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Valentine’s Day does not have to revolve around store-bought gifts. Homemade message cookies, a festive garland and hand-painted candles can add a thoughtful touch to the celebration.

Message Cookies

The materials you will need are:

  • Small stamping letters
  • Premade cookie dough
  • Cookie cutters in assorted shapes

Roll out the dough and use the cookie cutters to create pieces in any shape or size. Press affectionate words or short notes into each cookie with the stamping letters, then bake them according to the dough’s directions.

The finished treats offer a sweet, personalized way to share a message with someone special.

Valentine’s Day Garland

The materials you will need are:

  • Small paper doilies
  • Small heart stickers
  • String
  • Conversation hearts

Begin each miniature envelope by folding the sides of a paper doily toward the middle, followed by the remaining paper toward the center. Fold the upper corners diagonally to form a triangle, then bring that section over the bottom layer to complete the envelope shape.

Place a heart sticker in the center and repeat the process until you have enough envelopes for the garland. Thread string through each one, adding conversation hearts between them for extra decoration.

The completed garland can brighten a Valentine’s Day party or serve as a seasonal room decoration.

Heart Candles

The materials you will need are:

  • Two taper candles
  • Pink acrylic paint
  • Thin paintbrushes

Choose two taper candles in any color, then use a thin brush and pink acrylic paint to cover them with small hearts. Once finished, the decorated candles can add a cheerful Valentine’s Day accent to a room or event.

From edible notes to handmade decorations, these three simple projects offer creative ways to show loved ones some appreciation.