After this last holiday season, your bank account may be ready to retire. But just because the season for giving is over, doesn’t mean gift giving is. There are birthdays, house warming’s, weddings—you name it, if there’s an invitation, the unspoken rule of thumb is: bring a gift.

Well have no fear. Here are two unique DIY gifts that won’t cost you next years Christmas cash.

The DIY Succulent Planter

This gift is an across the board pleaser. Scour your local thrift store or flea market for an oblong planter. Something on the shallower side (about 3”) is good. Next, hit up your local Home Depot and pick out a mix of cacti and succulents. Each small succulent is under 2 dollars, and the cactus will run you about a dollar more. Depending on the length of your pot, 5 or 6 will suffice. Fill the remainder of empty space with soil and the rest is up to you. You can add a pop of color with fresh flowers. Stick these directly in the soil, with the idea that the flowers can be changed out weekly according to your giftee’s preference. Tulips are great to add some height. Wrap the outside of the planter in raffia. Add a personalized note. And you’ve got a gift that will last.

The Personalized Book

Books are expensive. But used books are not. Many local libraries have dollar book sales. Stock up on some good titles, or browse Amazon, where you can find a copy of The Beautiful and the Damned for $4.99 (awesome old cover a plus!). Next hit up your handy local thrift store again. You can find beautiful and unique silk vintage scarves for under 10 dollars. Wrap the book in the scarf. Add a note…perhaps on the inside cover.

-Arianna Schioldager