Christmas (or whichever holiday you celebrate) is coming, collegiettes! As a first-year college student, I am learning how to live on the limited broke-college-student budget that most of us have. When it comes to the holidays, there are a ton of budget-friendly, thoughtful gift ideas for everyone on your list!
1. Fleece tie-blankets are thoughtful and will always be put to use. One wouldn’t think these would be useful in the Arizona heat, but dorm rooms have a fantastic tendency to get unbearably frigid during the winter months. These blankets are extremely easy to make, and the supplies are so affordable. You just need two sheets of fleece and anything you might want to add on it. A great tutorial is available here: http://robin.hubpages.com/hub/How-to-Make-a-Blanket
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2. Hot beverage packages are affordable, practical, and adorable! You can find a cute, inexpensive mug at any Target or Urban Outfitters. Fill the mug up with candy canes, tea bags or hot cocoa packets, and voila! If your recipient is more of a caffeine lover, throw in a few Starbucks VIA Christmas Blend instant coffee packets. Add a little extra cuteness by tying a bow on the handle!
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3. For the sorority sister, anything involving glitter is more than acceptable. Check out this adorable tutorial on glam-ing up a candle: http://thefirstapartment.blogspot.com/2011/02/glitter-candles.html. Other uses for glitter include decorating shot glasses, martini glasses, or virtually anything that glitter can be applied to. A bottle of Mod Podge, a foam brush, rhinestones or loose glitter can go a long way!
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4. Picture frames as gifts might seem cliche, but when done correctly, it can be adorable. You can get a 4×6 picture frame for less than 3 dollars apiece at any craft store. You can decorate it with glitter, cute quotes, or any appliques you come across. Don’t forget to include a photo of you and the gift recipient!
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5. If handmade gifts aren’t your forte, there are still many options. Check out this YouTube video that has a ton of great gifts under $10! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWCSTOyeMpo&feature=channel_video_title
Happy Holidays, collegiettes!
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Arizona chapter.