Housewarming Gifts You Can Make for Under $10

By Kelly · Updated 2026-10-17

Moving into a new home often leaves the owners with a long list of expenses and empty cupboards. A handmade housewarming gift provides a thoughtful touch that store-bought items often lack, especially when focusing on utility and comfort. These three projects use affordable materials to create high-end results for under $10 each.

Potted Kitchen Herb Starter

Adult · 15 min · about $7

• 4-inch terracotta pot
• 1 packet of organic basil or parsley seeds
• 2 cups organic potting soil
• 65 lb white cardstock
• 12-inch jute twine
• Black permanent marker

1. Wipe the terracotta pot with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
2. Fill the pot with organic potting soil, leaving about half an inch of space at the top.
3. Cut a small rectangle from the 65 lb white cardstock to serve as a care tag.
4. Use the permanent marker to write the name of the herb on one side and basic watering instructions on the back.
5. Punch a hole in the corner of the tag and thread the jute twine through it.
6. Tie the twine securely around the rim of the pot, tucking the seed packet into the soil for the recipient to plant.

Food-Safe Wood Conditioner

Adult · 30 min · about $5 per jar

• 4 oz glass mason jar with lid
• 1 cup food-grade mineral oil
• 1 oz beeswax pellets
• Small stainless steel saucepan
• Wooden stir stick

1. Place the stainless steel saucepan on the stove over low heat.
2. Pour 1 cup of food-grade mineral oil into the pan and add 1 oz of beeswax pellets.
3. Stir constantly with a wooden stick until the beeswax has completely melted into the oil.
4. Remove the pan from the heat immediately to avoid overheating the oil.
5. Carefully pour the liquid mixture into the 4 oz glass mason jar.
6. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for 2 hours until it solidifies into a creamy paste before capping with the lid.

Minimalist Eucalyptus Hoop Wreath

Adult · 20 min · about $9

• 10-inch gold metal floral hoop
• 3 stems of preserved or faux eucalyptus
• 22-gauge green floral wire
• Wire cutters
• 18 inches of 5/8 inch velvet ribbon

1. Use wire cutters to trim the eucalyptus stems to approximately 6-8 inches in length.
2. Lay the first stem against the bottom curve of the metal hoop.
3. Cut a 3-inch piece of floral wire and wrap it tightly around the stem and the hoop to secure it.
4. Layer the second and third stems over the first to create a fuller look, securing each with additional wire.
5. Ensure all wire ends are tucked toward the back of the wreath to prevent scratching the door.
6. Loop the velvet ribbon around the top of the hoop and tie it in a simple knot for hanging.

Safety and Presentation Notes

• Always use low heat when melting beeswax; it has a low flash point and can become a fire hazard if left unattended.
• Ensure the mineral oil is specifically labeled 'food-grade' or 'USP' to ensure it is safe for kitchen use.
• When using wire cutters, wear eye protection to guard against small pieces of flying wire.
• If gifting the herb kit, place a small plastic saucer under the pot to prevent water damage to the recipient's surfaces.
• For the wreath, use preserved greenery rather than fresh if you want the gift to last more than a few days without water.