Ok back to Christmas and Christmas presents. Today we look for the least inexpensive (read: cheapest) things when can get away with giving as gifts.
First look at your list of people to whom you HAVE to give presents to. Divide those up into male or female, adult or child. Following me so far? Once you have them divided I think it is easier to try to decide on what to buy.
First trip is to the Dollar store. Don't laugh. I know that there is a lot of junk in there, but there are also some treasures if you look. For children look at puzzles, coloring books, books to read, puzzle books. You may even luck up on some pretty decent dress up stuff for little girls. If you want to give crayons with those coloring books that's great. But if you can afford to skip the dollar store ones. I hate those. Get the good stuff -- Crayola's.
Dollar store for adults? You bet ya. Again you have to look, really look. Candles. Dollar store candles are the same as Walmart or candle stores. They come in colors, sizes, and scents. You can also usually luck up and find candle holders. If you can't find a candle holder look for something that might could double as one. (Teen girls will love candles.) Puzzle books. Know anyone that loves crossword puzzles? Those find-a-word puzzles? Grab some pens or pencils to work the puzzles with. These can be for adult men/women and even teens.
For women and teen girls check out the isle with lotions. Find some of the ones that not only smell good but also have those little "scrubby" things in them. If you can find a bath puff. Grab a few more bath time things and a basket. Now you have a basket of bath goodies to give.
Almost forgot. Get a basket or bag and fill with candy. You must know someone that would love a supply of sweets.
Now face it some Dollar store items scream Dollar store. Stay away from those items if at all possible. But if you are giving to someone that knows you are having it really hard and they really could care less where the present is from or how much it costs then go ahead and branch out a little. I have been finding old movies on DVD's, kitchen towels, silk flowers (get them and find a vase can't find a vase? be inventive. how about a coffee mug? a small decorative bag), ets....
Wrap your Dollar store presents with stuff from the dollar store. Love the decorative bags. And you can't tell me that you can tell they are "dollar" bags. Some of the wrapping paper may leave a little to be desired but the bags are great. Get some tissue paper to stuff in the bags to "hide" the gift until time to open.
More Christmas shopping ideas to come. And we will move up on the expense scale. If you have any ideas or thoughts be sure to let me know.
9 comments:
Nice entry. I've used the dollar story many times when times were tough-and when they weren't as well. Lots of things to put together. Hugs. *Barb*
Great entry! The info you've shared here is full of good ideas. Thanx for sharing and look forward to your next one. Blessings to your and yours...gloria
I forgot to tell you...love your graphics.
Love the graphics. So cute.
Love,
Kat
Girl...I am all about some dollar stores!! I find lots of stuff for my soldiers there especailly. You are so right about the bargins that are to be found!
hugs,
Kathi
http://journals.aol.com/kdwsunshine/ADayInTheLifeOfMe
good info, thanks for sharing...Sandra x
Hi Kathy,
Here is an idea for inexpensive (cheap) Christmas gifts. allfreecrafts.com has all kinds of jar gifts, like bath salts and recipes which may be worth a try. Admittedly, the visual aspect of their projects don't appeal to me all that much, but surely a creative person could do it any way that they wanted.
I am going to do gift jars for two hard-to-buy for people on my list. I found the jars I need and the ribbon at, where else, the dollar store.
Thanks for your ideas.
Kathy
hi kathy...you bet...im the Queen of thrift store shopping...dollar stores etc....its all about creativy and imagination and being an observant shopper...people come to me all the time and comment...they think i spend alot of money but i dont...smart shoppers dont buy all the time at the mall///lol///Lana
Hi Kathy. Love your D.S. ideas. Candles are a great gift. I always buy boxed sets of candles and small plates. I break the sets up to make mulpiple gifts. I arrange them on the plates and cover them with cellphane. Then add a bow or ribbon to the top. They are very festive. They usually always have the same boxed sets with a variety of candle sizes and colors. I can make up to four maybe five gifts for under $12. I love to save.
Post a Comment