I'm back with my annual list of gift ideas to sew for the festive season.
Because handmade gifts are always unique, and one of the more heartfelt and personal ways of giving, from maker to lucky receiver.
Some ideas are back on the list from previous years, and I've added a few new ones.
Many of these sewing projects are very quick and easy, and some are great for beginners or to try with kids.
So here we go:
1. DIY Wrap Cardigan
For those that love a piece of clothing that can be worn in many different ways, whether it's a cardigan, dress or scarf... you could make a wrap cardigan. Due to its versatility it's the perfect travel companion.
It's also a nice beginners project as it is very easy to make, I found this great tutorial by Brittany Goldwyn
Our heavy bamboo would be perfect for this project.
2. Minimalist Wallet by Noodlehead
I'm a big Noodlehead fan so her patterns always feature on this list.
I love little wallets and pouches. They are just so handy when you go on a bike ride or walk and just want to take a credit card or some cash for that coffee or ice cream treat at the end.
I especially love the detail with the leather strip.
The pattern is available here.
3. The Women's Robe by Purl Soho
I've made two for myself and now the whole family wants one!
It's an easy to sew pattern, made up entirely of rectangles. The biggest job is actually cutting the pieces rather than sewing it together.
Because of its simple design, it's a garment you can sew for someone without having to measure them. I made a size medium. It's quite a snug fit around the arms sl if you're not sure about size, pick the bigger one.
Here's the one I made in a Lady McElroy Cotton Lawn.
4. Fabric Trays
Here's another project by Noodlehead.
On her website, she has a free tutorial on how to make these simple fabric trays. They look so much fun to make.
Perfect for those that like to keep things tidy.
5. Sashiko Purse or Eye Pillow by Sewing With Kate
Kate from Sewingwithkate created Sashiko purse kits and this eye pillow kit (all available here). It's the perfect way to have a go at this Japanese style sewing.
Hand-sewing those Sashiko stitches is quite therapeutic!
I think you could probably use the eye pillow kit to make hot/cold rice packs too.
These are so easy to make you probably won't need these instructions.
6. The Genoa Tote by Blogless Anna
This one was on the previous Christmas sewing lists, but why remove a bag this great?
The Genoa Tote is fully-lined, features a zipped pouch and a clip for keys and comes in 3 sizes.
I've made several of these bags as gifts and they've always been a winner.
Genoa Tote kits and the pattern are available from Anna's website here.
7. Ida Clutch by Kylie and The Machine
A quick search of #idaclutch on Instagram (try it here) instantly shows the popularity of this free sewing pattern, plus offers lots of inspiration too.
This clutch was designed by Kylie from Kylie and The Machine who went on to design the most fun woven labels around.
The pattern can be downloaded here for free.
8. Re-usable shopping bag
For something super easy, check out this video on how to make a grocery bag from a pillowcase! These take about 10 minutes to make, and it's a great sewing project for kids too. Make sure to watch until the end as she even shows you how to turn these into a wonderful gift.
I always have one of these reusable bags in my handbag and I use it all the time.
9. Linen Cross Back Apron by Purl Soho
Probably one of the most stylish yet simple apron designs. And it's a free pattern available here from Purl Soho.
This would be beautiful in linen, or washed organic denim.
10. Quilted Computer Sleeve by Purl Soho
The list of free sewing patterns on Purl Soho's website is rather long. (slightly envious here!) so I'm going to add a third one on this list that caught my eye.
I love the look of this clever laptop sleeve. It's very modern and looks pretty easy to make. The free pattern and instructions can be found here.
11. Rope Bag
I must admit I have yet to try it, but I'm very intrigued by the idea of stitching rope together and the creative opportunities it provides. Lucy has made quite a few of these, you can see them here or have a search on Pinterest for rope baskets, there are so many options.
Closet Core Patterns offers this tutorial on their blog for a summer bag.
12. Sorrento Bucket Hat
This pattern by Elbe Textile only costs $2 with all proceeds going to charity.
It's a unisex design, so it's suitable for everyone and you can even make it reversable. You can never have too many hats in Australia I say!
13. Whale Pencil Case
This must be one of the coolest pencil cases around. This is sure to delight any child, and I bet some adults too.
Just have a look here to see lots of examples!
The pattern is now available in English here. (scroll down to see the details in English)
14. Bombazine Oven Mitt
It's a free pattern created by Kate and Klarissa from the Bombazine blog and such a good one to use up those fabric leftovers we've all been hoarding!
15. Beach Cover-up
And lost but not least, here's another easy to sew garment: A beach cover up.
It's not only a free pattern from Peppermint Magazine, it is also designed by In The Folds, so you'll know it's well designed.
I'm dreaming of one in a double gauze cotton.
I hope you have enjoyed this list!
Happy Sewing!
Maaike
