Though the mall is always teeming with things to buy, sometimes there seems to be absolutely nothing suitable for a friend’s birthday. But luckily there’s a smart option worth tapping into. Instead of resorting to candles, lotions and other ordinary items, make the gift extra special with the following personalized photo gift ideas. They’re easy to get a hold of, creative, fun, memorable and practical.
DIY Personalized Photo Gift Ideas
One way to customize a variety of gift items is to decoupage the photos onto an object using Mod Podge. Mod Podge acts simultaneously as a glue, sealant and varnish and is available in craft stores. Objects to personalize can include wooden stools and foot rests, mug coasters, boxes and notebook covers. Begin by choosing an object to decorate. Then select the photos, print them out on white paper and decoupage. To add more originality and design, use colorful tissue paper and newspaper or magazine cutouts.
Another option that is simpler includes making photo pens. Purchase photo-insert pens such as the Pix Pen Personalized Photo Pen (available on Amazon.com) and customize with a favorite picture. This pen has a see-through surface near the top that leaves room for a thin photo insert.
Where to Buy Personalized Photo Gifts Online
There are several excellent photo-customizing stores online that offer creative options. Some of the general gift items may overlap, such as the photo mugs, but each store has products that the other may not carry.
- Snapfish.com sells personalized photo flip books, puzzles, photo panels, photo skins for gadgets (e.g., a laptop), posters, as well as mugs.
- Zazzle.com. also carries customizable photo mugs, along with calendars, postcards, greeting cards, stickers, mousepads, card invitations, postage stamps, neckties, magnets, buttons, keychains, hats, shirts and bags.
- Shutterfly.com offers the option to print a favorite picture onto an artist canvas, top a hardwood box with a photo tile, customize a desk organizer, turn a picture into jewelry, make luggage tags, customize a deck of cards, create life-size photo cutouts for walls and make picture notebooks and notepads. Shutterfly also offers the perfect gift option for kids. They can make a child star in a book or poster with a favorite character whether it’s someone from Disney, Transformers or High School Musical.
If you're more into vintage inspired items, 1928 offers personalized photo jewelry and accessories that include necklaces, charms, purse hangers and pins. Custom photo gift ideas are a great way add a special touch to an otherwise unexciting gift. When deciding on a product to buy at these online stores, it’s a good idea to check the competitor’s site to make sure the same product is not available for a cheaper price.
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