When I feel the 'need' to sew but I am not working on a quilt or don't really want to work on a quilt, I just make random blocks. I try out different color combos, different patterns and techniques. Then I store these orphan blocks in stacked pizza boxes (your local pizza ship will usually give you a couple for free or a tiny fee). The boxes stack nicely, they are cardboard so they wick moisture and you can write on the side (blues, xmas colors, pastels, etc). Then, whenever I am in the need for a quick gift, I grab one or two of these orphans and put them on a tote bag - instant gift or gift wrapping! They are thrilled with the handmade item, I am basically using my throwaway fabric and I have satisfied my need to sew but not quilt. win, win, win!