“Black Friday,” the day-after-Thanksgiving shopping blitz, seems so far away. Yet experts say now is the perfect time to start shopping for the holidays.

“The earlier the better,” said Tracy Johnson, educational specialist at Consumer Credit Counseling Service, a division of Partnership for Families, Children and Adults in Chattanooga.

Savvy shoppers keep an eye out for bargain gifts every day.

“I shop year-round for Christmas,” said Judith Paul, a 59-year-old Signal Mountain artist. “Don’t wait until the day after Thanksgiving to start thinking about all the people on your list.”

Even if you’re just beginning to think about presents, you can still save money. Among the best strategies for being thrifty during the holiday season, Ms. Johnson said, is to prepare a budget, then comparison shop. You might be able to find good deals early in the season at prices comparable to holiday sales.

Buying early not only helps you avoid the crush of crowds but helps spread the expense over several more weeks. Some stores also will give price adjustments if you find a lower price within a designated time frame.

Experts also advise asking people to give you several ideas for gifts to choose from. Don’t hesitate to pick the least expensive, if you need to.

And don’t forget the personal touch.

Coupon books for chores, outings or future gifts, baked goods or handmade art can bring smiles on Christmas morning.

Marilyn Hoke, a 60-year-old downtown homemaker, jewelry artist and board member of the Houston Museum of Decorative Arts, plans personal jewelry presents for many of her friends this year.

“It’s always nice to give something handmade. (It’s) a little more special,” she said.

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