I'll admit it: as usual, throughout the semester, I spent all of my savings on pointless things. I tell myself every semester that I'll be better, that I won't buy that cute blouse or get that unnecessary takeout, but I always do. So now, with Christmas coming around, I am floundering for gift ideas that somehow will show people I care without breaking the bank. Here are 11 ideas that I've come up with.
1. Painted canvas
Spoiler alert: many of my family members this year will be receiving painted canvases that I made. They can be personalized to the person you make them for, and the supplies you buy are cheap and can be used for more than one canvas.
2. Homemade card
Again, homemade cards are personal and very cheap to make. By putting your own message in them, they can be very thoughtful, but stealing paper from your printer costs nothing at all!
3. Picture frame/album
Memories are sometimes more valuable than an expensive gift. Find a cute picture of you and a friend or family member and put it in a cute but inexpensive frame. Bam! Cute, meaningful (cheap) gift!
4. Personalized coupons
They're cliché, but handmade coupons for hugs always make mom or dad happy.
5. A favor
Every year for Christmas, I help my Nana by wrapping all of her Christmas presents. I love doing this for her, because it saves her time and wrapping is uncomfortable for her. This costs no money on my part, but makes her so happy and shows her how much I appreciate her.
6. Time spent together
Especially when you're away at school, even taking time out of your busy schedule to spend time with your annoying but well-meaning younger sibling can be a very special present.
7. A break
Offer to babysit for a family friend, aunt, or uncle that has a small child. This costs you nothing, but the nap or night out that they get is priceless.
8. Cook
Make your family a meal. Use the ingredients already in your kitchen, but treat them to multiple courses and be a waiter/waitress. They'll definitely appreciate it, especially if you don't usually cook.
9. Something that is special to you
Sometimes, regifting isn't a bad thing, if it's with the right intentions. Give a friend a book that you've read that you think they'll enjoy, or give a sibling an old toy/clothing item that they always steal anyway.
10. A letter
Write a thank you letter to someone who might not get enough appreciation. All this takes is a piece of paper and a pen, but you have no idea how much they'll appreciate it.
11. A handmade gift
Craft stores always have sales. Look around for cheap ornaments to paint or other festive crafts. Family members tend to appreciate the handmade stuff more anyway.
So, if you're like me, and are looking to save a few dollars, try a few of these tricks. If you're smart with your money, you'll be able to give meaningful gifts without emptying your bank account.
