Handmade Holiday :: Reader Questions

Hello! Don't you think it is about time I posted a couple of those reader questions I promised? Me too. Let's do this.

My friend Rendy made this request:

I need IDEAS!!! I rarely read blogs, so I don't see the cute stuff that's out there. My homemade Christmas list includes: some "prints"- graphic designed, framed little artworks that are mostly gospel/hymn related. An apron and some sewn "food" for my daughter. Perhaps some rice neck-warmer thingies. (LAME) As you can see- I'm in dire need of some IDEAAAAAS! Help!

Okay Rendy. First of all, you have a great list started! Plus, those "rice neck-warmer thingies" are not lame. They're rad. That being said, here are a few more idea:

:: Skip to My Lou is a great blog to keep in mind for inspiration. They have excellent tutorials (I used this one to make a crayon roll; but I really like this tutorial for an entire art case) and handy round-ups such as this one featuring free bag patterns! Browse their site for a while and you're sure to find some inspiration.

:: If you're making an apron and food for your daughter, she's going to need a chef's hat.

:: I've always wanted to make Destri's hot pad apron. Maybe for your sister-in-law?

:: The Purl Bee has kindly been compiling lists of handmade gifts that can be made in time for Christmas if you start now. I seem to remember you crochet, correct?

:: My friend made me one of these and I love it so much.

:: Have you seen this collection of felt food tutorials?

:: You're such a great photographer, I think you should make something special to show off your photos of your kids.


My friend Peggy had this question:

I just got a sewing machine a few days ago, and now I'm wondering about sewing resources on the web. Is there something akin to Ravelry? Is there a particular spot you'd point a true beginner to?

Yay new sewing machines! This question is a little tougher because I consider myself a novice at sewing too. Here are a few of the resources I turn to when I'm needing help.

:: Burda Style is the closest thing I can find to Ravelry for sewing. It can be a little intimidating but it has great tutorials and a lot of free or inexpensive patterns.

:: Sew, Mama, Sew is great not only because of their wonderful tutorials but also because you can purchase fabric and books from them.

:: Whip up is one of those all-encompassing blogs that posts inspiration, patterns, and tutorials for sewing, crocheting, knitting, and everything in between. This round-up had me oohing and ahhing.

:: I recently purchased this book and am planning on sewing my way through every project. It's a book designed to teach sewing techniques in a logical sequence, building upon the techniques you've learned with each project. The author, Deborah, also writes a great blog. Of course.

So how's that for a start? Do you have any more suggestions for Rendy and Peggy? If so, please share them! Also, I would love to learn your favorite sources for inspiration when it comes to handmade gifts. Thanks for sharing!

Handmade Holiday 2010: A series about making it happen.