Have the last two weekends found you at the mall looking for the perfect, on-budget gift?  Here’s another low cost option for you to consider.  This year give the gift of gossip, D.I.Y, even fashion.  I’m talking magazines.  Magazines are great gift options because they are low cost and customizable.  Added bonus:  Often when you buy a subscription for someone else you can get one for yourself!  Does it get any better than that?  But be sure to be creative in your presentation. Here are some ways you can jazz it up a bit:

Buy an issue and wrap it in a box, basket, or stocking with other lower priced gifts related to the magazine.  Let’s say you buy your sister a subscription to Dwell Magazine – one of my favorites.  You could include a cool new key ring, some architectural post cards and a great smelling candle.  Thoughtful, themed products guarantee a big hug.

Or

Create your very own cover for an issue of the magazine.  Think back to those fake-me-out magazine covers at your city/county fair.  Create your own and think of some catchy, funny headlines.  It never hurts to put your friend’s face on the cover and give ‘em their 15 minutes of fame!

Or

Design a collage using images from the magazine that suit your loved one’s personality.  The bigger and wilder the collage the better.  You could even consider framing the collage or making a card out of it.  On the inside of the card write an inscription letting them know they are getting a year subscription to the source magazine.

Magazines are often overlooked, but make for great inexpensive holiday gifts.  Find magazine deals at your newsstand or websites like Amazon.com.  Sometimes you’ll get the best offers directly from the magazine, so pick one up or log on to its website to find great savings.  Fun!

Here are some discount magazine outlets:

image from househuntingca.com