HANDMADE GIFT IDEA #11

I don't think I can call myself a quilter. I tell those who ask if I quilt, "Only when I need a quilt for something," and from the looks on their faces I think this response doesn't qualify me for "quilter" status. But I do craft and sew a whole lot, and inevitably there is a mountain of leftover fabric. So once or twice year I de-stash by making a scrap quilt.

Scrap quilts are quick and easy - no need to worry about the pattern turning out right. They're also a great way to practice, so that when I do want a pretty quilt for something, my corners are not a complete embarrassment. These scrap quilts make great baby, graduation, and wedding gifts. Or, if I don't have someone specific to give it to, the local homeless and women's shelters are always in need of quilts. So go ahead, get scrappy!
Skills required: easy sewing
Approximate time to craft*: 40+ hours
Approximate cost for supplies*: $5 (the above quilt was made for nothing!)
*Please remember that these are just approximations. CopyCrafts makes no guarantee of their accuracy.

HANDMADE GIFT IDEA #9

We love these reusable fabric shopping bags! Totally reversible (in case you send your husband to the grocery store and he doesn't want to be seen with floral print). The same size and shape as a plastic grocery bag (so you know what you can fit). Quick and easy to sew. And SO much cuter than the ones you buy at the store. Sew up a couple for a fun handmade gift set that will benefit them, and the earth.

Resources: Reversible T-Shirt Shopper Bag Pattern available from www.deidrewicks.etsy.com
Skills required: easy machine sewing
Approximate time to craft*: 2 hours
Approximate cost for supplies*: $5*Please remember that these are just approximations. CopyCrafts makes no guarantee of their accuracy.

HANDMADE GIFT IDEA #3

These dish cloths are possibly the easiest and most versatile handmade gift we've seen. Their chunky texture and 100% cotton yarn make them great for many uses. Dish cloth, wash cloth, hot pad - they can do it all. Give them as wash cloths with soap or lotion for a pampering gift set. Or give a set of dish cloths with a copy of your favorite recipes for a new bride.

You can also include this little poem on the card or gift tag:
I’m a little dish cloth
To help you with your chores.
I scrub pots and pans and glass and plates
And ever so much more.
There really is no ending
To all the things that I can do,
And that’s why I was made with care
Especially for YOU!(This poem copyrighted by CopyCrafts - it may not be used for commercial purposes of any kind without express written permission.)

We've included links to our to our favorite patterns for beginners, but there are tons of variations to be found online if you want to get a little more creative.

Resources: knit pattern, crochet pattern
Skills required: easy knitting, or easy crochet
Approximate time to craft*: 2 hours each
Approximate cost for supplies*: $.50 each*Please remember that these are just approximations. CopyCrafts makes no guarantee of their accuracy.