Quick(ish) Handmade Christmas Gifts

I used to just post all the projects I've been working on, but that's before I told the people who are likely to be getting these gifts that I have a blog. But, I'd still like to share, so, in recognition of the times I have spent roaming the internet in search of the perfect gifts to knit or crochet, here's a few ideas that I'm sharing that I hope will be helpful to others.

I can certainly tell you though that at this point (more than halfway there from what our Advent calendar is telling me), you'd be well advised to pick quick things if you are still looking for ideas, and not decide that your plan to knit your husband a sweater is still do-able. I do wish I was better at taking my own advice.

So, quickish gifts to make:

Ornaments:





Whether knit or crochet, they're quick and adorable. I've mostly done up miniature socks, but I've seen amazing mittens, and all sorts of fun crocheted Christmas things.

Crochet:

Crochet is  amazingly quick and satisfying. Toys, scarves, or perhaps some lovely Washcloths. I made up several one year, and packaged them with lovely soap.

Knitting:

Infinitude

Here's the one I just finished working on, and I found that it works up quick. I made the large version, and I'm taking the chance that the recipient doesn't read the blog. Knowing I would be short on the blue yarn, I put in white stripes. The yarn is Berroco Vintage, and two hanks should get you the large sized Infinitude, which happens to be a free download on Ravelry.

Cowl of Skaro

Quick, fun, and reminds Dr. Who fans of Daleks. 

Ladybug Headband

Also quick, and lovely. A good project to try out cables if you haven't done them before.

Quant

Much quicker and easier than it looks, and a lot of fun besides.

Sewing:

Sew Something! I'm always happy when sewing gets me out of a jam, as it's so ridiculously quick. Perhaps an apron (pattern from Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts), or the ever popular Buttercup Bag from Made by Rae.

From the Kitchen:

Candy!

Most of the candies I make are from Canadian Living 

Mint Patties

I made some with dark chocolate, and some with white.

Berry Gelees

 I substituted cranberries.

 

And last night we made Two-Tone Peppermint Bark, with the kids helping by unwrapping the chocolate squares, and crushing and sprinkling the candy-canes.

I do hope the list is helpful! Happy Crafting and Happy Christmas!