Every February, Valentine’s Day creeps up on me like mild torture: You should do something sweet. You should make them feel special.
And every February, I’m reminded that the most heartfelt gifts are the ones you make by hand.
There’s magic in taking your time to create something. Slowing down to really think about each crease, brushstroke, or knot. Whether you make DIY Valentine crafts for your spouse, children, friends, or maybe just yourself, handcrafted projects carry a sentimental touch that store-bought gifts will never match.
You don’t have to be “crafty” to create something beautiful. You just have to be willing to try. I’ll show you five lovely Valentine’s crafts that anyone can make at home. They’re simple. They’re thoughtful. And honestly, they’re kind of fun.
Valentine Crafts You Can Make at Home
1. Pressed Flower Love Cards
These cards are simple, romantic, and absolutely timeless. They’re perfect for anyone who loves that soft, mushy-gushy kind of love.
Supplies
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Fresh flowers (or petals)
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Heavy books (or a flower press)
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Cardstock or blank cards
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Glue or double-sided tape
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Fine-tip marker
Instructions
Begin a few days before Valentine’s Day. Place your chosen flowers between two sheets of parchment paper and tuck them inside a heavy book. Stack more books on top and allow the flowers to press for 3–5 days until fully dried.
Once dried and flattened, lay the petals on top of your card to visualize your design. You can make a large heart, spell out “LOVE,” or get creative.
Secure each petal with a small dab of glue or tape. Allow it to dry, then add a sweet note on the inside.
When someone receives this, they’ll feel like you gave them a piece of a garden. It’s sweet. It’s tender. It lets them know you slowed down for them.
Related: Short Valentine’s Day Quotes
2. Heart String Art Canvas
If you want a Valentine’s craft that doubles as year-round home décor, this is it. It looks complicated, but trust me—it’s not.
Supplies
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Small wooden board or canvas
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Small nails or push pins
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Hammer
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Red, pink, or white embroidery string
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Pencil
Instructions
Sketch a light heart shape in the center of your canvas or board. Using nails or push pins, create a line along your shape, leaving about ½ inch between each one.
Lightly hammer each nail into the wood, leaving the tip exposed.
Tie your string onto one of the nails. Begin weaving the thread across the board, looping it around different nails. There’s no wrong way to do this. Cross lines. Layer them. Make it as intricate or simple as you want.
The more you fill it in, the more vibrant your heart becomes. It’s surprisingly meditative.
Hang it on your wall as décor or gift it as-is. String art feels romantic and strong all at once—very heartstring-y, if you catch my drift.
Related: 10 Valentine’s Day Home Décor Ideas Using Pink and Red Tones
3. “Open When” Love Letters Jar
Holy gift ideas, this one’s a greatie.
An “Open When” jar is filled with little notes for your partner or child to open whenever they need a smile or a lift:
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Open when you miss me
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Open when you’re having a bad day
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Open when you can’t sleep
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Open when you need a laugh
Supplies
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Jar or box
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Paper or index cards
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Pen or pencil
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Ribbon or twine
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Decorative stickers or tags
Instructions
On the outside of each card, write a prompt for when it should be opened. On the inside, write something that matches. A shared memory. An inside joke. A reason you love them. Even a few encouraging words.
Once the jar is filled, tie ribbon around it or seal it with a cute sticker.
“Open When” jars are special because they can be revisited for years. One day, your kid—or your partner—will be having a rough moment. When they open that jar, you’ll be there to comfort them, even if you’re nowhere nearby.
It’s a gift that gives presence.
Related: How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day Without Spending Too Much
4. DIY Heart-Scented Candles
Trust me on this one—I can’t wait to try these at home. Candles are perfect for at-home date nights or quiet evenings to yourself.
Supplies
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Soy wax flakes
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Heart-shaped silicone molds
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Candle wicks
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Essential oils (rose, vanilla, lavender)
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Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Instructions
Slowly melt the wax flakes. Once melted, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Place a wick in the center of each mold and carefully pour in the wax.
Allow the wax to cool and harden. Pop the candles out of the molds, and voilà.
Wrap each candle in tissue paper or place it in a small box as a gift. Lighting one of these is sure to set the mood.
5. Photo Memory Garland
Stringing together old photos is a beautiful way to revisit memories. Make one for your partner—or keep one for yourself.
Supplies
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Printed photos
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Twine or ribbon
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Mini clothespins
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Paper hearts
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Tape or push pins
Instructions
Cut small hearts out of paper. Clip a photo and a heart onto each clothespin. Attach them along the twine.
Display it across a window, wall, or even a bed frame.
Each photo becomes a reminder of the moments you’ve shared. Moments you lived.
When Was the Last Time You Made Something From Scratch?
The beauty of DIY Valentine’s crafts is that they help you slow down and be present. They pull you away from mindless scrolling and back into intention.
I know these projects are for Valentine’s Day, but it doesn’t hurt to make something for yourself too.
Sure, your lines may not be perfect.
Sure, you might have extra glue bubbling out the sides.
Sure, your creation probably won’t be Pinterest-worthy.
But that’s what makes it special.
Love is handmade too, friend.
Pick a project. Put on some music. Enjoy yourself while you create something with your own two hands—whether it’s for someone else or just for you.
Valentine’s Day is about more than candy and cute cards. It’s about intentionally showing the people you care about that you care.
Let’s make this the year we start crafting with love.
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