There’s nothing quite like unwrapping one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts on Christmas morning, especially when they’ve been lovingly made by our nearest and dearest.
As the big day draws near, why not shop your stash and breathe life into the scraps of fabric and spools of thread leftover from the year’s sewing projects to create some thoughtful handmade Christmas gifts?
From simple stocking stuffers to stylish garments that your loved ones can wear all year round, we’ve curated a selection of 6 easy-sew patterns for Christmas presents.
1. Satin scrunchies for the super stylish, £1.90
Scrunchies are still very much in vogue, which is excellent news for sustainable sewists as they’re the perfect way to use up leftover fabric and stray scraps of elastic.
For a luxe twist on the humble hair tie, we adore this DIY satin scrunchie pattern from Tint of Mint. Watch Karolina’s straightforward video tutorial for an easy-breezy craft that’ll see you through a chilly winter’s afternoon. Seasonal hot drink the size of your head optional!
Amp up the cute by making matching scrunchies for all of the ladies in your life, or do a spot of festive repurposing and use them to secure those all-important present sacks.
Psst! You can score this scrunchie pattern for free when you buy any pattern from the Tint of Mint shop.
2. Pretty pants for your pals, £13
We love this stash-busting ‘Iris’ knickers sewing pattern from Tilly and the Buttons that marries practicality with personalisation. Your besties deserve bespoke undies, and this pattern makes for a super simple sew – whether they favour a high waistband or a hipster cut, a lacy finish or an elastic edge.
Add fun detailing like this nostalgic Lazy Daisy stitch by Cutesy Crafts or finish with a sew-in label, as seen in our 15 essential (and unique) sewing gift ideas post, for added handmade flair.
This mix and match pattern offers 36 potential combinations and is available in sizes 6-24 and 16-34. If you’re a newbie sewist, you can also sign up for the Learn to Sew Knickers workshop to discover everything you need to know about stitching smalls.
3. Eye mask for the gift of a good night’s sleep, $6
Inject a little magic into the holiday season with the ultimate sleep mask pattern from Ohhh Lulu Lingerie. All you need is light to mid-weight woven fabric, thread, cotton batting, elastic, embroidery thread, and basic sewing skills.
If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift to sew for children, why not make them the coolest kid at the sleepover with a custom eye mask? Sprinkle a dash of whimsy over proceedings and add cute bunny ears, a twitchy nose and ribbon ties.
Alternatively, you could switch the ditsy floral linen for sleek satin and gift a silky soft sleep mask to all of the busy women on your list. Finish each mask with the embroidered initials of the recipient for an extra personal touch.
4. Toasty beanie hat for the annual post-lunch stroll, €5
Being forced out the door for a seasonal stroll is far more bearable when you can wrap up warm in multiple cosy layers. This quick and easy Delia beanie pattern by Named Clothing makes for the perfect winter warmer.
You’ll need some thick knit fabric (preferably 40-60% stretch) and basic sewing skills. The illustrated instructions make it an ideal Christmas sewing project for sewists short on time.
Keep it super simple, or personalise the beanie with an iron-on patch or handmade pompom.
5. Potholder for a chic finishing touch to the dining table, free
There are only so many cookbooks you can buy for your foodie friends, so why not make them some lovingly hand-sewn textiles instead?
If you’re sewing for a hostess with the mostest, pick a fabric that matches their beloved dinnerware set and rustle up a potholder that’ll brighten up their tablescape and impress future dinner party guests. Because nothing says you’ve got your life together like owning a fancy potholder!
We love this free ‘Polly’ potholder pattern from Elvelyckan Design – well-worn placemats, begone. With a step-by-step guide to help you create two pretty-yet-practical designs, it’s a fun and fulfilling sewing project for both newbie sewists and veteran crafters alike.
6. Bralette to combat the cold nip in the air, £8.99
If you’re looking for a versatile sewing pattern, look no further than the Liz Bralette from Sew Your Happy. Use your offcuts to fashion a lacy bralette, comfy bikini top, or functional sports bra, depending on the recipient.
It has never been easier to transform craft cupboard scraps into wardrobe staples, and this multisized pattern gives you the flexibility to tailor your Christmas gift to your giftee thanks to the clear instruction booklet.
Head-to-toe white is one of the major spring/summer 2022 fashion trends, so why not whip up a crisp white cotton bralette and pair of matching knicks for your fashion-forward friends?
Pop on a cheesy festive film, crack out your chocolate tin of choice and work your way through these 6 easy-sew Christmas gift ideas.
If you want to challenge yourself, check out our range of slightly more advanced sewing patterns. With styles ranging from this playful ‘Fenix’ bodysuit pattern by Madalynne to this versatile ‘Cissy’ midi dress by Homer + Howells, there are plenty of designs to keep you busy.
As you make your list of Christmas sewing projects and, of course, dutifully check it twice, all that’s left to say is Merry Christmas from the Good Fabric team!