Respect-for-the-Aged Day: Heartfelt, Handmade Gift Ideas They’ll Love
Many of you are probably wondering what kind of gifts to give for this year’s Respect for the Aged Day celebration.
Since it comes only once a year, you want to prepare something special.
If you make a gift by hand while thinking of the recipient, it makes you look forward even more to seeing their happy smile.
This time, we’ll introduce handmade gift ideas such as message cards to display in a room, practical memo holders, and protective charms.
We’ve gathered many motifs that are well loved by seniors.
Put your gratitude into it and create a heartfelt present.
[Respect-for-the-Aged Day] Give from the heart! A collection of handmade gift ideas that will delight (1–10)
Turtle strap with a decorative knot
This strap features a turtle motif, with craft bands knotted to recreate the shell’s distinctive bumps.
Fold three bands in half, layer them alternately, then weave; the knots that form are treated as the shell, to which you attach decorative parts.
If you tighten the knots too much, the shell won’t have volume, so be mindful of how firmly you weave as you go.
It’s also fun to customize your own design by changing the color of the craft bands and the size or shape of the parts.
Decorative celebratory crane
It’s a mascot that looks auspicious, as if a crane’s wings were festively decorated with flowers.
You’ll use crepe paper that’s a different color on each side, and fold it following origami steps to form a crane with spread wings.
Since the paper is soft, once the shape is made, fix it to a base with glue so it can stand on its own, then decorate the whole piece from there.
What you choose for the decorations is also important; using lucky flowers to create a lively look is recommended.
It may also be important to keep color balance in mind so that both the crane and the flowers stand out.
Handmade coasterNEW!
https://www.tiktok.com/@narumama_asobi/video/7548459258220776722Perfect for mealtimes and snack breaks! How about a handmade coaster? You can make it with stone paper clay and mosaic tiles from the 100-yen shop, so it’s easy even for little kids.
Once you spread the clay over the coaster, start arranging the tiles.
Be sure to press the tiles in and level them so the glass you place on top won’t tip over.
The key is simply to make it flat, which is why it’s so easy and casual to create—one of the best parts! Picture the recipient’s smiling face and enjoy crafting with your child!
A photo frame thank-you plaque made with artificial flowersNEW!
https://www.tiktok.com/@myon_baby_diy/video/7548208178849303816It’s a lovely, high-quality photo frame that you’d never guess was made entirely from 100-yen shop supplies.
Cut a card case to the size of the frame, and trace the inner edge of the frame onto the card case.
Cut off just the blossom parts of artificial flowers and arrange them inside the line on the card case.
For larger flowers, it’s a good idea to remove the calyx as well.
Once you’ve balanced the colors and sizes and glued everything down, secure it to the frame.
Finish by attaching a printed template to the glass panel.
You can use the template, or make it special with your own message and photo.
Flower glass domeNEW!
This glass dome with flowers looks far more expensive than you’d think for 100-yen materials.
Since it uses artificial flowers, they won’t wilt, so it makes a perfect long-lasting gift.
Trim the artificial flowers to fit the size of the jar.
Make a hole in the center of the cork base of the glass dome; you can easily make it with an awl or any pointed tool.
Apply glue, insert the flowers, and adding a ribbon makes it cute.
Attach a photo near the flowers, write a simple message on the glass, and you’re done.
It’s very easy to make, so give it a try!
Original pen standNEW!
An original double-layered pen stand that lets you insert photos or illustrations inside makes a great gift for seniors.
You can buy one at a 100-yen shop, so give it a try.
Remove the lid, place a sheet of paper with a message or illustration inside, then close the lid.
It also looks lovely if you cut out and insert memorable photos or decorate it with stickers.
When giving it as a gift, filling it with sweets or stick-type tea or coffee is likely to be well received.
Glittery Shaka BookmarkNEW!
How about a handmade bookmark to make reading time even more enjoyable? You can make it in just five minutes, so even those who aren’t confident with crafts can try it with ease.
Cut a clear file folder to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide.
Cut out a photo you like, apply double-sided tape or tape glue to the front, and fix it to the inside of the clear folder.
On the other side, write a message.
Apply double-sided tape or tape glue along the edges, put some sequins inside, and seal it shut.
Punch a hole and thread a ribbon through to finish.
Try putting in photos of your grandchildren or great-grandchildren and gifting it to an older adult.
You’re sure to be rewarded with a wonderful smile.