There's something truly special about giving a handmade gift during the holidays. It shows thoughtfulness, creativity, and the kind of personal touch that money simply can't buy. This Christmas, why not create heartfelt presents using Benjamin Moore paint? Whether you're an experienced DIY enthusiast or just starting out, these small projects are perfect for spreading holiday cheer.
Personalized Wooden Signs
Transform a simple piece of wood into a cherished keepsake. Sand down a wooden plank or board, then use Benjamin Moore's Advance Interior Paint for a smooth, durable finish. Paint family names, favorite quotes, or holiday messages in festive colors. The self-leveling formula ensures a professional-looking result, even if you're new to painting. Add hand-lettering or use stencils for that perfect finishing touch.
Painted Terra Cotta Planters
Give the gift of greenery with beautifully painted plant pots. Clean terra cotta pots provide the perfect canvas for creative designs. Use Benjamin Moore's Fresh Start Primer first, then apply vibrant colors from their extensive palette. Try geometric patterns, ombre effects, or classic holiday hues. Pair your painted planter with a succulent, herb plant, or festive poinsettia for a complete gift.
Custom Picture Frames
Turn ordinary wooden frames into extraordinary treasures. Paint them in colors that complement your recipient's home décor. Consider Benjamin Moore's Command for its exceptional durability and smooth finish. Create coordinating sets in different sizes, or paint each frame in graduating shades of the same color family for a sophisticated look.
Decorative Wooden Trays
A painted serving tray makes a practical yet beautiful gift. Find unfinished wooden trays at craft stores, then transform them with paint. Benjamin Moore's Advance Paint works wonderfully for this project, offering excellent adhesion and a hard, furniture-quality finish that can withstand daily use. Add festive designs, monograms, or keep it elegantly simple with a single bold color.
Hand-Painted Ornaments
Create heirloom-quality ornaments that families will treasure for years to come. Wooden or ceramic blanks are widely available and easy to paint. Use small artist brushes and Benjamin Moore's paint to create intricate designs, winter scenes, or personalized messages. These lightweight gifts are perfect for long-distance loved ones, as they're easy to ship and won't break the budget.
Refreshed Vintage Finds
Scour thrift stores for small wooden pieces—jewelry boxes, trinket trays, or small furniture items. A fresh coat of Benjamin Moore paint can completely transform these forgotten treasures into one-of-a-kind gifts. The beauty of this approach is that each piece is truly unique, and you're giving new life to something that might otherwise have been discarded.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Finish: Benjamin Moore offers various sheens. For decorative items, eggshell or satin works beautifully. For high-use items like trays, opt for semi-gloss or gloss for easier cleaning.
Don't Skip Prep: Light sanding and proper priming ensure your paint adheres perfectly and lasts for years.
Sample First: Benjamin Moore's sample sizes are perfect for small projects and let you test colors before committing.
Allow Proper Drying Time: Rushing the process leads to smudges and imperfections. Give each coat adequate time to dry.
Seal When Needed: For items that will see heavy use, consider a clear protective topcoat.
The Gift of Thoughtfulness
What makes these painted projects so special isn't just their beauty—it's the time and care you invested in creating something unique. Each brushstroke carries your thoughtfulness, making these gifts infinitely more meaningful than anything you could buy off a shelf.
This holiday season, gather your supplies, put on some festive music, and let your creativity flow. Your loved ones will treasure these handmade gifts for years to come, and you'll enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own hands.
Happy painting!