Thanksgiving is next week. NEXT. WEEK. Which means the holiday season is approaching faster than I can finish a pint of Ben & Jerry’s Half Baked. Woah.

Whether you’re looking to save some money this holiday season, or are just wanting to give something a little more special, here are some ideas for gifts you can make yourself and give to those you deem lucky enough. ????

The beauties (and picture) above come from Purl Soho, who not only sell the pattern to make these, but beautifully curated kits as well. Shown above in shades of greens and creams, I plan on doing a variation on them in creams, peaches, and sagey light blues. I’ve been totally into non-traditional Christmas colors this year. I also plan on making a set of four for each person I give them to; I think I’ll box them in a pretty white box and trim it with simple wrappings.

If you’re looking for something with more whimsy, Betz White regularly puts out amazing felt ornament patterns. Are you seeing that Llama? (Photos belong to Betz White)

These ones that I found are just the tip of the iceberg. If you think you’d like to go this route, simply typing in “Felt Ornament Patterns” produces amazing and adorable results on both Etsy and Google.

One of my favorite parts of being a crafter is seeing modernized versions of classic crafts, like these cross stitch patterns. (Pictures above from Stitchering’s Etsy shop). These are great even if you’ve never cross stitched before; the patterns are clear and lay everything out for you. If you’ve dabbled in it before, step up your game by customizing the color palette. For example, the “Home Sweet Home” cross-stitch would look amazing in shades of green, dark grays, and creams.

Do you have a stash of fabric with prints you love but have a hard time implementing in projects? Bookmark it up! (Picture from above and tutorial here) The small canvas means myriad patterns and colors will work without being too much. You can also use jewelry making metal ends in combination with beads or charms to up the awesomeness. Since I love gold accents, I think a pretty fabric with gold beads would make a truly lovely gift.

Top left, top right, bottom left, bottom right

I’ve sewn up a few of these for birthdays, and they are always a delight. Use fun and unexpected fabric combinations, or keep it classy with an elegant fabric and a metal zipper. Rings, pendants, and earrings will all be happy traveling in style.

It doesn’t take a lot to make a totally adorable stuffed toy for your favorite youngin’. The ones above are from Big Stuffed and Solipandi respectively.  I would find a simple pattern and use understated or classic fabrics to add a contemporary touch. For example, I would take an elephant pattern like this one and use ticking stripe fabric and cream accents to add a classic and minimalistic touch.

That’s only the beginning

This is just a roundup based off of some of the holiday gifts I plan on making and giving this season. Knit hats, crochet or sewn potholders, table linens, camera straps, and grocery bags are just a few of the endless ideas you could take on for this holiday season.

Happy Making, Friends!

Love, Dylan