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With Valentines Day about 4 weeks away I decided that I would devote the next couple weeks on crafts that reflect the holiday. What says “I love you” more than a hand crafted treat for your loved one.

Fist we will start with the glass mason jar. This is a fun way to make a unique gift with that special person in mind. I filled mine with candy because that is what we had around the house but don’t be afraid to personalize this the way you want to. For example, if they like crafts you can put beads, ribbon, or buttons in it. Be creative!

Valentine’s Day is known for its messages of love so with that in mind this craft has an extra special way to display those words of admiration. They will be surprised more each time they get into the gift a little further. If they don’t get to the bottom layer for a week or so then just imagine their surprise to see your words of love even after Valentine’s Day. Be careful not to put greasy items or candy that will melt because your message will be ruined.

See this example.

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Take the lid and draw at least 3 circles for your jar and cut them out. Use one on the actual lid to display to and from on it. Then on the next two write special messages to the person that will be receiving the gift. Use these to separate the layers, in my case it separates the different candies I put inside.

Now to decorate the outside. I used an old banner that I had from my daughter’s 16th birthday party to cut out hearts for the front of the jar. An added bonus is that the banner itself is still usable…especially for a Valentine’s Day party. You took away and added at the same time – its a win all the way around!

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Hot glue the heart onto the front of the jar, add a bow out of string and then finish it off with a button. You have your first gift!

Another favorite item of the Valentine’s Day holiday is candles. My kids love candles in their rooms (keep in mind they are 14 and 17) but I still check each night to make sure they are not still burning. With this next craft it is as simple as getting a glass votive candle whatever size you desire and hot glue some red ribbon on it, add your heart and button and you have your second gift.

Lastly if you are going to spend money on something store bought like a piece of jewelry you can still make it special with a hand made bag to put it in.

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First you will start by picking out your material. I chose two different patterns that compliment each other but you can use all the same material if you prefer. Cut two pieces of fabric equal in size (this will vary depending on what gift you have in mind) and lay them inside out. If you want a decoration on the bag now is the time to add that. Hand sew it on the piece of material that you want to be the front of the bag. Once you have that just as you want it turn both pieces of material patterned side down facing each other. Then stack two pieces of ribbon in between the layers of material. The ribbon should be about an inch from the top of the material. You are now ready to sew.

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You will sew 3 sides of the bag, make sure you leave the top open to put the gift into.

I hope you enjoy these crafts and that it inspires you to spend the next 4 weeks thinking of something personal for that special someone. You don’t have to spend a lot to send a simple “I love you.”

Happy Crafting!