Do many of you make gifts to give at Christmas time?
Money is in short supply this year with my husband out of work for over a year. I have a handicapped daughter that goes to a special school, so each year I send gifts to her teacher, aides, and specials (op, pt, speech, nurses, etc) as well as the bus driver and aide (both men). Would love some ideas on what I can make for them this year. I have lots of fabric and a sewing machine at the ready.

Also two older sisters, another daughter and son, both in college. I would love to make something for the kids that they would have handmade from me... but would need it to be something that they would appreciate and WANT to keep!! : )
Any suggestions from you talented people out there? I'd love to hear your ideas! I just recently found this forum and I love it here!

pillow cases

If you have heavier duty cottons/denims - barbecue type aprons.

I think many people have been bagged/toted to the max.

I use to think that I had to buy stuff for my Christmas Presents, but I always had a quilt for someone in there too. Then about five years ago, I didn't "do" any hommade stuff for Christmas Presents and wow, did I get told that wasn't acceptable. Even my BIL made a comment about it, so now I try to do much more. The "quilt trash bag" (wrapping cheap) is the most sought after and the last gift given out. It never has a name on it, so the suspense is there till the end.......

You make a quilt for someone - put it in a trash bag (for "cheap wrapping") - and that is the last gift handed out?

Pillow cases and humbug type of zippered baggies went over well with the guys and girls. Everyone also seemed to like those little pincushion chickens. I fill them with Kaytee crushed walnut litter for bird cages. It makes the chickens feel like little bean bags and even if people don't sew they are nice gifts.

Yes, I have made pillowcases and I love them.... fun fabrics for the younger set. Good idea for the college kids.

Aprons! Yes, good idea! I do love tote bags and would be pleased if someone gave me one, but maybe you are right, that most people have tons of them... still a good idea, though.

And tell us more about the "quilt trash bag!!" I am so happy that everyone really appreciates your hand made gifts!

I have a cute pattern for a little lunch bag... pretty much looks like a brown paper bag, but in pretty fabric. I may make them. They can even be used as a gift bag....doubling as a gift and a wrapping! : )

Not related, but I love your avatar! I agree with pillowcases and the little zippered bags.

haha! Thank you wolfkitty! That is my cat, Zappy. He loves to sit in bags and boxes. I adore him! : )

what is a "humbug" zippered type of baggie?