This $49 Etsy Find Is My New Favorite Go-To Present

In a perfect world, you’d spare no expense to get that special someone in your life a one-of-a-kind present. But in reality? You don’t have that kind of cash. And therein lies the problem: finding a gift that feels personal and affordable often feels impossible. 

A few months ago, I stumbled upon a needlepoint pillow service on Etsy—and man, what a game-changer that is. It’s been my go-to gift idea ever since, and it can be yours, too.

This gift started as an inside joke. When my boyfriend and I were traveling with some friends this winter, one of our friend’s names was misprinted on his boarding ticket. Obviously, we called him that the entire trip. So when it came time to find our friend a great birthday present, my boyfriend suggested we get him a needlepoint pillow with his new name on it.

I searched Etsy and came across Adorning Pillows, a vendor that sells plenty of custom cross-stitched pillow covers. On a whim, I placed an order and had a pristine pillow cover less than two weeks later. Not only did our friend get a kick out of the present, but it also dawned on me that this is something anyone would appreciate. 

As gifters, we feel constantly pressured to find our loved one’s the perfect gift; something that feels unapologetically them, and something they don’t already have in their home.

Each of Adorning Pillows’ styles are handmade, so it’s possible to give your loved ones something made just for them, without having to flex your DIY muscle—a godsend for non-crafty people like yours truly!

Though this vendor has a maximum number of characters, you can write virtually anything on your friend’s pillow: An inspirational quote for a graduation present, their Instagram handle for a birthday gift, or even their new last name for a bridal shower. And, unless your friend knows their way around a cross-stitch, I highly doubt they’ll already have this pillow case in their home. 

Best of all, it’s relatively affordable! Though Adorning Pillows has plenty of styles to choose from, you can find most styles for under $100. My personal favorite is the sham cover with a dainty, patterned border. The price? Under $50, which is less than some people spend on dinner or groceries. 

The only caveat to this present is that you need to buy the actual pillow separately but, as far as I’m concerned, that’s one small drawback to an otherwise perfect present.

What do you think? What’s your go-to gift that feels unique? Sound off in the comments!