23 Sustainable Gifts That are Practically Free

The most valuable gifts have little to do with money. The most valuable gifts are the ones that mean the most to the person you're giving it to. Whether you're on a budget, or just looking for some more handmade or heartfelt gift ideas, we've got you covered. You may also be interested in our gift guide for gifts of service.

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Remember: Some of the most sustainable gifts are the ones people use and love, and don’t throw in the trash or return. Becoming a more sustainable gifter means becoming a more mindful gifter. Want to find out how? Check out this guide or our podcast.

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‍If you need more ideas, we have 300+ sustainable gift ideas across all our gift guides.

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Press flowers in book pages for a couple weeks. When they're totally dry, you can gently use a bit of glue to keep them in place. Put them in an old frame, or find a frame from your neighbors in your Buy Nothing group.

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advice/consulting on something you’re really good at

(gardening, graphic design, social media)

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You can write and share them digitally, print them out on cards, or write them out by hand.

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Search community boards and hubs for free museum days, local gardens, or outdoor theaters. Or plan your own nature day with a free hike!

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This is a great opportunity to reflect on the year you've had together, the person's accomplishments, or just why you're happy to have them in your life.

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If you're stocked up on bobby pins, bow clasps, or ribbon, you can probably make some fun hair accessories. Browse Pinterest for DIYs.

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Start with a strip of thick paper and decorate it any way you'd like. Paint it, decoupage it, add a photo or pressed flower. For some extra flourish, you can add a tassel or charm to hang from the top.

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Look around to see if you have any special pieces to pass down.

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Choose songs that remind you of inside jokes, special memories, or their plans for the future.

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If you have paints lying around, try making them a painting of something sentimental to the two of you (or their favorite flower, color palette (1 for each memory)

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You could focus on a trip you took together, or just some of your favorite memories together.

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We love this easy fridge pickle recipe: https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/quick-and-easy-dill-pickles.html. Just be sure your recipient knows to stick them in the fridge, because without proper sealing, pickles are not shelf-stable.

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You can print photos at home or the library, then layer them with clear tape as makeshift lamination. Then just glue a magnet on the back.

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If you have plants you'd like to propagate, look up the best methods for each type. Many plants can be propagated by simply stripping the bottom leaves from a clipping and dropping the stem in clean water! If you don't have plants, your friends and neighbors will likely be happy to give you some.

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if you have a nice camera, free photo sessions (headshots/family photos/pet portraits)

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Be sure to ask before offering this gift of service, as antique or specialty jewelry may require a professional.

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Get inspiration from Marie Kondo (or your favorite organizer) to help someone tackle their clutter responsibly.

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If there's one thing gardeners love, it's seeds! Share your bounty by gathering seeds from your own garden, and putting them in little envelopes with labels.

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If you're on the taller side, there are probably tasks you can help someone on your list with. Maybe hanging photos, reorganizing a tall shelf, or trimming some hedges. Ask around!

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Grab an old plant pot and decorate it with paint, decoupage, or anything else you can dream up. You can even plant a propogated plant in it for the complete package.

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For the more poetic folks, a written verse about a person or what you like about them could be better than any big, expensive gift out there.

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If you have pillar or taper candles gathering dust in a drawer, bust them out and paint them! It's a quick DIY with a memorable impact. https://www.gathered.how/arts-crafts/candle-painting

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Pass along one of your favorite books that you think they'll love. Add a note to them behind the cover, and maybe even a handmade bookmark.