The University of Ottawa Guide to… Low Budget Gifts
The holiday season is upon us and after a full semester of university it’s probably safe to say that you’re flat out broke. What’s a girl to do with no cash but a full Christmas list? If writing a letter to Santa and hoping the big guy does all your gift giving for you does not seem like the answer, here are some gift ideas for everyone on your list…that won’t break the bank.
Hand-decorated dishware: This gift requires a few dollars and some sharpies. Head to your local store and pick up some mugs, plates, bowls or anything porcelain. Just draw whatever design, quote or picture you want on your dishes and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Voila! A custom made gift perfect for mom, grandma or your BFF.
Teacup candles: You’ll need craft-store wicks, wax (or old candles) that can be melted down, old teacups, and maybe a fragrance or two. Pretty single teacups (with or without saucers) can often be found at thrift stores for less than a dollar. Melt the wax in a double boiler, add fragrance if desired, then support the wick standing in the teacup while carefully filling the cup with wax. As the wax cools, it will contract and form a well. You can add more melted wax of the same color or add a second shade.
Scrabble Coasters: Grab some thin cork board and cut into the preferred size for your coaster. Then, with some scrabble letters and some hot glue place the letters on the cork board. This gift is especially fun because it gives you the opportunity to create a fun, personalized message on the gift that will be seen with every cup of coffee or tea.
Homemade Christmas cookies in a jar: These chocolate nut cookies are the perfect gift for the sweet-tooth on your list. In a mason jar, or any container with a tight fitting lid, layer flour, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, M&M, coconut and peanuts. Attach some ribbon and a gift tag with baking instructions. This recipe has a shelf life of a month and is the perfect gift because no one dislikes Christmas cookies, except maybe the Grinch! Full directions here: http://www.recipe.com/gift-in-a-jar-chocolate-nut-cookies/?socsrc=recpin110812chocolatenutcookies. This can also be done with any of your favourite Christmas cookie recipes!
Vouchers: The gift that keeps on giving! If you’re especially kitchen savvy; a voucher for a home cooked meal prepared by yours truly. Coupons can be made for dinner dates, back rubs, movie nights, skating dates on the canal, private concerts or trips to the national art gallery. The possibilities are endless!
Photo anything: This idea is especially good for mom, dad or grandparents who miss you dearly while you’re off at university. Framed photos, scrap books or photo albums are a perfect cheap gift. If you have siblings (or pets) and enough time after exams, go to Walmart or Sears to get a cheap photo done of the family. I’ve never met a parent who wouldn’t be thrilled with a beautiful picture of all their babies.
Super secret book safe: Go to a second hand book shop and pick up an old, think book- preferably a hard cover. Try All books on Rideau near Loblaw’s, they have a great selection of books outside for only a dollar. Then, using an exacto knife cut out a rectangular hole in the pages. Perfect for your secretive family and friends.
Hopefully these fun and frugal do-it-yourself Christmas ideas have inspired you to get crafty and creative when looking to save some cash over the holidays. ‘Tis the season for giving… DIY homemade gifts.
Photo credits:
http://www.essentialmums.co.nz…