Presents on a budget

Many of us struggle enough coping with the cost of mortgages or rent, the increase in fuel and food prices and balancing a budget, so when birthdays and Christmas come around, finding the ideal gift without spending vast amounts is tricky. For a last minute special gift for someone when finances are tight, we often resort to a short term loan from companies like Wizzcash and Credit Unions. These can be invaluable when used sensibly.

With some planning, elaborate and practical presents are simple to come by.

Cooking

Hampers make perfect gifts, from both the giver’s and receiver’s point of view. If you’re handy in the kitchen, a selection of jams and chutneys in a cheap basket cost next to nothing, particularly if you grow your own or forage for ingredients. A scrumptious cake, or even more common these days, a selection of cup-cakes, are always welcome.

Gardening

A simple posy of flowers grown in your own garden makes a simple present, and can be made more beautiful with some cheap acetate to wrap together with a bow of raffia or ribbon. A couple of packets of seeds will cost you less than £2. Another great gift will cost you the price of a terracotta pot and small bag of compost; less than a fiver. Grow a couple of spicy chili plants in one, or a small selection of herbs. If vegetable growing is your thing, a wicker basket with a selection of your produce (and maybe a few eggs too if you keep hens) also make a lovely gift. Add some scrunched up tissue paper and a bow or two.

Needlework/Knitwork

From a simple scarf made with funky chunky wool, to a collection of delicate baby clothes, anyone handy with a sewing machine or knitting needle has an endless collection of useful and unique presents up their sleeve. Check your local craft shop or market for ends of line fabric and wool to store for future use. Again, a gift can be made for a few pounds and some loving handiwork.

Writing and Drawing

A unique and heartfelt token for a loved-one is a poem, story or meaningful piece of text. Make more precious by using paper from a craft shop; there are hundreds of coloured, patterned and textured papers for this purpose. Use your best handwriting or design it on your computer to print off. For the artists among us, what about a portrait drawn from a photo or sketch of your intended’s pet dog? Maybe a favourite cartoon character or scenic view is more your thing. Cheap frames can be found in charity shops or from a picture framer.

Of course we’re not all handy with our hands. That doesn’t mean you can’t find the perfect gift. Charity shops are a wonderful source of books, films, ornaments, glass; in fact pretty much anything. Just because they have been pre-owned doesn’t mean they are any less valuable. Also keep your eye on eBay, Freecycle and Facebook groups if you’re looking for something in particular.

About Jen Perkins

Likes: saving money, being debt free (aside from our house), zombies, travel, getting money, blogging and dogs. Dislikes: debt, being broke, bunnies, wasting money, not having enough money to travel the world and paying interest. Facebook  ♥  Twitter  ♥  Google+  ♥  RSS

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