Giving a gift is a time-honored tradition. It can be a lot of fun too. Are you afraid gift giving will break your budget? It doesn't have to. Many inexpensive options share your love and friendship and keep your budget on track.

Handmade Items. Making your own handmade item is a great way to show love while holding down costs. Beaded earrings, crocheted scarves, and handmade paper ornaments are some of the things you can make. Many local libraries and craft stores offer free workshops. Some of these will provide the craft supplies free.

Creative Arts. Do you love photography? Are you a poet? Writer? Why not use your talent to create a cherished gift. Perhaps you have a friend who loves her dog. Take a photo of said pet for her to treasure. Write a poem that will touch your recipient’s heart. These kinds of gifts may seem free to you, but mean the world to others.

Give of your time. Most people's lives are hectic. Time is at a premium. You may have time available to help out a friend or family member. New parents may appreciate someone to babysit a night a week. Older relatives may need help with chores around the house. You could create a coupon book of chores/services you will provide for the next month or year. Many people would be delighted to receive help.

Food. Everyone loves food. Homemade food and desserts are a real treat to busy friends and family. Are you good at baking? You have the perfect skills to whip up delicious cookies, cakes, and pies. Wrap them in decorative paper or tins and you have a gift at low cost. Cooks may wish to make homemade soups to give as gifts.

Food gift cards. Don't have cooking skills? Give a gift card to an inexpensive restaurant. McDonalds's has gift cards starting at five dollars. Plus, check out local cheap eateries in your area. The local business will appreciate your business. Your gift recipient will get to sample some local flavor.

Amazon gift cards. Have a book lover on your gift list? Why not get them something good to read while supporting indie authors. There are lots of really fun and interesting books written by yet-to-be-well-known writers. Many indie books cost only ninety-nine cents for a full novel. These authors truly appreciate their readers and need your support. You can give a digital gift card to your gift recipient. They can buy a variety of great stories to enjoy.

A little creative thinking can help you check off your gift list without breaking your budget. Many gifts that require little money create more lasting memories than expensive gifts. Have fun playing Santa this year.