Although it seems early to be thinking about Christmas, it’s never too early to begin working on those gifts that are labor intensive such as afghans, hats, mittens, quilts, shawls, and other hand crafted items. It’s still too early to know how many gifts will be needed for the areas we serve so we will rely on numbers from the past few years. We also help stock the Buffalo Shop at Marty School with gift items so students can shop for gifts for their family members using “Buffalo Bucks” they’ve earned for good behavior.
Sewing tote bags and toiletry/cosmetic bags now saves time later when it comes time to fill them with gifts for Christmas or we get requests from an area needing toiletry bags or activity bags. Pillow cases are another sewing project to work on, pillows with a nice pillowcase continue to be one of the most popular (and requested) gift items. Practical gifts such as hats, mittens and blankets are always needed and those made with bright colored yarn or fabric are always popular with children. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Sewing/Crafting Projects
- Hats, mittens, cowls, gaiters that are knit, crocheted or sewn from fleece. Scarves are welcome for teens only, they pose a choking risk for younger kids.
- Blankets, quilts and afghans are great Christmas gifts and are needed all winter.
- Pillowcases with a new pillow are favorite gifts for all ages. Flannel sheets, new or gently, used would be a great addition to your gift.
- Socks and slippers that are hand crafted or purchased, all sizes needed.
- Pajamas sewn or purchased in flannel or fleece.
- Sleep Sacks and sleepers for babies, sewn or purchased.
- Sweaters, fleece tops and hoodies. Many teens like to layer their clothing instead of wearing a coat.
- Toiletry bags – with a new washcloth and/or towel make great gifts. Great way to use up scraps in your stash.
- Cosmetic bags – for teens and moms, add lipgloss/lipstick, nail polish, perfume or small lotion.
- Jewelry Bag – fill it with bling, make your own or purchase.
- Diaper Bags – add some diapers, wipes and diaper cream.
- Shopping Bags – fill with a few food items such as tea bags, artificial sweetener, and a sugar free snack for elders or granola bars, cereal, dried fruit/nuts for children to get them through winter break.
- Activity Bags – make themed bags such as art, sewing, knitting, puzzles, games, beading, etc.
- Book Bags/Backpacks – Make or purchase and add a few books, pencil, paper, crayons/colored pencils, and pencil case.
- Purses and Wallets – great gifts for teens, gently used purses are welcomed. Fill purses with small items such as nail clipper, comb, brush, chapstick, notepad and pen, etc.
- Dolls and Stuffed Animals – New or gently used with clothing and a carrier. SFK Doll Program info here.
These are just a few ideas to get you started thinking about Christmas on the Rez and if you start your crafting now you’ll be so happy you did come November! There are plenty of free patterns and ideas on Pinterest, YouTube and many craft blogs. Please share your ideas and pics of your projects with others in the group. When we all work together the cost and work load is much lighter and more fun too.
Please add a note to your gifts with the age/size and gender of the recipient it was intended for if needed. Some areas we donate to throughout the year will keep some items as a reserve in case they don’t get enough donations at the holidays to give everyone a gift. Let the crafting and sewing begin!!
Thanks as always from Sew For Kids.
