Probably my most favorite and memorable I ever participated in was the 'Thrift Store' gift exchange. We had a dollar limit ($15 or $20) and the item had to be purchased at either a thrift store or garage sale. Everyone also gave a list of items they would like/want. I gave my recipient a chair I found at a tag sale. I found paint & new fabric at the thrift store to refinish the chair. I received some decorative household items in a pretty basket. It was a fun exchange, because everyone had to get very creative in their gift hunt.

Thanks, Sharon and Larri. Lots of ideas to think about. Hugs to Clay.

Sharon, love the snowball fight idea. We got some with lights in them at Wal-Mart several years ago and they still light up. From time to time the grands pull them out for a fight. I have several that I received as gifts at retreat.

I have a small fabric covered rope bowl that I keep my little clips in.

I also have this scissor holder hanging on my big ironing board.

I use my finger pincushion when chain piecing.

Sorry, Larri, I'm not very clever either when it comes to gift giving. But I love Sharon's idea for the snowballs. I'll be hosting Christmas and the GNs would love them.

The snowball idea is fantastic, Sharon! Filing that one for all my great-nieces and nephew for Christmas. Since most of them have never even seen snow, they would have tons of fun with these. :)

I also do a handmade ornament exchange each year with a group of friends. We each make seven identical ornaments (six to exchange, one for the hostess)., though even a pretty, store-bought ornament would be something I'd love to receive. Here's a few I've done in the past:

This one I made using my printer and some gold embroidery floss.

Some simple embroidery ornaments. These I enjoyed making, because I could work on them where ever and whenever.

What about "something that includes...." For example, a gift that includes bells; or something that can be hung; or must have glitter... That idea.