How to make a DIY gift voucher

A homemade voucher is a promise with admin attached. The ones that get used say exactly what is included, when it is available and how to claim it.

Treat it like a real ticket: a title, the detail, a date range and your name.

What every voucher needs

• A clear title: "One full Saturday of childcare", not "babysitting sometime".
• What is included and what is not: "Includes tea, bath and bedtime. Does not include the school run."
• When it can be used: "Any Saturday before 31 December, two weeks' notice."
• How to claim it: "Text me the date. No need to ask twice."
• Your name and the date you wrote it.

Wording that works

• This voucher entitles the holder to one home-cooked dinner of their choosing, washing up included.
• Redeemable for one full day out, planned by me, no input required from you.
• Good for one lift anywhere within an hour's drive, no questions asked, including airports.
• One afternoon of DIY. You point, I fix. Ladders provided.

Making it look the part

• Print on the thickest paper your printer takes, or stick it to card.
• Keep it to one clear heading, three lines of detail and a signature.
• Number them if you are giving a set, so they feel like a book of tickets.

Rules worth setting

• Give an expiry that is far enough away to be usable and close enough to prompt action.
• Say how much notice you need, so neither of you feels ambushed.
• Do not attach conditions that make it feel like a chore to claim.

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How to write it so it lands

• Write it as if a stranger had to honour it - that forces the detail in.
• Sign it. It turns a note into a promise.
• Keep a copy so you both know what was offered.

Where to shop next

• Printable time coupons
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• Homemade gift ideas
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• Time coupon ideas
• Gift ideas when money is tight
• Free ways to make someone feel good
• Money-free gifting guides
• Printable time coupons
• All guides
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Frequently asked questions

Should a homemade voucher have an expiry date?

Yes - a generous one. Without a deadline most vouchers sit in a drawer forever.

How many vouchers should you give?

Between three and twelve. Fewer feels thin, more feels like homework for both of you.

What if they never redeem it?

Book it yourself. Message them a date, say the voucher is being cashed in, and turn up.