I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wanted to give a little something to a friend, if it’s for a birthday, a thank-you, or just a “thinking of you” moment, but I’ve had to pause and remind myself we’re living on one income over here.
With kids, every dollar has a job.
Living on one income means I don’t have the luxury of spontaneous Amazon orders or $25 candles wrapped in fancy bows.
Around here, we keep our gifts it simple, frugal, and full of heart.
But that doesn’t mean I skip the gifts, I just get a little scrappy (in the best way).
Over the years, I’ve gotten pretty good at coming up with cheap gifts for friends that still feel thoughtful and personal.
I’m talking cute, useful, and meaningful little things you can make or grab without stressing over your bank account.
So if you’re looking for cheap gifts to make or buy, I’ve got you covered with ideas that are low-cost but seriously sweet.
Let’s get into the list!
1. Personalized Mason Jar Treats
One year, I had a row of mason jars on the counter, and I thought, why not fill these up with my famous brownie mix, and gronola and…and…?
This is a cheap gift for sure but what’s nice is that it’s personal and feels like you took your time to curate these wonderful little mason jar treats.
You could do:
- Brownie mix
- Hot cocoa mix
- Chai tea blend
- DIY granola
Add a ribbon and a sweet note. Done.
These are also great for some cheap Christmas gift ideas too!
2. Printable Quote Cards or Coupons
If you have a printer and Canva, you’re can make these quite quotes for your friends.
I’ve made printable “open when” letters, self-care coupons, or even daily encouragement cards for my friends.
It feels so personal and intentional—and costs almost nothing.
3. A Mini Self-Care Kit (Dollar Tree)
I keep this one in rotation: a cute basket with a face mask, cozy socks, and a mini candle.
Maybe throw in a tea bag and a note that says “You deserve to rest today.” You can make it for under $5 if you plan it right.
This can also make a nice romance gift for Valentine’s Day!
4. Baked Goods with a Homemade Touch
I know baking isn’t everyone’s thing, but if you’re already making muffins for the kids… make a few extra, wrap them in parchment paper with twine in a basket, and gift them with a note that says “Baked with love, not preservatives.”
I’ve done cookies, banana bread, even homemade fudge during the holidays.
The thing to remember is when you use parchment paper and twine to dress up your muffins so it looks more personal and unique.
5. Repurposed Jar of Positivity
This one’s sweet and so easy.
Clean out a pasta sauce jar, paint the lid, and fill it with folded notes: compliments, happy memories, funny inside jokes.
My friend told me she cried happy tears reading hers.
These also make great gifts for the holidays like Easter where you can create Bible quotes.
6. Handmade Scrunchies or Keychains
If you sew (or know someone who does), fabric scraps can go a long way with making some cheap gifts for your friends and family.
I made a whole batch of scrunchies one weekend while the kids were napping. Paired with a card, it feels boutique-y without the price tag.
It was a quick way to have a gift for your neighbor, teacher or for the holidays.
7. Memory Photo Prints
Sometimes I’ll grab a photo of us from years ago, print it at home or at the pharmacy, and pop it in a thrifted frame.
Add a handwritten note on the back. Simple, nostalgic, and honestly, a forever kind of gift.
This is great for family friends that you’ve known for most of your life as it’s very personal and a kind gift, even if it’s cheap!
8. Homemade Sugar Scrub
Just mix sugar, coconut oil, and a few drops of essential oil.
Scoop into a jar with a label like “You’re sweet enough already.” Instant spa vibes.
Great for teachers, mom friends or even coaches of your child’s teams.
9. Cute Notepad + Pen + Tumbler
Grab a small notepad (Dollar Tree or Target Bullseye section!) and pair it with a pretty pen and tumbler.
I love getting these for teachers and family friends.
10. Wall Print or Quote Art
Design a printable quote in Canva (or find a free one online), print it out, and pop it in a thrifted or dollar store frame. Add their name to personalize it.
Personal Gifts for Friends
If you have close friends, sometimes cheap gifts look, well too cheap and not thoughtful.
If you don’t want that, then take a look at these personal gifts for your friends.
11. Memory Scrapbook
Print out photos, save little mementos (concert tickets, funny texts, etc.), and create a small scrapbook that tells the story of your friendship.
12. “Open When” Letter Set
Write a series of letters for your friend to open at different moments—like “open when you’re sad,” “open when you need a laugh,” or “open when you miss me.”
13. Custom Playlist with Handwritten Track List
Make a playlist of songs that remind you of them or your time together, and include a handwritten note explaining why you chose each one.
14. Framed Inside Joke
Take one of your shared inside jokes or favorite quotes and design a little print in Canva. Frame it and gift it with a note that says “IYKYK.”
15. A Book You Loved + a Note in the Cover
Gift them a book you’ve read and loved, and write a little message inside the front cover about why you picked it for them.
16. Custom Recipe Card
If your friend loves your banana bread, lasagna, or cookies—write the recipe out on a cute card and add a note like “Made with love (and lots of butter).”
17. “Why I Love Being Your Friend” Jar
Fill a small jar with little notes, each one saying something you love or admire about them. It’s simple but so special.
18. Monthly Envelope Gift
Create 3–6 envelopes labeled “January,” “February,” etc. Inside each, put a small flat gift—like a sticker sheet, quote card, tea bag, or $1 scratch ticket. It’s like happy mail all year long.
19. Photo Ornament or Magnet
Use your favorite photo of you two and turn it into a keepsake they can put on the fridge or a mini holiday ornament.
20. Mini “Bestie Survival Kit”
Use a small bag or tin and fill it with silly and sweet things like:
- A band-aid (for the tough days)
- Gum (for when life gets sticky)
- A tea bag (for calming moments)
- Chocolate (because duh)
Label each item with a note for a thoughtful, funny gift.
21. Customized Recipe Jar with a Shared Memory
Layer the dry ingredients for cookies or brownies in a mason jar and attach a tag that says, “Remember when we baked these that one summer?”
A gift and a memory in one.
Inexpensive Friend Gifts
I hope you liked these cheap gifts you can either make or buy.
They are easy to get, are thoughtful and best of all, are inexpensive when you are penny pinching like me!
