When you have a tight budget, you naturally begin looking for the least expensive options to show your sweetheart how much of a difference he or she makes in your life. In order to display your romantic feelings without breaking the bank, take a look at these ten homemade Valentine gift ideas that, depending on what you have lying around the house, can be made for just a few dollars or with supplies you have in your craft drawer. Ultimately, it’s the thought that counts, so put this personal touch on your gifts and you will have made a great impression.
Breakfast in Bed
The first (and maybe best) idea is to help your dearest start the day off right. If you have been paying attention over the years, you certainly have a great idea of what he or she loves to eat, which gives you the opportunity to care for him or her with a filling breakfast in bed of favorites. Just be careful opting for pancakes, French toast or waffles, as the syrup can end up on the bed and create a big mess.
Love Coupons
Have some paper? A marker? Great! You can create a series of love coupons for your sweetie that can be redeemed for affection of all kinds. The staples are, of course, massages and other affectionate touches, but go for more personal options – guarantees to watch her favorite reality TV show next time it’s on or to snuggle up with him on the couch for the action movie he wants to see without complaining, for example.
Poetry and Letters
Nobody on the planet would honestly tell you they don’t want a love letter on Valentine’s Day. Regardless of how good you are with words, the fact you spent the time to shape a personal message about your feelings for your honey means much more than the average Hallmark card could ever muster. Don’t worry about coming up with something timeless, speak from the heart.
Construction Paper Cards
Most people spent at least one February 14th in elementary school making a heart out of construction paper to share with a beloved parent or grandparent, which is why spending an afternoon creating a special one for your sweetie is guaranteed to bring a smile to his or her face. If you are the artsy type, you can even turn your handwriting into a child-like scrawl that says, “Be Mine.”
Photo Collages
You probably have dozens of pictures of the two of you scattered all over the place, so why not put some of them together as an ode to your history together? Tech-savvy lovers can use photos downloaded from your favorite social media site and turn them into a digital collage fit for a desktop or mobile wallpaper, for example, that will go wherever your dearest does.
Heart-shaped Cakes
Most people go with cookies when it comes to distinctly-shaped baked goods, which is why your love will be surprised when you deliver a perfectly-frosted cake shaped like a heart to the table that’s just the right size for the two of you. If you have any skill in the kitchen, this will allow you to make something personal without using a whole lot of ingredients, too.
Romantic CDs or iPod Playlists
Music is the way to most hearts, regardless of what era you are from. Gather together a selection of classic and contemporary love songs to burn into a CD or store as an iPod playlist, then pass it along to your honey. This way, every time he or she plays it, a Valentine’s Day memory will bring a smile to his or her face.
Personal Pillows
Almost everybody has an old T-shirt or two that has seen better days but still shows up in the rotation. Want to help our guy or gal hold on to the memory despite the fact the fabric is falling apart? Turn the cherished article of clothing into a throw pillow! Though he or she might not be thrilled to lose an “old faithful” at first, the fact you have preserved it long beyond the last washing will mean a lot.
A Storybook Fairy Tale of Your Own
Much like the greeting cards mentioned above, you can use your own paper to create a romantic story about the two of you in the form of well-loved children’s books. Let your imagination run wild – through the Old West, King Arthur’s Court, anywhere! – and create a fanciful tale of your dashing prince and beautiful damsel in distress.
Custom Glassware
Your local craft store is a treasure trove of inexpensive ideas, if you are willing to hunt around a little. One great way to commemorate your evening together is to create special glasses with some special paint from the local hobby store. Write a quote from Romeo & Juliet or steal a line from a famous poem – whatever you think will help your sweetheart feel loved – to make it a very special Valentine’s Day.




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