Are you looking for the perfect “budget-friendly” gift for a friend but not sure where to begin?

Well, you’re in luck because with a little creativity, you can show your friend that you care about them without going broke. 

If you’re feeling a bit crafty, try making a gift by hand or look for some used items you have lying around at home before purchasing a brand-new gift.

Homemade Gift Ideas

• Create simple candles of their favorite scents using wax & recycled jars

• Make personal care items such as lotions, bath salts, or soaps/shampoo bars

• Bake up their favorite treats like muffins, cookies, or brownies

• Make a handwritten card or poem

• Knit or crochet clothing or accessories (scarves, hats, blankets, gloves)

Upcycled Gift Ideas

• Take an old picture frame and decorate it with beads or paint it a fresh color

• Repurpose clear glass jars into decorative lanterns

• Create planters out of different-sized tin cans

• Turn a used t-shirt into an eco-friendly grocery tote bag

• Use magazines or newspapers to create a fun collage or upcycled coasters

Not only are homemade and upcycled gifts an eco-friendly choice, but they're also a creative and thoughtful way to make your friend feel special.

Finding a gift that is personal to your friend's interests and style is a great way to make even a simple gift meaningful.

Photo by Zoe Schaeffer on Unsplash

You may even find some items at home that you can add a personal touch to:

• Make a memory jar using handwritten notes and inspirational messages that they can read when they're having a rough day.

• Create a scrapbook using pictures, ticket stubs, and any other memorabilia that will bring a smile to their face.

• Design a fun coffee mug by drawing on a plain mug and baking it in the oven.

• Customize a calendar with fun pictures of the two of you.

• Compile a recipe book that includes their favorite recipes and even some new ones to try.

Taking the time to personalize a gift shows sincerity and effort.

Another simple gift-giving idea is to perform an act of service by helping your friend in some way.

Possible ideas might include...

• Running errands for/with them: Drive them to the grocery store, to a doctor's appointment, to fill up their gas tank, etc.

• Help them with chores: Help with laundry/household chores, yard work, or a home improvement project. Offer to babysit (if they have a child/children).

• Take them out: Set up a coffee/lunch date. Go out for ice cream or even just a walk in a local park.

Any of these options will surely show your friend how much you care about them.

There are many cost-friendly options for giving your friend a meaningful gift that comes from the heart.