Accomplishing more with less money.

In keeping with this weeks theme of accomplishment, I’ve decided to post just a few more ideas on creative, inexpensive ideas for gift giving.  These are actually gifts I’ve given and also that I have received.  All can be completed by children.

Years ago when my grandparents were still alive, I coordinated the making of a gift that they just loved.   I purchased baby blocks and had each of my cousins send me photos of their children.   (all the great grandchildren).   Each block had a hole drilled from top to bottom in the center.   Make a template to cut your photo to size by tracing one facing of the block onto paper, then cut the head/face out of the photo and glue onto the block.  Complete with ribbon for hanging.  (Or, use bigger blocks that can be stacked on a mantle.)

This finger painting is now 19 years old.  I saved my kids first finger painting and framed them.  It’s a great way to add some custom artwork to your decor, and a great gift for those who have everything!   All you need is the artist and a frame.  Use an old frame or pick one up at your local $1 store.
.
.

This next one is one of my favorites.   Buy a few of those clay gardening pots that have a hole on the bottom.   (Usually less than .50 cents each) Pick sizes from 1″-3″ in diameter.    Paint the pot, or have your child paint it.    Take a ribbon and fold it in half forming a loop on one end.   Tie a jingle bell on the bottom with the ends of the ribbon.    String the looped part of the ribbon up through the hole in the pot and tie another knot on the ribbon at the top of the pot so it doesn’t fall back through the hole.   To go a step further… include a couple of seed packets for indoor herbs… this way, after the pots are done being used as a holiday decoration… the recipient can enjoy growing herbs on a window sill in the springtime!