19 DIY Stocking Stuffers That Everyone Will *Actually* Want

Kate Thorn
Dec 15, 2015

There is something infinitely exciting about pulling gift after gift out of a bulging stocking. Unfortunately, those stockings can be really expensive to fill. Once you’ve got one or two unique gifts, it’s tempting to start hunting for cheap stocking stuffers, and before you know it, you’re in the $1 aisle. But before you fill those stockings with stuff no one really wants, check out these DIY stocking stuffers that are thoughtful and inexpensive. Win, win, win!

1. Mason Jar Cocktail: First off, the number one reason adult stockings are awesome: because alcohol. Portable alcohol. (via Brit + Co)

2. Copper and Marble Notebooks: These stylish notebooks are welcome gifts for the list-makers, the planner-obsessed and anyone who loves copper and marble. Oh wait, that’s everyone. (via The Lovely Drawer)

3. Punny Ornaments: Gift an ornament they will actually hang on their tree. These pun-covered ones are sure to make anyone LOL. (via Brit + Co)

4. DIY Wrapped Necklace Kit ($29): Whip up one of these delicate necklaces for all the ladies on your list. Whether it’s your mom or your grandma, this gilded necklace is appropriate for all ages.

5. Faux Leather Keychains: Everyone could use a burst of color during these gray months. And now every time they use their keys, they’ll be reminded of how awesome you are. (via Francois et Moi)

6. Wooden Polaroid Displays: There need to be more printed photos in the world. Agree? Encourage your loved ones to get those priceless snaps off their phone and into these cool mini frames. (via Sugar and Cloth)

7. DIY Velvet Sleep Mask: Make this mask for the world traveler who’s always catching a red eye flight, or for your BFF who claims she never gets enough beauty rest. (via The Homesteady)

8. Handmade Clay Pots: Now that everyone knows plants make you happier and more productive, it’s time to gift a succulent in a little planter to those workaholics on your gift list. (via Say Yes)

9. DIY Bauhaus Cuff Kit ($45): This cuff is a style maven’s dream come true. Get a few kits to make some for your besties (and yourself!).

10. Copper Dipped Shot Glasses: Pick up a bunch of $1 shot glasses and give them a stylish makeover. Even the most style-blind peeps you know will recognize their drinking game just got a major upgrade. (via Pop Sugar)

11. DIY Woven Necklace: Jewelry is a popular choice for stocking stuffers, but a handmade piece is definitely going to get a lot more wear during the rest of the year. (via Enthralling Gumption)

12. Gold Foil Tote: Teachers, farmers’ market-goers, students and ladies who love big books all have one thing in common: their affinity for tote bags. (via Brit + Co)

13. DIY Mini Trees: Gild a few “trees” for a festive centerpiece that can stay up all winter long. They could even be used as ring holders year-round. (via Sugar & Cloth)

14. Test Tube Hot Cocoa: Not just for high school chemistry anymore, test tubes are the perfect size for one mug of delicious peppermint hot chocolate. Just pop the top and pour into hot milk. (via Swellmayde)

15. DIY Solid Perfume: Nice-smelling perfume is always a good gift option, but sometimes it can be risky for those with more sensitive skin. Instead, make a tester set of solid perfumes scented with their favorite essential oils. (via Hello Natural)

16. DIY Garden Markers: While you might not be able to give them a green thumb, you can give the new gardener a cool set of plant markers so at least they can keep track of what they’re growing. (via Wellnesting)

17. Geo Wood Magnets: Make sure your Christmas card makes the fridge this year by giving the gift of magnets. (via Tell Love and Party)

18. Jingle Bell Door Hanging: Just because summer is over doesn’t mean the craving to weave friendship bracelets is gone. Dig up that collection of embroidery thread and make a holiday version by adding jingle bells to the braid. (via Brit + Co)

19. Candy Cane Sugar Scrub: Guys and gals alike will appreciate the gift of soft skin. The peppermint oil will invigorate even the biggest grinch to get into the holiday spirit. (via Sugar and Bash)

Are you making any DIY gifts this year? Follow us on Pinterest for more gift ideas!

These Mudcloth-Inspired Christmas Stockings Will Rival All Your Old Holiday Decor

Our love affair with mudcloth decor is real. Even during the holiday season we can't get enough of the geometric lines, shapes, dots, and textiles. That's why we're incorporating the trendy pattern into our Christmas decorations. So pack up your mom's old Christmas stockings, because this year's all about the boho-modern holiday vibe.

Before starting the DIY, look up mudcloth patterns you like and save or pin a few favorites. The best thing about mudcloth is that every piece is unique so there's really no wrong or right here.

Materials + Tools

Start by using a ruler to sketch out your lines on the stocking. If you’re like us, by line three you’ll ditch the ruler and go freehand. (Remember friends, there are no mistakes, just modern art.)
Okay, now for the scary part (kinda). Use your paintbrush to go over the sketch. Slow and steady hands win the race with this one. If you mess up, don’t sweat it! The imperfections make it extra special.
Pro tip: Mix and match your patterns to give each stocking its own unique design. Trust us; your roomies will appreciate the attention to detail. After your design is complete, leave the stockings out to dry for 2-4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
After your stockings have dried, style 'em up with toppers and accessories! We used faux fur and tassels to give the stockings a more modern, boho look.

And because we love the whole rustic, modern trend, hanging these bbs on a wooden mantel was the obvious choice.

Style yours as desired, whether that's with some greenery or several colorful bottle brush trees.

No mantle, no worries! Work with what you've got by hanging them on your stairs, or even directly on your wall for that holiday touch.


Are modern Christmas stockings your jam? Share your inspo and tag us on Instagram + don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter!

DIY Production and Styling: Jasmine Whitaker
Photography: Kurt Andre

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

diy holidayholidayholiday decorstocking stuffer ideaschristmas

Tom Brady Said It "Sucks" To Be His Son Amid Giselle Bündchen Pregnancy Drama

Gisele Bündchen is a household name, no matter who her partner is — but it's no secret the supermodel made waves when she split from her football star husband, Tom Brady, in 2022. It's clear she's not holding on to the past, though. After dating Joaquim Valente for the past two years, the couple is officially expecting their first child together! Here's everything we know about Gisele's growing family!

Is Gisele Bündchen pregnant?

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Gaia Herbs

Yes! According to PEOPLE, an inside source told the outlet that the 44-year-old supermodel is officially expecting her third child. This is her first baby with current boyfriend, Joaquim Valente. The source said, "Gisele and Joaquim are happy for this new chapter in their life and they're looking forward to creating a peaceful and loving environment for the whole family."

Recently, a source told PEOPLE that Gisele's “excited to embrace this new chapter openly," and she's “received many positive messages and congratulations" since the news broke. While the source also noted that Gisele "wanted to keep the news private for as long as possible," they also explained that she "feels good" right now. According to them, she seems focused on her health by doing pilates and other exercises, meditating, and eating well! We're glad to hear Gisele's taking care of herself — and her baby — first!

Who is Gisele Bündchen's boyfriend?

Instagram/gisele

Joaquim Valente is a jiu-jitsu professional at his family-owned studio, Valente Brothers. The 34-year-old continues a decades-long tradition of teaching this martial art to future generations — and his girlfriend!

These two have been linked together since 2022, but didn't start officially dating until June 2023 according to PEOPLE. In 2024, a source also told PEOPLE that this wasn't "a serious love affair," but the tides have clearly turned since then.

In March 2024, Gisele The New York Times, “This is the first time I am seeing someone that was a friend of mine first." She then noted, “It’s very different. It is very honest, and it’s very transparent.” She also was quick to deny that there was any overlap with her ex-husband, stressing that these types of rumors happen "to a lot of women" who "have the courage to leave an unhealthy relationship."

As for the most current state of Gisele and Joaquim's relationship? A source told Page Six, “Their chemistry together has always been there and they have a lot in common. They've been in love for a while." That being said, sources also told Page Sixthat they don't think the pair will get married "anytime soon." Despite Gisele being "thrilled" to welcome another child, her friends tell the outlet that the couple will just "live together for now."

Regardless, we're also thrilled for these two, and we hope their new child brings them so much joy!

How many kids does Gisele Bündchen have?

Instagram/gisele

Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady have two children together — Bejamin Rein (14) and Vivian Lake (11). According to Page Six, a source says that these two "really like" Joaquim Valente, as he's been living with them in Miami "for a while." We just know these two will be fabulous siblings to the new little one, given the way they show so much love to their parents!

When did Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady get divorced?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady officially divorced in 2022. However, according to Page Six, this all started back in 2020 when Tom wouldn't retire from the NFL — and according to a source from PEOPLE, their problems date back as long as 10 years! Regardless, it's clear Gisele's moved on to a new chapter in her life. Good for her!

Has Tom Brady said anything about Gisele Bündchen's new pregnancy?

Instagram/tombrady

While sources told TMZthat Gisele Bündchen told Tom Brady about her pregnancy before the news broke to the general public, other sources told Page Sixthat he only just found out "very recently" — and apparently, he didn't find out from Gisele. Sources explained to Page Six that the ex-spouses "talk when they have to." So I guess this situation didn't exactly qualify as having to talk...

Still, a source close to the situation explained to Page Six that Tom was "stunned" to find out about the news. “Tom knew that things were serious between Gisele and Joaquin but he never imagined they would be having a child together,” they said. "“It just wasn’t something that was on his radar. So when Gisele broke the news to him he was stunned, to say the least.”

Tom hasn't made an official statement about Gisele's pregnancy, but he did take to Instagram on October 28. The former football star posted an image of the sunset, three hearts, and The Chicks' cover of "Landslide." The Stevie Nicks original is all about the changes life brings, so Tom's seemingly alluding to the changes coming in his own life.

And that same Page Sixsource noted that Tom's “grown used to the idea and he’s happy for Gisele.” They said, “At the end of the day, Tom’s sole focus is on his children and his career. What Gisele decides to do with her own life is really none of his business.”

On November 12, 2024, Tom Brady spoke at the 2024 Fortune Global Forum — and while he didn't mention his ex-wife's current pregnancy, he did open up about what it's like to be his child, per TMZ. He said, All of the parents of the room know that being a parent is probably the hardest job all of us have, and we screw up a lot — and I've screwed up a lot as a parent." Despite that, Tom explained that he wants to be "dependable and consistent" for his kids, and let them explore the hobbies that excite them most — the same way his parents did. Still, Tom notes that it "sucks" when it comes to being his son in "so many ways," explaining that his kids "naturally are gonna be faced with their own challenges."

Whatever happens next, we hope that this modern family navigates this new chapter with grace and love!

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

This post has been updated.

celebritiescelebrity couplestom bradycelebrity news

We’re Heading Here for All of Our Stocking Stuffers Under $30

Kohl’s is a favorite go-to for basically all of our shopping needs, from themed PJs for the whole family to festive decor and, of course, affordable holiday gifts. Finding the perfect present for everyone on your list is a rewarding feeling but sometimes, the little trinkets we add to stockings are just as exciting as the bigger, more thoughtful gifts. Ahead, we’ve found nine affordable stocking stuffers for $30 and under, courtesy of Kohl’s.

holiday gift ideasholiday shoppingstocking stuffer ideasbudget-friendly

Starbucks' Red Cup Day Is Back – Here's How To Get Your Freebie

The holidays at Starbucks are here, people! Peppermint Mocha season returned on November 7. If you’re a die-hard Starbucks fan, you know Red Cup Day is a whole holiday in itself – the frenzy for a free reusable cup is truly no joke. There’s even an entire website dedicated to counting down the madness! Red Cup Day 2024 was just officially announced – here's everything you need to know about the annual event.

Scroll on for details on Starbucks Red Cup Day for 2024!

What is Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day is Starbucks’ highly-awaited annual event that marks the start of holiday beverage season at the coffee chain. For one day only (and while supplies last), customers who order any of Starbucks’ seasonal drinks will receive a reusable red cup that features a bespoke design for the respective year.

When is Starbucks' Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

November 14, 2024 is officially Red Cup Day!

Red Cup Day typically lands on the third Thursday of November, though this year's event hits on the second Thursday. In 2022, Red Cup Day happened on November 17, and for 2023, it was November 16.

What do the red cups look like for 2024?

Starbucks

The Starbucks red cups for Red Cup Day 2024 are here! The design features a very candy cane-like illustration with a white lid. The reusable cup holds 16 ounces and is made from 95% recycled materials.

How can I get a red cup?

Starbucks

The Starbucks red cups are available however you order, including in-store, drive-thru, and through the Starbucks app and delivery via Uber Eats, Door Dash and GrubHub. Customers who order delivery through the Starbucks app can even have their reusable red cup delivered with a $0 delivery fee! Red Cup Day typically limits one cup per customer.

Starbucks

Here’s a list of all the eligible drinks (including icons from the Starbucks holiday menu)for Red Cup Day 2024:

  • Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai Tea Latte
  • Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
  • Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
  • Caramel Brulée Latte
  • Chestnut Praline Latte
  • Cran-Merry Orange Refresher
  • Cran-Merry Lemonade Refresher
  • Cran-Merry Drink
  • Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
  • Hot Chocolate
  • Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte
  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate
  • Peppermint Mocha
  • Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
  • Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte
  • Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
  • Pumpkin Spice Latte
  • Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew
  • Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
  • White Hot Chocolate

Why should I participate in Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day = freebies, which can feel really rewarding if you’re really into receiving free goodies. Plus, it’s just a fun way to lean into the holiday spirit. The red reusable cup keeps giving beyond Red Cup Day, though! Every time you use the reusable cup for future Starbucks orders, you get a 10-cent discount as well as 25 bonus stars toward your Starbucks Rewards account to save up for more discounts on drinks, food, and merchandise.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more food news!

This post has been updated.

food newsstarbuckspeppermint mochaholiday drinkscoffeefood

Make These Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes As A Thanksgiving Appetizer (Or Side!)

Have you figured out your Thanksgiving menu yet? Whether you're serving up a turkey, vegan options, or all of the above, you probably want some super delicious sides and appetizers to complement your other Thanksgiving recipes! These bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes are so versatile, you can serve them before your meal, on the side, or even for breakfast on the morning of Thanksgiving Day. Delicious and Paleo-approved, they really have no downsides. Plus, bacon!

Get the recipe for bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes below!

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

Sarah Anderson

  • 3 medium sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
  • 20 slices of bacon
  • 1/4 teaspoon pink salt
  • Freshly ground pepper

Directions for Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

Sarah Anderson

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Line a baking sheet with some parchment paper.
  3. Cut your sweet potatoes into thick-cut wedges or fry shapes.
  4. Wrap each sweet potato piece with a slice of bacon, slightly overlapping the bacon on itself as it goes around the sweet potato.
  5. Place the sweet potatoes in a single layer onto the baking sheet, leaving an inch or two in between each one. Do this in two batches, if needed. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top before baking.
  6. Bake the bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes for 35 minutes. The potatoes should be tender and the bacon should be crispy.
  7. Serve the wedges with your choice of ketchup, ranch, or aioli – or all of the above! Enjoy!

Want more Thanksgiving recipes and other meal ideas delivered right to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter!

Recipe by Sarah Anderson.

This post has been updated.

thanksgiving recipesthanksgivingmeal planningfoodfall recipesrecipes