Back in the glory days of blogging, I used to host a 12 Days of Handmade Christmas during November. I kinda miss it. So, instead of 12 Days, I’m sharing my favorite 12 projects from the past few years, in the hopes that it’ll inspire us to sit down and do something fun and creative with our hands.
Right now, I’m knitting a scarf and then switching over to dishclothes when I get bored. I’ve made all these projects on this list and they are some of my favorites!
Hope you will find some inspiration for making the holidays more meaningful and more handmade. Enjoy!
For a full list of the past projects, 12 Days 2009, 12 Days 2010, 12 Days 2012!
1. The Handmade Dishmat
I’ve made this project SO MANY TIMES. It’s my favorite thing to give for Christmas, with my favorite cookbook wrapped inside. This mat takes about an 1 1/2 and everyone I’ve ever made one for LOVES it. I have my friend, Darby, to thank. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. My sister just made me one and I’m in heaven!
2. The Linen Flower (Pin)
This is my new favorite project. They’re so fun to make and are perfect plate/table decorations as well as beautiful flower pins. They take 1-2 hours to make.
3. Large Zippered Make-Up Bag
Thank you to Miss Jan for this awesome project! I’ve made it for gifts many times and it’s easy and fun and easy to personalize!
4. Large Photo Prints (mounted to foamboard)
These would make great gifts for kids, teens, or adults. They’re so easy and so personal!
5. DIY Alphabet Crayons
Thank you, Meg, for sharing this awesome project so many years ago. So colorful and fun, just like Meg!
6. Yarn Wrapped Wreath
I made this a couple of years ago and it’s been hanging in my house ever since, loose strands and all. It takes about an hour or so.
7. Hand-knit Dishcloth
Let me teach you how to KNIT!!! This is THE perfect time of year to learn to knit and this is THE perfect project on which to learn. These make wonderful little gifts wrapped up in soaps or homemade dish soap!
9. Pom Pom Wreath
Thank you, Julie, for sharing this project last year. I’m determined to make one this year and can’t wait to try one in a gold/mustard color!
9. DIY Monogrammed Candle
Amy shared this project during our very first 12 Days and it’s still THE most popular 12 Days post. It’s been pinned 6 million times.
10. Grannie’s Homemade Fudge
I just finished a sugar detox so I figured it was the perfect time to tell you about the best fudge in the WHOLE entire world. You can only have one piece because #DIABETES. This is my favorite gift to give away. And my favorite holiday treat to make. It’s so easy and SO delicious! Thank you, Grannie!
11. DIY Crayon Roll
The super talented Lindsey shared this post with us and it’s been one of the most popular of the 12 Days posts. Make some for traveling gifts for your own littles or for all the lovely littles in your life. Thank you, Lindsey!
12. Homemade Honey Wheat Bread
Perhaps, THE perfect Christmas gift! I usually gift it with some homemade strawberry jam or local honey. It’s love at first bite. I get these clear cellophane bags from Amazon and give bread away all year!
Have you made any of these projects?
What’s your favorite (easy-ish) handmade gift to give to others? Leave links or descriptions in the comments and I’ll share my faves this weekend!
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I loved this list, Edie! Love the bread idea especially!
Last year, I gave homemade granola to some of my kids teachers at church and Tuscan garlic herb seasoning to some family. I love giving gifts that are healthy and expendable, but don’t have to be eaten super soon! Thanks for the inspiration!!
I was missing your crafting posts! Thanks for reviving it for the day.
i know you’re busy with your book and life, but i miss some fresh content. 🙁 i think i will “revisit” the fudge recipe though 😉
I miss you and your posts.
Oh my gracious! I JUST remembered that that Emerson flower is how I “stumbled” upon your blog. I believe God had some of your words specifically for me, but I just happened to be googling trying to find more Emerson flowers once upon a time and here I am.
Thank you so so much for your work and encouragement.