10 Perfect Gifts to Sew This Christmas
It’s that jolly time of year again, which means we’re back with another festive list of sew-worthy gift ideas! For those who have been following along, you know that sharing our annual gift ideas has become a bit of a tradition—we’ve been doing this for quite a few years now!
Nothing says “made with love” quite like a handmade gift, and our list this year is a blend of classic favourites and fresh finds, perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned sewers. So, whether you’re crafting solo or getting the kids involved, grab your scissors and thread, and let’s dive into this year’s top 10.
1. Simple Apron with Pockets
Every cook needs a great apron! Sew a classic apron with deep pockets for tools or recipe cards. Linen or cotton canvas works well, and you can personalise it with embroidered initials or a favourite fabric pattern (one of our clever customers created aprons in fabulous Marimekko ❤️). It’s a perfect gift for anyone who loves to cook or bake.
I love the cross back version of an apron and found a free pattern here.
For a few fancier options there is the:
Workaday Apron by Merchant & Mills
Or the fabulous Apron Dress by The Assembly Line
2. Personalised Pencil Case or Art Supply Roll
For the artist, student, or stationery lover, a fabric pencil case or roll-up organiser for art supplies is a thoughtful gift. Use durable fabric and customise with slots or pockets for brushes, pencils, or markers. Add a leather strap or fabric tie to add nice details. These projects call for rigid denim, heavy cotton drill, or give it some personality with a designer cotton canvas.
I think this whale pencil case is just amazing!
Another option is the Double Cool Pencil Case by Waves & Wild. Using contrasting zips will really make this pencil case pop!
3. Pouches for sewers
I recently discovered Aneela Hoey's patterns and oh, are they fun?!
Make sure you check them all out here.
I particularly love this clever Open Out Box Pouch, which is the perfect companion for your next social sewing event.
Pouches are a fantastic way to use up fabric scraps or experiment with playful cotton prints. For a more elevated look, try using linen—it's perfect for creating a natural, bespoke feel. If you want something truly special, Marimekko fabrics would create a funky statement piece that’s both stylish and unique.
At our most recent sewing day, I spotted someone who had made the Fold Over Sewing Pouch, complete with pincushion and needle storage. It's super cute and perfect for on the go sewing, or to keep all the essentials in one place.
4. Pet Accessories: Coat & Collar
Spoil the fur babies! The Merchant & Mills Barka Coat keeps pups warm and stylish, especially in those chilly winter months. Or, try a DIY dog collar using cotton canvas from the See You At Six collection. Imagine your pup in a matching set—talk about stylish!
5. Plover Pouch by Noodlehead
A pattern by Noodlehead has probably been on every Christmas sewing list since I started! I bought this pattern the day it came out and I hope my family is not reading this post as there may be a few of these under the Christmas tree this year! Perfect for a scrap-buster project, or use anything from cotton, linen to cotton drills and denims.
6. Aura Yoga Mat Bag by Named Clothing
The Aura yoga mat bag is a simple and practical cylinder-shaped roll-top bag with a carabiner closure. It’s sized to fit most standard yoga mats, is fully lined, and has a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap.
Our Heavy Cotton Drills would be perfect for this project and we have lots of colours so you can really customise for the lucky recipient!
7. A Merino Wool Poncho
This a project we talked about on our blog during winter and it deserves a mention here. It's a fabulous easy project with big rewards. You can find a step by step tutorial here.
Our Merino Jerseys are soft and lightweight, yet warm and cosy. It's a great gift when you can't get exact measurements 😉.
8. Hot Water Bottle Cover
Just to continue on the winter theme, how about sewing a cosy hot water bottle cover, because that rubber isn't particularly hug friendly. Sew with soft fleece, flannel, or even quilted cotton for an added layer of warmth. This project is easy to customise with fabric patterns and even appliqué initials for a personalised touch.
There are a number of free patterns available online, this article gives you all the steps you need to make your own.
(and in case you're wondering, we do have wadding available in the store here)
9. Mini cross body bag - for your phone
I often don't take my handbag around anymore since my phone can pretty much do everything now. But on those occasions where I haven't included pockets in my garments (silly me!) a little bag is pretty handy, especially when travelling.
Here's a great free tutorial so you can sew this in any colour or style you like.
10. Sew a hat!
A timeless classic, the Merchant & Mills Bucket Hat is always a winner. This free pattern is fantastic for summer gifting, and it's a great way to use up fabric scraps! Try pairing a sturdy cotton drill or canvas for the outer fabric with a pop of colour in the lining.
Check out the Lady McElroy cotton lawns or See You At Six Canvas for vibrant prints that add a fun twist!
Or the Fell and Dale Flat Cap by Waves & Wild is really cool for kids and adults alike.
The Serpentine hat is also a great alternative if you like a bigger hat.
That’s a wrap on our top 10 picks to sew this Christmas! Each of these gifts is thoughtful, practical, and customisable, ensuring your friends and family feel the love and creativity behind every stitch.
Wishing you a joyful, merry, and creative holiday season. Happy sewing!
Maaike
