Only a few weeks remain in this unique year, and the countdown to holiday gifting is on! Do you still have a few folks you’d like to make something for, but aren’t sure what you have time for? We’ve got some quick-to-craft ideas to get those creative juices flowing!

Cowls

Effortless to wear and virtually one-size-fits-all, cowls are the often-overlooked cousin of the scarf. Being a single loop, one skein of virtually any weight of yarn can make a cowl with personality!

Treillage Cowl Kit (left) - Malabrigo | Royal Oak Cowl Kit (right) - Blue Sky Fibers

Suggested Yarn: Madelintosh Tosh Sock

Hats

Hats are another relatively easy-to-size, gender neutral accessory that make fantastic gifts for anyone on your Nice List. Does the recipient live in a warmer climate? Try using a plant-based fiber that won’t retain quite as much heat, but will still keep the cool breeze out of their ears!

Alpine Hat Kit - Blue Sky Fibers

Holiday Cheer Mini Kit (left) - Blue Sky Fibers | Chinese Lantern Hat Kit (right) - Blue Sky Fibers

Mittens

With so many different textures and designs to choose from, there is sure to be a mitten pattern to suit even your most discerning recipient! As a bonus, depending on the size and style, most mitten patterns only require the yardage from one skein of a middle weight yarn. Just beware of second mitten syndrome and make sure to start that second mitt ASAP!

Alexandria Mitts Kit (left) - Blue Sky Fibers | Jive Mitts Kit (right) - Blue Sky Fibers 

Shawls

Fancy a project that is knit flat and doesn’t require sizing? Try a shawl! What’s beautiful about many shawl or wrap patterns is that you can adjust the size if you’re close to running out of time - or yarn! Omit a repeat and it will still be beautiful! Bind off a little sooner than how the pattern is written and it will still be beautiful! Plus, nobody will know!

Cane Bay Wrap Kit - Blue Sky Fibers

Fronds Shawl - (left) by Joanne Scrace (Suggested Yarn: Madelintosh Tosh DK) | Smriti - (right) by Nidhi Kansal (Suggested Yarn: Malabrigo Rios or Madelintosh Tosh Vintage)

Dish Towels and Washcloths

Quick to knit, crochet or weave, dish towels and washcloths may sound boring or too practical for gift giving, but don’t underestimate these staple items! Use a fun variegated yarn or the recipient’s favorite color. Try a unique shape that means something to them. Go wild and add a pocket for a soap bar! Pre-wash the items for a little extra softness and wait for the ooh’s and aah’s when they’re opened.

The Halton Spa Cloth Trio - cold comfort knits (ft. Cascade Ultra Pima)

Socks

If you aren’t comfortable with sock construction, these may not be the best gift option. That said, socks or slippers in a thicker yarn can be worked up fairly quickly, and the stretchy nature of the project allows for some forgiveness on the sizing. It would probably be best to have at least some familiarity with the recipient’s foot measurements though. (Anyone else have notes on their family’s feet? No? Ok...) Try using a contrasting color for the heels, toes and cuff for an easy bit of fashion and fun!

Uneek Sock Kit in Christmas (Limited Edition) - Urth Yarns

Footie Kit - Berroco

Extensible Socks ft. Koigu's Painter's Palette Premium Merino Yarn - Maude L. Baril