Frida Rose Gaspar

With the holiday season around the corner, and inflation more prevalent than ever, finding the perfect gift this season can be tricky. Baskets are an underrated, affordable option to include in your holiday shopping. I feel baskets are a cultivation of multiple aspects of a person’s character, and are a great way to tell someone you care. With elements that are easy to thrift, and easier to spice up with other purchased goodies. Here are five elements to make an easy, personalized basket for that special someone in your life.   

Basket

I know it may seem trivial, but baskets are abundant across many thrift stores. Whether it’s wicker or fabric, starting with a good base will take you far. My tips include checking for stains or ragged wicker edges. Although this is the foundation of the gift, you may want to pick this item up last, to make sure everything fits. 

Blanket 

Blankets and Quilts are abundant across thrift stores. A nice chenille blanket can run you upwards of $60 nowadays. While I wouldn’t recommend getting a new bed set for your basket, a throw blanket is more than enough to create the cozy vibe you are looking for. I have often found handmade crochet blankets in my local goodwill that add a unique touch of nostalgic personality and winter practicality. Check out this article by Better Home & Gardens on how to properly wash blankets.

Knick-knack/Art

One item thrift stores will always have in the rotation is an assortment of tchotchkes and art. These items can take a bit longer to source because they can be so random and everyone’s a critic when it comes to art. However, having a memento dispersed within practical gifts always adds an element of playfulness. Rather than just gifting what they need, gift them something just because you can. I’ve gifted figurines, framed prints, books, and magazines, and all have appreciated the specific attention that is included in the gift. 

Dish  

A dish is another helpful idea for your basket. Something that everyone can use daily. For your favorite party animal, choose pint or shot glasses. On the other hand, get the coffee enthusiast in your life a unique mug; go the additional mile and visit their favorite cafe to add one of their preferred roasts. If they enjoy cooking, find a nice pot or niche kitchen utensil they’re missing. Just stay away from “#1” mugs for the parents. Check out this blog post from Homemade Ginger on how to look for good-quality glassware at the thrift store!

Apparel or Accessory

This one can be tricky. Not everyone likes to wear clothes or shoes from the thrift store. However, if you’re gifting to someone open to it, consider throwing an apparel or accessory to complete the basket. In my last basket, I included a pair of yellow vintage kitten heels for my friend starting her internship as a teacher. Consider the following: A second-hand necklace to spice up their collection. Or a sturdy new coat to carry them through the winter. Overall, level up your basket by finding a piece inspired by the style of the person you are gifting it to.

Finish up your basket by running to your local grocers and topping it off with extra surprises. My favorite go-to are different candies, or gold coins for the holiday season. Whoever you are shopping for, is sure to appreciate the time and effort you have gone through to curate their personalized basket. Hopefully, these tips helped guide you through this crazy holiday season while keeping your pockets at ease. So go to your local thrift store and begin gathering now! 

By Frida Rose Gaspar