I went to a small christmas party yesterday and you were supposed to bring a homemade gift that was worth $5 or less.
The gift that I got was really neat and something that looks nice, but is cheap! In a small plastic bag she had one small orange, one small lemon, two cinnamon sticks, a tablespoon or so of cloves and 2 Bay leaves. You attach a small tag with raffia with the instructions.
Scent of Christmas: Cut lemon and orange in eighths. Simmer all ingredients in a pan of water. Keep adding water to make it last several days.
The other gifts were homemade fleece scarves, chocolate covered pretzels and a candle centerpiece.
The Candle centerpiece was really nice. She took a tall clear glass (I am not sure how to describe it, but it was about 8 in. tall and 3 in. wide) She filled it with small round metal bells. On top of them she used a small clear glass votive holder with small candle and wrapped christmas ribbon around it with decoration attached!
Something we used to do alot when we could not afford gifts was gives gifts of time or services. I know I would appreciate a babysitting coupon, car wash coupons, or just a “Come over for tea” coupon!
Another idea which is not homemade, but after the holidays, so you can save money on birthday and other gifts you need throughout the year, check clearance after the holidays to stock your closet. I have found wonderful gifts for throughout the year for a couple dollars!
this is a little late but thought I would tell you anyway. The recipe's for the chocolate are just basic fillings like coconut(almond joy) and peanute butter(reeses cups) mint and carmel. If you have a mold and want the recipes just let me know and I could email them to you. Ruth