What programmer would you recommend for a PIC 12F1571?
I will probably use this chip only once, so I don't need one with all the bells and whistles.
You can do it properly, or 'make-due' ...
Usually you can make a programmer with a few spare parts and a serial port on the PC, but the PIC requires a higher voltage than the typical 3.3V or 5V you will be working with.
You will save yourself a lot of time and parts to simply buy a pickit programmer... or if you are flexible on the MCU you need, buy an arduino. They are cheaper than an AVR or PIC when you factor in 'single project' and 'programmer'.
If you will be programming more than one MCU, splurge on an AVR or PIC programmer for your chip.