It can be tricky to find gifts that are both meaningful, useful, and not just more “stuff” to fill up already packed homes without costing a whole lot of money. That’s why these dollar store gift ideas are perfect – cost efficient and focused specifically on the things your child enjoys already.
The first step is to consider the passions the person getting your gift has. Use that as the base for your gift and build from there.
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For An Artist
While the art supplies from a dollar store might not be top of the line, it’s good enough for starter resources and a great way to encourage emerging art skills before investing in the quality stuff. Put together a bundle with:
- a blank canvas or two
- paint brushes of various sizes
- acrylic paint
- a paint palette
- charcoal pencils & eraser
- sketchbook
- coloured pencils
- special markers
- poseable model
- watercolour paper
- watercolour paint
If you check out the book section, you might be able to find some “how to draw” books or a book about famous artists or artworks.
Use a box that has a lid for all the supplies that aren’t oversized so they can all be kept together.
If you child loves art, you might want to consider using resources from or joining the membership at Masterpiece Society.
For a Handyman
There’s something empowering for kids having their own tools. If you have a child you loves to fix, build, (or demolish) things, then you can head to the hardware area of the dollar store and fill up a tool box – which you can probably find one of in the store as well. Add these:
- real tools – hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure, etc.
- duct tape
- work gloves
- safety glasses
- sandpaper
- work light
See if there are any unique additions – like a DIY fix-it guide or even one of those orange safety shirts / vests.
For a Writer
If you have a writer, you know how important it is to have notebooks around! Create a bundle of special notebooks to encourage your child to keep their inspirations close by. Add in:
- special pens – try a variety of them, including different inks and colours
- thesaurus and/or dictionary
- sticky notes
See if they have any version of a lapdesk so they can write on the go. A lap desk has a cushion on one side and a hard surface on the other.
To encourage more reading time, you can also throw in:
- a clip-on book lamp
- bookmarks
- a tablet pouch with a book inside
For a Baker
If your child loves being in the kitchen, you can put together a fantastic gift set at the dollar store! Head to the kitchen area, find a big mixing bowl and start adding supplies, like these:
- wooden mixing spoons
- measuring cups and spoons
- oven mitts
- an apron
- a timer
- a cookie sheet with parchment paper
- toothpicks (for checking if it’s finished cooking!)
- baking supplies – like cake mix, sprinkles, icing, and muffin liners.
Again, you might be able to find some cookbooks in the book area. Don’t forget to consider things like tea towels and dishcloths for easy clean up!
To help with kitchen skills with your kids, check out the Kids Cook Real Food program.
For the Snuggler
If you have a kid who just likes to snuggle up and get warm, here are some fun ideas that you can put together into a gift basket:
- oversized mug
- hot chocolate powder or tea bags
- thick mittens
- fluffy socks or comfy slippers
- a blanket (bonus if it has a hood!)
- a novel or wordsearch book
- a mug warmer
- a rice heat bag
To make it extra special, why not make a “snuggle with me” coupon which they can cash in for quality time with you.
For An Aspiring Hairstylist / Beautician
If your child loves doing their hair or getting all dolled up, there are lots of fun options available at the dollar store. I would offer a word of caution about using makeup though – make sure they are child safe if you are buying it from this kind of store. I would also probably avoid scissors. To help your child create fun hairstyles, put these into a special carrying case:
- a collection of hair brushes and combs with different kinds of teeth.
- a spraybottle
- a selection of hair accessories – clips, bands, bows, elastics, extensions, etc.
- a hair dryer or other styling appliances
- hair gel, mousse, or hair spray
See if you can find a plastic cape as well, to cover their “customers” and give it a more authentic hairstylist experience.
For Crafters
If you have a crafter – there are lots and lots of amazing craft supplies at the dollar store which can make a terrific gift package. Plus, there are many different kinds of containers you can put your gift into, depending on what kind of crafter they are.
For example, if your child is a knitter or crocheter, you could use a canvas tote bag or a cute basket for all their supplies, and include:
- wool/yarn of varying colours
- needles or hooks of various sizes
- scissors
Check the book section for any pattern books which could be a fun addition as well. You never know what kind of resources they have on the shelves!
If your child just loves making crafts in general, find a bin with a lid in the storage department, and then start loading it up with fun craft items and supplies to make an inspiration box:
- Stickers
- Craft Paper of varying textures, colours, and patterns
- Scissors – see if they have some with different cutting edges to create unique cuts
- Popsicle Sticks
- Feathers
- Pipe Cleaners
- Pom-poms
- Googly-eyes
- Beads and String or heavy thread
- Glue and Tape
- Ribbon
- Buttons
If you are feeling particularly brave, you could even add some glitter (or better yet, glitter glue). You can also find placemats to protect the surface from a craft experience. If your child is older, you could consider a hot glue gun and some glue sticks.
And, if you just want to get something easy – you can often find preboxed craft kits for kids at the dollar store.
For Those Who Love Fitness
A quick foray into the health and fitness area of any dollar store can give you some fun ideas on what to put in a gift basket. Selection will depend on your store, obviously, but I’ve seen some with a huge selection of resources. Find a great (and durable) container and add some of the following:
- a yoga mat
- some small dumbbells or kettle bells
- a reusable water bottle
- resistance bands
- an arm or waist band that holds a phone while you work out
- jump rope
See what extras you can tuck in for some extras – like protien bars, a fitness video, inspirational book, or a towel to dab off the sweat.
For the Nature Lover / Gardener
If you are trying to find a gift for someone who is passionate about nature, you can create a gardener’s gift. This will depend on the time of year, somewhat, but the dollar store tends to have things unexpectedly off season, so it’s worth a try! Find a pail (or sometimes there are bags specific to gardening with lots of outside pockets, etc) to put in your supplies and then add some:
- potting soil
- a spade or other similar small tools
- some seeds – ideally some low maintenance flowers or practical herbs
- a few small terracotta pots
- some gloves
- spray water bottle or small watering can
Maybe take a look in the office area to see if they have any gardening themed notebooks or daily calendars to add a little extra.
For The Snack Junkie
The dollar store is one of the best places to get lots and lots of snacks. (Ask any teen!) Find something fun to put it all in and then go straight down the snack row to fill it up. Pick some of the usual favourites, but add in some unusual or different treats they might never have considered before. Some ideas:
- Candy
- Popcorn
- Chips
- Pop / Drink
- Cookies
- Nuts
- Jerky
For fun, you could add in a toothbrush and toothpaste to counter the additional sugar content!
From art supplies and kitchen essentials to tools and writing accessories, the aisles of a dollar store are filled with potential gift components. Each carefully selected item contributes to a unique and thoughtful gift basket, showcasing your attention to the recipient’s hobbies and preferences.
So, the next time you’re on the lookout for a meaningful yet budget-conscious gift, consider the dollar store as your go-to destination. Unleash your creativity, explore the aisles, and assemble a gift basket that speaks directly to the heart of your loved ones. Remember, the value of a gift lies not in its price tag but in the thought and care that go into its creation. Happy gifting!
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