‘Tis The Season of Giving (Handmade Gifts)

Whether you’re buying or crocheting, a gift made with purpose always stands out. In a world of mass-produced stuff, a handmade or thoughtfully chosen item speaks of time, of care, of personality. And right now is the perfect moment to shop or create, because Beets & Stitches is celebrating the holidays with 25% off every order over $30 from Nov. 24th to Dec. 2nd using code BEETSBF2025 at checkout.

I believe: Every stitch tells a story. Whether that story comes from you making it or you gifting something I’ve made, you’re sharing a memory.

Here’s how to lean into that idea — with both buying and making handmade gifts — and some free pattern resources to spark your creativity.

Why Handmade Gifts Resonate

• Handmade = unique: Even if someone else makes the same pattern, your yarn choice, color palette and little finishing touches will make it one-of-a-kind.
  

• More than a product: A crochet blanket, a tote, a textured throw — they give warmth, texture and comfort…all the things people love.
  

• Emotional connection: Recipients sense the time and thought; it becomes more than “another gift.”
  

• Sustainable + slower: Handmade gifts often reflect slower rhythms, intentional creation rather than “quick buy” culture.
  
  

Buying from Beets & Stitches

If you’d rather give than make (or want to support a maker), here are some of my offerings that align beautifully with gift-giving:

• Bunny Boo Plushie — soft, squishy, utterly huggable, and perfect for little ones or anyone who loves a bit of whimsy. A sweet pick for nurseries, Easter baskets, or cozy winter gifting.
  

• Color Pop Baby Blanket — cheerful yarn in playful colors, ideal for brightening a nursery.
  

• Blush & Bobbles Blanket — chunky textured throw, perfect for a couch, a reading nook, a cozy corner….anywhere you want to snuggle into and relax.
  

• The Clementine Tote — turquoise, beige, rust and yellow: 100% cotton, roomy, stylish, great for everyday carry or market runs.
  

When gifting, you might consider including a small note about who made it, the inspiration and a care tip (wash cool, reshape while damp, etc.). That little message elevates the piece.

Making Your Own Crochet Gift: Key Steps

If you decide to make something yourself, here are some practical tips from my own process:

1. Pick the right yarn & hook: For gifting, durability and feel matter. Cotton is great for totes or home-goods; acrylic can be ideal for throws/blankets where softness and ease of care matter.

2. Choose a pattern that fits your time + skill: Handmade gifts are special, but you don’t want to burn out. Pick something you’ll enjoy making.

3. Consider color story & your recipient: Think about the person you’re gifting to — their aesthetic, their space, what will bring them joy. For example: neutral tones + texture for a minimalist friend; bright pops of color for someone vibrant.

4. Make it personal: Add a custom touch — a monogram, a favorite color combo, a motif inspired by something meaningful.

5. Finishing matters: Weave in ends, block or press if needed, package it nicely. A handmade gift deserves a lovely presentation.
   
   

Free Pattern Resources to Get You Started

If you’re browsing for patterns or want to make a gift yourself, here are some excellent trusted sources:

• Stitchberry — Grace shares modern, “easy-timeless” crochet patterns (for blankets, home goods, accessories) and helpful tutorials.
  

• Bella Coco Crochet — A blog rich in free patterns + video tutorials covering beginners through intermediate (baby items, blankets, wearables) with a friendly teaching voice.
  

• Hooked On Patterns — Lots of free crochet designs across categories (home decor, amigurumi, clothing) for makers wanting variety.
  

• Wonder Crochet — A great curated list style blog with “Crochet Gift Guide 2025” and themed free patterns for holiday, fall, food amigurumi, etc.
  
  

Whether you’re gifting something you’ve made or choosing something handmade from a small shop, your gift will tell a story. And Nov. 24th through Dec. 2nd, you can shop Beets & Stitches with 25% off orders $30+ using code BEETSBF2025 at checkout. Perfect timing to treat someone you love — or yourself.

Photo Credit: Lum3n