The best gifts aren’t the ones that cost the most money.  They’re the ones that really show you put thought into them, no matter the price tag.  Here’s a great example of a project that you can adapt for nearly any gift-giving situation that costs practically nothing but is sure to be appreciated.  Switzerland-based blogger Clémence from Oh the Lovely Things shows how to make custom scratch-off, lottery-style tickets which you can use to deliver any hidden message you like!  Use them as chore rewards (“this ticket good for one free ice cream cone”), as Valentine’s Day or anniversary gifts (“redeem for one free back rub”), as a way to randomly distribute game prizes at a bridal or baby shower, or stick them in with a sack lunch just to say “have a great day.”  Clémence even provided a set of 12 coordinating printable cards to print out for making your tickets, or you can design your own, or just use colorful scraps left over from scrapbooking projects!   [how to make your own scratch-off tickets]

Project estimate:

• Cardstock, on hand
• Printable template (optional), free
• Silver acrylic paint, on hand or $1 and up
• Liquid dish soap, on hand
• Clear contact paper or packaging tape, on hand

Total:  Free and up