Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Serving Greater Cincinnati

4 Last-Minute DIY Gifts to Make with Goodwill Finds

The Christmas clock is ticking, and it’s time to finally decide what to buy for those few names still lingering on your list! Whether it’s for your neighbors, a family friend, or even a family member who seems to have everything, there’s always pressure to present a thoughtful yet cost-effective gift for the holidays.

Don’t fret! Ohio Valley Goodwill is the perfect place to find something unique that will check all the boxes. Here are four do-it-yourself gifts that you can pull together at the final hour and make a lasting impression “” and they all start at your local Cincinnati thrift store!

Christmas Teacup from Goodwill

Christmas Teacup from Goodwill

#1: Unique Mugs with a Homemade Touch

Ohio Valley Goodwill’s inventory of coffee mugs is always extensive and ever-changing. It’s easy to find something that perfectly fits your recipients’ tastes! Once you find a mug you like, fill it with a homemade sweet treat for a personal touch. This gift is all about the presentation, so look for ribbons or tissue paper that will make your handmade cookies, candies, coffee grounds, or hot cocoa mix look extra sparkly and festive.

#2: Vintage Holiday Candles

Boutique candles carry a hefty price tag, but a quick trip to Ohio Valley Goodwill and a little extra care can result in one-of-a-kind candles in your choice of enticing scents!

Head to your local Goodwill store and look for teacups, vintage glassware, or candy dishes that might act as the perfect vessel for a homemade candle. Once you’ve found the perfect dish, fill it with soy wax mixed with some essential oils, and a wick or two. They’ll think you spent top dollar at a high-end home store!

Serving Tray from Ohio Valley Goodwill

Serving Tray from Ohio Valley Goodwill

#3: Serving Trays Two Ways

A can of chalkboard paint has the potential to transform thrifted items into something new. Think about repurposing old trays thrifted at Goodwill into menu signs for the kitchen. If you can find a tray with ornate edges and handles, tape them off so that the original color shows, and just spray the inner section to make a beautiful menu display.

Smaller trays can also be spray painted and given new life as a jewelry tray. Think about using metallic spray paint for an elegant look. If the recipient is a good friend, you could decoupage photos on the tray to serve as a reminder of time spent together over the years.

Picture frames from Ohio Valley Goodwill

Picture frames from Ohio Valley Goodwill

#4: Beautifully Displayed Photos

There’s no gift more personal than a meaningful photo beautifully displayed in a frame. Ohio Valley Goodwill stocks a wide variety of picture frames, which can be personalized with spray paint if you’d like. You’re guaranteed to walk away with a thoughtful gift that will be cherished for years to come ““ all at an affordable price!

Finish off Your Holiday Shopping!

Now that you have a game plan to knock out your gift shopping, find your local Goodwill store and start thrifting! You’ll be filled with relief knowing you’re ready for Santa’s arrival, armed with the perfect gift for everyone on your list.