So far I’ve shared some of my favourite DIY gifts for men, and kids, today here are 8 fantastic ideas for the ladies. There’s something for every kind of crafter: crochet, knitting, sewing and other general crafts.
Toddler Art Bowl
What mother wouldn’t love her toddler’s unique artwork on a bowl? The abstract scribbles look really good, don’t you agree? (It’s possible that I only think this because I’m also a mum). You might need to get sneaky to pull this one off, and you do need a special pen, but I think your recipient would treasure this for years to come. And it’s not just for toddlers! Older kids could get in on this act too. Why not make an entire set for the family?
Prop-Up Tablet Case
If I get all my gifts made on time this year, I think I will reward myself with one of these! It would be perfect for when I am using recipes on my Kindle. I try not to print recipes out until I know it’s something I’ll be making again, so this would be very convenient. It can be made in an afternoon by an intermediate sewer. You can follow the instructions at The Inspired Wren, or print out the handy PDF tutorial.
Crochet Button Cowl
I made this cowl for my Mother-in-law last year (a shorter version), and she loved it so much she wore it for the entire Christmas weekend. The shell stitch is super simple, and if you use a chunky yarn it works up really quickly.
Leather Handle Tote
This one is in German, but it’s too good not to share. Between Google translate and the photos, we could definitely pull this off. The tote itself is made from a tutorial at The Purl Bee (in English), then you add the leather handles following the instructions at Anmutig. You could also use a purchased tote, and replace the handles it comes with if you don’t want to sew.
Blanket Scarf Tutorial
Blanket Scarves are hot this year, and I can see why. They look cosy and chic. And you can whip one out in 15 minutes without sewing a stitch! You can make them as long or as short as you wish, and it’ll just take a trip to the fabric store. Each length of fabric you buy can make two scarves. So what are you waiting for?
The Plantain Cardigan
This is the kind of cardigan that’s great for wrapping yourself up in at home, so it would be just the thing for someone who works at home. Since I hail from the tropics, I am always chilly, even indoors, so I know I would appreciate this gift! Best of all it’s made from a free t-shirt pattern. Theresa from Dandelion Drift explains how she altered the pattern to make it a cardigan. And don’t you just love the leather elbow patches?
Leather Glasses Case
This is such a simple idea but would be so lovely as a gift. Caila gives lots of tips for sewing with leather, and the tutorial itself is pretty simple. Go crazy and make it in fuchsia or purple for that someone who loves bright colours.
One Skein Knit Cowl
I have one of these on my needles right now. It’s taking me longer than one night to complete mine, as I am making it longer, but it does knit up quickly once you get into the groove of the seed stitch. I love the classic grey! It’s knit in the round, which means no seaming, and it looks really warm!
It just struck me that this list could also be a wish list for me! I wonder if Santa does DIY?
