I think pillowcases are a good idea. You know the people you are giving them to so keep in mind their hobbies or even ask them if they have fav colors. With all the really neat material available you can really make very unique gifts. My sisters grandson wanted me to take him out shopping for pillowcases and I told him I could make him ones. He had a ball digging thru my stash and picking out material. I made him 2 but he has about 4 more coming to him. Last year I made Christmas ones for me and my sister's granddaughter. Just keep in mind that people who don't sew love just about any handmade gift they are given.