Photo by annia316 Ask the readers: Inexpensive gifts to improve your life?
OK, the holiday season is upon us, and many people are doing their Christmas shopping (or whatever holiday you celebrate) … what to buy?
I’m looking for suggestions that will:
1. Help you improve your life. And no, beer doesn’t count.
2. Not cost a whole lot.
I’m thinking that $20-under gifts would be good, but $10-under is even better.
So let’s hear your suggestions!
Bonus questions: tips for inexpensive holidays? For keeping weight off during the holidays? Creative gift wrapping suggestions? Let’s have a reader tip fest! :)
- Posted on 12 December 2007 in Finance & Family, Simplicity |
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Comments (154)
Evan Meagher Says:
December 12th, 2007, 22:44 pm
Tea! It’s not too expensive and a 4oz tin can last quite a while, depending on their drinking habits. There’s a wide variety of teas out there too, so there’s apt to be something for anyone.
Danielle Says:
December 12th, 2007, 22:51 pm
a pedometer! you can get a top of the line one for under $20. 10,000 steps a day keeps the doctor away :)
Val Ann C Says:
December 12th, 2007, 22:59 pm
A good quality potato peeler. Most people have old dull peelers. An OXO peeler is easy to use. It will save them time. If they already have one, it’s still good to have an extra on hand.
http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Grips-1057966-Swivel-Peeler/dp/B0000DAQ46/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1197514671&sr=1-6
Give it to them with a nice bag of organic carrots.
Matt Q Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:09 pm
I’m gonna make some homemade salsa, can it, and create a wrapper of from some old photo’s I have on my computer.
It doesn’t cost a whole lot, and I get the benefit of making something with my own two hands.
I’m even going to use some pepper from my homegrown chili plant.
Kirk’s Killer Kickin’ Salsa
1 29 ounce can diced tomatoes
1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
4-6 cloves garlic or to your taste chopped fine
1 handful or more of crushed red chili also to your hot taste
¾ large chopped onion
Salt
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Stir this good and add a little water if too thick. Tomatoes have lots salt so check before adding , then add to your taste. If you like oregano or cilantro that can be added, I don’t care for it. Make ahead of time as it s flavor will be much better in 2-3 days. Good on eggs and corn chips.
Bruce Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:10 pm
I received a custom calendar. It had pictures of all my children, grandchildren and on dates for birthdays and anniversarys tiny pictures of the people involved. It was made on the walmart photo site by my daughter and cost $16 plus shipping and tax. I could not have received a more useful gift nor one that mattered more to me.
Juggling Frogs Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:11 pm
Onion Goggles!
Don’t know if the link will work, but here they are on amazon: onion goggles
Samantha Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:13 pm
The Tao Te Ching, a wonderful book of Eastern philosophy (specifically Taoism). My favorite translation is by John C.H. Wu. The perfect gift that is good for you, mentally!
Although, I am sure you are already know of this book.
My copy was $10 exactly.
Another idea is knitting needles, yarn, and possibly a cheap instructional book. Learning to knit is a valuable skill because being able to make your own clothing, scarfs, bags, etc is fun and fulfilling! An instructional book isn’t even necessary because there are so many online videos that can teach you how. This gift idea can also be used for crocheting.
Healthy cookbooks are also wonderful gifts. You could even add your own touch by making one of the recipes and giving it to the person receiving the book! This would be especially fun for a vegetarian cookbook given to a non-vegetarian since there are so many myths that vegetarian food is “icky.”
David Echols Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:13 pm
As a student, I have no money available to spend on others for gifts.
Read:
ZERO DOLLARS.
I really enjoy giving services as gifts. Which is a better gift… or giving you something you’ll never forget — like helping you acquire a good loan, upgrading your computer, getting your finances in order…
I think I know the answer to this one.
Robert 'Groby' Blum Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:23 pm
I lean towards gifts that can either be consumed or a otherwise not taking up space. Movie Tickets, iTunes downloads - keep in mind the gift recipient doesn’t necessarily your tastes. At least with those ‘transient’ gifts, they don’t clutter the recipients space.
So yes, David’s suggestion above is pretty good, too.
Leo Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:31 pm
Oh, man … I can tell I’m going to really enjoy this comment thread. :)
Great suggestions so far, guys!
Juggling Frogs Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:37 pm
It’s probably trite, and already on everyone’s list already, but mustn’t forget a Moleskine notebook or two!
Michael Sampson Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:49 pm
A 2008 priorities wrist ID for $20 … see http://www.michaelsampson.net/2007/12/get-your-2008-p.html
Lori Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:50 pm
I’m giving my kids (youngs adults out on their own) the gift of ‘green’ this year. I picked up some cloth grocery bags and filled each with a book of ‘green’ ideas, some compact fluorescent bulbs, and earth friendly cleaning supplies. Price per bag was definitely under $20. They’re also getting earthquake preparedness backpacks filled with essential survival supplies (this was NOT an inexpensive idea however!). They will probably think I’ve ‘lost it’ when they open their gifts, but that’s okay…it won’t be the first time they’ve had that thought!
Star Straf Says:
December 12th, 2007, 23:58 pm
I’m often the one with the camera at parties and such, so over the year I pick up photo frames at garage sales (or at the dollar store if I forgot) and then I print photos of people for Christmas presents. How many pictures do you have that both you and your wife are in?
Marlin Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:04 am
If anyone gives me a potato peeler or onion goggles for Christmas they are getting a black eye in return. Clearly the greatest gift you can give someone for under $20 is a CD where each track is you complimenting them.
Rich Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:06 am
gift baskets are a always a great way to go. Purchase items in bulk and divide them into multiple baskets.
A couple of our favourite themes are:
A movie night (popcorn, rental gift certificate ($5), pop, a blanket)
Romantic night (wine glasses, wine, bubble bath)
DermDoc Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:06 am
Under $20 bucks is hard. What about a subscription to Men’s or Women’s Health? It’s 12 months of tips and guilting the recipient into a carb-free life.
Dicky Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:10 am
A memento of the year - a couple of years ago I started keeping in a shoe box receipts, menus from special meals out, tickets from gigs, select photos basically anything small that had a memory attached and also made a note of strange, funny or unusual things that happened that may otherwise had been forgotten. I then scrapbooked it all together for my wife for Christmas…cost next to nothing apart from my time and some paper and glue ;-) …(although saying that I am a natural hoarder so may not be to everyone’s cup of tea!)…
Erica Ross-Krieger Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:10 am
7 Inexpensive and life-changing holiday gift ideas (I’ve given and adore giving each one them):
1. a poem you write about the way the recipient’s contributed to your life
2. a shoulder massage during a stressful time
3. an offer to help with an errand or two for a busy mom
4. your favorite recipe for a healthy holiday cake (see the Cook Right for Your Type cookbook), written up and tied to the cake itself
5. Leo’s e-book
6. My book: “Seven Sacred Attitudes–How to Live in the Richness of the Moment” which is $16.95 at: http://www.ericarosskrieger.com/buy_the_book.php
7. the ebook version for $12.95 at: http://www.booklocker.com/books/3207.html
Patrick Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:13 am
I think that books are a great gift. They can be very cheap, and it is one gift that can definitely help to improve someone’s life.
Frank Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:17 am
I agree with books — used book stores are a treasure trove!!!! Also — for techno-geek types: a 1 GB flash drive that you have loaded PortableApps (including Firefox) on… great for accessing your faves on line on the go…
Juggling Frogs Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:20 am
LOL, Martin!
For my mother’s birthday, I took all her little slips of paper and worn address books, entered the data in a spreadsheet, and printed it to fresh Rolodex cards and a pocket directory.
The cards and paper were less that $20
Megan Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:25 am
I keep meaning to do a post about this… but items I’m getting that fit this criteria:
An Eco-Swag Gift ‘Bag’ (for my brother, he requested it!)
- cloth napkins/napkin rings (thrifted)
- Set of reusable shopping bags (Etsy, or thrift)
- Set of washclothes/towels (ie no paper towels), thrifted
- Glass pyrex measuring cup (no plastics), thrifted
- Stainless Steel water bottle, $6 at health foods store
- WorldVision has a gift catalog to give to charity instead of gifts
- I asked for many Method cleaning products - they help improve my life because they cut down on harsh chemicals and help my asthma
Other Ideas
- Filtered Water Bottle (saw at my health foods store, $5, has filter built in, use 90 times)
- Herbal/Medicinal Tea (or vitamins)
- Gift certificate for a detox foot bath
- Gift certificate to meet with a nutritionist or herbalist (maybe 15-30 min session?)
- Live Plants…natural air purifiers for your home
- Make natural wood starters by dipping dropped pinecones in recycled candle wax (better than other firestarters, natural)
- Homemade granola, I’m making some for a friend that includes her fav flavors (dried banana and cranberries), it’s healthy and cheap!
- Recipe book - I made on a while back for a friend’s wedding, they love it! Cost me $5 and I saved the file to do it again in the future - focus on healthy recipes (ie I tried to avoid anything that featured ‘Velveeta’ ‘Bisquick’ etc. I wanted REAL ingredients, such as whole grain bread).
- Bus Pass! (here they’re $10)
- Biking supplies…helmet, seat, gloves, saddlebags to hold groceries, etc.
Wrapping Ideas
- Gift Boxes (picked up at thrift stores), don’t wrap, just leave as is with pretty design
- vintage gift wrap (or thrifted)
- thrifted ribbon (allover thrift stores, I never buy bows!)
- Cloth bags (many on etsy, try olebaglady.etsy.com)
- Christmas Tins (I made my sister a ‘pirate’ themed gift that i put in a fun tin I found with a ship on it!)
- Baskets - also at thrift stores
- cloth napkins (thrift) tie around gift
- I also make recycled Christmas tags out of old christmas cards
- I got a gift once that was all kitchen themed items, and the whole box was wrapped in a tablecloth!
-Canning Jars - when I make food, even if it’s not ‘canned’ (like granola or dried fruit) I put it in a pretty jar, maybe add some scrap fabric or ribbon
- Old Calendars - wrap with them!
- Old sheet music
- Old maps (we always have a few in our car) - city/bus, etc.
Geo Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:26 am
This idea requires a time investment, but only a few minutes each day. I did it once for my husband. Every day for a year, write a sentence or more describing some endearing quality of or action done by your friend/family member/significant other—something you’re grateful for. Before Christmas (or the red-letter day of your choosng), turn your collection of good stuff into a simple daily calendar, and give your special somebody the gift of love and appreciation for an entire year. I can almost guarantee it will be a favorite. Prepare to be kissed!
Ben Clapton Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:28 am
I think that calendar idea is great. I’m going to try and put together one for my grandparents, with all their kids and grandkids birthdays on there, with their photo on the day. All I need is access to a colour printer…
I love heading to the local markets when i’m looking for a cheap present for someone. Generally, I find myself in a little asian store, where I’ll find some fantastic small box for around $10. It’s a fantastic gift, because the person can use it for all sorts of things (One box I gave away to a teacher is being used to store “Fairy dust” in, while other uses can be for jewellery, or coins, or even just display)
Beth Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:34 am
I love the ecobag idea, Lori! One year when I was especially broke I wrote a letter to each of my relatives saying how much they meant to me, their good qualities and fun memories. Mom and Grandma got teary eyed.
Some other ideas:
~ a family recipe book
~ certificate for a day at the museum (lots of museums have a free day once a week or month)
~ a yoga mat $8-20
~ for a nearby relative you can go to their house once a month to weed, trim, cut grass, rake, or shovel snow
~ a planner or tip a day calendar
~ a bag of dollar store toys like bouncy balls, paddle balls, and little cars for work breaks
~ for busy people that can’t keep up with the technology burn a CD with free downloads from the net with a print out of what is on there, where to find it again and what the program does
~ make a web page for them/about them
~ markers, crayons, card stock and a put or print out of how to do a vision collage
victoria Says:
December 13th, 2007, 0:37 am
Echoing what Samantha said: A few years ago, when I moved to the city where I live now, I ended up taking a two-evening knitting class on a whim. It was either $20 or $25 for both sessions.
Absolute best thing I ever did.
I’ve met all kinds of people through knitting (which was important to me, because being uprooted from family and friends was a rough adjustment), I find it relaxing and calming, and it’s a creative outlet that I can actually enjoy with my young daughter around, or in stolen moments here and there.
A lot of art museums, cookware stores, craft stores, etc., offer one- or two-session classes that are in that price range. I think it’s a lovely gift for someone who’s new to a city, or who might be looking to branch out from something they already enjoy (say, a wine class for a food lover).
Autumn Welles Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:05 am
An idea for wrapping would be to decorate those big brown paper bags you can get your groceries in. Just ask the cashier or bagger for paper, and viola—free wrapping!
Jon Speer Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:07 am
My great-grandmother used newspaper to wrap gifts. Sometimes I got lucky and had the comic pages.
Turner Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:27 am
A personal story or memory directed at the receiver, and a small photograph to go with it.
Migo Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:28 am
A great MUG for your cup of favorite coffee or tea, A mug that suit your taste and design style.
a is as personal sa your toothbrush!
My choice? a MUG from Topchoice!
Martina Scholtens Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:52 am
Get a bunch of little 4″ x 6″ photo albums, fill them with the extra photos of the kids from the past year, and give them to relatives.
Folic acid for any sexually active woman of reproductive age:
http://www.freshmd.com/fresh_md/2007/11/daily-folic-aci.html
John Rocheleau - Artist Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:56 am
Ok, hold on, here it is: a hand compiled photo scrap book with all sorts of nifty notations.
This makes a great gift If, like myself, you have an aging parent or anyone else you love, who lives thousands of miles away. It cost next to nothing if you own a digital camera and a printer. It brings you together with that person more than any other gift. They will appreciate the personal effort you put into it, and you will enjoy the spirit of giving and connecting as you create it.
Merry Christmas,
John
Ninos Says:
December 13th, 2007, 1:59 am
I’m the artistic type. As a result, I take photos that remind me of the person, frame them 8×11, wrap and voila. Thoughtful present under 20$
Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:
December 13th, 2007, 2:02 am
A great gift idea would be to frame a special photograph. I gave one to my best friend for his birthday and he loved it! And it only cost about R35 (US$5).
Another great idea would be to write a note of “ten reasons I love you” and also have that framed. Again, it’ll cost practically nothing. I’ve come to realize people prefer things that are personalized and that won’t be eaten or wilt within a few days!
Happy holidays!
Uberclerk Says:
December 13th, 2007, 2:07 am
Everybody loves car gadgets, and you can get your loved ones a pressure-indicating tire valve for about $18!
Constant, at-a-glance, information will help your friend to save money, save time, save tire wear, save highway entropy, save gas, save lives, save baby seals, and a partridge in a pear tree. (Okay, maybe not those last two…).
Jon Says:
December 13th, 2007, 2:29 am
My grandma makes home-made strawberry jam for Christmas presents. She grows her own strawberries and recycles her old canning jars.
Her jam is by far the most anticipated present because of all the work and care she puts into it (and because it’s so freaking tasty!!).
Denise Says:
December 13th, 2007, 3:02 am
You can write a song for someone and recorded using your computer and free software,
or write a poem or a short story.
Denise Says:
December 13th, 2007, 3:05 am
recorded = recored it
nicole Says:
December 13th, 2007, 3:15 am
This idea might not be for everyone, but some might like it. I’m sure it’s been around a while, but I’ve never actually seen it done.
Because there is a lot of children in our family, the wrapping paper was a disaster last year. My mother-in-law and I spent a long time cleaning it all up and filled a couple trash bags full of wrapping paper, ribbon, bows, boxes and packages, etc. It was wonderful watching them open everything, but we didn’t like the trash.
Later, as we sat together relaxing, we got to talking about everything. We came up with the idea of making giant christmas bags for each child. If you do a little shopping and digging around, you could be thrifty when buying the materials. Plus, all you need are the fabric, rope, thread and a sewing machine. If you prefer hand-sewing, you can even skip the machine.
For me, I’m making about ten 3′ red and green reversible bags. Perfect for boy or girl, or an entire family. With the right material, it can be used yearly and possibly be passed down to the next generation.
It saves money on wrapping paper and whatnot that will just be thrown away, less trash, each child’s gifts will be all together in one bag. Many other good reasons to do this, but I’ll leave that up to the rest of you to figure out.
*Side note: Leo, I was referred to this blog from my husband some months ago. I instantly became addicted and subscribed to your feeds. Later, I decided to read about the owner of the blog and found out you live on Guam. My husband and I are both from Guam. I was born and raised there and moved stateside less than 5 years ago. My husband didn’t even know you were from there. Something you and my husband have in common: you both worked for PDN.
Anne Says:
December 13th, 2007, 4:09 am
Some gifts that haven’t cost us too much and were well received include:
A gift box of homemade goodies from our garden, such as pickles, dried peppers.
Jars of special bread, cookie, muffin or pancake mixes with all the dry ingredients attractively layered. Top with a fabric remnant and tie off with ribbon or raffia.
A tin of Christmas cookies (my favorite - homemade butter cookies, chocolate and nuts).
Hand wrought iron work like towel holders and the like made from scrap metal (my husband is a blacksmith).
I’ve even done a particularly inspiring quote or poem in calligraphy, framed it in a thrift store or found frame and given that as a gift.
For wrapping paper, the kids and I have great fun with potato stamps, food coloring/paint and brown paper bags. We’ve also wrapped stuff up in odd bits of fabric that were leftovers from sewing projects. Several family members prefer unwrapped gifts.
Scott Says:
December 13th, 2007, 4:55 am
I bought my Dad a cell phone charger for the car. It’s not an expensive gift (99 cents + $3 shipping on ebay), but it’s one of those things that come in very handy when you really need it. Doesn’t sound like much, but it’s not something he would actually spent the money on himself, and this way he doesn’t have to fret too much about killing his battery by talking to me too long. In that way, I expect that it’ll bring him quite a bit of joy and relieve some unnecessary stress in his life.
Jussi Says:
December 13th, 2007, 5:42 am
Fire blanket.
Maybe you can find one with a reasonable price from a general store near you. Here in Finland fire blankets cost from 10euro and up - and usually Finland ain’t too cheap.
Camilla Says:
December 13th, 2007, 5:47 am
Ooh, tip fest! These are all awesome. Not much to add, but these idea have proven useful for me:
~ I have a document on my computer with everyone’s name in that needs presents (xmas and birthday), sectioned under years. Then at the bottom i build links throughout the year to websites with presents that i think look interesting, and come christmas i have a huge list to choose from and don’t have to go hunting at all.
Xmas is SO much easier since i did this.
~ In our family we have to stay under £20 ($40) for gifts, and this year we stuck under £10 ($20) for each by buying single DVDs - movies we love and want to share.
~ We often ask for Oxfam or Send-A-Cow charity gifts. It annoys me that they give you a card and leaflet and fridge-magnet though, i’d rather even that money went to charity.
~ I get all my presents bought by the end of November! I am forced to for some, as they get sent to Norway, but i try and do it for all my gifts. It takes a weight off my mind and lets me enjoy the run-up to Xmas.
Must bookmark this entry and come back for an indepth read after work!
Christian Says:
December 13th, 2007, 6:14 am
A gift of fun: parlor games or board games
Carl Says:
December 13th, 2007, 8:44 am
The recipe with the layered ingredients is great, even for young kids, cuz then they get to make “their own”. I used to have a bar cookie recipe that the only ingredient you had to add yourself was a can of sweetened condensed milk (or was it evap.?). Everything in the decorated jar dumps into the bowl, just add the milk, stir, and bake. It was SO easy, the kids loved to make it.
Anyone have a recipe like that?
Liza Says:
December 13th, 2007, 8:50 am
I like the scrapbook idea - memories and photos and the gift of your time mean alot to people;
One year I covered shoe box lids with coloured paper (to make trays) and then over the course of a few evenings made some chocolate truffles with different ingredients. (Nuts, white chocolate, orange) I then divided the different flavoured chocolates so there was a mixture on each tray and then tied them up with ribbon (kept from last year’s prezzies) and celophane. In this way I made presents for 6 different families, and they were SO impressed!
Another year my in-laws bought folders for each of their kids, and typed up family recipes and put them into clear holders. They left a few spare clear sheets in the folder so that we could add our own family favourites. We still use it every day!
plonkee Says:
December 13th, 2007, 8:50 am
A hot water bottle. With a nice cover.
A hat, scarf and gloves set.
A blanket.
Can you tell it’s cold in my house?
sunny Says:
December 13th, 2007, 9:05 am
As an auntie to a few toddlers this year who will be learning their alphabets soon, I found the inspiration to make an alphabet book with photos of familiar objects and family members - on colorful pages.
This way the kids will still remember the faces and names of family members who live far away and also learn to associate the alphabet with things they see every day.
Plus I get to create something fun with photos I take and it’s affordable!
Found it here: http://familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts/season/feature/ff0108-gifts-of-love/ff0108-gifts-of-love3.html
Ed Says:
December 13th, 2007, 9:09 am
JarPop, jar opener. Less than 5 bucks, will last forever. As I get older I need a little help
spindoktr Says:
December 13th, 2007, 9:41 am
I’m a big fan of the jimi wallet (http://www.thejimi.com/). My girlfriend bought me one for my birthday and it’s a nice change from the veritable pillow I’d been walking around with in my back pocket :p I keep meaning to do a review of it, but I keep forgetting. Oh well, I suppose the hipster PDA would be an inexpensive gift too ^_^
april Says:
December 13th, 2007, 9:45 am
The best gift ever!!! cheap but you have to make it!
and sadly you have some stuff left over but it’s sand so be creative! It also goes with your site!
it’s a Zen Garden!
1. what you need is some scrap wood heck thick cardboard works too! ZERO $$ get scraps don’t pay!
2. doll rod a couple of them at 60cents a piece in usa
3. a bag of white granite sand i could only find a 5lb or 10 lb for about 5 bucks .. it’s a lot of sand…
4. Glue wood clue works best but hot clue works too!
5. an old fork or a new one - 3 for 1 dollar at a dollar store
6. zip lock bags — you may have this allready!
7. and a box to put it in Shoe box ect..
8. and ROCKS!!! FREE!
to put together you just clue 2 doll rods together that will be the wall so cut to size and clue on scrap wood to make a topless boxish like thing
don’t fill it with sand it’s a gift, but clue the inside so no sand will seap out check it if you want with the sand but remove it and put it in a ziplock bag!!! make two or three bags of replacement sand.. and you can get creative and add stuff like stickers or rocks on the out side to make it pretty but wood is pretty enought !!!
in the box type your nice words and give a short story about the zen garden and how it can calm you and your mind! put the rocks in the big box and the sand and the wood box you made.. take the fork and bend the tips of them so it looks like a rake. and give away!
I made this one year when i had no money to get anyone e anything it didn’t take long and I spend about 30 bucks TOTAL that year with the pretty things to put on them!
made about 15 of them and at least 60% of them still love it!
but you can use anything if it ’s a tray like so you can even cut cost by looking for box tops but that’s a little cheap looking!
The Financial Philosopher Says:
December 13th, 2007, 9:49 am
Bypass the inspirational, financial, and business sections in the bookstore and go directly to philosophy. The prior three are only regurgitated, flashy, marketing packages of “timeless” wisdom turned into “conventional” wisdom.
I suggust Tau Te Ching by Lau Tzu (Penguin Classics) for $7.95.
Laura Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:02 am
I would recommend the book “The Tao of Pooh” for my idea.
Or, a $10 gift certificate to your local thrift store.
Oh, and a batch of cookies custom-made for the recipient (my dad likes ‘em burnt). If you don’t want to make them from scratch, Pillsbury makes those cookie dough logs that you can cut and they taste pretty good!
Thanks for all the great ideas. Love this site.
Gunther Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:08 am
I’m a lover of wooden and mechanical pencils and have seen that many friends and colleagues are also pleased by high-quality pencils and erasers. These are not necessarily expensive, and together with a small memo pad they make a nice gift.
jennie Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:10 am
what about a website?
register a domain with google, for $10 a year you get a website (e.g. jenniechen.net) and personalized email addresses (e.g. jennie@jenniechen.net)
then use google’s easy (though primitive) website builder to wip together some pictures and your special messages to your recipient.
Lori Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:12 am
This has been a wonderful resource! Although my holiday shopping is finished, I now have a great list of heartfelt gifts to choose from for celebrations throughout the next year!
Dominic Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:17 am
One of the cheapest, and certainly the most appreciated, gifts I’ve given is a PDA purchased off Ebay. It was an old Cassipeia bought for $20. I added a set of rechargable batteries (newer models have their own internal battery) and a copy of Mobipocket, then burned a DVD of ebooks for the recipient. Now the person to whom it was given…an avid reader…has a complete library on disc and theoretically never needs to buy another novel, is never without a book (or several), and finds the device indispensible. Oh…and it has a calendar, notetaker, to do list and all that stuff as well….
There’s lots of old PDA’s for sale on Ebay, and free books can (legally) be found at sites like Porject Gutengerg and Manybooks.net.
Rebecca Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:28 am
Hi. Love the tips so far. They’ve been great.
I do a lot of “cheap gifts”. My family appreciates the time and effort that goes into the gift and my pocket book appreciates the lack of expense.
@Carl. Check out the following link:
http://www.allfreecrafts.com/giftinajar/soup-mixes.shtml. The site’s got lots of free craft ideas and their recipe in a jar section has a lot of great ideas.
* Homemade baskets. To make a weight loss basket you could include: a handtowel towel, a reusable water bottle (not plastic), a skipping rope, extra shoe laces, and a sweat band.
* Build an emergency kit. Buy a container bag, put in it whatever other small items you’d normally forget to pack for a trip. Wrap it in a plain white hand towel. Tie with ribbon.
* DIY planners and calendars (from diyplanner.com). Print them out - personalize them, get them bound and give them away.
* A how-to-build an emergency kit guide. Go to:
http://getprepared.ca/kit/basic_e.asp
or http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html
Print out the list of equipment, buy the bag to contain it and a few of the smaller items to get them started.
Eric Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:29 am
I got my wife “wristies” since her fingers get very cold when using the PC a lot during the winter. She loves them and we are now getting some for several other family members with cold hands.
Andy Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:43 am
Art.
Handblown glass ornaments make a great gift.
Many of our local artists make a “greeting card” size painting or drawing for around $20. Support your local artists. Or make some art yourself.
JD Says:
December 13th, 2007, 10:45 am
-Twister game for all ages.
-A can of green tea (japanese made).
-A good book.
-”Planet Earth: documentary video from BBC
-2 steel balls for hand massage / cure arthritis (Asian’s herb stores)
Aubrey Says:
December 13th, 2007, 11:12 am
For wrapping gifts, I like to use Japanese Furoshiki techniques (the art of wrapping items in cloth to carry or gift).
It’s not too difficult to learn, makes a mid-range bottle of wine look extra special … AND it’s kind to the Earth! :)
AK Says:
December 13th, 2007, 11:36 am
Little shelf for cellphone and cord while charging so that it doesn’t take up cabinet space, $9.95
Miss Gisele from myBeautyMatch.com Says:
December 13th, 2007, 11:45 am
Leo,
Gifts at less than $10 that are also practical? Wow! That’s quite the challenge my friend.
Challenge doesn’t mean impossible.
I’m go with this list:
1) Shopping bags that are eco friendly (they make carrying multiple plastic bags a thing of the past)
2) A DVD… so many of us are so rushed. A few years ago a friend gave me my favourite movie on DVD because I kept saying that I was so busy I didn’t have time to run and buy it…I loved the gesture.
3) IKEA is your friend! When it comes to getting organized Ikea carries loads of folders, boxes, storing binds that are very practical and often prices below $10…some are between $10-$20.
4) A set of lunch containers — this might sound odd, but a few weeks ago you talked about “how to live frugally”. Sooooooooooo many people are spending over $20 per day of lunches, sodas, tea etc… brining ones lunch is a sure way of cutting cost.
5) A care package: favourite magazine + a cup/mug + real chocolate (or someone’s favourite tea). That’s a great little way for a friend to spend an evening at home.
6) A couple books: reading is the best way to relax.
7) A “dream” book: this could be a binder or just a nice/chic notebook where you get a friend to put in words or images what they want out of life.
8) Finally!!!!! Leo’s new e-book “Zen to Done”! It’s less than $10 and it makes for a perfect gift for anyone wanting a friend to learn how to more simple and productive life!!!
That’s my low-cost gift giving list!
Gisele
Leonard Klaatu Says:
December 13th, 2007, 11:52 am
I-Sight Black Micro Light for Reading and Tasks
$8.95 at Amazon Marketplace (really cool and works well)
MJB Says:
December 13th, 2007, 11:59 am
Ken, a dowel rod?
Todd Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:00 pm
Anything that improves my kitchen improves my life. I would recommend a couple of very small - yet incredibly useful - kitchen tools that make cooking a bit easier. One of the coolest small gifts we got for our wedding this year was a patty-maker (it’s a little plastic hamburger press). It sounds a bit silly but man does it make life easier when it comes time to grill or have a patty melt. Another great invention is wine bottle stoppers. I cannot possibly convey how convenient a couple of these things are if you don’t plan to drain the bottle in a single night.
If your kitchen is missing a few niche tools, I say head to Bed, Bath & Beyond and go nuts for less than $20.
Jessica Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:07 pm
Every year for Chritmas the adults in my family bring one gift under ten dollars to donate to the ‘exchange’. Everyone gets a turn to open a gift, they can keep it or exchange it with the person who was before them. Everyone goes for the Starbucks gift cards and the throw blankets that my aunt knits. But the most fun is trying to get my charmingly obnoxious brother stuck with whatever awful pajamas our mother brought as a gift.
We always get flannel pajamas for our neices and nephews. You don’t have to owrry about size- the bigger the better.
This year we are also celebrating Christmas (the extended family) on the weekend following Christmas day, to take advantage of the post Christmas sales.
Jessica Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:17 pm
A gift to change someones life?
Book- Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman
Adam Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:22 pm
I think just items that help unclutter someone’s life are good ideas. I bought my sister a bike rack that uses pulleys to hoist the bike to the ceiling since her garage is small she’s always knocking into the bikes. I also think a calendar is a good gift to give. Just find something that the person you are buying for enjoys and you can probably find it. My sister has a chocolate lab and I’ve been getting her a lab calendar for years now.
Lana Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:22 pm
I think not giving a gift is great gift. Personally I would rather just spend time with someone over cake and coffee during the holidays. I rarely am so thoughtful that i know a great gift for my friends and family. But I know how to bake a cake and drive!
Jen Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:28 pm
One year I bought glass acid kit and some stenciles. (Very cheap at the craft store). I also bought wine glasses (again, very cheap at Target, World Market, thrift stores, etc.). For my relatives who love wine and love to garden, I etched flowers in their wine glasses. For my brother, who loves poker, I bought 4 small mirror squares and cut out a diamond, spade, heart, and club out of contact paper. I etched the card symbols (1 on each mirror) and gave them to him to use as coasters for his next poker game.
My mother-in-law bought me the book “Happier” which is an excellent book. It was still under 20 the last I checked. It can be found in the self help section and is taken from the number one course at Harvard on positive psychology.
I’ve also created cookbooks for the family, nit picking photos of our relatives eating (at any age) and placing them next to the recipes.
Aromatherapy candles/bubble bath are excellent too. (I’m an elementary teacher and aromatherapy and a bubble bath keep me sane.)
I hope this helped. :)
As far as creative gift wrapping ideas, my favorite has always been purchasing those photo boxes or hat boxes from the craft store. My friend gets me one every year and I love them. They help keep me organized. The photo boxes are about 4 dollars each, the hat boxes can get expensive though.
Jake Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:44 pm
Anything that makes life easier!
-gift cards
-reference books
-planner
-simple, needed tool or accessory
-subscriptions
sunshwr Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:48 pm
I have a group of friends that I went to high school with, and we used to spend alot of time together when we were all attending the same school. Now, however, we are all doing different things at different places around the country. Most of us are students, and as such have a limited christmas gift budget. Instead of everyone giving presents of little value to everyone, we have made it tradition to get together when everyone comes home for christmas and have a nice dinner out. That way we get to spend some rare time together, and also save money.
paltiel Says:
December 13th, 2007, 12:48 pm
Jumper cables - when you need them, they’re worth a million.
V Says:
December 13th, 2007, 13:14 pm
IKEA makes the best garlic press I have ever used. It’s around $5 and would be appreciated by any cook.
REI smart wool hiking socks will warm up anyone’s cold feet. They are good for walking around the house, sleeping, or even hiking. For the women on your list, they come in pretty colors too. They cost about $16.
MagLite flashlights are the best. They never go dead and the batteries last forever.
ps Says:
December 13th, 2007, 13:34 pm
A kiva.org gift certificate is great for everyone on my list.
Melissa Says:
December 13th, 2007, 13:35 pm
I think a great gift is a nice wine bottle opener. I have seen great quality ones for under $20. I dont know how many of the cheap ones I have broken.
humblepie Says:
December 13th, 2007, 13:58 pm
I love giving (and receiving) magazine subscriptions. It so easy to find out the interest of that special someone and match it to a mag. 12 days? How ’bout 12 months of Christmas joy. Plus, they can be re-read and recycled.
I also love giving the gift of time. Create a certificate offering a night of free babysitting, a homemade dinner delivered, take your mom to lunch & to the museum, deliver groceries to your great uncle, take your little brother to park to play catch, clean your best friend’s kitchen. There are hundreds of ways to give a tangible memory to someone.
Sunny Says:
December 13th, 2007, 14:06 pm
Scratch-off lotto tickets? Always fun at parties. =)
Clara2moon Says:
December 13th, 2007, 14:19 pm
Personal calling cards - like business cards w/o the business.
Deana Says:
December 13th, 2007, 14:23 pm
I like to buy Christmas towels (kitchen or hand towels) and use them as “wrapping” for my gift. Discount stores like Target and TJ Maxx have towels that are really cute and cost less than $5. Then I’ll wrap it around a cute picture frame or gift card and tie it with ribbon. It’s 2 gifts in one and there’s no wrapping paper involved!
Ki Says:
December 13th, 2007, 14:29 pm
I have always wanted my husband to write me a letter telling me how he loves me and why. (He doesn’t write, but it’s still a great idea, so I thought I’d pass it on.)
I adore getting a comic strip collection book. Mutts, Rose is Rose, and Garfield are my favorite. Maybe it isn’t intellectual, but the re-read value is huge.
Amelia Garripoli Says:
December 13th, 2007, 15:12 pm
Here are inexpensive-to-free gifts I’ve given in the past:
1) service coupons (things I can do for them — sweep, vacuum, clean the bathroom, weed the garden) — mostly for family; the kids love it if I give them “get out of trouble free” cards too, though they put them on their walls rather than use them!
2) lottery tickets — a few go a long way, especially if there’s a winner, but even without a winner it’s fun. we have plenty of $1 scratch-off tickets.
3) a bar of really nice homemade soap (yours or someone else’s — http://www.etsy.com and http://www.lov.li/ both have very nice handmade soaps if there’s no-one local to you)
4) a hand-poured candle
5) a really nice bar of chocolate or a couple truffles from your local chocolatier
6) a nice (small!) jar of infused olive oil
7) I bake alot of my gifts — loaves of cranberry bread; but when I mail things out, I do a dry mix version, mail that and a cardboard cookable loaf pan with instructions on making their own
Happy holidays!
jasi Says:
December 13th, 2007, 15:19 pm
I don’t like buying things. Especially little gimmicky things. But I saw a set of tire caps that turn red when your pressure is low for $5. If you’re pathetic about checking tire pressure, it could possibly save lives. Cool.
Karyl Says:
December 13th, 2007, 15:52 pm
Though I don’t have any gift ideas for you guys, I just thought I’d pop in and say that this article is GENIUS… I’ve got it bookmarked and will be sure to be back here, possibly to plot and plan for next year (as most of my shopping is done for this year).
Raji Says:
December 13th, 2007, 15:56 pm
Some that I can think of:
- books (if you know the person close enough)
- create a home-spa in a reusable bag like
= Tea bag of lavender petals for bath tub
= almond oil + orange/sandalwood flavored oil for hair bath
= facial cleanser, toner and mask
- Candles
- knit a blanket or shawl
- make beaded earrings
- bake a “prune pecan cake” or “banana walnut cake”
- massage certificate (everyone needs this once in a while!)
- plan a week’s lunch/dinner menu (if they are close enough!)
- dvd of fond memories involving them (my husband’s idea - he created a DVD with photos and video involving that person and added music in the background of the slide show - was a huge hit!!!)
I am a new reader of ZenHabits and absolutely love it. I plan on following some of the great suggestions. Let me make it a habit and then reveal….:-)
Keep up the good job Leo.
Charlotte Says:
December 13th, 2007, 16:23 pm
I like to give this fireplace DVD to friends at Christmas. You can put it on the television when you’re having company and it plays music or fire sounds instead of turning on news or some show or movie that keeps you from talking to each other. I also really like the candle scene as a quiet background to evening reading.
It’s the closest thing I’ve seen to being able to physically force people to slow down and pay attention to what actually matters.
Juggling Frogs Says:
December 13th, 2007, 17:01 pm
Another purchasable thing I just saw on another blog and thought of this thread:
Apron with potholder bottoms looks very useful and $18.
KCCC Says:
December 13th, 2007, 17:31 pm
We do a lot of personal gift coupons as stocking stuffers in our family. “Baked treats for no occasion,” that kind of thing. My seven-year-old gave me “piano practice with no fussing”! :)
For one set of friends, we’re going to do “dinner on us” coupons, so we’ll spend time together later. (We’ve also done movie coupons for them in the past.)
Last year, my folks were thrilled with a little pocket-sized album filled with pictures from a family event - lots of good memories!! A particularly good photo of my parents, enlarged and framed, went to my sibs.
Baked goods are great, as are “cookie in a jar” type things. http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/giftsinajar/a/122099a.htm
For kids, cinnamon ornaments. They enjoy making them, and they smell just wonderful!
My standard “teacher gift” is a movie night - a blockbuster coupon packaged with popcorn and hot chocolate, plus a heartfelt note of appreciation.
Packaging — You can get Christmas-themed lunch bags very inexpensively. Great for cookies, those “movie night” collections above, and other little gifts. To close, fold the top down, punch two holes, thread ribbon through and tie. (Or you can use plain lunch bags and ask your child to decorate them with stamps or colors.)
Cheap gifts - Gizmos. I’m giving a USB battery recharger to the geek on my list (less than $10), and a cord organizer. See http://www.thinkgeek.com
The teenage kids on my list get giftcards for bookstores or iTunes downloads.
KCCC Says:
December 13th, 2007, 17:39 pm
Oh, the bonus on weight… I’ve used the No-S diet for some time now, and it is the BEST in terms of simple rules to keep your eating in control. (http://www.nosdiet.com/) Works all year round, as well as holidays.
Other ideas:
- Focus on quality and scarcity. Don’t bother with the stuff that isn’t really that good, or that you can get any time of year.
- If you’re going to go to multiple holiday dinners, choose only the “special stuff” at each meal. If Aunt Tillie makes dynamite stuffing, and Grandma’s is out of a package, eat Aunt Tillie’s stuffing (instead of the ordinary mashed potatoes) and skip Grandma’s - go for her pie instead.
- If you have an exercise program, keep with it.
- Play with the kids outside - you’ll make memories as you burn calories.
- Use the 1/4, 1/4, 1/2 rule for meals: 1/4 plate is carbs, 1/4 protein, 1/2 veggies/fruits.
- Cut snacking as much as you can. If you’re bored or anxious, FIND SOMETHING ELSE TO DO.
Vanessa Says:
December 13th, 2007, 18:16 pm
Great ideas, I’m going to bookmark this page too! I think I might even get *myself* some of those low-tyre-pressure caps… I’m terrible at checking that.
I’m another one who likes to think hard about people’s needs/likes and give gifts accordingly if I can. This year I’m giving a super-busy friend a house-cleaning voucher, a mountain-biking friend a map of the best singletracks around, and a piano-playing friend some sheet music… In previous years I’ve given pretty dog collars, vegie seeds, a keyring to a new homeowner, a notebook to a book-lover. None of these things cost over the $20 budget, but I hope they’ve shown the person that I appreciate them without cluttering up their house.
What’s great for people with children is a portrait photography session from somewhere like PixiFoto. They’re only about $20 but it’s something people don’t often get for themselves.
Men without hobbies are the hardest! This year I’m going for plain vintage cufflinks for my boyfriend’s dad, and a Marlibottle-opener for a friend who loves microbrewed beer. And my ultimate fallback is wine – almost everybody loves it, and it’s useful this time of year with guests coming round.
Oooh, and speaking of Hipster PDAs, has everyone seen these beautiful leather holders for your index cards? Not cheap cheap, but sooo lovely.
Sorry for the long comment, but you’ve got me all enthused about present-shopping! Hooray!
Janice Says:
December 13th, 2007, 18:19 pm
Female friend and I provide this “gift” for each other. In order to stay on with our workout goals–we give each other redeemable coupons to watch each other’s kids for an hour at a time. The catch is that you have to use that hour to work out. No catching up on laundry or running errands. For friends that aren’t into working out, the hour must be spent on personal “me” time. They can paint their nails, read a book, meditate–from the simple to the profound.
Vanessa Says:
December 13th, 2007, 18:23 pm
Ooops, sorry Leo, I just realised you said ‘beer doesn’t count’! :) Strike my wine comment then… still it IS useful for most people who entertain.
Dawn Says:
December 13th, 2007, 18:30 pm
Invite someone you like to dinner at a nice restaurant. My favorite in L.A. is Tam O’Shanter. Christmas time they have strolling carolers, and the old English pub decor just adds to the atmosphere. Dinner is always my treat, and means lots to both me and my guests (one at a time).
Pick your favorite restaurant, or take them to theirs. Either way, its the best.
grace Says:
December 13th, 2007, 18:53 pm
When I was buying my brothers gifts based on my allowance I would buy value packs of socks, men’s handkerchiefs, lipbalm, hand cream, and tea and fill empty coffee cans with these winter essentials. What guy can’t use more socks.
John Dill Says:
December 13th, 2007, 20:39 pm
the spork has been my favorite and most useful possession for a few years. i keep it on a carebiner on a belt loop. i don’t need to waste plastic utensils if i’m eating out, and i’m always ready for my jar of peanut butter. i’ve even used it as a screwdriver. i’m getting them for several of my friends.
Leslie Says:
December 13th, 2007, 21:53 pm
Epsom salts. I put them in a cellophane bag, mixed in with some dried lavender from the garden. Tie with a pretty ribbon and voila.
Paige Says:
December 13th, 2007, 22:13 pm
-Essential Oils like Lavender for relaxation or Bergamot for it’s uplifting qualities and a diffuser or massage oil.
-Homemade soap (it’s really easy to make!) People love to get anything homemade at least I think they do.
-Baked homemade breads like Cranberry Nut bread or some other type that the person would enjoy along with some organic tea.
-Soy candles that smell delicious.
-A cute mug and some organic tea.
TCU_Froggie Says:
December 13th, 2007, 22:54 pm
One of the best gifts I have ever received was from my sister. It was a travel mug, which I would use everyday, with a collage of pictures of us and our inside jokes. She bought the mug at Starbucks. You would need to ask the front barista for the mug that you can put the pictures inside because they don’t usually have it out front. The mug has an screwable piece at the bottom that you take off. You then pull out the paper template and glue pictures on the back. Let it dry then put it back in the mug, screw on the bottom and you’re set! It’s great because people at school always ask to see the pictures on my mug. It costs about $12 and it lasts a long time. I made one for my boyfriend this year so hopefully he likes it!
Lyn Says:
December 13th, 2007, 23:01 pm
A few years ago I made a jar of thank you