It's okay. Really. I promise.

Crafty and stressed?! This is your gentle reminder, your mantra, these are your instructions. Clutter-free, just words to keep in mind.

Sometimes we put entirely too much stress on ourselves this time of year. If it's December 21st and you just thought about making sweaters for your entire family, plan ahead for next year. If money is tight, consider your natural crafty skills that are the fastest and run with them.

Remember when you were a kid and spent hours with glue and scissors and beads and bobs or clay or pasta putting all your energy into making the perfect present for those you love? That's what the holidays are about. Giving what you can to those you love and if you're able, those nearby, not show up your big brother by buying really cool flashy presents.

I'm giving you permission to not make all of your gifts. I'm giving you permission to stop stressing. The holidays aren't about stress. They're about love. Just remember that. Here are some quick reminders on how to keep the stress level down. Even further below are some crafty gift ideas.


1. First off, if you're going for self-made gifts the most important thing is planning.
... Too late in the season? Make a list of items to make for next year. Start now.
2. Want to give back? Find local orgs in your area that need donations.
... Not sure where to look? Think about who's the neediest this time of year.
... Think food banks, homeless shelters, orphanages, domestic violence shelters.
3. Check your phone book or on sites like Volunteer Match or Volunteer Solutions.
4. If making a gift, think about who you're giving the gift to. Will they value it?
5. Keep in mind that some people may not like handmade gifts! Sad, but true.
... Don't worry about it, you'll have another year to convert them to the crafty side.
6. Don't have time to make items for everyone? Make gifts for charities from #3.
... Remember that crafty donations are needed year round.
... Enjoy your crafting around the fire by making a few gifts for the less fortunate.
7. Don't stress yourself out! This is crafting for good, not stress!
... Don't let something fun and creative haunt your holidays.
8. Keep it simple. Remember the gifts you made in grade school?
9. Grade school gifts = the spirit of giving, not fancy store-bought items.
10. Remember it's all about love. No one will notice if your gift isn't "perfect."

Websites and ideas for handmade gifts:
*Martha Stewart's holiday ideas
*HGTV's Last Minute Handmade Gifts
*Upcycled Wrist Cuffs at craftingagreenworld.com
*10 Elegant Inexpensive Handmade Holiday Gift Ideas
*Better Homes & Gardens holiday ideas (link via Whipup)
*Giant thread of handmade children's gift ideas over at Cafemom.com
*Domesticdiva.com's list of SewMamaSew's 30 days of crafty ideas from last year (rounded up from here)
*Handmade Holiday Craft Ideas from the awesomely awesome Susan Beal (I can't even begin to say how helpful this is!)

And if this still leaves you cold, you can find what your heart desires over at Etsy or a local handmade shop near you. For those of you seriously needing ideas on the cheap, I love this Recession Gift Guide of presents under $5 from Indiefixx!


Have a question, idea or comment? Get in touch!
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