Thrift Store Gifts You Can Put Together on a Budget

The secret to making thrifted items feel fresh is to pair them with new consumable gifts. "Think artisan tea, a cozy candle, gourmet chocolate, fancy olive oil, bath salts, or even a pretty notepad," Kennedy says. New items mixed with thrifted items elevate your gift from secondhand to curated. Candlesticks, a jar of jam or mustard, or a favorite coffee will add a finishing touch and show the receiver your intention.

1. For Families: Movie Night Kit

Thrifted item: Large ceramic bowl

Thrift a large ceramic bowl then add a package of popcorn kernels and seasonings. Throw in a box or two of a favorite movie-theater candy like Milk Duds or Junior Mints. Add a blanket for a cozy night of streaming at home or add a gift card to your local theater.

2. For Young Readers: Book Basket

Thrifted item: Medium-size basket

Fill a thrifted basket with vintage children's books or paperbacks. Books are often purchased in sets; likewise, they are often donated in sets. They make great gifts! Add a book bag and a bookmark or a thrifted mug with some hot cocoa packages.

3. For the Sentimental Type: Framed Photos

Thrifted item: A unique picture frame or photo album

A special photograph paired with a high-quality secondhand frame or album creates a keepsake. "Older frames are often made of wood, silver plating, or brass," says Kennedy. "They are beautiful and built to last."

4. For the Baker: Vintage Cookbooks or Kitchen Supplies

Thrifted item: Cookbooks or unique baking supplies

Retro cookie cutters, vintage mixing bowls, or a midcentury style baking pan in good shape are highly prized by collectors. Old cookbooks can make a wonderful gift as well. If the cover jacket looks rough, remove it. As long as the book is in good shape, so is your gift. Pair your thrifted kitchen gift with a new linen, a jar of sprinkles or spices, or some holiday treats.

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5. For the New Homeowner: Kitchen Trinkets

Thrifted item: Vintage dishware or pretty kitchen statement pieces

For someone establishing a new home, or just starting out, shop for cookware, platters, mugs, glassware, or plates. Pair these with a favorite bottle of wine, dishtowel set, or new wooden spoons.

6. For the Hostess with the Mostest: Vintage Barware

Thrifted item: Bar accessories, like a corkscrew or decanter

A bottle of wine tied up with a lush ribbon and a vintage corkscrew or decanter makes a thoughtful gift for those who enjoy hosting. Add bar accessories, cocktail napkins or a recipe card to make it personal.

Thoughtful shopping at this time of year is so important! And truly, there are so many fantastic items already in existence, we don't need to buy new.

—Michele Cicatello, owner of The Curio Collectress

7. For Anyone Who Needs Pampering: Breakfast in Bed

Thrifted item: Vintage tray or tea set

When your receiver needs some good old fashioned pampering, serve up breakfast in bed: A tray with vintage cup and saucer, some gourmet jam, and loose-leaf tea says "cozy luxury," says Kayleigh Davies, an item expert at Auctionet.

8. For the Mixologist: Unique Bar Accessories

Thrifted item: Glassware set or vintage tray

Bundle a shaker, vintage glasses and a tray. You can add a liqueur or a drink recipe. Don't worry about finding a full set of glasses. A pair of beautiful glasses will be appreciated.

9. For the Entertainer: Hosting Supplies

Thrifted item: Trinket dishes or candlestick holders

Thrift a trinket dish or candlesticks to hold candles. Trinket dishes with a decorative rim or fun pattern show your style. Shop the entire thrift, because these little vessels can be placed in multiple departments, says Cait Barker, co-founder of online vintage home and embroidery shop Bessette. This gift delivers hygge and calm during a busy season. Plus, it's a great gift for anyone who likes hosting.

10. For the Chic Friend: Costume Jewelry

Thrifted item: Costume jewelry, broaches, or trinket dishes

For the woman who has everything, check out the jewelry case. You'll find contemporary and vintage costume jewelry in good shape. There's a broach for every woman out there. Pair it with a trinket dish or bowl.

11. For the "Don't Get Me Anything" Person: Repurposed Planters

Thrifted item: Interesting dishware, vintage cups, or other vessels

Pop a little houseplant into a charming pot or planter. If the recipient has a less-than-green thumb, go for an air plant or a succulent. Greens make everything sunny in the middle of winter.

12. For the Music Lover: Vintage Merch

Thrifted item: Vintage concert clothing, posters, or vinyls

Scour the clothing for donated concert t-shirts. "Vintage clothing is hot right now," says Sara McDaniel, a designer and vintage store owner. "A thrifted piece with a tag and a little story feels intentional." Add a vinyl record for fun.

13. For the Stylist: Coffee Table Books

Thrifted item: Hardcover photo books

Coffee table books about art, photography, travel, or cooking, look so pretty on a table. Tie one up with a red ribbon and a bit of greenery, no wrapping paper necessary.

14. For the Kids: Game Night Supplies

Thrifted item: New puzzles, games, or books

Scour the game section for unopened craft kits, games, and puzzles. Michele Cicatello, owner of The Curio Collectress, says some nostalgic toys are ideal for regifting: books, cars and trucks, action figures, and classic toys. Always make sure any kit is complete.

15. For the Old Soul: Vintage Collectibles

Thrifted item: Retro collectibles

For those who feel like they were born in the wrong era, Kelly Stephenson, vice president of brand at OfferUp, says a gift with retro toys or collectibles will bring joy to the nostalgia lover in your life. Shop for sunglasses or a cool handbag