Environmentally Friendly

As people grow concerned over global warming, excessive landfills, and unusual allergic reactions to the environment, more people try to incorporate reuse and recycle, as well as natural elements into their every day life styles. Environmentally friendly gift giving is on the rise because of this. For those stuck on what to give, eco-friendly gifts may offer a viable solution.

A simple and luxurious gift involves organic bath goods. Buy natural bath salts online, or create your own by blending some Epsom salts (relaxes muscles and helps skin), pinch of baking soda (softens water and skin), and a little bit of cornstarch (skin softener), or powdered milk (skin softener). Remove the label, wash, and dry a mayonnaise jar before pouring in the mixture. You may want to paint the lid, or cover with fabric. Use hemp to tie to it an instruction card made from handmade paper for an added personal touch. Other items to add to the salts include a few drops of essential, or fragrance oil, a drizzle of sweet almond oil and a couple drops of vitamin E.

Robes and wash cloths sewn from organically grown cotton makes the list of environmentally friendly gifts. These items are light weight and comfortable, especially in warm weather.

Give the gift of a handmade paper journal. These journals come from recycled paper. The pages may feel smooth or textured. Some fantastic handmade paper journals include pressed flowers and leaves in their design. If you want to make a gift that is more personal and rewarding at the same time, online websites and how to books give step by step processes on making your own handmade journal. As an added bonus, make larger handmade sheets and envelopes personalized with your favorite scent.

One popular gift entails shaping an old vinyl record into a bowl or vase. Flea market and yard sellers tend to sell these at a low rate, sometimes ten for a dollar and sometimes toss left over records at the end of the day. Craft sites, like Craftster.org, list tutorials on how to mold records into functional bows and gifts.

Old Scrabble tiles and tiny logos can find a new purpose by being transformed into jewelry. Simply drill a hole in each piece and attach an earring hook or antique chain.

Not in the mood to make a gift? Find natural, organic and environmentally friendly gifts through online sellers, or search your phone book for retailers in your area.