Finding ourselves in this new world of less money and more demands, choosing the frugal route has become the norm, rather than something cool to talk about.  Going frugal is a very hard thing to do with gifts, especially baby gifts, but sometimes you can pull it off with something unique, useful and handmade.  There isn't a single baby out there who wouldn't benefit from a few extra receiving blankets.  Our babies go through several a day, and I'm sure they're not the only ones.

Receiving blankets purchased new are ridiculously expensive, especially once you have made your own and see how little they require.  If you have a sewing machine or serger, you can make unique, handmade receiving blankets out of thrift store flannel sheets.I just bought a twin flannel sheet set at the thrift store last week for $2.  One sheet will give me several receiving blankets, and the cost of thread is negligible.  The best thing about making your own receiving blankets is that you can customize them to whatever size you (or your recipient) desire.  I like my blankets to be rectangular instead of square because the snuggle a baby up better.

Since flannel is a woven fabric, you can make one small cut on the edge of the sheet and tear it the entire length.  It will measure the same the whole way.  Then make a cross cut for your other side and tear it too.  You can finish the edges with a serger or a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.  Fold them neatly, tie them with a pretty bow and you have yourself an inexpensive, practical gift for any new baby.