It's a little early, I know, to be thinking about holiday gifts. But if you want to give a special person a handmade gift created just for them, then you may have to start organizing it now. One thing to consider is commissioning a favorite recipe to be made into original watercolor like the one above from Lucile Prache in Paris, France. More

We have good friends who are expecting their first baby any second now, and it's had me thinking about what we should make to bring over when the day comes. I've had a few close friends have their first children this year, but unfortunately we haven't lived in the same city, so I'm thrilled to have the chance to help out this time around. More

Have you ever smacked your forehead in December, wishing that you had started a DIY food gift earlier? Well, now is the time to do exactly that. Things like homemade vanilla and booze-spiked fruits are best when given several months to steep and mellow - not to mention the infamous fruitcake (which can be really delicious when you make it yourself). More

Q: Some good friends just had a baby and I want to take them some food. Seeing as it's the dead heat of summer, I'd like to stay away from the obligatory casserole. But something that doesn't have to be eaten the night it's prepared would be good. Help!

Sent by Brianna More

Old handwritten family recipe cards too often spend most of their time hidden away in boxes. Why not turn your most treasured handwritten recipes into beautiful, useful tea towels that can be displayed and enjoyed every day? The Spoonflower blog has a tutorial on how to do it using their custom fabric printing service. More

Q: For my birthday, my friend gave me a basket with edible gifts she made herself. Her birthday is coming up and I want to repay her generosity, but I don't have much time to handcraft. What are some good artisan treats to buy or quick homemade delights I can give her?

Sent by Julie More

Bringing a bottle of wine is always good. And safe. But to take the gesture up a notch, we've got a few summer hostess gifts that will leave a longer impression. More

Every now and then, a truly smile-worthy idea comes to our attention that blends food, culture, art, and innovation. This happened last week when we came across art student and designer Kelly Pratt's project Stately Sandwiches. More

Q: My friend just lost her mother and will be coming back home after the funeral in a few days. I'd like to stock her freezer with some single-serving meals so she doesn't need to think about cooking when she gets back. Vegetarian options would be preferable and definitely no cheese.

Sent by Kim More