Homemade

This is the third year of being responsible for buying presents for my family whilst seriously lacking in funds. For the third year running I am turning to the phenomenon of 'making your own presents.' Since Pinterest has gained momentum, this phenomenon has meant that slightly wonky, strange presents aren't scorned at but welcomes with open arms. So the time has come, here are my homemade pressies.

English Rose, Lavender and Coconut Soy Candles

The easiest thing I've made so far. 200g of soy wax flakes off eBay for each 330ml jam jar. Put a wick in the jam jar and hold in place with un-opened chopsticks (from your local Chinese). Heat the wax in a ban-marie or a saucepan over boiling water. Add 10-20 drops of your chosen fragrance. Bobs your uncle, instant candle.

Blackberry Brandy

I only made blackberry brandy because, as you may know, I'm a big fan of aliteration. All you have to do is get an old water glass bottle that can take a litre of liquid or a kilner jar, and fill it with about 300g of blackberries and 250g caster sugar. Shake that about a bit the get the sugar incorporated as much as possible. Fill to the top with cheap brandy - about 70cl. Shake thoroughly to make sure the sugar is dissolved. Then leave for about 3 months to let it properly infuse, shaking every week or so.