Valentine’s Day is just about a month away, and — assuming you don’t despise the holiday — it’s time to start thinking about gifts for that special someone! (If you do hate Valentine’s Day, check out our anti-V-Day book list.) You don’t have to spend a lot of money to create a meaningful gift that will thrill your loved one. These books will get you in the DIY mood for Valentine’s Day crafts.

50 Knitted Gifts for Year Round Giving50 Knitted Gifts for Year-Round Giving
I don’t know how it is in your town, but when February 14 rolls around in Seattle, we have literally months of cold, rainy weather ahead of us before it’s even time to think about spring. So beat the chill with one of these romantic knitted gifts! Knitting isn’t sexy, you say? Well, how about presenting your sweetie with a super-soft blanket to snuggle under together, or a champagne cozy with a bottle of bubbles inside? (I think the colorful knitted necklace is pretty cute, too.)

 

 

 

The Fine Art of Carving LovespoonsFine Art of Carving Lovespoons: Understanding, Designing, and Carving Romantic Heirlooms
Author: David Western
If you REALLY want to go over-the-top to impress someone, skip the flash-mob proposal and just carve them a lovespoon! These beautiful, delicate wooden pieces of art are intricately carved with romantic symbols and designs meant to show off the carver’s skill. The oldest known lovespoon is from 17th-century Wales, but sailors often made them for their landlocked sweethearts. Of course, if you actually managed to create one of these, it would be way too special for anyone to actually use, so maybe you’re better off just giving this book to your favorite woodworker.

 

 

 

Make Your Own Mini Top HatsMake Your Own Mini Top Hats
Author: Ellen Deakin
I’m inclined to agree with author Ellen Deakin when she says, “There is hardly any occasion that can’t be enhanced with the addition of a mini top hat.” This e-book includes eight downloadable, printable templates for various holidays, including a basic black hat that you can jazz up as you like. Cut out and glue on the included decorations, or add jewels and feathers to make your own stylish statement. Throw a Valentine’s party with your lady friends and everyone can make their own mini hat and wear it home!

 

 

Paper to PetalPaper to Petal: 75 Whimsical Paper Flowers to Craft by Hand
Authors: Rebecca Thuss, Patrick Farrell
Why spend a ton of money on a bunch of roses that will wilt in a few days when you could make your own gorgeous paper flowers that will last for years? These beautiful designs range from realistic to fantastical, in every color of the rainbow. Use inexpensive tissue paper and crepe to twist and twirl your way to a one-of-a-kind bouquet. Single blooms would make lovely lapel pins or desk decorations for relatives and coworkers, too.

 

 

 

The Sweet Book of CandymakingThe Sweet Book of Candy Making
Author: Elizabeth LaBau
Of course, when it comes to Valentine’s gifts, candy is king. You could dash to the drugstore for a plastic-wrapped box of chocolates… or you could amaze your sweetie with homemade candies! This book shows you techniques for truffles, peanut butter cups, marshmallows, and more, plus 50 recipes. Start with chocolate-dipped fruit or basic truffles and you’ll be impressed at how easy candy-making can be.

 

 

 

Vintage Valentines BookVintage Valentines (Press Out Book)
If you love the vintage style of old-fashioned valentines, you’ll definitely want to hand out these special cards for Valentine’s Day! This book includes 25 press-out flocked cards and cutout templates to make 8 envelopes. Some require a simple fold or inserting tabs into slots, but they’re easy enough for children to assemble. Considering the bargain price, these would also make charming decorations at your Valentine’s Day party.

Stephanie Perry
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