Sister Swap Ideas

[roxie]

Hi folks, I know its hard to believe but I'm thinking of Christmas. With a huge family I have lots to do. (LOL) I am interested in any ideas for things I can make for 9 women. In my family the sisters/sister-in-laws exchange a handmade gift at christmas time. It is the highlight of our christmas party to see what each of us has come up with. After 30 years I've about run out of ideas. I sew, quilt a bit. and do most crafts. If anyone can help me I'd appreciate it. (There is always a bit of good natured competition going on with my sisters) Last year I made reversable silk scarf. Very inexpensive but beautiful. Thanks in advace. Peace, Roxie

How about the rice bags that can be microwaved? It's a fabric tube filled with rice. When they're microwaved, they can be used like a heating pad would be used (for a sore neck, etc.).

Paperback book covers. Potpourri hearts made with lace. Fabric and lace-covered photo albums. Fleece throws.

Good luck! Homemade gifts are extra special. I have a friend who's family does this also.

[roxie]

Thanks a million for your ideas. We've done portpourri and book covers. I do think the rice bags look interesting. I may give them a try. Fleece blankets are a good idea. Here in Massachusetts we have the "Malden Mills" factory that also sells "quality seconds" at affordable prices. I guess I'll get to work. Keep me posted with any good ideas. This is definately a start. Thanks Roxie

P.S. Are you a quilter? Your user name suggests that. I am just finishing my first 'real" quilt. Lots of work but fun.

Here's directions for the rice bag:
http://www.hgtv.com/HGTV/project/0,1..._11005,00.html

For the no-sew fleece blanket:

Purchase two different colors of fleece in the size blanket you choose. (This could be as small as 1 yard for a child to 2 yards for a man.) Cut selvedge off of each piece. Lay one piece of fleece on top of the other. Pin together.

Cut out a 3 1/2" square from each corner of both fabrics. Clip both layers of fleece at 1" intervals, clipping up to 3 1/2" from the edge along all four sides. (This will look like fringe now.)

Tie each top and bottom strip together using a square knot. Start along one side and work your way around.

So the blanket is not sewn. Basically the top piece of fleece is knotted to the bottom piece of fleece. It is a really attractice blanket.


Yes, I am a quilter. I make throws, wallhangings and pillows for our home, and also sell some items. I also enjoy making baby quilts because of the bright fabrics and colors. It is truly an addiction, but a fun one.

[roxie]

The patterns look great. I think I'll try the polar fleece throws. Happy quilting, Roxie

[Shawn]

Originally posted by rainequilts
How about the rice bags that can be microwaved?

We have been doing this for years. THey really work nice.

[pita1213]

if you decide to make rice bags i would suggest making a washable cover for them that can be removed and tossed in with the laundry, then put back on the bag. they can also be put in the freezer and used as a cold pack.

[Lissa]

My ideas might be kind of "generic", but I'm not a big crafter and have been thinking of things I could make as gifts this Christmas:

1) personalized tree ornaments
2) homemade bath salts
3) cookbook of favorite family recipes
4) cross-stitched picture in a nice frame (Home is Where the Heart is?)
5) jar mix in a decorated jar (cookie mix, soup mix, bread mix)
6) painted sign with the family name to hang outside front door
7) partially finished scrapbooks (you could do a few pages and let them finish the book)

I hope these ideas can inspire you to come up with something!!

[secamom]

Hi
I posted this idea on the jar site but I will post it here too:

I did this for my aunt mom sister for christmas

med size jointed bear
baby food jar (cleaned)
any color fabric trim will work

Take some floral ribbon I like it because of the wire and cut enough to go around the lid of the jar (gather it end to end)this makes a collar glue to the top of the babyfood jar next cut the bear head off and glue on top of the lid.

cut the arms and legs off and glue to the jar the jar becomes his belly now..then you can fill with candy mints mini cookies etc also you can add a hat to the bear ribbon around the hat same colors as the collar for my kids teacher I added a small pencil to his paw, you can put flowers in the paws too be creative I have found bendable bunnies, cats to do my jars as well Have fun and good luck...

I try to make homemade stuff too. I have made plastic canvas picture frames and put the kid's school pictures in them or jars full of cookie mix or cocoa mix. I can't remember where I found the recipes but you put all the dry ingredients in a jar and make a label for it with the directions. Put and nice bow around it and your done. My family members love them.

Rhonda