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.
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[Respect-for-the-Aged Day] Give from the heart! A collection of handmade gift ideas that are sure to delight (41–50)
Heart Tsuru
Heart-shaped cranes make a great gift for Respect for the Aged Day.
Cranes have long been cherished as a symbol of longevity.
They are also said to be birds that mate for life and remain devoted partners, so they’re considered auspicious.
The heart symbolizes love, too, so gifting a heart crane conveys plenty of affection.
While there are some detailed steps in the folding process, the method is easy to remember, so it’s recommended.
By the way, using washi-patterned origami gives it a charming, traditional look.
It would be appreciated not only at senior celebrations but also as a Valentine’s Day gift.
Original uchiwa (hand fan)
Respect-for-the-Aged gatherings are often held on Respect-for-the-Aged Day, and around that time the summer heat still lingers.
So how about considering an “original uchiwa fan” as a gift for the event? With a refreshing theme, you could depict goldfish and summer plants using drawings or stickers; paper-cut art and stenciling also create a nice atmosphere.
Kits for making original uchiwa fans, as well as paints and stencil sheets, can be purchased at 100-yen shops.
If you’re looking for a practical gift, feel free to use this as a reference.
tissue case
An absolute must-have in the living room: tissues! Leaving a tissue box out as-is can look a bit uncool, so many people use tissue covers.
Since they’re practical and can be put to use right away, how about giving one as a Respect-for-the-Aged Day gift? If you’re making it by hand, something simple that you can whip up quickly is best.
Sew two pieces of fabric together right sides facing, turn it right side out, sew again, and attach buttons at two spots—and you’re done! It’s easy to make, and you can use a sewing machine or sew by hand.
Because it’s made of fabric, it’s easy for seniors to handle, and it also makes it easier to pull tissues out of the box, which is another plus.
Macrame bracelet
Macramé is said to originate from the Arabic word “mukram,” which means “to cross and tie.” The wisdom of people who have long tied cords for work has in recent years been applied to accessories and interior goods.
Let’s try arranging macramé knotting to make a bracelet! Basically, you thread your favorite natural stones or beads onto a waxed cord and apply macramé knots.
There are various knotting styles, so beginners are advised to choose a method that isn’t too complex.
I believe accessories enrich the heart at any age, so how about giving one as a gift to an older loved one?
Easy single-stitch coaster
These adorable coasters are charming for their soft feel, made by combining fabric scraps.
You simply layer folded scraps, stitch them together in a circle with a sewing machine, then turn it right side out—very simple.
The design is flexible depending on the fabric scraps you choose, so try picking colors that match the person you’re gifting them to.
While a circular shape is easier, it could be fun to try other shapes like squares as a variation.
It’s also a great idea not only to give them as gifts but to suggest making them together.
Marble-style accessory tray
Despite being easy to make, this “marble-style trinket dish” has a striking, luxurious look.
It’s perfect for displaying small items like interior decor, making it a stylish gift.
To create the marble pattern with air-dry clay, mix a few different colors.
Roll each color into a rod and twist them together—that’s the key! Once the pattern forms, flatten the clay and use a cup to cut out a neat circle.
Then simply shape it and let it dry.
Changing the clay colors completely alters the vibe.
Why not handcraft one to match the recipient’s style?
Natural stone strap
Here’s a strap made with natural stones that radiate power! Natural stones are beautiful to look at and popular with people of all ages.
Each stone has its own meaning, making them great for protection and good-luck charms.
The method is simple: thread your favorite natural stones onto wire.
You can also enjoy customizing by changing the size and color of the stones.
Some natural stones can be expensive depending on the type, so if you’re making these in bulk for a seniors’ gathering, using stone-like beads could be a lovely and budget-friendly alternative.