Written by Devin Miller, Relate Contributing Writer
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” echoes through the mall as you search every single store for that “perfect” gift. Finally, you spot what you think would be a great present…then you see the price tag.
You’re not alone. If your budget just isn’t cutting it, why not make a homemade gift for that special someone? Giving a gift you made yourself shows that you put extra thought and effort into creating a present unique to the receiver. Here are some inexpensive and creative homemade gifts that are sure to be cherished and remembered forever:
1) Make a photo collage: Buy an inexpensive poster frame and cover the cardboard backing with construction paper in the receiver’s favorite color. Now for the fun part: rummage through picture boxes to find tons of photos to make up your collage. Don’t forget you don’t have to use just photos; include ticket stubs, inspirational quotes, words cut from magazines, anything you can find that relates to the person getting the collage! Cut the photos into different shapes, and paste them and any other items onto the construction paper. Slide the finished collage into the frame, and you have a gift that documents great memories!
2) Cook a special meal: Whether it’s for your family or for your boyfriend, surf the web, search your mom’s recipe books, or watch cooking shows to discover the perfect three-course meal. Take it a step further by creating your own menu! Use the computer or get crafty with colorful paper, but either way, the people you’re serving will have something to remind them of the wonderful meal. By setting the table with fancy glasses, a cute centerpiece and playing light holiday tunes in the background, you can add that special touch to the presentation of your meal.
3) Burn a CD: Create a list of that person’s favorite songs, and include songs that the two of you may have memories tied to. Even though we all seem to have iPods nowadays, there’s nothing better than popping in a great CD during a long drive. Make a handmade or computer-generated cover to slide into the front of the plastic case, and remember to include a list of songs!
4) Design a personalized tote: Find a plain, canvas tote and a pack of colorful permanent markers at your local craft store. Decorate the tote with inspirational sayings, funny inside jokes, favorite quotes and cute drawings. After you’ve filled up the entire tote, you’ve created an adorable yet functional bag for mom, grandma or your best friend!
5) Put together a gift basket: Go on a shopping spree at your local dollar store. Find a cool container and fill it with stuff you know that person could use or would like. For $15 you can get 15 different items! Be clever, practical, and thoughtful in finding the perfect items to put in the gift basket.
These ideas make gift-giving more fun for both the giver and the receiver, and they are much easier on your wallet!
