UK Link/US Link)

Garmin Forerunner 35 GPS Running Watch with Wrist-Based Heart Rate and Workout is a great gift for the runner. It tracks how far, how fast, and where you’ve run, and when paired with a smartphone can control your music (UK Link/US Link)

When it comes to portable speakers then the wish list item for teens is the Beats Pill, especially if money is no object. They are beautiful and have 12 hours of battery life (UK Link/US Link). However, if you are looking for a more budget option that still gives great sound then the Sony Srs-XB12 is great and it what my boys’ have and use on a regular basis (UK Link/US Link).

I think Every 14-year-old boy would welcome a new pair of Beats headphones and the battery lasts about 40 hours on a single 1 hour charge (UK Link/US Link).

Or perhaps your child wants the latest Apple AirPods Pro – I know these would be on Maxi’s list especially as they come with 3 different silicone tips for the perfect fit (UK Link/US Link). The standard AirPods are still a great buy as they provide up to 24 hours of listening time and 18 hours of talk time (UK Link/US Link).

These Edifier TW1 PRO True Wireless Earbuds are well under half the price of the Apple ones and perfect for younger teens or ones that can not be trusted to lose one. They are water and sweat resistant so perfect for tweens. My Eldest has been trying them out for the gym and is really impressed with them and the sound quality too.

There is nothing worse than a teen with tech and no power! Well with this Solar Charger 25000mAh Power Bank which means can charge most phones 10 times and tablets 3.4 times (UK Link/US Link) and it recharges without needing to be plugged in!

Most teens have more smart devices than we can count so make their life easier and yours less stressful by gifting them this fab multi charger (UK Link/US Link).

This is one of our most used gadgets (UK Link/US Link). The Sodastream Crystal is brilliant and as it has glass bottles is great for reducing plastic (including the once use bottles of soda that you buy). We alays look for the different syrups when we travel abroad and got Diablo in France.

We have a hot sauce fan in the house and he would love this Modern Gourmet Foods, Original Stormtrooper Food Truck Hot Stuff Chilli Sauce Gift Set (UK Link/US Link)

The more time they spend gaming in their rooms the more they ask for a mini fridge! (UK Link/US Link)

60 inch round pizza blanket – My boys thought this was hilarious! (UK Link/US Link)

For the LEGO Lovers

This LEGO Minifigure Rainbow 1000‑Piece Puzzle is a fun twist on jigsaws that’s especially great for teen boys who like a little challenge—and the LEGO aesthetic. The vibrant rainbow colours plus the LEGO minifigure motif make it more interesting than your usual landscape or portrait puzzle, and the 1,000 pieces give it enough heft to keep someone occupied for a good while. It’s perfect for rainy weekends, downtime, or when they want something screen-free that’s still satisfying and decorative once completed.

If he’s into Star Wars, this LEGO Droideka 75381 set is seriously cool — a perfect blend of display piece and model kit. It comes together in satisfying layers and reveals the iconic, battle-ready Droideka (aka “Destroyer Droid”) in all its snapping-leg glory. Once built, it makes an impressive shelf piece — plus it’s nerdy in just the right way to show you “get” his fandom.

Top of Maxi’s Christmas LEGO list is this LEGO 75357 Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II Set Featuring 2 Brick-Built Ahsoka Vehicles. Not surprising as he loved the Ahsoka series on Dismey+.

LEGO Starward Millenium Falcon (UK Link/US Link). With 1,351 pieces, this cool LEGO building toy packs so much detail into its over 5 Inch (14 cm) high, 17 Inch (44 cm) long and 12 inch (32 cm) wide form. However, if money is no object then you could buy the collectors edition (UK Link/US Link) if you can find it!

Whilst we are talking about Starwars LEGO then what teen wouldn’t love this LEGO Star Wars BB-8 75187 (UK Link/US Link), it even comes with its own stand.

But if you really want to make your teen happy then grab this Star Wars Yoda Construction Set. Trust me until Baby Yoda merch comes out this will be loved (UK Link/US Link).

Perhaps your teen is more into Harry Potter, if so then take a look at 71043 Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle Building Kit (UK Link/US Link) which comes complete with a host of Harry Potter characters including 4 Harry Potter figures, 27 micro figures, the Chamber Of Secrets, the Whomping Willow and more from the wizarding world.

How cool is the LEGO 75957 Harry Potter Knight Bus (UK Link/US Link) which comes with hinged opening side panel, removable roof and a movable sliding bed and swinging chandelier and also Includes the cheeky shrunken head and Harry Potter’s chest containing a wand, letter, chocolate bar and a potion bottle.

This LEGO Technic Ferrari SF-24 is a dream for any motorsport or LEGO fan — it combines the sleek design of a Formula 1 car with the satisfyingly technical build of a LEGO Technic set. With working steering, realistic bodywork, and detailed engine elements, it’s both a display piece and a fun challenge to assemble. Once built, it looks amazing on a shelf — and the build process itself is part of the gift.

If the big Technic set is a bit too pricey, this LEGO Speed Champions Ferrari SF-24 is a great compromise — it’s compact, fun to build, and still gives you that F1 flair. It makes a brilliant shelf pop and shows off fandom without needing a full race garage budget.

Perhaps your teen is a petrol head or an engineer, then this LEGO 42110 Technic Land Rover Defender Off Road 4×4 would be the gift for them (UK Link/US Link) which has a 4-speed sequential gearbox, All Wheel Drive with 3 differentials, independent suspension and detailed 6-cylinder engine and a transmission system with 2 levers for engaging high or low gear ratios and a selector for changing gear.

Maxi is a massive fan of the LEGO helmets and started collecting them a few years ago:

No products found.

Personal Care

Nautica Voyage (UK Link/US Link).

Versace Eros for Men

Armani Acqua Di Gio Homme

And if you are feeling flush Christian Dior CD Sauvage Men

When it comes to a cleanser both my boys use La Roche Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel and we buy the Big bottle!

If you are looking for a simple and inexpensive moisturiser then you can not go wrong with The Altruist. Their Moisturising Fluid which at £6 is amazing value. I have also been using their Anti-Redness SPF 50 and I rave about it!

Maxi loves Liz Earle Gel Cream which is good value at Look Fantastic and a great day cream with a gel consistency.

My Clarins is the teenage range of Clarins and this My Clarins Re-Charge Sleep Mask is a night cream that you only use a couple of times a week and it gives soft skin without being too rich and exacerbating any acne.

West Barn Co Hydro Dots and Hydro-Patches are both made with hydrocolloid and 1% salicylic acid to clear out those oily pores and stop spots in their nefarious tracks. Maxi loves these and I stock up in the sales.

When it comes to SPF for the face Maxi’s first choice will always be Fenty but it is expensive, however, they do offer a refill. If I am not feeling flush then it is La Roche-Posay Anthelios at half the price!

Another low-cost part of the boys’ skincare routine is toner and I swear by Aldi Lacura Healthy Glow Glycolic Toner at £2.99.

2 out of 3 men in this house have a Braun Series 3 ProSkin Electric Shaver – It is a great initial electric shaver that can be used wet or dry and has a trimmer too.

The other really taytes his Philips OneBlade – not only for his face but also for manscaping. The blade are expensive but last a good 12 months. 3

We rate Heath Save Cream which is a naturally-derived shaving cream enriched with soothing properties for a smoother shave. It is great value and I use it too.

One of the best gifts we got Mini last year was a subscrption to Harry’s – we got the razor with his initials on and then a subscription for blades and shaving foam.

Do you have a child that likes to dye their hair if so, these Fudge Professional products will be a big hit. I had only had them in the house 20 minutes before Maxi took them off my hands and started using them.

This Boostology Wellness Gift Hamper Him is a thoughtful blend of self-care and sophistication tailored for teen boys (or young men) who might appreciate a little pampering without it feeling too “girly.” Packed with curated goodies like natural skincare, grooming essentials and wellness treats, it’s ideal for introducing him to basic rituals of looking after himself.

The boys got my husband a tie clip for Christmas and My youngest kept stealing it when he was wearing his suit (his prom, special events etc), so much so that we got him one exactly the same in sterling silver and arranged to have it engraved.

All our 18 year old wanted for his birthday was a vintage Cassio watch!

So there you have some fab ideas for gifts for teen boys, so now we move on to the stocking fillers section of the Teen boy gift guide……..

Cheaper Gifts and Stocking Fillers

We have added a selection below, but you can find our massive stocking filler list here.

These paper pups are just the perfect small gift – or if they are more into cats, there is a paper cats set. They would also make a great Secret Santa gift, too at under £10.

This Santa’s Pontefract Stocking Liquorice “Coal” is a cheeky stocking stuffer that’s perfect for the teen with a mischievous sense of humour. It looks like classic “naughty coal” at first glance, but is actually a delicious black liquorice treat — fun, edible, and sure to spark a grin (or a groan) when they spot it in their stocking.

I bought Mini a case with card holder for his birthday this year and he LOVES it. It is perfect for him to carry his card and bus pass without carrying a wallet or bag (UK Link/US Link).

I have a child that HATES paper straws and swears metal ones make his pop taste “funny” so I have invested in these glass straws from VASO this year.

Both of my boys have KontrolFreek thumbsticks. They make great stocking fillers at under £20.

These Toast’em Pop-Ups are a fun treat that make a brilliant stocking filler for teen boys. Easy to toast and even easier to eat, they’re a sweet nod to classic American breakfasts — perfect for late-night gaming snacks or lazy weekend mornings.

These Cruncheez baked snacks are crunchy and gluten-free — flavourful and perfect for movie nights, gaming sessions, or just a cheeky treat in their stocking.

This A&W Root Beer is a fun, nostalgic drink that makes a great quirky gift — smooth vanilla-rich flavour in a classic American soda-pop style, perfect for teen boys who appreciate something a little different. 

I also have these fab Rainbow Metal Straws for their Stockings. They are bright and colourful and perfect for my youngest.

3 pairs of Star Wars Socks (UK Link/US Link).

Both of the boys have Speck Airpod cases in their stocking this year. (UK LInk/US Link)

Marvel Thor Cape Cotton Sock (UK Link/US Link).

Dog Mini Bluetooth Animal Wireles Speaker (UK Link/US Link).

Nike Basic Wallet Purse (UK Link/US Link).

Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lip Balm (UK Link/US Link).

Ethique Eco-Friendly Solid Shampoo Bar (UK Link/US Link).

Calvin Klein ck one Eau de Toilette (UK Link/US Link).

Telescopic Reusable Straws (UK Link/US Link)

24k Carat Gold Plated Game Poker Gift Deck (UK Link/US Link)

Japanese sweets (UK Link/US Link)

American Candy

AirPod EarHooks (UK Link/US Link)

Build-On Brick Mug (UK Link/US Link)

Sizzling Bacon Candy

Nose Pencil Sharpener (UK Link/US Link)

Poop Slingers

Toothpaste toppers

Poop toothpaste topper

Traditional Pencil Sharpener (UK Link/US Link)

Game of Phones: A Battle of Smartphone Skills (UK Link/US Link)

Our Other 2020 Gift Guides Include:

• Gifts people working from Home will really love
• Great Kids books for Advent and Christmas
• A Candle Lovers Gift Guide
• Ultimate Teen Girl Gift Guide
• Fabulous Ethical and Plastic Free Gifts for Teens
• Great Gifts I would Want to Receive
• Perfect Gifts for Grandparents

1. Personalised Photo Cushion

Turn a treasured photo into a cosy cushion for the sofa or bedroom. Whether it’s a picture of the kids, a family pet, or a scenic holiday snap, this gift combines comfort with a personal touch.

2. Photo Memory Book

Create a photo book filled with cherished family moments. Add captions, dates, and little anecdotes to bring the memories to life. A photo book can document a family holiday, a child’s first year, or even a compilation of favourite moments from the past year.

3. Customised Family Calendar

A personalised calendar is both practical and sentimental. Use a different photo for each month, showcasing milestones, holidays, or favourite family moments. It’s a lovely way for mums to enjoy family memories all year round.

4. 3D Photo Crystal 

For a sophisticated and eye-catching gift, consider 3D crystal photo gifts. These unique keepsakes use laser engraving to create a three-dimensional version of a cherished photo inside a high-quality crystal. It could be a family portrait, a picture of a little one, or even a pet. Paired with an LED light base, the crystal becomes a mesmerising display piece. It’s a thoughtful way to preserve a special memory in a stunning format.

5. Photo Magnets

Photo magnets are perfect for keeping precious memories on display. They’re great for fridges or magnetic boards, showcasing your favourite moments in a fun and practical way. You could create a set of magnets featuring family holidays, the kids’ milestones, or everyday snapshots.

6. Photo Blanket

Give the gift of warmth and nostalgia with a personalised photo blanket. Printed with a large family photo or a collage of favourite pictures, it’s a lovely keepsake that’s also incredibly practical for snuggling up on chilly evenings.

7. Custom Phone Case

Help mum carry her favourite photo everywhere with a custom phone case. Choose a picture of the children, a pet, or a meaningful family moment. It’s a practical gift that also adds a personal touch to her daily life.

8. Photo Puzzle

Turn a cherished memory into a fun family activity by creating a personalised photo puzzle. Whether it’s a family portrait or a scenic view from a memorable trip, piecing it together will be an enjoyable way to relive the moment.

9. Framed Canvas Print

A high-quality canvas print of a favourite photo can transform any room. Whether it’s a family portrait, a candid moment, or a scenic shot, a framed canvas adds a touch of elegance to home décor.

10. Customised Photo Keyring

A photo keyring is a small but meaningful gift that keeps a treasured memory close at hand. Perfect for mums who are always on the go, this gift lets her carry a favourite family photo wherever she goes.

11. Photo Christmas Ornaments

Celebrate the holiday season with personalised photo ornaments. Choose pictures of the kids, a family gathering, or even a beloved pet to create festive decorations that can be treasured year after year.

12. Photo Coasters

Create a set of personalised coasters featuring your favourite family photos. These practical and decorative gifts are perfect for entertaining or adding a touch of family love to the coffee table.

These creative photo gift ideas are perfect for mums and families, offering ways to preserve and celebrate cherished memories in meaningful and beautiful formats. Each idea is sure to bring smiles and joy to loved ones.

Simple Homemade Gift Ideas for Every Occasion

1. Pampering Bath Products

Give the gift of relaxation with these luxurious bath products, perfect for anyone who enjoys a little self-care.

• DIY Bath Oil That Foams: This bath oil not only moisturizes but adds a lovely foam to the bath for a spa-like experience. Learn how to make it here.
• DIY Bath Melts That Foam: These bath melts create a foamy, moisturizing bath, making them a wonderful gift for anyone in need of some pampering. Find the recipe here.
• DIY Salt Scrub: This exfoliating and moisturizing salt scrub is a perfect gift to refresh the skin. Check out the step-by-step guide here.
• Melt and Pour Soap: Create your own custom soap bars with this Beginner’s Guide to Melt and Pour Soap. You can even make fun Star Wars-themed versions! Get the guide here and the Star Wars version here.
• DIY Vanilla Peppermint Lip Scrub: This scrub is perfect for keeping lips soft and smooth. The combination of vanilla and peppermint makes it a treat for the senses. Learn how to make it here.
• Still want more then we have over 20 homemade bath salts and soaks which make the ideal gift.

2. Jewelry and Accessories

Handmade jewellery and accessories can be customized to match the recipient’s style, making them extra special.

• Button Bracelets: These fun and colorful button bracelets are a great DIY project for crafters of all ages. Find the instructions here.
• DIY Braided Headband (Alice Band): This braided headband adds a stylish touch to any outfit. Check out the easy tutorial here.
• DIY Knot Headband (Alice Band): Another chic accessory, the knot headband is a quick and easy DIY project. Make your own with this guide here.
• Terrazzo Earrings: Made with Leftover Polymer Clay these Terrazzo Earrings are a fashionable and eco-friendly gift. Get the instructions here.
• DIY Cord Tacos (Cord Organizers): Help your friends and family get organized with these cute DIY Cord Tacos. These leather cord organizers keep earbuds and charging cables tangle-free, making them a useful and thoughtful gift.
• Leather-Wrapped Hip Flask: This a sophisticated yet simple DIY project that makes a great gift for any occasion. Learn how to make it here.

3. Creative Home Décor

Handmade home décor items make heartfelt gifts that add warmth and personality to any space.

• DIY Painted Terracotta Plant Pots with Herb Puns: These quirky, painted pots are perfect for plant lovers and gardeners. Find out how to make them here.
• DIY Applique Monstera Leaf Cushions: Using a Cricut Maker, you can create trendy Monstera leaf cushions that brighten up any living space. Get the tutorial here.
• DIY Terrazzo Polymer Clay Ring Dish: This trendy terrazzo dish is perfect for keeping rings and small trinkets organized. Learn how to make one here.
• Nail Varnish Marbles Coasters: What a great way to use up old nail varnish and make amazing coasters. See how we made them here.
• Hanging Teacup Bird Feeder: Such a lovely gift for bird lovers or gardeners. It’s a whimsical and charming addition to any outdoor space. See how to make it here.
• Candle Making for Beginners: Candles are always a lovely gift, and making your own adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness. Follow this beginner’s guide here.
• Tea Cup Candles: These vintage-inspired tea cup candles are beautiful gifts that add charm to any room. Learn how to make them here.

4. DIY Décor and Keepsakes

These DIY projects are perfect for gifting sentimental and creative keepsakes.

• Photo Jar Luminaries: Create warm, glowing luminaries using personal photos. These make wonderful, thoughtful gifts. Learn how to craft them here.
• Tissue Confetti DIY Decorated Photo Frame: A fun and colorful way to display memories. Make your own photo frame here.
• Picture Tile Coasters: These customized photo coasters are a great way to preserve memories while creating a useful gift. Find out how to make them here.
• Etched Wooden Heart Keyrings: Such a simple and personalized gift that you can easily make for loved ones. Check out the tutorial here.
• DIY Daffodil Clay Pots: These are perfect for flower lovers, whether used as planters or candle holders. They add a bright and cheerful touch to any home. Get the instructions here.

5. Fun and Functional DIYs

Practical and fun, these gifts are as useful as they are creative.

• Capri Sun Pencil Case: Repurpose Capri Sun pouches into a unique and eco-friendly pencil case. Learn how to make one here. It only requires very basic sewing skills.
• Folk Flower Mason Jar Luminaries: These glowing mason jar luminaries are perfect for creating a cozy, festive atmosphere. Check out the guide here.
• Walkers Mighty Lights Good Turned Keyrings: These upcycled keyrings make a quirky and fun gift. Learn how to make them here.
• DIY Vintage Map Tray: For the traveller in your life. Create using maps of their favorite destinations. It’s both practical and sentimental. See how to make it here.
• Magnetic Pin Bowl: For the craft lovers or sewers in your life, this Magnetic Pin Bowl is a super useful gift idea. It’s both functional and easy to make. Find the tutorial here.

6. Holiday-Themed Gifts

Celebrate the holidays with these festive DIY projects that make perfect seasonal gifts.

• Ferm Living Inspired DIY Advent Candle: A beautiful way to count down to Christmas, this advent candle is easy to make and delightful to give. Find the tutorial here.
• Turn Any Glass Candle into an Advent Candle: With a few simple steps, you can turn an ordinary glass candle into a festive advent countdown. Learn how here.
• Christmas Lights Plate: Celebrate the beauty of the season with this simple and washable Christmas string lights plate. Find the tutorial here.
• Robin Thumbprint Mugs: Create personalized gifts with these adorable Robin Thumbprint Mugs. They’re a great DIY gift idea for the holidays or any special occasion. Learn how to make them here.
• Christmas Bags: These adorable fabric bags are printed with stars and snowflakes – a super simple craft by kids for their loved ones. Learn how here.
• Reindeer Thumbprint Mugs: Dishwasher safe and super simple to make. Your kids will love making these. Learn how to make them here.

From simple personal care items to beautiful home décor and holiday-themed gifts, these DIY ideas are sure to bring joy to both the maker and the receiver. Happy crafting!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out these additional DIY projects:

• DIY Coasters Using Cricut Infusible Ink
• DIY Customised Umbrella Using Iron-on Vinyl
• DIY Butterfly and Flower Fingerprint Mugs
• Fabric Patchwork Plant Pots
• Heart-Shaped Sugar Cubes
• Pocket Money Photo Frame for Father’s Day
• An Apple for the Teacher – Print Your Own Fabric Bags
• Over 50 Last-Minute Homemade Edible Gifts for Christmas.
• Over 50 Last-minute homemade gifts for Christmas

I am a firm believer that handmade gifts show just how much you love someone and would much prefer a handmade gift.

Meet Banjo Robinson, the globe-trotting cat that will send a letter and activity pack to the child each month from a different location around the world.

An annual subscription is £2, or $2.5 per month.

Banjo Robinson – The Global Explorer

Snail mail is so underrated and one of my favourite things as a child was having a pen pal and Banjo Robinson captures that excitement and builds on it not only with a personalised letter but also with an age-appropriate activity pack from a new country.

What is included in Each Month’s Subscription?

• A travelogue from Banjo
• Creative activities
• A country guide
• A reply page
• A reply envelope
• A colouring-in page
• Stickers
• A local recipe
• A local map

How does it work?

The first letter and starter pack your child receives will be sent from the Ocean as Bango Robinson travels to a new destination each month, for example, his January letter is from China, February is Canada, India is March, and Finland is April (but don’t worry it doesn’t repeat each year – Banjo has a lot of countries to travel to)!

Your starter pack and letter from the Ocean comes with a fabulous world map poster so your child can pop it on their wall and chart Bango’s monthly journey with the stickers that are included each month. It also comes with a colouring-in page, menu card, guide to the ocean and a blank letter and envelope for your child to write back to Bango (not to be posted, but for you to keep).

But that isn’t all. There are more activities online should you wish to extend the learning and free printables too.

Learn more about Banjo Robinson

Benefits for Your Child

• Makes writing fun – 9 out of 10 children write back to Bango each month and as a parent, you can expand on this as much as you wish.
• Boosts geography, literacy and maths skills by learning through play. Your child will be learning without even knowing by cooking a simple recipe, learning map skills and also simple crafts.
• Develop a love for offline learning with the monthly paper mail and stickers.
• There are additional online activities so you can expand on any interest your child shows.
• This would be excellent for any homeschooling family as it is a cost-effective and fun way of exploring the world.

For less than the cost of a monthly child magazine, they receive a letter every month. Banjo Robinson really is the gift that keeps on giving.

How much does it cost?

An annual subscription is £2 or $2.5 per month – Yes really! For this, you get the starter pack and a monthly letter/Activity pack.

However, if you want to give a physical gift AND a code for the starter pack there are additional options.

• For £16.99 you get a Banjo Robinson cuddly toy, complete with his signature backpack and star. Yes, his backpack opens so he can store his special treasures in it.
• £14.99 Gets you the Banjo Robinson book filled with his engaging back story.
• Or you can get both for £25.99 in their Banjo bundle!

I have two great nieces that are 5 years old and guess what they will be receiving from Aunty Jen this Christmas?!

Win a Banjo Robinson Subscription for a Year

I am delighted to be able to offer 4 of you a free year subscription (1 starter pack and 11 subsequent months letters) to Banjo Robinson. I really think that this is a fabulous gift that kids aged 5 to 9 will adore.

There really is a beauty calendar for all out there and here I am going to share some of the top beauty advent calendars.

Our Choice of Beauty Advent Calendars

Cohorted 12 Wishes Beauty Advent Calendar

I received a PR sample of the 2020 Cohorted 12 Wishes Beauty Advent Calendar and it was amazing. So much so that I actually repurchased some of the products. This years calendar is retailing for £98 but has a ml value of over £460, you can expect products from the likes of Sunday Riley, Laura Mercier, Irene Forte, Illamasqua and more. You can currently get 20% off using the code ADVENT20.

This really is the grown up version of a beauty advent calendar and filled with products you will use.

The Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

The Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar is known as the previous calendar for a reason. Not only is it packed with premium products worth £844 for a retail cost of £225 housed in a beautiful reusable box, you get a Liberty Starburst Print Small Wash Bag too.

Liberty The Men’s Advent Calendar 2021

Being the mum of to teen boys I love that Liberty have a mens beauty advent calendar. Not quite as good value as the womans, but it is packed with men’s grooming must-haves and Liberty treats worth £623 for the cost of £215. The calendar is Housed in a recyclable box adorned in Liberty Hendrix print and a Liberty Pocket Square in the same print.

Look Fantastic Advent Calendar

The Look Fantastic Advent Calendar has sold out for 6 years in a row and that is due to its great value and it has an amazing worth value of over £414, you can get your hands on the LOOKFANTASTIC Advent Calendar today for just £85! That’s a HUGE saving of £329! Here’s 5 of the products inside…

• ESPA Active Nutrient Clean & Green Detox Night Mask – Worth £40
• Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate – Worth £23
• Aveda Botanical Repair Treatment – Worth £9
• NARS Blush (Shade Orgasm) – Worth £6.25
• Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturising Cleanser – Worth £8

DECLÉOR Advent Calendar

Step inside the Decléor laboratory with this year’s Christmas Advent Calendar. Treat yourself or a loved one to the 24 luxurious products hiding behind each door for £120 with a value in excess of £417. Plus there is currently a deal on where if you spend £85 you get a free DECLÉOR Anti-Ageing on the go Generic SetWorth £52.10.

Mankind Beauty Advent Calendar

£100 get you the Mankind advent calendar which has a value of £444, that’s an incredible saving of £344! It has 25 essential grooming and male-beauty products including

• Molton Brown Orange and Bergamot Body Wash 100ml – Worth £7
• Gentlemen’s Tonic Immune Defence & Energy Supplements – Worth £24
• Dr Brandt MicroDermabrasion Age-Defying Exfoliator 60g – Worth £57
• Grüum Gösta Rejuvenating Facial Tonic 50ml – Worth £7
• Daimon Barber Texture Clay 50g – Worth £9.95
• American Crew Fiber 50g – Worth £10.20

Elemis No.25 Beauty Advent Calendar

I am a massive Elemis Fan and this calendar is a brilliant way of trying some of their products and for £175 you get £402 worth of their amazing products. I really appreciate that they have used 3 stacking tins that you can continue to use.

L’Occitane Reusable Advent Calendar

What I love most about this L’Occitane Beauty advent Calendar is the fact that it is reusable and it is beautiful too. You get £236 worth of Product for £160.

RITUALS The Ritual of Advent 2D 2021

Begin the countdown to Christmas in luxury, with the Rituals The Ritual of Advent Calendar 2021. This beauty advent calendar is brimming with mini treats, featuring 24 Rituals surprises to see you all the way to Christmas Eve. for £59.50 with a value of £120.00.

Amazon Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

Try new products and brands across skin care, hair care and make-up. Total value of almost £260 for only £70 with the Amazon Beauty Advent Calendar 2021.

NIVEA MEN Advent Giftset, Advent Calendar 2021

The NIVEA MEN Advent Giftset, Advent Calendar 2021 is packed with 24 products: Each day brings a new gift. The advent calendar 2021 includes all the toiletries you need to keep you looking your best over the festive period for under £55.

ARRAN Advent Calendar 2021

Countdown through the festive season with a gorgeous product every day of December from ARRAN Sense of Scotland’s most popular ranges.  

Retailing at £65 and with contents worth over £140, this gorgeous calendar is inspired by the fresh, clear, expansive greenery and snow-capped forests found on the Isle of Arran.  

Sample the brand’s premium shampoos, soaps, body lotions, shower gels, candles and an Eau de Parfum in the signature scent After the Rain – a light, refreshing fragrance featuring notes of sandalwood, rose and lime, which aims to embody the invigoration felt after a rain shower.  

Cath Kidston Advent Calendar

Brightens the pre-Christmas season with 24 beauty treats packed with ingredients like shea butter and essential oils and infused with an assortment of enticing Cath Kidston fragrances.

Technic Beauty Advent Calendar 2021

A fabulous affordable calendar perfect for the teenager. The Technic Beauty Advent Calendar 2021 contains a range of 24 makeup and beauty goods – All you need to get your seasonal ‘Glow on’! Inside the doors, there is an assortment of different cosmetic essentials such as Eyeshadows, Mascara, Nail Varnishes, Lipsticks & Glosses, Beauty Blenders and a lot more!

Now my best working from home is something that you can not give for Christmas, but something that brings me joy and companionship every single day. Alvin our pooch is such great company and really would be the ultimate gifts for working from Home.

Disclosure: AD| If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I will make a small commission (hopefully enough to keep me in tea all year) – at no extra cost to you! This allows me to keep creating and sharing free tutorials and content for you. Thank you! I only recommend things that I totally believe in and I have not been paid to promote these items! 

Gifts people working from Home will really love

The best gift that I was given last Christmas was a set of Bose Noise Cancelling headphones (UK Link/US Link). I never thought I would get so much use out of them, but they have been invaluable this year. I have been able to block out the constant noise from the husbeasts calls and they even blocked out the children when they were home-educating. They have been perfect for zoom calls too. whilst `I love my Bose, the teens both have Sony over-ear headphones that they really rate. We feel that they are comfier than in-ear ones when you need to wear them more often for calls plus the sound quality is great for music-loving teens so they double up and are pretty much in constant use.

When you are working at home it is important to be warm, however, if you are anything like me then you won’t want to put the heating on for just one person. The Stoov Big Hug has revolutionised my chair. It is now like the best-heated car seat you could ever imagine and it looks fabulous too. This amazing heated seat pad provides me with multizoned heating via infrared technology keeping both my back and bottom warm. It is powered by a rechargeable battery and has three heat settings keeping me warm and cosy all day.

This has been such a hit that Maxi has one on his wish list for his home office space and when I am not around and he is working from home he takes mine which is the woolly white XL version which is very much like the sheepskin I used to use. However, as it is cordless you can take it anywhere – don;t have heated seats in your car, then this would be perfect for that or for an elderly relative that really feels the cold.

I am rather short and love the idea of a foot hammock. When I worked in an office I was in charge of workstation assessments and know how important good posture is and lifting your feet can really help and this is a fun inexpensive gift (UK Link/US Link).

During winter I refuse to put the heating on just for me during the day and therefore, would love someone to buy me one of these heated throws so I can wrap myself up like a burrito! (UK Link/US Link)

Now if you are looking to blow the budget, I am going to let you into a secret. The best gift you could buy is a brilliant desk chair. I have a second-hand Aeron from Herman Miller and it is over 25 years old now (I have had it at home for the last 16 years) and you can not put a price on looking after your back and sitting comfortably. There is a reason why the Aeron is one of the world’s most popular and long-lasting iconic office chairs.

This door sign has become invaluable since Maxi started working from home. A lot of his work is via video link. It is an inexpensive solution that works.

BothMaxi and I wear blue light glasses if we are working at our screens all day. They are inexpensive but seem to reduce headaches and help with sleep.

Now this isn’t my cup of tea, but I know a lot of people need their coffee (Well the husband does)! So having a great coffee machine at home is a must. it will help make up for all the takeaway coffees you will save on not being at work. I have iot on good advice that if you are looking for a great bean to cup machine then the way to go is a Sage machine – The Barista Express is an investment machine that makes amazing coffee (UK Link/US Link.

However, if you are looking for a more reasonable price coffee machine you could do much worse than a Tassimo. We are on our second machine and the husband swears by it. This is the exact machine that we have and you can change the strength, temperature and size of your drink (UK Link/US Link).

Now, this is more of my wheelhouse as a Tea Monster. I would love a tea subscription from Bird and Blend.

Another work from home essential is warm feet and I achieve this with fabulous sheepskin slippers and these from Lotta from Stockholm are great value.

When it comes to men’s sheepskin slippers they are often multi fit ie small, medium and large, however, these men’s shearling-lined suede slippers from Fitflop come in specific sizes perfect for Maxi (18) who is an EU 43 or a UK 9. These were supposed to be for his Dad but he claimed them as soon as they arrived (I have ordered another pair for the husbeast for Christmas). When Maxi is not wearing these slippers he is in his classic crocs!

These Alpaca House socks area cosy luxury, perfect for padding about the house, curling up on the sofa, keeping warm by the fire or when at your desk. 

Something I use daily over the autumn and winter at home is my SAD lamp. It is 1000 lumins and I use it for 30 minutes each day to keep the seasonal depression at bay. I have a small portable one that I can use in different rooms.

I am also a huge fan of an eco scented candles and the amber glass apothecary jar candles create a beautiful warm glow when burning. I love this Basil and Lime scented one and it is a permanent feature on my desk.

A beautiful desk calendar is the perfect desk companion and I love this Rifle Paper Company one from Papermash. There is something new to see each time you look.

This Tablet Desk Calendar is more understated and minimal. It is made up of movable date tablets, allowing this to last forever. This is from Present & Correct, if you love stationery then you will find yourself lost in this web site.

One of the things that helped get me through the first lockdown and working from home was greenery. Yep, plants. Bringing the outside in is a brilliant way to improve any work from home environment. I am big fan of string of heart plants. I have two and they have thrived this year – super easy to look after and inexpensive. This one from Hey Ho & Co is £9.

It can get pretty dark during winter when you are working from home in the UK. I have task lighting, but nothing beats the warming glow of candles and these beautiful candle holders from Lillian Daph are stunning.

Music is also essential for me for working from home. We have Amazon Prime Music at home and love it – You can get a free 3 month trial subscription. An Amazon Show (UK Link/US Link) is great for this and also for linking your ring doorbell too, so you don’t have to keep interrupting work to get up (UK Link/US Link) .

You can also watch Amazon Prime Video on your Show too (sign up for a free 30-day trial) – I am not going to lie, I tend to sit with something playing in the background during the day as it is easy to listen to that than the husbeasts calls. I even subscribed for the seven day trial of the Hallmark channel after reading Whos the Mummy’s best festive movies to watch.

This is a handy little gadget if you want to look better on zoom calls over the winter season. A vlogging light with a clip for your camera too and for under £20 a great gift.

Working from home doesn’t mean that you can not have beautiful stationery and I am a real stationery fan and LOVE my Cross Pen a lot. I have had this since the beginning of the year and use it every day. Not only does it write beautifully it has a really lovely weight to it and I will use it every day for years and years.

Just because you work from home doesn’t mean that you can not do a Secret Santa and this £5 gift of Seeds from Oxfam unwrapped would be my choice.

Make sure you check out our other gift guides:

• Tween Boys Gift Guide
• Ultimate Teen Boy Gift Guide
• Ethical teen gift Guide
• Top Gifts for Teen Girl
• A Candle Lovers Gift Guide
• Gifts people working from Home will really love
• Perfect Gifts for Grandparents
• Great Kids books for Advent and Christmas

Also if you think we have missed anything from our working from home gift guide then do leave us a comment.