
DIY Design: How to Make Last Minute Holiday Gifts
Dr. Jill Biden hosts students from DC Public Schools and National Guard members'
children for ornament and cookie making and Christmas caroling.
Carol Guzy, The Washington Post / Getty Images
If you're in no mood to venture out into the holiday madness, but your gift list is still largely unchecked, don't fret. Here are some fab last-minute stocking stuffers and more that you can stitch up easily. Make a party of it and get the family in on the festive DIY designs. Here's how:
Stuff those stockings: When it comes to quick and easy stocking stuffers, think small and useful. What stylish friend or family member wouldn't want a pretty eyeglass case for their oversized specs? (Just keep in mind the size of the lens when you cut out your fabric and use fusible interfacing to take away the flimsy feel.) Or why not make the stocking itself?
Great gifts: Want to know how to turn a gift from drab to fab? Embellishment! Add a little whimsical embroidery or ribbon flowers (check out these inspiring buds) to a plain white pillow case, basic throw pillow or simple linen napkins. Sure, men always complain about ties as a default gift, but what if it has been made by your own loving hands? And what could be more simple chic than a sash belt or scarf for her? For more inspiration, check out the free PDF patterns on uber-chic Ottobre Design or Sew Mama Sew's 30 Days of Gifts to Sew.
Dress that tree: Give your tree and mantle a personal, handmade touch and get the whole family in on the decorating game. First, gather your supplies: Fabric and felt scraps, leftover embroidery strands and yarn, sewing tools like scissors, needles and thread. Use cotton balls to reinforce or stiffen ornaments. Next, decide on a theme: birds, pinecones, stars, flowers--you get the picture. Then, get busy creating some new heirlooms.
For more DIY Design columns, click here. Next week, sew a fabulous New Year's Eve dress - even at the last minute.
Filed under: Accessories, Fashion, Best of the Season, How to Wear
Tags: diy design, DiyDesign, holiday, holiday 2010, holiday gifts, Holiday2010, HolidayGifts, make your own, MakeYourOwn
Tags: diy design, DiyDesign, holiday, holiday 2010, holiday gifts, Holiday2010, HolidayGifts, make your own, MakeYourOwn



