by Lisa Fillers

Created on: October 27, 2008

Gift giving does not have to be a strain on the budget. There are several inexpensive gifts you can make yourself that are usually deeply appreciated by the recipient. Giving some thought as to the recipient's likes and dislikes will help you choose an appropriate gift to create.

First we must consider the recipient of the gift. Is this a person who would appreciate homemade gifts or the type of person who would not value the time and effort you put into creating the gift? Worse yet, would they only see it as a cheap way of getting out of purchasing a gift for them? If so, that type of person is not worthy of your time and effort required to make a gift for them.

Once you have determined the recipient would appreciate a homemade gift, take into consideration the age and sex of the person for whom the gift is intended. Do they live alone? Do they work? Is their lifestyle hectic? Do they have favorite hobbies? Do they love animals? What is their favorite color? What colors do they mainly decorate their home in? Do they have food allergies? Are they diabetic? Do they own any type of pet? Asking yourself all these questions will help you arrive at the perfect gift to make for that individual.

Listed below are a few ideas for gifts you can make at home.

SHOWER SPA BAGS

This is an idea that probably would be better suited to the women on your gift list.

Make cloth bags from muslin or cheesecloth in a size that will fit the palm of your hand. Fill the bag as loosely or full as you like by combining:

2 parts Coarse Oatmeal

2 parts Mixed Dried Herbs

1 part Grated Soap

Secure the bag closed with a tight rubber band and tie a satin ribbon around the rubber band. Spools of satin ribbon are available at a craft shop and very inexpensive to purchase. If you know the recipient's bathroom colors, chose ribbon in a color that will blend well. The bags need to be stored in an airtight container. A decorative tin works well both for storage and presentation of the gift.

HOMEMADE BATH SALTS AND SOAKS

This is another idea with the women on your list in mind. Be sure to finely grind any herbs and oatmeal used in these recipes to keep the recipient's bath clump free. A food processor works well for grinding the ingredients.

Mix the ingredients well and store in airtight containers. A pretty glass jar makes an attractive presentation and you can tie a satin ribbon around the jar. Make a tag with usage directions for adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup to the bath. Use a hole punch to punch one hole in the corner

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