SaveThe problem with handmade gifts is arithmetic. Twelve people times a scarf each is sixty hours, which is not a weekend, it is most of December. Everything on this list takes under twelve hours and most take under four.
Part of our seasonal library.
They are also things people use. A crocheted dishcloth gets used every day. A crocheted wall hanging gets admired once and put in a drawer. Where those two compete, the dishcloth wins, which is not romantic but is true.
Set of four dishcloths
Beginner2 hours
Cotton, one stitch, endlessly useful. The most used gift on this list.
Ear warmer headband
Beginner1 hour
One long band with a twist at the front. Fits anybody.
Fingerless gloves
Easy3 hours
A tube with a thumb hole. No fingers means no fiddly bits.
Simple beanie
Beginner2 hours
Worsted on a 5.5 mm hook, about two hours once you know the crown.
Chunky cowl
Beginner3 hours
Bulky yarn, one round repeated. Almost impossible to get wrong.
Coaster set of six
Beginner1 hour 30
Cotton, in a colour that suits their kitchen rather than yours.
Market tote
Easy4 hours
Cotton, single crochet, a lining if you have the patience.
Mug cosy
Beginner45 min
A band with two buttons. Genuinely quick and genuinely used.
Bookmark
Beginner30 min
Thread, a tassel, stiffened flat. Good for the person who has everything.
Hot water bottle cover
Easy4 hours
Measure the bottle, work a tube, add a button flap.
Slippers
Easy4 hours
Soles in doubled worsted. Add non-slip fabric paint to the bottom.
Scarf, quick version
Beginner5 hours
Bulky yarn on a 9 mm hook. A third of the time of a worsted scarf.
Baby blanket
Easy12 hours
The longest here. Start it in November, not December.
Amigurumi animal
Easy4 hours
A small bear or bunny. Embroider the eyes for anyone under three.
Plant hanger
Beginner2 hours
Cotton cord, four strands, no pattern reading required.
Basket for the hallway
Easy3 hours
Doubled cotton, holds keys and gloves.
Wash cloths and a soap saver
Beginner2 hours
A small set that looks considered and costs almost nothing.
Phone stand pouch
Beginner1 hour 30
A pocket that props a phone upright on a desk.
Key ring pom charm
Beginner30 min
The stocking filler. Make eight in an evening.
Cafetiere cosy
Beginner1 hour 30
Keeps coffee hot for twenty minutes longer. People are surprised by this one.
Pot holder pair
Beginner2 hours
Cotton, doubled, never acrylic. Acrylic melts.
Neck warmer for a dog
Beginner1 hour
Small, quick, and it photographs well, which matters more than it should.
Bunting for a nursery
Beginner3 hours
Ten small triangles on a chain.
Storage cube
Easy4 hours
A firm square basket that sits on a shelf and holds clutter.
Gift card holder
Beginner45 min
A small envelope with a button. Turns a bought gift into a made one.
Working backwards from the date
| People to make for | Hours needed | Start by |
|---|---|---|
| 2 or 3 | About 10 | Early December |
| 5 or 6 | About 20 | Mid November |
| 10 or 12 | About 40 | Late October |
| Everyone you know | 60 plus | Be honest and buy some of them |
Make three of the same thing rather than three different things. The second one takes about two thirds the time of the first and the third takes half, because you stop reading the pattern.
Questions
What is the quickest crochet gift?
A mug cosy or a key ring charm, both under an hour. A set of dishcloths takes two hours and gets used far more.
What crochet gifts do people actually use?
Dishcloths, ear warmers, coasters and hot water bottle covers. Decorative pieces are admired once and stored.
How much yarn do I need for a few gifts?
Roughly 100 grams per accessory. Six gifts is about 600 grams, or twelve standard 50 gram balls.
Can I sell things I make from free patterns?
Usually in small numbers, but it depends on the designer and most state their terms on the pattern page.
When should I start crocheting Christmas gifts?
Late October for ten people, mid November for five, early December for two or three.
What should I not attempt in December?
A full-size blanket or a garment. Both run past forty hours and neither is rescued by working faster.