Thoughtful Thrifted Gift Ideas

Trends are not my thing.

I guess I've just never been a follower.

I believe in doing my own thing. Filling my house - and my life - with stuff that makes me smile.

Regardless of what the magazines or celebrity influencers share.

And I've been saying that, in print and online, for over a decade.

So it may come as a surprise to you when I state that I think I've finally found a trend I can get behind.

Why this sudden change, you ask? Well, it's because this trend is all about thrifting and gifting.

Two pastimes near and dear to my heart.

And this year, that combination is hot, hot, hot.

Just take a look at any social media feed and you'll see tons of posts about it.

In real life, my own kids and their friends have decided to skip the retail shops in favor of thrifted gifts instead.

And I couldn't be happier, because I've been doing this for years.


Of course, I understand how this might sound tricky to those who aren't used to giving second hand presents. I get it, it can be a challenge.

The key here is to get personal. Know your recipient, embellish or upcycle something they collect or need and turn it into a handmade treasure they'll cherish for years to come.

Need a little help coming up with ideas and getting trendy yourself?

Well then, today's your lucky day, because as part of our Thrift Store Decor Team end of year round up, I'm sharing a collection of upcycles that would make great gifts for the holidays. And beyond.

Plus, at the end of this post, there are over 50 creative upcycles for you to check out for even more inspiration.

Upcycled Thrift Store Gift Ideas

But let's start with my favorites, shall we?

Thrifted Decoy Makeover

Collectibles are always fun to give and let's face it, thrift stores are filled with tons of them. No matter what you're recipient collects, you're bound to find it.

Although, it might need a little help.

That's ok, that's when you get to personalize your gift in way that makes it even more special. For example, I used paint and transfers to totally makeover this decoy and now it's the most cherished one in my own collection.

Vintage Doily Table Runner

Vintage styling is all the rage right now and if you have a decor junkie on your list, my friend Kristin has the most charming DIY.

It's a doily table runner that will literally make you swoon. If, like Kristin, you use family heirloom pieces, it also becomes a sentimental gift. How lovely.

If not, doilies like this are plentiful at second hand shops and will create a gift just as special.

Upcycled Art

Looking for something for that new homeowner or apartment dweller? How about a custom piece of art...even if you're not an artist.

Susan shows you exactly how to take a painting from a thrift store and bring it back to life.

The possibilities are endless with this one and with so many paintings out there waiting for a second chance, you could make one for everyone on your list.

Vintage Magazine Rack Upcycle

Ok, here's one for the person who has everything. It's Gail's wooden magazine rack upcycle. Boy do I wish I'd seen this when I was shopping for my grandmother. 

She would've loved it. Decorated beautifully to fit her decor, it would've sat right next to her favorite chair. Inside she could've kept her iPad, her favorite books, her crochet projects and maybe even a magazine or two.

Everything she needed, right at her fingertips. How fabulous.

DIY Gingerbread Village

I have to admit that some of the best holiday gifts I've received over the years have been Christmas decorations. Opening up festive decor is always a hit, because it's not usually something I'd buy for myself.

That's how I know that Christy's upcycled DIY gingerbread houses would bring a smile to anyone who enjoys dressing their house for the season.

Plus, while gingerbread is a timeless Christmas classic, it's also on the hot trend list this year. That makes you a super star gift giver. 

With all these super ideas, it's easy to be a thrifty gifter.

Even if the only thrifted gift you're giving is to yourself.

😉

Would you hop on the thrift store gift trend? I'd love to know!

Oh...and before you go, don't forget to check out these fantastic thrift store makeovers. So many ideas for your home, garden and more.




Happy Thrifting, Friends!