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The most special gifts are often the gifts that have been hand-made especially for someone by you. If you enjoy cross-stitching, consider using that talent to add a personal touch to gifts for your friends and family. If you have never cross-stitched before, there are many "how to" books available to guide you through the process of learning to do basic cross-stitch. Following are a few cross-stitch ideas that involve minimal time and make wonderful personal gifts.
Hand towels - Hand towels which include a cross-stitch material panel are available in many craft stores. This type of towel allows you to add your personal design across the panel. A nice personalized idea is to stitch the recipient's name or initials onto the towel. If you know the colors used in his or her décor, consider using those colors for the towel and thread choices. To add a touch of elegance, use a metallic gold or silver thread to outline the letters.
Mason jar - If you would like to give your recipient some type of food item or other type of item that can fit in a jar but you would like to make it more special, consider cross-stitching a design that may be used on the lid of a mason jar. Simply use a plain piece of cross-stitch fabric and a mason jar. Choose a design that will fit through the opening of the jar lid. After completing your design, trace the inside of the lid onto a thin piece of cardboard and cut out the circle. Place a piece of cotton or batting between your stitched design and the cardboard. Fold the edges of the material around the cardboard, cut off the excess material, and glue the edges down on the backside. You may then insert this piece into the top of the mason jar lid, place the original lid inside over the constructed piece, fill your jar with your favorite treat, and screw the lid back on the jar.
Coaster - At many craft stores, you can buy a clear coaster that allows you to insert a cross-stitched design into the middle so that you can see the design from the top. This is a great gift idea for someone who drinks coffee in the mornings or for an office coworker.
Bread cover - Again, at many craft stores, you can purchase a bread/roll cover that is made out of cross-stitch material. This can be used in a basket or bowl when serving bread. A number of different designs would be appropriate for a bread cover, including a food-related design or a holiday design. To enhance this gift, consider giving the recipient a basket to go along with the stitched cover.
Framed design - A flexible idea that allows you to cross-stitch a design of any size you wish is to simply frame whatever you stitch onto your cross-stitch material. This is an excellent way to give someone a commemorative gift for a special occasion, such as a wedding design depicting the date of marriage. This is a gift that will be treasured forever.
These are just a few ideas to help you get started designing your own cross-stitch gifts. With a little thought and ingenuity, you can come up with creative ways to use your cross-stitch abilities to make wonderful gifts that will be appreciated by your friends and family for years to come.
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