No matter how difficult the economy is these days, and for most of us it is indeed a challenge, there are certain parts of our lives that can be painfully touched by the lack of available funds, and gift giving is one of them. It is easy enough to ignore our desire to indulge our own birthdays or special holidays, but when it comes to our children and grandchildren? We always want to make their occasions as special as possible, no matter how limited our income.

Previously, many of us would not have entertained the idea of used toys – we would pass the Salvation Army or a tag sale or second-hand shop without any desire to stop. The time has come to reassess our shopping philosophy because these types of sales could make all the difference as we deal with this frustrating economy.

An excellent opportunity to scale back on the finances of gift giving is through sit down second hand dolls. Much like used cars (and far cheaper!) a second hand doll (unless it is antique or of rare vintage) decreases in value tremendously once it loses its first owner and finds itself on a thrift shop shelf. Often these dolls have ridiculously low prices, sometimes for as little as fifty cents or a dollar!

Look past the pitiful appearance of the doll in its sad state and use a little energy and optimistic attitude to recreate a unique gift for that special little one in your life.

Search for a doll that is in reasonably good condition – no parts missing, hair basically intact if it has any. Take the doll home and roll up your shirt sleeves to give it a good scrubbing which might include a dab of disinfectant on the wash cloth. If the doll has hair, wash it and use your own conditioner to either comb through or muss up the hair for a trendy style. You might even consider trimming the hair to freshen it up further.

Once the ‘new old’ doll is clean and rejuvenated to a far better condition, it’s time for a smart shopping spree. Luckily you have paid very little for this doll and the clothing and accessories are not going to be costly either, if you shop online and compare prices. For little money you should find plenty of terrific outfits and accessories to match. Spend a little time to create a wardrobe that you know will inspire and thrill the child in your life.

What next? The packaging. Look for a nice box you already have in the house or head to the dollar store and purchase one to wrap in a cute paper. This doll is ‘special’ simply by the fact it is missing the usual glitzy commercial wrapping. Now it’s time to use your handwriting skills to truly personalize this very precious gift you have created for your child. On a tiny blank note card you will choose (or write you own) a message of love from this redeemed doll to your lucky little one:

Dear _____, I thought I was never going to find a good home until your (mom/grandma/friend) found me. I had been waiting and waiting and was losing hope. Now I have come to live with you and we can always be happy together! Thank you! Love,

Dear _____, A long time ago I lost my home and I have been waiting for a sweet little girl like you to find me. Your (mom/grandma/friend) saw me in the shop and knew you would take good care of me and love me forever! Thank you! Love,

Dear _____, I was so happy when your (mom/grandma/friend) found me sitting all alone on a dusty shelf because I knew she would bring me to you and we would be best friends forever! Thank you for being my best friend! Love,

This sentimental little note can be attached to the doll with a pretty ribbon or placed on top of the doll in the gift box (or bag) so that your child will know instantly recognize the fact that her ‘new’ doll is very unique.

For your work of love with this doll you will have created a thoughtful gift minus the marked up expense and disposable plastic wrappings of a new one. You will show how much you care in a very unique way. Aside from the economical value of this gift, you are also helping to save the environment through reusing toys that are still salvageable.

A Thrifty Approach to Toy Gifts … ’tis the season more than ever!

Before buying a gift for the young girl in your life, visit Ms. Walsh’s e commerce site selling doll clothes, doll accessories, and jewelry for girls.

Related Reading:

How to Make Valentine's Day Gift Baskets (Gift Ideas)How to Make Valentine’s Day Gift Baskets teaches you the simple steps you need to take to make your own fabulously romantic gift baskets to give or sell as Valentine day presents.