December often leaves us scrambling at the last minute and stressing over how to avoid overspending on gifts while selecting ones our family members will love. 

The thrift store can be a sanctuary for hidden gems that, with slight touch-ups, crafting or added accessories, can serve as sophisticated, thoughtful and artistic gifts for friends, family or partners. 

This holiday season, take the time to browse the aisles of a second-hand store and carefully craft a gift that reminds you of your loved one, turning something ordinary into a considerate and inexpensive present. 

Glassware 

Thrift stores such as Goodwill or local mom-and-pop resale shops offer a variety of glassware, including multicolor containers, trinkets and funky-shaped jars. 

For themed-scent or home decor lovers, consider gifting a handmade candle created from a second-hand glass jar and materials from a local craft store. The 10 to 20 minute and inexpensive project requires a heat-safe glass container, wooden wick, holiday scent and candle wax, which can be purchased at stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby. 

After crafting the candle and allowing it to cool, tie a satin ribbon around the edge and pair with a uniquely designed matchbook, which can be found at select thrift stores, local bars or restaurants or on Etsy for under $10. 

Thrift stores also often display various vases in a range of colors, lengths and materials. If searching for a simple yet thoughtful gift to thank a Christmas dinner or holiday party host, grab a $1 or $2 vase from the resale shop and fill it with a fresh bouquet. Trader Joe’s and Walmart offer less expensive floral arrangements, including a $6 rose bouquet and miniature holiday-themed bouquets for under $10. Finish with a bow around the middle of the vase, helping to elevate the bouquet into a gracious and classy centerpiece. 

Kitchenware and Fresh Baked Goods 

Thrift stores tend to feature a display shelf with various ceramic, glass or porcelain mugs, making the perfect gift for coffee or tea lovers. 

Purchase a set of two to four mugs, the design and colors based on your knowledge of the intended recipient’s style preferences. When in doubt, a classic red, white, green or blue always suits the holiday theme. 

Place the mugs in a basket with a second-hand or inexpensive holiday-themed dish towel, which can be found at a local dollar store or craft store, and wrap a ribbon around the handles of the mugs. Add a container of tea bags, Nespresso pods or coffee beans, the price and brand tailored to the recipient’s taste and your budget, into the basket. 

Additional options to elevate thrifted kitchenware are transforming a serving platter or dish into the perfect container for a freshly baked good. Second-hand stores sell a range of solid colored or quirky butter dishes, glass platters, bread dishes and ceramic pans. 

Bake homemade snickerdoodle cookies and display them in a rectangular glass platter or purchase a loaf of fresh bread from the local farmer’s market and present in a ceramic loaf pan. Grab your stand mixer or food processor to whip up homemade butter and gift in a second-hand upscale butter dish. Purchase or 
thrift a cookbook and pair it with a wooden cutting board, cleaned and tied together with a thick ribbon. 

Curated Clothing and Jewelry 

Thrifted clothing might not be your first choice when considering gift ideas for friends or family. But second-hand stores often offer vintage options, such as leather jackets, for retro fashion enthusiasts, in addition to accessories in almost new condition, like silk scarves. These accessories can serve as a personalized and meticulously crafted gift if you are familiar with the recipient’s taste and style. 

Browse a second-hand shop’s jewelry display and select a pair of earrings, bracelet, ring or necklace that appears just right for your friend or family member. Present in a drawstring jewelry pouch or jewelry box from stores like T.J. Maxx or Homegoods. 

Consider taking the extra time to curate a jewelry set for them, such as a necklace and bracelet that share similar aesthetics or materials. 

The beauty of thrift shopping is that you never know what trendy, magical or elegant diamond you may discover. Go outside your comfort zone this holiday season and stay under budget with these gracious and crafty gifts.