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QuiltE 09-28-2011 03:25 AM

What would you make?

Every year my “adopted” family Christmas has a mystery exchange, meaning we each bring one generic gift which then gets opened, traded, and traded some more before we know who gets to take it home. Each year there is a “theme” for the gifts, and this year it’s easy (for me), as it’s “something you created”!!

What else would I "create" other than something “quilty”?

Most options I’ve thought about are just too female oriented, and the men may not be amused! With the limit being $25, a lap quilt is out. So far, Mug Rugs are the only thing that has come to mind as being generic … while I like them, I really would like something other than making an assortment of them! And yes, I could make a Mug Rug, with a mug filled with cookies, hot chocolate mix, etc.

I'd sooner have something all "quilt" if I can figure it out.

Your suggestions, for something both men and women would be happy to receive would be appreciated.

Please? and Thanks!! :lol:

ckcowl 09-28-2011 03:36 AM

a scenic wall hanging would work for men or women,
my husband loves most of my table runners-- more than i do
quilted slippers or a stocking?
quilted hat/mittens/scarf

sandyo 09-28-2011 03:39 AM

Pot holders and aprons could be more generic, also the microwave mit http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-144848-1.htm would be a great idea.

azdesertrat 09-28-2011 03:42 AM

have you ever made those fabric bowls that you wrap fabric around clothesline,then sew them into a bowl?.I made quite a few last year,and gave them to friends,can use them as a place to put their keys etc .Really well recieved

Pamela LeMaster 09-28-2011 03:51 AM

Maybe you could make a pair of the little boot things, from blocks?..........good mornin, I was bored with chat, they were all talkin about their blood pressure LOL.......

QuiltE 09-28-2011 04:09 AM


Originally Posted by Pamela LeMaster
Maybe you could make a pair of the little boot things, from blocks?..........good mornin, I was bored with chat, they were all talkin about their blood pressure LOL.......

Could you please explain?? .... I have absolutely no clue what these little boot things might be!




Everyone ... thanks for some great ideas .... please keep them coming, so my brain can go into overdrive and not know where to start!! :lol:

quilter_kjm 09-28-2011 04:13 AM


Originally Posted by QuiltE
What would you make?

Every year my “adopted” family Christmas has a mystery exchange, meaning we each bring one generic gift which then gets opened, traded, and traded some more before we know who gets to take it home. Each year there is a “theme” for the gifts, and this year it’s easy (for me), as it’s “something you created”!!

What else would I "create" other than something “quilty”?

Most options I’ve thought about are just too female oriented, and the men may not be amused! With the limit being $25, a lap quilt is out. So far, Mug Rugs are the only thing that has come to mind as being generic … while I like them, I really would like something other than making an assortment of them! And yes, I could make a Mug Rug, with a mug filled with cookies, hot chocolate mix, etc.

I'd sooner have something all "quilt" if I can figure it out.

Your suggestions, for something both men and women would be happy to receive would be appreciated.

Please? and Thanks!! :lol:

make a lap top bag out of all of your salvedges.

leatheflea 09-28-2011 04:18 AM

Theres a tutorial in the tutorial section of this forum for microwavable bowl holders. My DH begged me to make these for us after I made some for other people. So they would make good adult gifts.

dd 09-28-2011 04:22 AM

How about the microwave bowls? Men eat too and seem to use the microwave really well! This could go for kids too.

janRN 09-28-2011 04:28 AM

Is your family interested in sports? (We're all PennState or Steelers fans). Placemats, table topper, or banner for their door or window in their favorite team fabric are good gifts for my friends and family.

Julie in NM 09-28-2011 05:02 AM

Quillow comes to my mind!

mea12 09-28-2011 05:06 AM

A small table-runner or candle mat? maybe a few hand-towels with pieced/applique'd borders?

sewnsewer2 09-28-2011 05:14 AM

Pot holders! Everyone uses them :)

NikkiLu 09-28-2011 05:17 AM

hand made pillowcases - HTH

bearisgray 09-28-2011 05:17 AM

Fudge, brownies, and chocolate chip cookies - wrapped in an embellished dish towel.

Not quilty - but it is chocolate!

QuiltingKrazy 09-28-2011 05:22 AM

why not the rice bags that you heat or freeze?

ghostrider 09-28-2011 05:44 AM

Here's a huge list of suggestions (gifts for men are towards the bottom). Surely something on it will spark an idea or two. :D
http://www.ufo-rphanage.com/holiday_gifts.shtml

hensandhollyhocks 09-28-2011 05:58 AM

A checkerboard with pieces.

Joan 09-28-2011 06:05 AM

pillowcases!

TShooters 09-28-2011 06:58 AM

Quilted things:

His n' Hers e-reader covers. These are fun and fast to make w/just the fabric strips:
http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/05/bookkeeper.html

Lunch Bags:
http://www.quiltinaday.com/freepatte.../Apple_Bag.pdf

Water bottle carriers:
http://pinkchalkstudio.com/blog/2006...ottle-carrier/

grammyp 09-28-2011 07:05 AM

Pillowcases or pillow, Christmas stocking, lunch bag, table runner, coasters?

BeckyL 09-28-2011 09:29 AM

What about hand made Christmas ornaments.

Tartan 09-28-2011 09:37 AM

Barbecue apron for the guys out of John Deere fabric or similar? Kitchen stuff for the ladies, pot holders, casserole tote, apron, tater bag...

the casual quilter 09-28-2011 09:54 AM

How about a quilted Christmas stocking with homemade goodies in it? I've made several of these and they are quick and easy and inexpensive.

marymm 09-28-2011 09:58 AM

A tote bag for the grocery store with a few bags of popcorn or snacks...Or, A jar of hot chocolate mix, and a mug rug ..u.Or a wine bottle bag with wine...or with a bottle of cider if you prefer. Patterns or recipes are readily available on web.

QuiltE 09-28-2011 02:06 PM

I've been out of the office all day and now here to catch up1

There could be some fun in the sports idea ... some serious Manchester United (soccer) fans, then there's those that are pro-Leafs (hockey) and on to other sports loyalties. Just might cause some in-fighting, which actually adds to the fun of the day!

And so many other ideas ..... no it does not have to be totally quilty, though I like to gift that way, when I have the opportunity.

I guess I keep having flashbacks of how my husband reacted when he received any of the "female" oriented gifts at our family gatherings, in those days. So am sooooo hesitant now, as a result.

And of course, keep coming with more ...... I love all these ideas, but also love to have many to pick from. Heck, might even give me some more ideas for other gifts to give this year!

Thank you!

Greenheron 09-28-2011 02:35 PM

Gym bag or roll bag?

kathy6696 09-28-2011 03:01 PM


Originally Posted by leatheflea
Theres a tutorial in the tutorial section of this forum for microwavable bowl holders. My DH begged me to make these for us after I made some for other people. So they would make good adult gifts.

This is what I was going to suggest. Love them and they are fun and easy to make. Useful too!

Havplenty 09-28-2011 03:07 PM

ditto. i am doing potholders/oven mitts with cookbooks for my family this year. we had stop giving gifts but everyone brings a coupla wrapped generic gifts and we play bingo so that everyone in attendance takes something home.

i have also done baskets with coffee mugs & a special package of coffee/tea along with some napkins & potholders (all handmade).


Originally Posted by sandyo
Pot holders and aprons could be more generic, also the microwave mit http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-144848-1.htm would be a great idea.


Havplenty 09-28-2011 03:10 PM

do folks really use these? i got one in a swap but don't quite know what to do with it.


Originally Posted by QuiltingKrazy
why not the rice bags that you heat or freeze?


VickyS 09-28-2011 03:14 PM

Casserole holders with potholders

Rice/corn hot and cold packs - really go over well with achy muscles!

Snap beer can wraps (using old metal measuring tapes)- you can use favorite team logo fabric

Lap quilts using fleece or flannel - small so they don't trip, but keep the lap warm while sprawled in front of the TV for the game!

Good luck!

yonnikka 09-28-2011 03:15 PM

Shopping bags with strong strappy handles are really popular now: you know, "go Green!" How about making a very Masculine strappy handled bag: canvas, camo, in nature colors: blacks, browns, greens. The quilted part could be for one side or for two.

VickyS 09-28-2011 03:17 PM


Originally Posted by Havplenty
do folks really use these? i got one in a swap but don't quite know what to do with it.


Originally Posted by QuiltingKrazy
why not the rice bags that you heat or freeze?


Our family uses them all the time - Two minutes in the microwave = 20 to 40 minutes of muscle relief. Freezer takes a bit longer (an hour or so to cool down) but similar results. I can't keep them out of my son's hands, so have had to make a bunch more.

VERY GOOD CHOICE for physically active people.

jitkaau 09-29-2011 02:43 AM

Ties or hats?

TanyaL 09-29-2011 03:31 AM

If you have this much time and only $25 and it is going to be opened and passed around then I'm sure you want something intricate that people will ooooh and aaaaah over. Good time to make a small project out of postage stamps or watercolors - how about a Bible cover? a wallet? a decorative pillow?

Edie 09-29-2011 03:34 AM

I have made coverlets (52x80 - 15 - 12" blocks), a sampler, with leftover fabric and have only had to buy the batting, backing, sashing and possibly the border all for under $25.00. I am in the process of making one right now and have only spent $10.00 and that is including the backing and the batting. I think you could easily make one for under $25.00. A coverlet is larger than a lap quilt and longer - makes for a nice quilt to curl up in a chair with or lay down on a couch and curl up! (Never end a sentence with a preposition - sorry about that! I type like I talk!) Edie

MaryAnnMc 09-29-2011 04:13 AM

I ditto the laptop bag!! Selvages will work for guys or gals, but since it's going to be traded and traded, make it as pretty as you like. If the guys don't want it, the ladies will!

acesgame 09-29-2011 04:34 AM

You have seen most of my ideas already. But how about pajama pants with fun but generic flannel?? Size depending on size of most in family. Or a gardening or handy person apron/tool organizer/ holder.
This is not particularly quilty but would be very desirable- Something date night or party related. Include homemade goodies, a CD of fun music or a family favorite movie, a theme (could involve cute fabric somethings), baby sitting voucher if little children are involved. I know most people need to date their spouses more and they aren't always creative on the fly. Good luck choosing.

marthe brault-hunt 09-29-2011 05:06 AM

Im a gift exchange, I picked a quilter, I gave her a bucket of scraps , spools of thread, patterns and a 6″square, On the bucket, glued a label ″My toy box"

Need ideas or patterns go to ; www, tipnut.com

msdayton 09-29-2011 05:07 AM

Last year I made holiday pillowcases for the folks I work with (8 pair) and my coworkers loved them...


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