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Gifts You Need to Start Making Right Now to Stay On Top of Your Holiday Schedule

by on Nov 15, 2017

That’s right, folks. The year is coming to a close, and the holidays are upon us once again! Chances are if you’re reading this, you have interest in the craftier side of life. Me too, and every year for Christmas I always promise myself I’ll make a few DIY Christmas gifts to share with family and friends. This intention is all well and good, but useless unless I plan ahead. So crafters, here’s your reminder: it’s time to start making stuff! I’ve put together this roundup of projects that Curbly has made in the past in the hopes of jump-starting your creative process for a holly and jolly DIY Christmas.     

DIY Christmas Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now: Large-Scale Textiles

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Large crochet and knitting projects

1. Large-Scale Textile Gift Ideas

I am always excited when I get a blanket as a Christmas gift. I do live in the oh-so-frigid state of Minnesota, but I don’t really think there’s such a thing as too much bedding and blankets. These types of handmade gifts take time, however, so start now. Try this hand-stitched flannel throw, or a color-block crochet blanket.

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Woodworking projects

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Woodworking projects

2. Woodworking Projects Make Great Christmas Gifts

If you want to gift your loved ones something made of wood, you should definitely start at least sourcing the materials now. Between finding what you need and waiting for glues and finishes to dry, it doesn’t hurt to get a jump on these types of DIY Christmas gifts. Need a gift for that friend that loves their backyard? This modern birdhouse doesn’t require special skills. How about a gift for a more indoors-y person? Try this modern Edison lamp instead.

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Sewing projects

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Sewing projects

3. Sewing Projects You can Give Away 

Even expert stitchers should leave room for error in their schedules. Make some time to start working on one of these two apron projects. The first which has a matching bar tool kit, is perfect for the mixologist in your life. If you are still getting the hang of your sewing machine, try this easy half-apron tutorial.

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Body care projects

DIY Christmas You Should Start Working on Right Now: Body care projects

4. Body Care Gifts for the Holidays

I love body care presents, both for giving and getting. They’re really easy to make at home, but usually require a variety of ingredients that the average Jane doesn’t have in her kitchen. Do yourself a favor and start on these self-care gifts now so you’ll have plenty of time to relax during the holiday rush. Try making a batch of lip balms, or some deliciously-nourishing body butter.

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Embroidery projects

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Knot-tying projects

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Rugs and textiles

5. Repetitive Process Gifts

Nothing compares to the type of stress brought on by trying to finish up one of these projects last-minute. I’ve definitely been there, and that is a place I do not want to go to again! Avoid carpal tunnel by spacing out all your knitting, crocheting, embroidering, and knot-tying projects. Know someone who likes wall art? Try some punch needle artwork. If you need a cute stocking stuffer, learn how to make macrame key chains. And now is DEFINITELY the time to start working on a cotton rug!

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Extracts
Source: Chocolate & Zucchini

6. Gifts that Need to Cure/Brew

This serves as your reminder that if you’re making any kind of extract as a gift, DING DING START NOW! Extracts and brews are quick and easy to make, but take time until they’re ready. For the bakers and cooks, try making a few jars of homemade vanilla extract.

DIY Gifts You Should Start Working on Right Now for Christmas: Personalized gifts

7. Personalized Gifts 

If you want to create something that’s extra special for a loved one, a personalized DIY Christmas gift is the way to go. This venue, however, may require either some cross-referencing or snooping, so get moving! This cyanotype pillow would be easy to personalize by picking a photo or image with sentimental importance to the recipient. 


If you are a crafter, here's a list of what you need to start working on right now to stay on track for a DIY Christmas
Share this list on Pinterest!

If you haven’t started on your Christmas crafting (or shopping), don’t feel bad. I haven’t either! There’s no better time than the present, right?

If you like hands-on holiday presents, check out this list of awesome DIY gift basket ideas.

Holiday gifts including shower products, a bag of food and a basket of fruits

 

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