Christmas Gifts!

I was feeling especially crafty and thrifty this year, so I was determined to make as many gifts as I could.  Of course I bit off more than I could chew (which is a common occurrence with me) and didn't finish almost as many as I did! ;)  But I always say that's what birthdays are for! 

 Here are Nicole and Alayna showing off the hats and mittens I crocheted.  I still intend to add a bow to Alayna's "Hello Kitty" hat.  I added their initials to the mittens so they could easily tell them apart.  I'm really trying to be good and use the stash of yarn I have on hand.

Next I have them modeling some "dress up clothes" I sewed using fabric I had on hand.  Alayna's cowgirl vest is made from old jeans and the lining is from one of my husband's old shirts.  I made the pattern by using a washable marker and drawing a vest onto one of Alayna's older white t-shirts.  

I wanted the dress to be usuable for both girls, so I sewed an extender for Nicole to use.  The dress is a little long for Alayna, but I think I can fix that by adding some snaps to the bottom to make the hem adjustable.  :)

I also dabble with making my own jewelry, and consulted my stash of beads to create a matching bracelet and earring set for my sister-in-law. 

After a couple of weeks of practically non-stop crafting for others, I took a break and spent an evening crocheting a winter hat for myself.  I used two strands of yarn and rather like the effect- especially the black & white "zebra" look.

Alayna had a blanket given to her for her very 1st Christmas at 6months old.  After years of love, it started shedding on one side.  Instead of throwing away her beloved blanky, I decided to give it a new life and cut it up.  Sadly Alayna found her cut up blanket one night before I had a chance to sew it together into its intended puppy form.  It was a pretty tragic evening with lots of tears shed. 

I THINK she has forgiven me.  Maybe... :P

I made a cat years ago for Nicole out of fleece.  The pattern is from Simplicity Crafts, number 5310.  The pattern includes 4 different "neck buddies": a dog/puppy, monkey, cat, and lion.  I've made them all a bunch of times for nieces and nephews and have had great response :).

That dog is so comfy I just might have to make another for myself.... :P

I hope you had a great Christmas as well and maybe next year you can use one or more of these ideas for your loved ones.         ~Happy crafting!~