Give the gift of DIY this Christmas

Struggling to come up with the perfect presents for loved ones this silly season? The tools to complete a DIY project could be the perfect gift, and there's even a study to prove it.

A new study called "A Lot of Work or a Work of Art: How the Structure of a Customized Assembly Task Determines the Utility Derived from Assembly Effort" has found a greater sense of appreciation and value is assigned to gifts that can be customised during the design process. Whether it's garden landscaping or painting a house, the sense of participation when completing DIY projects makes an individual's experience more rewarding.

According to the study's authors Eva C. Buechel and Chris Janiszewski, "Infusing choice is particularly value enhancing for consumption activities that involve a great deal of effort and activity".

These interesting findings came about after the researchers asked people to make holiday-themed figurines from a kit. This produced results showing consumers taking parts in product assembly leads to a more positive experience for those involved, and also that increased consumer engagement leads to more value placed on the final outcome.

The study also found customisation rates highly among recipients' present preferences, and the authors suggest it should be incorporated in goods and services wherever possible.

Based on that research, one great gift idea for the avid home decorator in your life would be a trip to your local paint store and a gift voucher. The recipient is able to select exactly what colours and products they want to use to decorate their abode, and will appreciate the freedom of choice and the personal nature of the present.

For younger giftees, a craft kit or age-appropriate tool box could be a great way to kickstart their DIY careers. Give them all the essentials to make a birdhouse, model car or batch of cookies, but let them do it themselves in order to maximise the value of the gift. You'll be amazed at what kinds of colour combinations and designs kids can come up with when they put their minds to it!

Alternative ideas include supplies to make a luxurious kennel for the dog-lover in your life, timber and tools for furniture lovers or baking supplies for those more domestically inclined.