As the holidays approach and the weather cools down, it is time to get ahead on gift shopping for the season. At times it can be hard to think of an affordable or personal gift for a specific person in mind which can lead to last minute chaos. Have no fear. Here are some do-it-yourself (DIY) projects that are easy to create for family and friends

Decorate your own mug: Pick a design or phrase and decorate a personalized mug for a friend. This project requires only a few supplies. You will need a mug and oil-based permanent markers for long lasting results. After decorating, place the mug in the oven to bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, that way the design will set in place. Be sure to include that the mug needs to be hand-washed. Wrap the mug in gift wrap and you are done.

Do-it-yourself face mask: With cold weather comes dryer skin for many people. The perfect solution to this is to create your own hydrating and moisturizing face mask. This idea is inexpensive and fun to make as a gift. There are many different homemade recipe combinations, but this one requires only three ingredients. For this face mask for dry skin, you will need half of an avocado, two tablespoons of honey and half a teaspoon of coconut oil. Blend all of the ingredients in a small bowl,  put the mixture in a suitable container, and keep it refrigerated before use. Give this one a try. It is sure to work wonders.

Mason jars (cookies in a jar): You already have these ingredients at home, and this is a foolproof idea if you cannot think of what to buy for someone. All you will need is a mason jar and the dry ingredients for the perfect chocolate chip cookies. This requires 1 ¾ cup of flour, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, ¾ teaspoon of salt, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar and chocolate chips. Stack the dry mixtures in a clear mason jar to give it a neat layering effect. List on the jar that the user needs to add the wet ingredients for the cookies, bake for about 10 minutes and your cookies are ready.

Movie night in a basket: Do you know your best friend’s favorite movie? If so, make a movie night in a basket. Find a large basket and fill it with your friend’s favorite movie and snacks. Whether that be a holiday classic or a horror film, your friend will love this gift. Bring a fuzzy blanket and this simple idea is sure to put a smile to their face.

Scrapbook: This project surely will take a bit more time, but it could be a highly appreciated gift for family and friends. Stop by your nearest craft store (Michaels or Hobby Lobby), pick up a scrapbook of your choice and your favorite patterned paper, stencils, stickers and more. Start this project early, since it may take more time than you think. Pick out your favorite pictures and be as creative as you want to make the photos jump out the page. It is a gift your family will surely look back on.

Care package: Do you have a friend or sibling in college? They may be running out of their favorite shampoo, cologne or other essentials. This is a perfect time to send them a care package filled with necessities as well as their favorite candy, book or make them a CD with their favorite songs. Put all of the items in a box and write them a letter. Send it off and your job is complete.