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Last Minute Gifts

Writer's picture: Rebecca (a yarn enthusiast)Rebecca (a yarn enthusiast)

Like many of you, I'm looking at the calendar and my hair is standing straight up! I know, I know - the date is the same EVERY YEAR, but perhaps my schedule gets more convoluted each year, or I add more to my calendar and anyway, things just get busy.


If you're a fiber artist of any sort, here are a couple ideas for those last minute gifts that can add the special touch to a gift card or box of candy (does anyone still gift these?) that will be sure to make it more memorable and appreciated!


A knitted sweater

Don't panic - I'm referring to a mini sweater ORNAMENT! You can find the FREE PATTERN for this at Youghiogheny Yarns. I used yarn from a hand-dyed lamb tail (mini skein) purchased at Kid Ewe Knot here in the Pittsburgh area (Bridgeville, PA) - my favorite Local Yarn Shop (LYS) !!


I did this mini sweater on DPN's in a slightly smaller size than noted in the pattern and with DK weight yarn.


Cord Tamers

I posted my pattern for these a few blog posts ago, so you can check it out without having to go very far. I like these for "guy gifts", and make them in Red Heart's CAMO colored yarn, which has been a big hit with the men I've gifted them to. One recipient liked his so much that he asked for 2 more!


NOTE: sometimes it helps to gift with a tag or card that explains what it is and how it's used.



Sunglasses Case

This is another one of my patterns, and can be found here on my other site. These are great add on gifts, and can be made with a hanging cord for the car or RV that keeps them handy when they are needed most!


It can be a cute addition to a pair of child's sunglasses. Think about the kids who may be visiting Disney at some point; the buttons and color combinations to make it Disney-themed would be fun to make AND a delight to receive!


I used Truboo yarn by Lion Brand for the purple one pictured here.


Bags, baggies, baglets!

I'm affectionately referred to as the family "Bag Lady" because I am absolutely OBSESSED with crocheted, knitted or sewn (fabric) bags!


Here is one version that I've made with a terrific tutorial!! These are double-duty as they could be the gift AND the gift bag all - in one. They make up quickly as well so you still have time to get a few done before the holiday gets here!!


Speaking of QUICK! This next one is also a pattern you can quickly turn out.



Coffee cozies

I made a number of these a few years back - and downloaded a free graphic to print out the cardboard holders that make it easy to tuck in a gift card for the local coffee shop to top off this perfect, handmade gift! I make these in cotton yarn so they can be used in the Summer for cold drinks that generate condensation as well as hot drinks that need insulation! There are a TON of free patterns out there for these, The one by Winding Road crochet is a favorite of mine. You can find that one here.


Key chain fobs or wristlets

I winged the pattern on these, and as you can see in the photo, they are varied lengths and stitch composition. I always use a button to add some flair to the piece, AND help secure it to the finding.


Notice as well that I have used a variety of findings for these. Also, except for the rainbow one, I used cotton yarns.


GIFT HINT: school colors make a GREAT combination for the college student OR the new driver in high school!


Basic pattern: chain DOUBLE the length you want for the piece + 2 inches. Then turn and work back along the starting chain in the stitch of your choosing.

I often use the Suzette stitch for these, or the Lemon Peel stitch.

Deluxe Hot Pads

Last year, Daisy Farm Crafts put out a pattern for hot pads. As I usually do, I modified the original a bit, and made a number of variations. Mostly, I did each hot pad in DOUBLE, so to provide extra heat absorption on a table or counter top as well as a lovely appearance.


I used cotton yarns, AND,... here's the best part: for gifting, I paired one of these with a SOUP or CHILI Mix (I get these at local stores or craft shows) and people LOVED it! I made some other versions as well, pictured below.





Ear Warmers

Last but not least (for this blog post anyway), there's the always-appreciated - in colder climates - the knitted or crocheted ear warmer or headband. The pattern options are endless, and the yarn color combinations infinite.


I have not YET knitted any of these - mostly because I can just about crochet them in my sleep, HOWEVER; knitting one for myself (to test) is on my list of projects for this Winter here in Pennsylvania. Next year, I'll share that pattern in my quick, last minute gifts post!!


You can find one of my favorite free patterns for this item here.


Summary

There are MANY wonderful patterns out for all of these last-minute gift ideas. Comment on this post and share your favorites!


The last couple weeks leading up to the holidays should not be stressed and miserable. One way we can bring more PEACE Into our lives is to avoid the malls and traffic, and sit at home knitting or crocheting gifts to share with worthy recipients (e.g. people who will appreciate the gift).


Whatever it is that you celebrate,. I wish you a peaceful and happy holiday season!

 

(C) 2023 Stitch 'n Dish



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Pittsburgh, PA, USA

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