This is a continuation.  Part one can be found at:  

http://hubpages.com/hub/Frugal-living--Homemade-Gifts-Part-1

Homemade gifts don't need to come from the kitchen. And, once again, I will say that skill is not required. All you need to do is be able to follow directions.

I have always enjoyed giving comfort wraps. That is just a name I gave them, but they have always been appreciated by the recipients. Basically, it's a 30" long and about 6" wide tube of fabric that has partitions sewn in it, and filled with feed corn. Feed corn can be purchased really inexpensively at feed stores. I sew three sides of the tube, then put about 1/2 cup of feed corn in it, then I measure down about 6 inches and stitch across the tube, sealing it in. I increase my amounts of corn, to where there is the largest amount in the middle.

1/2 cup; 2/3 cup; 1 cup; 2/3 cup; 1/2 cup

I enjoy picking materials that complement the recipient. Many times I use a flannel, and sometimes I use different fabrics for the two sides. Once the comfort wrap is sewn and all threads are trimmed, I roll them up and tie some jute around them (ribbon will work well too). I attach a tag saying: Comfort wrap. Place in microwave for 1-2 minutes to use as a heat wrap. Place in freezer for 1 hour to use as an ice pack. Comfort wraps hold their heat or cold for up to 45 minutes.

Gift baskets:

Housewarming basket with dishtowels, cleaning supplies, scented candles, measuring spoons/cups, anything you know is needed.

A bar selection with drink mixes, a cocktail shaker, a book of drink recipes, and maybe some glasses.

A laundry basket filled with some towels, potpourri sachets, wash cloths, fabric softener sheets, and if the recipient has to go to a laundromat, perhaps a roll of quarters and a paperback book or magazine.

A movie night selection of microwave popcorn, gift certificates for video rentals, and some beverages and/or candy.

A pamper basket, with manicure supplies, a bath pillow, bubblebath, a comfort wrap.

Gift baskets can contain anything... I especially enjoy tailoring the to the recipient, usually incorporating many different homemade gifts in them to keep my costs low.

Other ideas:

bath salts-- simply mix sea salt, scent, and coloring.

bread mix

milk bath-- combine powdered milk, sea salt and scent. This mixture is wonderful packaged in emptied wine bottles, or for smaller gifts frappuccino bottles work exceptionally.

soap-- I will put a blog up soon on how to make cold process soap, but melt and pour soap is also very simple and directions can be found online.

The dollar store is a wonderful source of baskets, and also various "ingredients" of your baskets. More to come soon...