Whether you are in a relationship or have already claimed your best friend as your Valentine, the opportunity to give them a little special something is the first thing to come to mind – unfortunately, some of the nicest gifts aren’t the most affordable.

If you’re planning on sticking to a college student budget, you may want to consider a project to show your significant other just how much they mean to you.

One of biggest benefits of creating a DIY Valentine’s Day gift is that it shows the love you have for the person through the effort you put into your creation. Your date will be able to see all of the hard work you put into something made just for them.

Think about some of their favorite things – do they like candy and sweets? How about collectibles or keepsakes? Keep these things in mind as you go over these fun, inexpensive and easy-to-make DIY Valentine’s gifts!

If your Valentine happens to have a sweet tooth, filling up a mason jar with their favorite candy will be simple and effective – a heart-shaped box of assorted chocolates doesn’t cut it for some people. Besides Halloween, this is the only other time of the year where stores are stocked with every candy you can think of, and most every brand stocks their sweet treat in pink and red.

When adding a gift tag or blank sticker, try being clever when you’re expressing your feelings. “You make my heart BURST,” when using Starbursts candies, “I love your beary much,” for gummy bears or “Gimme a break and be my Valentine” for Kit-Kats are a few quirky examples.

Personalizing a canvas for your Valentine is a gift that can serve as a great memory and decoration year-round. Oftentimes, all you need is a little paint to get started.

You may consider choosing a line from your Valentine’s favorite song, movie or book. The lyric, “You lift my heart up when the rest of me is down,” in the hit-song “Latch” by Sam Smith sends a sweet message or “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran. You can also spice up your canvas by using ribbon, glitter, buttons or beads for intricate designs based on your theme.

For something more intimate, you can always create a playlist or soundtrack of songs that remind you of your Valentine. Whether it is your best friend or a significant other, expressing your love through music is unique and special.

Something along similar lines includes using printed photos of you and your date to write out fond memories you’ve shared, whether it be from the photo itself or favorite memory from a different time. If you’re a lady, you may even consider sealing them in an envelope with your kisses left on the front with red lipstick for a special touch.

Remember that gifting is not about the quantity or the number on the price tag, but rather the quality and the significance it holds. Make this Valentine’s Day one full of celebration and ease – your date will love that you did it yourself.