Make your own money gifts for Christmas

How do I make my own money gifts?

When it comes to Christmas presents younger generations in particular only have one thing on their wish list - MONEY! Some are afraid that their relatives will give them something they don't want, and others prefer going shopping themselves because they don't have a lot of money of their own.

Many people see money gifts as too impersonal and are reluctant to give their loved ones money for Christmas. You want your gift to show your friends and family how much you care about them, as well as being something that they will enjoy.

But money gifts don't have to be impersonal – Use your creativity and come up with your own original ideas. A simple money gift can be a unique and eye-catching Christmas present!

Craft books and the Internet offer a wealth of ideas and suggestions for money gifts, or you use your own. The more personally the present is made and wrapped, the more it is appreciated. Although children and teenagers are usually more interested in the contents, a beautifully packaged gift makes a great present for anyone. A gift is only 'worth' half as much without beautiful wrapping.

One great idea for an original Christmas money gift is a reindeer decorated with notes. This requires only a few inexpensive materials to make and is a real eyecatcher!

All you need is brown construction paper, pipe cleaners, a toilet paper roll, a black marker, sticky tape and glue.

Cut the shape of an reindeer's head out of the construction paper. Then, wrap the toilet roll in another piece of paper and secure with tape. Glue the toilet roll in the middle of the head to make a nose. Use the pipe cleaners to make the antlers, and affix to the head. You now have the basic structure for your present.

You don't need any special skills to incorporate your money into the reindeer head – for eyes, fold two notes small enough so that they fit in proportion to the rest of the head. Secure using small pieces of tape. Fold another bill to make the nostrils. You can also fold notes into the shape of a tongue, or hair, and carefully tape to the face, depending on how much you want to give.

Attach a thread to the left and right sides of the reindeer head so that your money gift can be hung up, and you have an original money gift that's sure to please at Christmastime.

The only limit to the money gifts you can make is your imagination. The most important thing is that money gifts are made with love. The recipient will appreciate how much time and effort has gone into your gift.