Could Christmas Deliveries Be at Risk? What Alleged DPD Pay Cuts Mean

As the festive season approaches, shoppers expect their online orders to arrive in time. 

But recent reports suggest that Christmas deliveries could face disruption—thanks in part to new pay cuts imposed on DPD drivers. 

Here’s what’s going on, what drivers are saying, and what it might mean for parcels arriving in time for December 25th.

What’s being reported

According to recent press reports, DPD has reduced the rate paid for small-parcel deliveries by 65p, for around 10,000 self-employed franchise drivers. 

In addition, the same sources say DPD has scrapped a performance-based Christmas bonus of £500 that drivers could earn during the busy season. 

Drivers affected are saying that these changes could amount to thousands of pounds less per year in income. One claim in the report is that some drivers’ incomes could drop by around £6,000 annually, or about 15% of their take-home pay. 

There’s also concern that rural drivers, who tend to deliver more small parcels (versus large business deliveries), will be hit hardest by the cuts. 

DPD has reportedly defended the move by saying it reflects changes in the “parcel traffic profile” (i.e. more of some kinds of parcel than others) and that rates remain “among the best in the industry.” 

Why the cuts matter, especially over Christmas

These pay cuts come at a bad time. The weeks leading up to Christmas are peak period for parcel companies—more volume, tight deadlines, more pressure on logistics, drivers, and depots. Here are some of the consequences that could follow:

Driver morale & retention

If pay drops are sudden, large, or poorly communicated, some drivers may reduce their hours, refuse difficult routes, or even quit. That reduces capacity just when demand is peaking.

Risk of delays

Fewer drivers, or drivers who are less motivated (or stretched thin), could lead to slower parcel processing, later collections, more missed deliveries, or rescheduling.

Costs passed on

Retailers may face increased shipping delays. Consumers might experience longer delivery windows, or need to pay extra for “priority” services.

Pressure in rural & low-density areas

As noted, rural routes often mean smaller parcels, further distances, more costs. If pay per parcel is reduced, drivers covering these areas may find the financials don’t stack up, reducing service in those zones.

Possible industrial action or legal challenge

While there’s no widespread strike action reported yet in response to this specific issue, the history of delivery driver disputes suggests that such changes without sufficient consultation can lead to unrest or legal claims.

What we don’t know (yet)

The full scope: Is this pay cut confirmed by DPD across all depots, or only in certain areas? Is it only for small parcels, or will there be changes for other parcel types?

The exact financial impact: Claims of £6,000 loss are based on driver reports; what is DPD’s view?

How quickly the changes were communicated and whether there were any transitional safeguards for drivers.

Whether DPD has backup plans (e.g. extra staff, overtime) to ensure service levels through Christmas despite the cuts.

What should consumers do (to be safe)

If you're ordering items for Christmas, you might want to plan a little ahead given this uncertainty. Some practical tips:

Order early. Don’t leave key purchases until the last minute.

Use tracked or guaranteed delivery services where possible.

Check delivery cut-off dates from retailers — these are often pushed earlier than many expect.

Be aware of retailer policies in case of delays (refunds, exchanges etc.).

Support more local pickup or collection options if available.

What small businesses should do

Check to ensure the delivery companies you use will be able to deliver your goods to your customers in a timely manner. 

What drivers & unions may say

Drivers are understandably concerned. For many of them, the cost of fuel, maintenance, insurance, vehicle depreciation, and van hire are already high. A cut of 65p per parcel may erode margins significantly. Some drivers may:

refuse difficult or less profitable rounds

reduce working days/hours

demand renegotiation or improved terms

seek representation through unions or legal advice about employment status, rights, etc.

Broader implications

Gig economy & self-employed status: this is another instance raising questions about how self-employed franchise drivers are treated. There have been past controversies over fines, holiday & sick pay, driver status and protections. 

Competition & cost pressures: DPD operates in a competitive parcel delivery market. Pressure to keep prices low for retailers may be squeezing margins and pushing costs onto drivers.

Legal/regulatory oversight: If cuts push drivers below minimum wage levels (after costs), there may be legal scrutiny. Also, public perception and media attention may force companies to reconsider or adjust.

In summary

While the reports are still emerging, the timing of these wage reductions at DPD is particularly sensitive. With Christmas deliveries already under pressure globally, any reduction in driver pay that undermines capacity or morale could lead to late parcels, missed deliveries, and customer frustration. For many drivers, these cuts may not feel like just an adjustment—they could have real financial impact.

For consumers, the takeaway is to plan ahead. For retailers, logistics companies, and DPD itself, the challenge will be to manage the cost pressures while keeping delivery promises intact.

Leading Drinks Educator Releases Knowledge Box Series of Books About Beer, Cider and Wine in time for Christmas

Jane Peyton, founder of the School of Booze and former drinks educator of the year has released three new books to educate readers in fundamental knowledge about beer, cider, and wine. 

Beer Knowledge Box, Cider Knowledge Box, and Wine Knowledge Box contain essential foundational information to give readers a deep understanding of the subject. 

Whether the reader is keen to understand their favourite alcoholic drink, studying for an accreditation, or working in hospitality these are the books to help them learn what they need.

Jane Peyton said, “My intention for the books is to explain in simple and brief terms the essential facts and need-to-know about beer, cider, and wine so the reader can enjoy their drinks even more.   

They also make good gifts for the drinker in your life and are perfect stocking fillers for Christmas.”

All three titles are available in hardback, paperback, and e-book whilst audio books will be available soon.

https://www.school-of-booze.com/product-category/books/

Retail Price:  Hardback £10.99

Paperback £6.99

E-book = £3.99

Discount available for bulk purchases

The Benefits of Self-Care and Self-Gifting This Christmas Season

Christmas is usually a season of giving—lists, wrapping paper, bows, and rushing around trying to make everyone else’s festive dreams come true. 

But somewhere between the mince pies, the queues, and the glitter-strewn chaos, we often forget the most important person on our list: ourselves.

That’s where self-care and self-gifting come in. This Christmas, give yourself permission to enjoy the season too, not just survive it.

Why Self-Care Matters at Christmas

The holidays can be hectic: full calendars, family obligations, and more “must-dos” than days of the month. Without a little self-care, it’s all too easy to burn out before Boxing Day. Taking intentional moments for yourself means you’ll have the energy to actually savour the season.

Think cosy evenings with a festive film, a mug of hot chocolate by the twinkling tree, or a long winter walk to clear your head. These aren’t luxuries—they’re fuel.

The Joy of Self-Gifting

Self-gifting isn’t selfish—it’s a celebration of you. When you choose something special just for yourself, you remind yourself that you’re worthy of joy too. And honestly, who knows your taste better than you?

Here are some perfect Christmas self-gift ideas:

A Christmas hamper for one – Treat yourself to indulgent cheeses, artisan chutneys, luxury biscuits, or your favourite chocolates.

Festive pyjamas & slippers – For those long lazy days between Christmas and New Year.

A seasonal experience – Book a ticket to a Christmas concert, a festive afternoon tea, or even a spa day with a mulled wine twist.

Ornament keepsake – Buy a special bauble to mark this year and add it to your tree with pride.

Subscription gifts – Monthly book boxes, craft kits, or food deliveries can keep the Christmas spirit alive into the New Year.

Winter wellness treats – Think candles, bath oils, or even a weighted blanket to help you unwind after a busy day.

The Ripple Effect

Interestingly, when you practice self-care and self-gifting, you often become a better giver too. You’re less stressed, more thoughtful, and more present with others. Instead of being frazzled, you’re festive.

And isn’t that the true spirit of Christmas—joy, warmth, and a little sparkle for everyone, including you?

This Christmas, don’t just shop for others. Slip a gift under the tree with your own name on it. Whether it’s a small token or a grand gesture, you deserve to be celebrated just as much as anyone else this season.

12 Perfect Self-Gifts This Christmas 

Christmas is the season of giving—but that doesn’t mean you can’t slip a little something under the tree for yourself. Self-gifting isn’t selfish; it’s a wonderful way to practise self-care, remind yourself that you’re worth celebrating, and add a little extra sparkle to the season.

Here are 12 perfect self-gift ideas for this Christmas:

1. A Luxury Christmas Hamper

Choose one filled with your absolute favourites—cheese, chutneys, chocolate, or fizz. Make it all about you.

2. Festive Pyjamas and Slippers

Nothing says Christmas comfort like slipping into soft pyjamas with a seasonal print and cosy slippers on Christmas Eve.

3. A Weighted Blanket

Perfect for cold nights, festive films, or curling up with a good book by the twinkling lights.

4. A Christmas Concert or Panto Ticket

Gift yourself an experience—you’ll make memories as well as enjoy the festive spirit.

5. A Special Christmas Bauble

Pick out one keepsake ornament for your tree each year. In time, you’ll have a tree full of your own story.

6. A Festive Afternoon Tea

Treat yourself to a tea room or hotel that offers seasonal menus with mince pies, stollen, and spiced treats.

7. A Subscription Box

Books, crafts, wines, or world foods—a subscription box keeps the Christmas joy going long after the decorations come down.

8. Scented Candles and Bath Oils

Turn your home into a personal winter spa with Christmas-scented candles and bath treats.

9. A Cosy Christmas Jumper

Not the novelty kind (unless you want one!)—choose something stylish, warm, and festive that you’ll love wearing.

10. A DIY Self-Care Kit

Fill a basket with your favourite tea, snacks, a festive mug, face masks, and a soft blanket—perfect for quiet evenings.

11. A Winter Escape

Book a solo night or two away in a cottage, lodge, or boutique hotel for some post-holiday calm.

12. Something Completely Indulgent

That perfume, handbag, gadget, or luxury bottle of whisky you’ve had your eye on? Wrap it, pop it under the tree, and enjoy.

This year, don’t forget to put your own name on the gift list. Self-gifting is about honouring yourself, embracing joy, and making sure you enter the New Year rested, happy, and with a little sparkle still intact.

'Tis the season to be clean and tidy! Expert advice from Astonish for a stress-free Christmas clean both before and during hosting and After, too

As I write this, by coincidence, my wife is at this very moment using Astonish Carpet Cleaner with our carpet cleaning machine in our home office.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and the messiest! 

Think cooking Christmas dinner for the whole family, that pre guest arrival panic clean and the aftermath of opening presents – the cleaning never stops, even at Christmas time.

It is of course the season of joy, so you don’t want to be spending more time than needed cleaning up (unless of course that’s what brings you joy, in which case – clean away!). 

For those that want to spend minimal time cleaning and more time enjoying the festive fun – Olivia Young, cleaning expert and Product Development Scientist at Astonish shares her top tips to ensure a stress-free Christmas clean, both before and during hosting.

Pre guest arrival cleaning tips

Don’t leave it until the last minute

The run up to Christmas can be chaotic enough, with last minute gift buying to food shopping and wrapping – there’s a lot on the to do list! Leaving cleaning and preparing your home to host to the last minute is likely to cause more stress, so try to plan and don’t leave it until the last moment. 

There are a few ways you can plan and make Christmas cleaning less stressful – the first is by creating a checklist or a schedule that breaks your tasks into smaller more manageable steps and means that everything doesn’t need doing all at once.

You should also try to have a bit of a declutter first, as let’s face it, it’s likely you’ll be surrounded by clutter to some degree over Christmas from wrapping paper to toys – you don’t want your home to already be cluttered before the festivities have even started. 

You can start by removing any unnecessary items from the main living spaces and areas that guests will spend the most time in, such as the living room and kitchen. Decluttering before you clean will also make cleaning so much easier, as you’ll have less bits and bobs to work around!

Focus on high-impact areas

It can sometimes feel as though the only appropriate way to clean your home to prepare for visitors is by cleaning every nook and cranny top to bottom. 

And whilst that might be tempting (and very rewarding once you’ve done it), it’s likely to feel quite overwhelming and exhausting at just the thought. So, instead of opting for that route, if you’re short on time, just focus your efforts on cleaning high-impact areas. This means spaces in your home that guests are likely to use or be present in more often.

This could include a guest bathroom – grab a Bathroom Cleaner that will banish limescale, soap scum and tough stains with ease, stock it with fresh towels and soap and don’t forget to give the toilet a good scrub. The living room – a good dust followed by a thorough vacuum will do the trick, you can also spray upholstery with a Fabric Refresher for long lasting scent. 

The kitchen – wipe down all countertops and appliances, mop the floor and clear out the fridge to make way for festive snacks!

Make a system and stick to it

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of organised cleaning fun! To make it easier to prepare your home for the Christmas period you can implement a few systems – one being to work room by room or task by task. 

This means completely finishing a full clean of one room or space before you move onto the next or fully tackling one task such as vacuuming the whole house. Another system is top-to-bottom cleaning, which is the best way to ensure a thorough clean. 

This means cleaning from the top down, so you would dust shelves first, then clean furniture, then vacuum or mop last. If you did this the other way round, you’d end up getting dust on freshly vacuumed carpets which is the last thing you want!

Another thing you can do is get everyone involved by delegating specific tasks to members of your household. Whether you assign each person a room or task, this can help to share the load and make the Christmas clean feel less overwhelming. 

If you have younger children, you can make it fun by putting on some Christmas music or turning it into a timed challenge – just make sure they stick the system, so it doesn’t transcend into Christmas chaos!  

Hosting and entertaining cleaning tips

Tackle stains as soon as you spot them

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of sitting down for Christmas dinner. As everyone begins to tuck in, cue the stains to your placemats, runner and tablecloth. Gravy dripping as the boat is passed along, cranberry sauce left in blobs and drinks spilling after a festive ‘cheers’. No need to panic however, those stains can easily be dealt with – but the trick to getting rid of them is to act fast. 

The main problem with stains like this is that the longer you leave them, the worse they will get. So ideally, get to it immediately or as soon as you notice it. This will give you the best chance to remove it completely – meaning you can tackle it, then enjoy your dinner!

If you remember anything when it comes to removing stains, make sure it is the golden rule - dab, don’t scrub. It’s sometimes a natural reaction to give a stain a really good scrub in a bit of a panic, but this is probably the worst thing you can do! Instead, dap the stained area gently. This will help to draw it out of the fabric. Scrubbing it just pushes the stain deeper into the material, making it really tricky to get rid of.

Protect your carpets at all costs

A part of your home that might suffer during the Christmas period is your carpets. Red wine from the adults, chocolates and sticky fingers from the kids, muddy paws from a furry visitor – you get the picture, and it’s not so pretty. 

Due to the material of carpets, likely to be wool or a synthetic fabric, you will need to opt for a Specialist Carpet Care & Upholstery Cleaner to remove stains from them. Simply spray the stain and gently dab, then pat dry. And always make sure you test on a small, inconspicuous area first!

With all the excitement, you might also find that some plants or small decorative Christmas trees get knocked over causing a spill of soil and dirt onto your floor or carpet. If this does happen, your gut instinct will be to reach for the vacuum. But this might actually not be the best choice! The only thing you should be using your vacuum for is to get rid of dust and debris. Anything bigger could actually damage it. So grab the dustpan and brush to remove any soil spills, then carpet cleaner to get rid of any stains!

Try not to neglect the oven

During the Christmas period, whether it’s for a Boxing Day buffet, a Christmas Eve treat or the main event on Christmas day – our ovens are working overtime to feed hungry guests. Because they are used so frequently, you might find that it needs a bit of TLC. 

Whilst it’s unlikely you’ll clean your oven on Christmas day, you may be left with little choice if you accidentally leave something in the oven!

Depending on the food that gets left behind, you might find you’ve got some spills that need tackling sooner rather than later. This doesn’t need to be really time consuming or require loads of products – a cleaning paste, such as Specialist Oven & Grill Cleaner, will do the trick. Grab a damp sponge or cloth, scoop some of the paste and apply to the area that needs some attention. 

Make sure you rub in a circular motion, then rinse or wipe clean. You can also forget about the washing up gloves with this product, as it is formulated with no harsh chemicals and is made with orange oil – a fitting aroma during the festive period!

For more expert cleaning guidance, visit the Astonish website: https://astonish.co.uk/blogs/tips-hacks

How to keep your floors clean over Christmas, according to the experts

Christmas brings extra guests, spills, and wear and tear to our homes and it can be a challenging time to keep floors clean, protected and looking their best. 

Whatever type of flooring you have in your home Alex Heslop, Trend Expert from Flooring Superstore, shares their tips with That's Christmas on how to preserve your flooring from spillages, Christmas tree pine needles and the influx of visitors over the festive season.

Real wood floors

“Hardwood floors are extremely durable, but they aren’t immune to spills, scratches and stains, so it pays to be mindful over the festive season to keep your home looking its best for Christmas guests and beyond.

“Prevention is always the best approach, so small steps like encouraging house guests to remove their shoes and ensuring doormats are placed by exterior doors can help a lot in capturing mud and debris from shoes, which can scratch your wooden flooring.

“Keep an eye out for pine needles and even tree sap falling from your Christmas tree onto the flooringbeneath. Keeping on top of vacuuming under the tree, wiping away any sap with a warm soapy damp cloth should do the trick and ensure the finish on your floor is preserved. 

"Wipe up spills as soon as you’re able to, again a soft damp cloth will suffice and will ensure your flooring doesn’t suffer from moisture damage. Avoid abrasive cleaning products, wet mops and steam cleaners on real wood as it can dull the finish and cause warping over time.”

Carpet

“Carpets are inevitably more susceptible to stains than other flooring types so aim to tackle spillages quickly, before they have time to soak in fully. Always blot the liquid rather than rubbing it, as this can further embed the liquid into the fibres and increase the chances of it staining. 

Avoid ‘hacks’ made popular on social media such as carpet scraping, which can cause lasting damage. Before Christmas get togethers, consider using a carpet protecter, which can help repel stains, as an extra precaution.

“You may wish to up your vacuuming schedule over the festive season, to prevent a build-up of dirt. After the busy period has subsided a specialist carpet steam cleaner as part of a more thorough January clean could be worthwhile.

“Some carpet materials are better equipped to tackle stains – wool for example is resilient and naturally stain resistant. Flooring Superstore’s Windermere Carpet in Honeycomb features a perfect blend of honey and fawn shades and is made from a hardwearing quality loop pile wool material.”

Wood-effect flooring

“Laminate and Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are durable and have added waterproof properties, so these flooringtypes are great for withstanding the greater wear and tear which comes hand in hand with the festive season. 

Avoid cleaning spillages with very hot water as this can impact the finish and warp the boards. Abrasive cleaners could also scratch and dull the finish or even leave a residue which dulls the finish and makes it slippery to walk on.  

“A damp cloth with soapy water will usually suffice when it comes to tackling spillages. LVT ranges such as Flooring Superstore’s Asenso range offers multiple benefits when it comes to easy cleaning being waterproof, scratch resistant and easy to maintain, making it both practical and a stylish choice for any room in the house with added protection against spillages.”

That's Christmas would like to thank Alex and Flooring Superstore for their help.

https://www.flooringsuperstore.com

Pre-Christmas Home Cleaning: Don’t Panic! We'll Help You

Even Mrs Claus has to get ready

The countdown is on: Christmas and New Year are fast approaching. 

You can already picture it—a house full of guests, the table piled high with festive food, glasses clinking, children tearing into presents. 

But wait—before the sparkle, there’s the not-so-glamorous task of getting your home ready. Yes, that means cleaning.

Don’t panic! You’re not alone in staring at windows smudged from summer dust storms, carpets that have seen better days, and the mysterious dust kitties lurking under the furniture. 

After a long summer of holidays, days out, and even Sahara sandstorms depositing a fine layer across your windowsills, our homes can start to look a little less than magical. 

The good news? A pre-Christmas cleaning blitz can turn everything around and leave you ready to welcome family and friends with pride.

Where to Start

Think of it as a festive reset rather than a chore. A few key jobs done now will make your Christmas season so much smoother.

Windows – Let in as much winter light as possible by polishing away summer grime. You’ll be amazed at how much brighter the room feels with sparkling panes.

Carpets and Upholstery – Whether it’s hiring a carpet cleaner, using a home shampoo system, or calling in the professionals, a deep clean will freshen up the house and help banish those mystery stains. Furniture fabrics can benefit from a quick spruce-up too.

Floors and Furniture – A polish here, a wax there, and suddenly the wood glows like new. Perfect when you’re setting the Christmas tree in pride of place.

Fridge and Freezer – Defrost and clean now, so you’ll have space for all those festive goodies. A tidy fridge is your best friend when the Christmas shop arrives.

Kitchen and Bathroom – A good scrub of the areas your guests will notice most. Eco-friendly sprays, steam mops, and sustainable cleaning liquids are great options if you want to keep the process green.

Dishwasher Duties – Aunt Trudy’s dust-covered wedding gift dinner set (that only makes its appearance at Christmas) deserves to sparkle. Run it through a fresh cycle before the big day.

Cleaning Products to Consider

That’s Christmas will be showcasing a selection of products in our Pre-Christmas Cleaning Feature. From eco-friendly dishwasher tablets to furniture polishes, carpet shampoos, and multi-surface sprays, we’ll help you find the right kit for every corner of your home. Expect to see:

Carpet and upholstery cleaners

Floor polishes and furniture waxes

Kitchen and bathroom sprays and liquids

Steam mops and sustainable cleaning gadgets

Eco-friendly and biodegradable options

Dishwasher tablets and rinse aids

The Festive Pay-Off

Yes, it’s work, but the pay-off is worth it. When your guests arrive and comment on how bright, fresh, and welcoming your home feels, you’ll know the effort paid off. 

With everything sparkling clean, you can focus on what really matters—enjoying the festive season, creating memories, and tucking into that Christmas pudding.

So, take a deep breath, grab your mop (steam-powered, if you prefer), and remember—this isn’t just cleaning. It’s laying the groundwork for a magical Christmas.

10 Christmas Gifts You Can Start Making Today with What You Already Have

Christmas is coming, and if you want to give thoughtful presents without breaking the bank, now is the time to get started. 

The best part? You don’t need to buy new tools or fancy equipment — the skills and supplies you already have can be transformed into beautiful, personal gifts. Here are 10 ideas to inspire you.

1. Homemade Biscuits or Fudge

If you enjoy baking, whip up a batch of biscuits, fudge, or truffles. Pop them into a recycled tin or a jar tied with ribbon for a festive finish.

2. Knitted or Crocheted Scarves

Got spare yarn? A simple scarf, hat, or pair of gloves makes a cosy and practical present. Even beginners can manage a chunky scarf before Christmas arrives.

3. Personalised Jams and Chutneys

If you’ve been preserving fruits or making chutneys, label your jars with festive tags. These gifts always go down well with cheese boards and Christmas dinners.

4. Photo Scrapbooks or Albums

Gather favourite family photos, print them out, and create a scrapbook. Add handwritten notes or memories for a heartfelt touch.

5. Handmade Christmas Ornaments

Use salt dough, felt, or recycled materials to craft ornaments. They’re simple to make, and every year they’ll remind the recipient of you.

6. Wooden Bird Boxes or Candle Holders

If you’re handy with woodworking, put offcuts to good use. A rustic bird box or candle holder makes a charming gift.

7. Recipe Jars

Layer the dry ingredients for brownies, cookies, or pancakes in a glass jar. Finish with a handwritten label explaining how to bake them.

8. Framed Artwork or Digital Prints

If you can draw, paint, or design, create small pieces of art. Print them out and frame them for affordable but personal gifts.

9. Homemade Candles

Even if you don’t have a candle-making kit, you can recycle old candles into new ones using jars or mugs as holders. Add spices like cinnamon for a festive scent.

10. Personalised Gift Hampers

Gather a few small homemade items — like biscuits, jams, or candles — and bundle them into a basket. Add a handwritten tag for a finishing touch.

Final Tip: Presentation Matters

You don’t need fancy wrapping. Brown paper, twine, and sprigs of greenery give gifts a rustic, festive feel. Handwritten notes or tags add the personal touch that makes homemade gifts so special.

Get Started Now: Making Personal Christmas Gifts with the Skills and Equipment You Already Have

Christmas always seems to creep up faster than we expect. One moment it’s summer barbecues, a touch of sunburn and hosepipe bans... and the next it’s mince pies and carols on the radio. 

If you’re hoping to give personal, handmade gifts this year, the time to start is now. The good news? You don’t need to buy fancy equipment or take up a new craft to make something meaningful. 

Often, the skills and tools you already have are more than enough to create thoughtful presents.

Why Start Now?

Homemade gifts take time. Whether you’re knitting a scarf, baking festive biscuits, or compiling a scrapbook, the earlier you begin, the more relaxed and enjoyable the process will be. Starting in autumn means no last-minute panic and plenty of room for creativity.

Take Stock of Your Skills

Think about what you already know how to do:

Cooking & Baking: Biscuits, jams, chutneys, or infused oils all make brilliant edible gifts. A ribbon-tied jar instantly looks festive.

Sewing or Knitting: From cushion covers to cosy scarves, handmade textiles are always appreciated.

Woodworking or DIY: A simple bird box, candle holder, or photo frame could become a treasured keepsake.

Art & Design: Sketches, paintings, or even digital art prints can be framed for a personal touch.

Writing: A short story, poem, or a collection of favourite family recipes can be turned into a booklet or zine.

You don’t need to be a professional. The charm of homemade gifts lies in their individuality.

Use What You Already Have

Before rushing out to buy supplies, check your cupboards and craft drawers. Half-used yarn, spare fabric, a stash of paper, or even old jars can be transformed with a little creativity. Repurposing not only saves money but makes your gifts more sustainable.

Simple Gift Ideas to Try

Recipe Jars: Layer dry ingredients for biscuits or brownies in a glass jar, add a handwritten tag with instructions.

Photo Albums: Print out family photos and arrange them in a scrapbook with captions.

Handmade Ornaments: Salt dough, felt, or paper ornaments are easy to make and perfect for Christmas trees.

Personalised Hampers: Gather small homemade items (like candles, jams, or biscuits) and package them together.

Digital Gifts: Design printable calendars, recipe cards, or artwork to send by email or on a memory stick.

Add the Finishing Touches

Presentation is key. Use brown paper, string, and a sprig of holly for rustic wrapping, or upcycle last year’s gift bags. Handwritten labels and tags make even the simplest gift feel special.

Enjoy the Process

Handmade gifts aren’t about perfection—they’re about care and thoughtfulness. By starting now, you give yourself space to experiment, enjoy the making, and avoid festive stress.

This Christmas, use the skills you already have and turn your talents into gifts that are as meaningful to give as they are to receive.

In the next blogpost we'll give you a list of ten Christmas craft items you can try yourself.

Organising Arts-Based Training Courses for Budding Artists This Christmas

When it comes to Christmas presents, there’s something extra special about giving the gift of creativity. 

Instead of another gadget or trinket that may be forgotten by spring, why not help the budding artist in your life develop their skills with an arts-based training course? 

From painting and sculpture to digital design and photography, an art course can be an unforgettable and inspiring gift.

Why Choose an Arts-Based Course as a Gift?

A lasting experience – Unlike material presents, courses provide skills and memories that last well beyond the festive season.

Encourages creativity – Whether they’re a complete beginner or already passionate about their craft, guided tuition helps them grow.

Tailored to their interests – You can find courses to suit just about any artistic pursuit.

Builds confidence – Learning new techniques in a supportive environment helps artists of all ages flourish.

Ideas for Arts-Based Courses to Gift

Painting and Drawing Workshops – Perfect for beginners or those looking to refine their technique. Options range from watercolours to oils, life drawing to abstract.

Ceramics and Pottery Classes – Hands-on and tactile, pottery is both creative and therapeutic.

Photography Courses – With digital and smartphone photography booming, this is a great choice for those who want to take better pictures or even move into professional work.

Textile Arts – Knitting, embroidery, weaving or fabric dyeing classes are ideal for craft lovers.

Digital Art & Design – Courses in Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate help creative minds bring their ideas to life on screen.

Printmaking – From lino cutting to screen-printing, printmaking courses are fantastic for those who love working with bold images and experimenting with layers.

Sculpture – Clay, wood, or mixed media sculpture classes allow for three-dimensional creativity.

How to Organise the Gift

Research local providers – Community centres, galleries, universities, colleges and private studios often run short courses.

Look online – Platforms like Domestika, Skillshare, and Udemy offer virtual options for those who prefer to learn at home.

Consider vouchers – Many art schools and studios offer gift vouchers, allowing your recipient to choose the course that excites them most.

Package it creatively – Instead of just handing over a printed voucher, present it with a small set of art supplies, like brushes, sketchbooks, or clay tools.

Who Would Love This Gift?

Arts-based courses make excellent presents for children discovering their creative talents, teenagers seeking a productive hobby, and adults looking for a mindful, enriching pastime. 

Whether your loved one is aiming for a career in the arts or just enjoys the occasional sketch, this kind of gift shows that you value their creativity.

A Christmas Gift That Inspires

This festive season, give more than a present—give inspiration, learning, and creative growth. An arts-based training course is thoughtful, memorable, and personal, making it the perfect gift for the budding artist in your life. 

Who knows? Perhaps next Christmas they will be able to use their new artistic skills to craft personal Christmas gifts?

Choosing a Bedroom TV as a Christmas Present for Children and Teens

Finding the perfect Christmas present for children and teenagers can be tricky. 

Toys often lose their appeal as kids grow older, while clothes and gadgets can feel a little too practical. 

One gift idea that bridges the gap between fun and functional is a bedroom television.

A TV can transform a bedroom into a personal entertainment space, giving children and teens a spot to relax, watch their favourite shows, or play games. 

But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the right one?

Consider the Size

Bigger isn’t always better in a bedroom setting. A 24–32 inch TV is usually ideal for most children’s and teens’ rooms. It provides a clear picture without dominating the space. For older teens with larger rooms, a 40-inch set could work well, but make sure it won’t overwhelm their space.

Think About Smart Features

Most televisions today come with smart capabilities, meaning they can connect to apps like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and BBC iPlayer. For teens especially, a smart TV is a must-have, giving them instant access to their favourite content without needing extra devices.

Safety First

If you’re buying for younger children, consider how the TV will be set up. Wall-mounting can save space and keep screens safely out of reach. Look for parental controls too, which allow you to manage what they can access. But if you do, make sure wall-mounting brackets are put up by a trained and insured professional craftsman/woman. 

Gaming Compatibility

If the teen in your life is a gamer, check that the TV supports consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. Look out for HDMI ports, low input lag, and full HD or 4K resolution to keep gameplay smooth and immersive.

Energy Efficiency

Since the TV may be used often, choosing a model with a good energy efficiency rating will help reduce electricity costs and environmental impact.

Setting Boundaries

A TV in the bedroom can be a wonderful gift, but it’s also important to set some ground rules. Agree on screen time limits to balance entertainment with homework, sleep, and family time.

Wrapping It Up

A bedroom television makes a thoughtful Christmas gift because it combines practicality with fun. Whether your child is still enchanted by cartoons or your teen is bingeing the latest box set, the right TV will be a gift they’ll appreciate well into the new year.

This Christmas, give them the gift of entertainment, independence, and comfort — all in one neat package.