Five gifts to give for Christmas when you are broke

THE national lockdown, due to the Covid-19 pandemic has, without a doubt, affected the livelihoods of most South African households. 

So, for many this year it will be particularly stressful trying to think of something thoughtful to give to family and friends for Christmas that don’t break the bank.

However, sometimes, the simple things that you can make yourself can mean a lot.

Here are five gifts that you can put together without spending a lot this year:

1. DIY candles Making candles is easy and fun. You need a few materials to get started such as wax, a wick, and a fragrance, which you can get at a craft shop. Put the wax, which normally comes in block-form, into a medium-sized pot and warm over low heat. Stir, and wait until the wax has melted completely.

ALSO READ: DIY Christmas decorations

Next, mix in your fragrance of choice, then set your wick up in a container of your choice, and pour the hot, liquid wax in. Wait for the wax to harden, and you’ve got a candle! You can also add different things to make the candles look attractive such as leaves and flowers. 

2. Make a personalised pot plant Buy a pot that fits your friend or family member’s style, or paint one to customise it to their liking. Then plant flowers, herbs or succulents in it.

3. Clothes peg picture board Start with just the outside of a large picture frame. Hang twine from one side to the other, and then use clothes pegs to attach photos onto the twine.

4. For something more sentimental, print a photo for a friend or family member and frame it.

5. Write something Write a letter to a family member or friend about how special they are to you, including memories that stood out for you. You can also include a photo. For a particular family member, such as a grandparent, ask your family to each write special memories or letters about them, and put them together in a book, folder or box along with photos and sentimental items.

Another special gift is a family cookbook, with a collection of favourite family recipes which can be given to the women in the family.    

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting

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