What an interesting question. I buy at thrift stores and garage sales all the time. Unfortunately, not everything I need can be found there at the right times. With a family of 6, there is no way I could go a year without buying something new. I don't think my kids would enjoy homemade gifts for their birthdays and Christmas either. My kids are very appreciative of what little they have, but come on, they want a cool new toy for their birthdays!