Handmade Gifts under $1.50!

This Christmas, I handmade a few gifts. This was an apron I made from some fabric I bought on clearance after Christmas one year for $1/yard. (It literally cost less than a dollar, b/c I used less then a yard!) Despite the fact it took a couple hours, I loved the way it turned out. I also added a fabric rose to the side by the chest, but didn't get a photo taken after the add. (Here's a tutorial to make a VERY easy fabric rosette: http://www.craftaholicsanonymous.net/2011/07/fabric-rosettes-tutorial.html)

For teachers this year, I busted out those pears & peaches that I canned last fall. My in-laws brought tons back from the West Coast. They are SUPER yummy and a delicacy in our house; however really a great frugal gift for us! Just the cost of the mason jar & I added some of that same Christmas fabric. I also purchased some reusable shopping bags with the phrase "#1 Teacher" in the fall for 25 cents each. Each bag held a jar of pears & a jar of peaches. :) (Total cost per gift about $1.25 plus fruit)

Lastly, I made these photo coasters. They are made from tiles (cost 11 cents each), felt, photographs, & modge podge. Such a simple, yet fun gift. The total cost of the craft was $1.16!! (Plus ribbon & modge podge which I just had on hand.)

Velvetly Chocolate Truffles

I got this recipe from a Pampered Chef party before David was born. I pulled it out this last Christmas and was really happy with how they turned out!! :) My sister and stayed up late making these and got chocolate-slappy. :) Also, they make amazing gifts. I boxed a bunch for our homemade MOPS gift exchange. It cost under $5 for the amount I fit in a small sweater box. I also used little foil mini-muffin holders to put each truffle in. Kept it neat, but also very fancy!

Velvetly Chocolate Truffles

2 squares (1 oz each) unsweetened baking chocolate
1 package (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate morsels
1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
3/4 t. pantry double strength vanilla (If desired, 1/2 t. vanilla can be substituted for the double strength vanilla)
Assorted coatings such as unsweetened cocoa powder, toasted chopped almonds, grated chocolate or toasted coconut


1. Coarsely chop chocolate squares. Place chopped chocolate, chocolate morsles and half of the whipped topping in a large bowel; microwave, uncovered on HIGH 1 1/2-2 minutes or until chocolate is melted and smooth, stirring after each 20-second interval. Cool slightly. Fold in remaining whipped topping and vanilla.
2. Spread truffle mixture onto a cutting board; refrigerate 30 minutes or until firm enough to scoop. (Do not allow chocolate to harden too long or the coatings will not adhere well to the truffles.)
3. Using a small scoop, scoop truffle mixture onto small plates containing assorted coatings. For easier scopping, dip scoop into hot water after every few truffles and tap on paper towels to remove excess water. Wearing plastic gloves or using tongs, roll ruffles in coating. Place coated truffle onto a serving platter and serve.
Yield: About 40 Trufffles

These were amazing! :) Enjoy!