Pocketbook for the Toddler Girl

Anyone who knows a toddler girl knows they're easy to please as far as gifts are concerned. So this year, if you're short on cash, here's a great idea that won't cost much and it sure to keep the toddler girl in your life happy and busy: a homemade pocketbook gift.

The base of the project

For starters, see if you have any old pocketbooks laying around your house that aren't being used any longer. Either that, or look in department stores like Wal-Mart or Target for a cheap pocketbook (I've found some for as little as $5). Remember, this is for a toddler who will put it through the ringer and doesn't care about style, so you don't have to overindulge.

Cell phone

Depending on whether the toddler you're making this set for still puts a lot of things in her mouth (ask her parents first), you can add an old cell phone to the pocketbook. For instance, a lot of people often have old cell phones laying around their house due to just replacing them as contracts renew. Or, if the toddler is still putting things in her mouth all the time, you could pick up a cheap plastic fake one at a department store.

Wallet and cards

If you've got an old wallet you no longer use, that's a good thing to throw into the set. You can also add some 'credit cards' into the wallet to make things more interesting. Where do you get these fake cards? Easy....most people get plenty of junk mail with credit card offers, right? Well, usually those envelopes contain a plastic fake card with a generic card number on them. Don't throw them out, and instead recycle them into this gift.

Makeup

You can find cheap fake makeup in many a store. A fake tube of lipstick is sure to delight, as is a compact mirror. Throw in a hairbrush for good measure, and you're sure to get a big smile when they unpack this gift.

Keys

In the infant section of any department store, you can find fake plastic keys that are perfect for pretending and also for chewing if the need ever arises.

Sunglasses

Most toddlers seem to just love sunglasses, and you can pick up a pair for toddlers for dirt cheap in most stores.

Jewelry

This can be an added bonus if you're feeling up to it, but fake plastic jewelry is pretty easy to come by in most department stores. Add a few pieces in for extra flair to your gift.