R-JENERATION: Homemade gifts save money while still showing sentiment

It's the thought that counts … right?

In today's economic climate, regifting and gift cards are the social norm, but such gifts can be perceived as not thoughtful.

One way to save money without losing sentiment is to give homemade gifts.

"I usually buy the beads and strings for my bracelets," says Vanessa Adams, a junior at Basic High School. "It's only about $6."

Adams says that she makes cuff, or "raver" bracelets, for family and friends.

If you aren't very creative, you can buy kits, how-to books or ask a friend for help.

Kits can vary in price, anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on what you want to learn how to do.

As for Adams, she says that she learned how to make the bracelets online, which is also an easy way to learn how to make gifts for friends.

"I crochet hats and scarves for winter birthdays and holidays," says Angel Crawford, a senior at Las Vegas Academy. "I also make jewelry and friendship bracelets. They're cheap and really easy to make."

Crawford says that teachers appreciate homemade and creative gifts from students.

If you still don't have any ideas for a gift, here are some suggestions: "cookies in a jar," which is cookie mix layered in a Mason jar; a "daddy caddy," which is a simple toolbox made from a coffee can; a "golf ball dog," which is a great gift for your golf-savvy friend; or a homemade message board for your forgetful friend.

"I really enjoy making gifts for my students," says Susan Giancaspro, a third-grade teacher at Bell Elementary School. "A lot of students there don't get very many gifts for the holidays or birthdays, so I like to surprise them with baked goods or fun arts and crafts days."

Giancaspro also said that she makes her students gifts to save money.

Being creative, frugal, and thoughtful can help give a picky friend or family member the perfect gift.