DIY Father’s Day Ideas

Father’s Day is looming and I’m still asking myself what to buy for my dad. It’s not that I’m forgetful, I’ve just been insensible and left it for the last minute because there’s simply nothing else he needs.

I mean how many ‘best dad in the world’ cups does one need? And it’s doubtful he’ll want to be treated to wild drinks when his favourite time is a brew and watching the soaps.

It seems that I’m not the only one who waits until the last moment every year to make a purchase, because Father’s Day presents are hard to find at an affordable price.

DIY Father’s Day Presents

Whether you’ve ran out of money or can’t find what you want in a shop, we’ve got you covered with unique gifts you can make from scratch.

Don’t panic if you’re not artsy, because it’s definitely the thought that counts. Remember when you were a child and you’d spend hours on a birthday card and your parents would be thrilled because of the thought you put into it? Well, we’re taking you back to your roots with these ideas.

A Goodie Basket

We put too much pressure on ourselves to find the one perfect gift. But why limit yourself to only one thing when you can give your pops a collection of his favourite treats?

Make a hamper or buy one and fill it with everything you know he loves. These can be trifling things such as: chocolates, beer, a pen, film, fridge magnet or deodorant. It’s not the luxury of each item that makes this a good present, it’s the diversity and personal touch of them collectively.

All wrapped up with a bow on top, we’re confident he’ll love this one.

Everything He Loves For Free

Alright not everything, but most. Buy a small box and layer it with luxury wrapping paper, complete with a decorative embellishment.

Write one small gift to him on a piece of paper and put it in the box and repeat until you have about 10-20 ideas. These may include:

• Your personal tea slave for the day. I will gladly drop everything and make you a cuppa whenever you wish, just the way you like it.
• Car washing and vacuuming service by moi.
• A mithering-free day whereby I agree to comply with your rules for 24 hours. (This one really depends on how mature you are usually and if you still live with your parents).
• Dinner made by me and the menu will be whatever you crave.
• Personal chauffeur for the day to anywhere you’d like.

The list could go on forever, but fill with your father’s favourite things – and keep your promise! I personally love this one and it’s always appreciated.

Baked Goodies

Nobody with a dad’s willpower can turn down a warm cupcake with chocolate icing on top. Lock yourself in the kitchen and bake some classic desserts.

If you’re a novice in the kitchen, there’s no harm in picking up a few packets from your nearest supermarket. We won’t tell.

But for those who enjoy baking, here are a few dessert ideas with a secret ingredient in each – alcohol!

Guinness Chocolate Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 340g cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsps cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsps butter
• 340g chocolate (dark/milk)
• 2 tbsps heavy cream
• 3 (225g) packages cream cheese
• 340g sugar
• 120ml sour cream
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 180ml Guinness

Method

Visit Closet Cooking for thorough directions on making this tasty treat.

Golden Rum Cake 

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 230g unsalted butter
• 400g caster sugar
• 4 eggs
• 375g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 250ml milk
• 2 tsps vanilla extract
• 180ml golden rum

For the glaze:

• 60g unsalted butter
• 200g caster sugar
• 63ml water
• 125ml golden rum

Method

Visit The Caked Crusader for clear directions and images of the tremendous shape it should be.

Personal Card

Once you’ve finally made a choice on a gift idea, it’s time to choose a card. I love them. They say how you feel and show someone you care for just a few pounds.

If you’re stuck in the office and have little time to visit a card shop, websites such as Moonpig and Funky Pigeon are great at helping you create a personal card without leaving the house.

But if you’re feeling craftsy, make your own by using photos of your dad and gluing them to a piece of card (the more embarrassing the better).

If your resources are running low, use elements from old cards and make your own from scratch. It saves the planet and gives a thoughtful touch to the card. Don’t forget to add a soppy verse inside to show how much you’re grateful for them.

So there you have our favourite affordable and last-minute gifts for dad.

Which were your favourite? Tweet us or write to us on Facebook to let us know or tag us in your creations. We’d love to see them!

Happy Father’s Day for this Sunday.