Valentine’s Day is a special time to show loved ones how much we care with gifts like flowers, candy, and cards. But all of this spending can add up quickly, especially if you’re already on a tight budget.
If you’re looking for ways to save money this Valentine’s Day, why not ” DIY” some of your gifts for friends and loved ones? Here are a few fun and easy gift ideas for your valentine that you can make using budget-friendly Goodwill finds:
Valentine’s Day Cards
Anyone can pick up a generic card from the store, but a handmade card is so much more thoughtful and meaningful. Get creative by making your own Valentine’s Day cards using supplies thrifted from Goodwill. For example, check out this DIY puzzle card craft from Goodwill Industries International. It’s made using repurposed puzzle pieces from a puzzle purchased from Goodwill. To make your own, all you need to do is paint the reverse side of a few puzzle pieces in different colors. Once the pieces have dried, glue them to the front of heavy stock paper and fold it into a card. It’s a unique way to tell your valentine, ” I love you to pieces!” Watch the video tutorial to create a one-of-a-kind puzzle card.
Teacup Candle
Vintage or antique teacups make adorable gifts, especially when they are repurposed into elegant candles. To make your own teacup candle, shop at your local Goodwill for a teacup and saucer set (or two!) in any size. You can often find a variety of unique teacups in all different colors and patterns in our stores. Once you have selected your teacup, it’s time to make the candle. Slowly melt down an old candle or candle wax flakes in a double boiler on the stove. If you want, you can even add scent to the melted wax using essential oils. Then, place a new candle wick in the center of the teacup and carefully pour the melted wax into the cup, stopping about ½ inch below the rim. Allow the wax to set and cool completely before lighting the candle.
Breakfast Tray
What better way to surprise that special someone on Valentine’s Day morning than with a delicious homemade breakfast? Put your cooking or baking skills to work in the kitchen and then deliver breakfast to your sweetheart on a stylish breakfast tray. On your next Goodwill shopping trip, look for wooden serving trays or metal tv trays that can be upcycled with a little paint or decoupage. Check out this decorated tray tutorial to see an incredible transformation of a Goodwill find and learn how to make an upcycled breakfast tray of your own.
If you’re not a fearless DIY-er, don’t worry! There’s still time plenty of time to snag the perfect last-minute Valentine’s Day present and you don’t even have to wait for shipping. Just stop by any of our 18 Ohio Valley Goodwill retail stores and browse our huge selection of unique clothing, accessories, jewelry, décor, household goods, books, and more! We’re sure you’ll find something special for the special person in your life. Find your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill store and check out our special offers to save on your next Goodwill shopping trip.