Sustainable Gifts for People Who Sew, Knit, and Craft
It’s no secret that I love to make stuff and that I’m a giant sentimental nerd when it comes to the holidays (having a kid has only exacerbated the problem). But I do try to be conscientious about the impact my crafting and holiday-ing has on people and the planet. As the sewing community becomes more and more focused on sustainability, it’s likely that the maker in your life has similar concerns. So I put this list slow-made, sustainable, indie-focused holiday picks that are sure to get your crafty friend or loved one thinking, organizing, and creating.
Waxed canvas Field Bag by Fringe Supply Co.
$77.90 at A Verb for Keeping Warm
This sturdy durable bag features lots of storage, a vegetable-tanned leather carry loop, and cotton drawstring. Made in the USA from sturdy waxed cotton canvas, it’s a great solution for knitters and other makers frequently on the go.
Vanishing Fleece: Adventures in American Wool
$17.99 at Amazon
In her latest book, knitter and writer Clara Parks details her adventures transforming a 676-pound bale of fleece into saleable yarn, and the people and vanishing industry she discovered along the way. Great for the knitter in your life — or anyone who loves a good nonfiction read.
“Measure Twice, Cut Once” Solid Brass Measuring Tape
$58 from Best Made Co.
This is more of a “for the maker who has everything” gift because —let’s be honest— $58 is a lot to spend on a tape measure. But its durable, solid brass case (made in Germany) and timeless message is sure to make this one a hit.
studio carta Dressmaker Shears
$52 at Studio Carta
These dressmaker shears are functional and pretty as heck. Crafted in Italy with hard-tempered steel, sharp serrated blades and a 24-karat gold-plated handle, these shears are an heirloom in their own right.
Note: If you’re looking for a less expensive option, I always recommend the Japanese-made Kai shears. They really are the perfect scissors.
Wool and the Gang Glitterball Sock Yarn
$20 at Wool and the Gang
In general, sparkles aren’t super sustainable. But this British sourced and spun yarn is a mix of 100% naturally renewable wool and lurex offers a good compromise. Produced by eco-conscious suppliers, this extra soft wool has a subtle hint of holiday glitz.
Fringe leather tool pouch by Fringe Supply Co.
$64 at Fringe Supply Co.
Handmade in Denver, Colorado, this simple leather envelope pouch holds tools, spare needles, and all other wayward supplies. The pouch features undyed, waxed cotton stitching, an antiqued-brass snap, and natural vegetable-tanned leather.
Purl Soho Heirloom Wool Ornament Kit
$98 at Purl Soho
My grandmother made several sets of felt Christmas ornaments that have been distributed among her twelve (!) children—and children’s children—for years. I managed to acquire a couple of them and they’re one of the best parts of trimming the tree. Use this kit to make ornaments for your loved ones, or give the whole kit to a crafty someone in your life! The kit includes 100% wool felt pieces, cotton thread, needles, beads, sequins, and everything else you need to complete the project.
Purl Soho also sells beautiful felted wool bundles — great for stuffing those stockings!
Miss Make Looper Quilt Pattern
$16 at Miss Make
I am in love/ awe of this recent quilt pattern release by Devon Iott of Miss Make. I’m not a super skilled quilter, but if I was I would absolutely put this pattern on my list. The Looper includes modular blocks that can be rearranged in any direction to create a continuous design. A perfectly modern, perfectly accessibly, perfectly perfect pattern.
Llamallooma Pom-Pom Maker
$15 at Fancy Tiger Crafts
Know anyone obsessed with pom poms? Empower them to make their own with the the Llamallooma from Betz White. Made from baltic birch, the loom is easy to use and cute as all get out. Pair it with some US-grown yarn for the perfect stocking stuffer.
“Ta Da” Woven Labels by Kylie and the Machine
$8.50 at Fancy Tiger Crafts
Oeko-Tex certified in plastic-free recycled packaging, these labels let the sewist in your life do a little humble-bragging.
Colette Patterns Enamel Pins
$8 at Colette Patterns
These cute little sewing-themed pins make great stocking stuffers. Each pin features a beautiful rose gold finish.
Closet Case Patterns Gift Card
$25 increments at Close Case Patterns
You can never go wrong with a gift card, especially to one of the best indie pattern makers out there! This Closet Case Patterns gift cards are printed on beautiful rose and gold cardstock. Or purchase a digital version to curtail that carbon footprint.
Disclosure: This post is not sponsored, but I do make commission via Skimlinks. Thanks for supporting Birds of a Thread!
