Under a time crunch for gift making? Why not try this list of 25 crochet Christmas gifts in a weekend and knock out those gifts quick!
We’ve all been there. When the list of people you’re gifting for is a mile long and you can’t seem to figure out why the days have been flying by so quickly, you need quick and easy crochet patterns, stat! Escape the dreaded handmade stigma with this curated list of thoughtful crochet gifts that are sure to impress!
When you’re short on time, there are two shortcuts you can make. You can pick projects made with bulky and super bulky weight yarns or you can simply pick smaller projects. So step away from the sweater patterns and come check out these actually realistic last-minute crochet gifts!
Oh, and did I mention that all these patterns are free?!
Who Should You Crochet Christmas Gifts for?
Wow, the list could be SO long! For me, I choose to make a list with three sections:
1. The friends or family members that are the priority (the MUST makes)
2. Those that I would love to make for after the priority list (coworkers, kid’s teachers, etc)
3. Those that would be nice to crochet a gift for, but only if time (I have done this for janitors, office workers at the kid’s school, etc)
This helps me to focus on the priority and move down the list as I have time. I also break my crochet goals down each day (example: day 1, crochet mitten cuff, day 2, crochet thumb gusset, etc). This way I not only have goals for who I want to make for, but I have daily goals!
How to Choose a Perfect Gift to Crochet
- Set aside what you like or want to crochet, and think about the things they actually like and use.
- Take some time and write down items that your intended gift recipient uses, whether knits or crocheted items. Do they like hats? Gloves/mittens? Do they wear any kind of knit or crochet? If not, you might want to think of making a gift bag or ornament for that person.
- Know that it’s not how much you spend, but what your recipient needs and/or wants.
- If someone asks you to make something, try to give them what they want. This could be colors or the actual item itself. We all want to give something unexpected, but something more useful or what they want it much better.
Planning Your Crochet Gift Ideas
Starting out on the journey of making handmade gifts is not just about the patterns and stitches. It’s about infusing love and warmth into every creation. Proper planning ensures that your gifts are completed in time, within budget, and tailored to the recipient’s taste. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this process:
Time Management
a) Start Early: Begin your crochet projects well in advance to avoid last-minute rushes. Allocate ample time for each project, considering your other commitments.
b) Create a Schedule: Draft a realistic and flexible schedule. Break down the projects into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each.
c) Prioritize Projects: Prioritize projects based on complexity and time sensitivity. Start with gifts that take longer or are for special occasions.
Budgeting
a) List Expenses: Make a list of all potential expenses, including yarn, hooks, patterns, and embellishments.
b) Set a Budget: Establish a clear budget and stick to it. Opt for cost-effective yet quality materials.
c) Bulk Purchases: Consider buying materials in bulk for multiple projects to save costs.
Choosing the Right Project
a) Consider the Recipient: Think about the recipient’s preferences, lifestyle, and needs. Choose a project that they will cherish and find useful.
b) Match Skill Level: Select projects that align with your crochet skills. For beginners, opt for simpler patterns and gradually take up complex ones.
Organization:
a) Use Project Management Tools: Utilize project management tools or apps (or even a paper calendar or planner) to keep track of your projects, deadlines, and materials. Break the projects down into daily goals like I have listed above.
b) Organize Materials: Keep your crochet materials organized. Designate a storage space for yarn, hooks, and other accessories so you aren’t wasting time searching for your missing hook (ahem, guilty!).
Personalization Tips:
a) Add a Personal Touch: Personalize your gifts by choosing the recipient’s favorite color, adding initials, or incorporating unique patterns.
b) Include a Handwritten Note: Accompany your crochet gift with a heartfelt handwritten note expressing your wishes and thoughts.
Effective planning is the cornerstone of successfully creating and gifting crochet items. It ensures that every stitch is a step towards bringing joy to your loved ones. Embrace the planning process as a pathway to not only crafting beautiful gifts but also infusing each creation with care, consideration, and love.
Quick Crochet Gifts for Your Next Perfect Project
Stylish and functional, this free crochet market bag is sure to impress anyone on your Christmas list. You can make it using just chain stitch and double crochet stitch. This gift is a great pick for an eco-conscious person or someone who loves to frequent the farmer's market.
Designer: One Dog Woof
Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton (Medium Weight #4)
Give the gift of warmth with this cozy chevron blanket made with super bulky yarn. It’s all double crochet stitches and the pattern is nice and repetitive. This is a great crochet gift idea for someone who’s always cold. You could even add a DVD and some popcorn for a “movie night in” gift set!
Designer: Double Crochet
Yarn: Bernat Blanket (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Go big or go home with this fabulous overstated cowl design. You’ll be using bobble stitches and V-stitches along with bulky weight yarn to whip up this super speedy crochet cowl. This is such a great gift for a close friend or relative who loves fashion and always dresses their best.
Designer: Lululoves
Yarn: Hayfield Bonus Chunky (Bulky Weight #5)
Keep it simple with single and half double crochet stitches. A crochet coffee cozy is the perfect gift for a teacher or coworker. I love the big old bow on this one but there are seriously so many great free crochet patterns out there so make sure to explore your options to find the best fit! I would especially love to receive this gift along with a coffee gift card.
Designer: Weekend Pursuits
Yarn: Worsted Weight #4
Seriously, slouch hats aren’t going out of style anytime soon. You can make this quick crochet slouch hat with just double crochet stitches. The dramatic ridges are created by crocheting around the posts instead of into the stitches. Crochet hats are a great go-to gift for anyone because they’re both practical and adorable.
Designer: Fiber Flux
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Chunky (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Have I mentioned lately how much I love the granny stitch? This classic stitch can be used to make pretty much anything. I especially love it in this colorful shawl. It’s a very fun and fast project that you could make even more colorful by using lots of different scrap yarns.
Designer: Not Your Average Crochet
Yarn: Lion Brand Landscapes (Worsted Weight #4)
Crochet scrunchies are one of the hottest designs of the year, especially since they came out with velvet yarn. These super soft scrunchies are quick enough to give in multiples and perfect for adults and kids alike. How about a custom gift set with crochet scrunchies and other hair products?
Designer: Yarn Circus
Yarn: Bernat Velvet (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Add a touch of style to the table with these sophisticated mug rugs. This design takes simple single and half double crochet stitches and elevates them to a whole new level of chic. I would pair this crochet gift with a mug that makes you think of the recipient and a new tea or coffee for them to try!
Designer: Love & Stitch
Yarn: Worsted Weight #4
Give the gift of warm toes with these quick and easy crochet slippers! Seriously, am I the only one whose feet are always cold?? I know people like to joke, but socks and slippers are always well received in my house! You can make these with just single and double crochet stitches. (See all our crochet slippers here!)
Designer: My Accessory Box
Yarn: Alize Show Punto Batik Design (Worsted Weight #4)
Have fun with a new crochet technique - the floret stitch - and make your own colorful crochet scarf to give away. The floret stitch uses double crochet and chain stitches, works up quickly, and gives your project lots of texture! I especially love this quick crochet gift for a kiddo.
Designer: The Unraveled Mitten
Yarn: Caron Cakes (Worsted Weight #4)
Keep your digits free to text and drive (just not at the same time) with these fabulous fingerless gloves. Double crochet stitches make this project work up in half the time and the design couldn’t be simpler. What a great gift idea for a teenager or young adult. Now you just have to decide what color to make them in! (See all our crochet fingerless glove patterns here!)
Designer: Repeat Crafter Me
Yarn: Bernat Super Value (Medium Weight #4)
Two strands of cotton yarn make this crochet potholder extra thick and squishy. The pattern uses the even moss stitch (alternating hdc and sl st) to achieve the lovely texture you can see from a mile away. Add a personal touch to this practical gift by making a set in the recipient’s favorite colors.
Designer: Who’s Homemade
Yarn: Hobby Lobby’s I Love This Cotton (Worsted Weight #4)
I’d like to think we’ve all gotten a little bit closer to our microwaves this year (no, just me?) since we’ve been spending so much time at home. Save your loved ones from scorched fingers with these quick and colorful crochet bowl cozies. This quick half double crochet project pairs well with a can of their favorite soup or a bowl with a funny saying on the side.
Designer: Winding Road Crochet
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver (Worsted Weight #4)
Christmas colors and double crochet V-stitches work well together in this fabulous and festive crochet cowl. The design is nice because it’s lightweight and very fast to make! Crochet cowls are always a safe bet for Christmas gifts because they’re so pretty and practical.
Designer: Fiber Flux
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Solids (Medium Weight #4)
Hats are a classic gift for a reason! This design is an exceptionally great pick because it works up extra stretchy. No one wants a hat that’s too small! You’ll be working the pattern in back and forth rows of double crochet stitches worked in the back loops only. Don’t forget the pom pom!
Designer: Make and Do Crew
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease (Bulky Weight #5)
Question: what do you make for someone that loves crafting as much as you do? Answer: a needle case, that’s what! This simple single crochet design makes an eye-catching case that’s perfect for holding needles and stitch markers. I especially love this gift idea for someone who makes amigurumi.
Designer: Moogly
Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton (Worsted Weight #4)
I know, there really aren’t enough free crochet patterns for men out there! I love this take on a crochet beanie for him that uses single and half double crochet stitches. Don’t be afraid to play with the colors here to complement your guys style.
Designer: Kirsten Holloway Designs
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver (Worsted Weight #4)
We all know someone who LOVES to use emojis when they text! These crochet throw pillows are perfect for kids and kids at heart. Simple single crochet circles are adorned with stitched on emoji facial expressions. Super bulky weight yarn makes this crochet project extra fast for a last-minute crochet gift.
Designer: All About Ami
Yarn: Lion Brand Fast-Track (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Hmm, my ears are cold but I just did my hair so a hat is out of the question. You can solve this dilemma with a quick and easy crochet ear warmer. This design uses single, double and half puff crochet stitches. I love this project for a quick crochet gift because it’s relatively small and simple while still being useful and beautiful.
Designer: Cre8tion Crochet
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft (Worsted Weight #4)
This fashionable crochet tote is the perfect gift for the purse-hoarder in your life. If they change their purse almost as often as they change their clothes, then I think you’ve just found the one! Simple single crochet stitches never looked better than in this stunning crochet tote. With the leather straps on there, you can hardly tell it’s handmade!
Designer: Make and Do Crew
Yarn: Lion Brand Fast-Track (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Single crochet and chain stitches make pretty peaks in this soft and stripey crochet blanket. Super bulky yarn will make this project fly by so you can finish in just a few crochet sessions. I bet you know a few different people who would love to receive this gift. After all, you can never have too many blankets!
Designer: CrochetDreamz
Yarn: Bernat Blanket (Super Bulky Weight #6)
There’s no shame in giving a gift card to someone who’s hard to gift for or to save time if you have a very long list of people you’d like to give gifts to. Add a personal touch with a pretty gift card envelope that’s made out of a classic granny square and tied with a bow. Who wouldn’t love to receive this precious little package?
Designer: Stitches n Scraps
Yarn: DK Weight #3
A thoughtful wine selection is always a welcome gift! Pair it with a reusable crochet wine gift bag in festive colors for maximum effect. Simple construction and easy peasy single crochet stitches make this project quick and painless. I especially love this idea for a hostess gift!
Designer: Pine Tree Crochet
Yarn: Worsted Weight #4
**Scroll down for the Christmas version.
Think outside the box with these pyramid shaped lavender bags. These beautiful bags are filled with dried lavender, but you could also fill them with dried rice and a few drops of cinnamon and cloves essential oils for a more festive gift! They’re just so darn pretty and perfect for freshening up a workspace or bedroom.
Designer: Ned & Mimi
Yarn: Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK (DK Weight #3)
If you know someone who can’t seem to keep a plant alive (like me) why not make them something that will last forever? Succulents are super popular right now because they look great and they’re fairly easy to make too - with just single crochet stitches. Combine this crochet gift with a nice plant pot for maximum effect.
Designer: Yarn + Chai
Yarn: Yarn Bee Rustic Romantic (Worsted Weight #4)
Here on Love.Life.Yarn you can find this nifty little Mitten Gift Card Holder. This little project really works up fast and you can knock out a bunch of these in a weekend!
Designer: Amanda Saladin
Yarn: Caron Cotton Cakes (Worsted Weight #4)
Here is a pattern to crochet when you just don't know what to make for someone! Instead of wrapping the gift in paper, why not use a crochet gift bag instead??
Designer: Love.Life.Yarn
Yarn: Worsted Weight (#4)
Common Questions about Crochet Gifts
Some of my favorite crocheted gifts are mittens, hats, a crochet washcloth, gift bags and socks/slippers. These are all things that don’t take a long time to make but are well-received by most. You can also make crochet ear warmers, beautiful ornaments, crochet dishcloths (great for using leftover yarn), a crochet headband, Christmas decorations, a mug dozy with a coffee shop gift card, or a simple scarf. Any of these are wonderful crochet gifts for friends!
As early as you want!! Some people start immediately in January on the next year’s holiday, but the earliest I’ve ever started was July. Definitely by October you should be crafting for the holiday season.
Consider these crochet gifts for coworkers:
Coffee Cozy: A practical gift for coffee or tea lovers.
Desk Accessories: Such as cup holders, pen holders, or mouse pads to organize their workspace.
Keychains: Personalized keychains reflecting their hobbies or interests.
Flower Pot Cover: Adds a decorative touch to desk plants.
Bookmark: Ideal for coworkers who enjoy reading.
Coasters: Useful and can be made in various designs.
Headbands or Ear Warmers: Helpful during cold seasons.
Hand Sanitizer Holder: Keeps hand sanitizer accessible and handy.
Christmas items such as crochet ornaments (I love a pretty crochet tree ornament!), a crochet poinsettia, a crochet wreath, or other decor.
Here are some crochet gift ideas suitable for men:
Hats or Beanies: Functional and stylish, perfect for cold weather.
Scarves: Practical and can be made in various patterns and colors.
Sweaters or Vests: Comfortable and warm, great for winter months.
Socks or Slippers: Cozy footwear for lounging at home.
Ties or Bow Ties: Unique and personalized fashion accessories.
Laptop or Tablet Sleeves: Provides protection for their gadgets.
Keychains: Handy and can be customized to their interests.
Wallets or Card Holders: Useful for keeping cards and cash organized.
Drink Cozies: Ideal for keeping beverages warm or cold.
Grill Mitts: Perfect for those who enjoy barbecuing.
These ideas also make great crochet gifts for teenage guys!
Coasters: Takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Coffee Cozy: Can be made in 1 to 2 hours.
Headbands: Takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Keychains: Can be completed in 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Face Scrubbies: Takes about 20 to 40 minutes.
Bookmarks: Can be made in approximately 1 hour.
Potholders: Takes around 2 to 3 hours.
Hand Sanitizer Holder: Can be completed in 1 to 2 hours.
Flower Appliques: Takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Cup Sleeves: Can be made in 1 to 2 hours.
Amigurumi Toys: Soft, crocheted animals or characters.
Baby Blankets: Cozy and colorful blankets.
Hats: Cute hats in various designs like animals or flowers.
Scarves: Fun and warm scarves in bright colors.
Mittens or Gloves: Comfortable hand warmers.
Sweaters: Warm and stylish clothing.
Slippers: Cozy footwear in fun designs.
Dolls: Handmade crochet dolls.
Backpacks: Small crochet backpacks for carrying treasures.
Pencil Cases: Handy for storing pencils and markers.
Final Thoughts on Our Last-Minute Gift List
What are you still doing here?! You’ve still got a lot of work to do. (I do too, now that I think about it!) Just don’t forget to bookmark this round up or save it to your Pinterest gifts board before you go. You’re definitely going to want to be able to find this great post again when you’re in a bind and need a quick crochet gift idea!
I hope you enjoyed this list of great crochet Christmas gift ideas and that it will help you choose your next perfect quick crochet gift. We have a pattern here for any skill level: beginner-friendly projects, easy crochet projects and those a bit more challenging for more experienced crocheters to help you choose a thoughtful gift.
A crochet gift is a wonderful gift for this Christmas season – even last minute gifts will still be appreciated! So, I hope you are able to craft a unique gift for a festive season from our list of free Christmas crochet patterns!
Which free crochet gift idea was your favorite? Have you started on your Christmas list yet? Did I miss any of your favorite go-to crochet gifts? Oh, and make sure to follow the blog and stay tuned for my next great crochet roundup!
Happy Crocheting!
Amanda
How to Choose the Perfect Gift to Crochet
We all want to make the best thing possible for each person on our gift list... but how to choose?
Materials
- Yarn for your project of choice
Tools
- Crochet hook appropriate for yarn
- Any notions needed for project
Instructions
Tips for Choosing what to make:
- Take some time and write down items that your intended gift recipient uses, whether knits or crocheted items. Do they like hats? Gloves/mittens? Do they wear any kind of knit or crochet? If not, you might want to think of making a gift bag or ornament for that person.
- Know that it's not how much you spend, but what your recipient needs and/or wants.
- If someone asks you to make something, try to give them what they want. This could be colors or the actual item itself. We all want to give something unexpected, but something more useful or what they want it much better.
- Set aside what you want to make, and think instead about what they would like.
Thank you so much for this Chevron pattern! I’ve always loved and done the ripple stitch and well one day it just left my memory. Could be age, could be the brain surgeries but whatever my situation I stuck with it and found you and I’m so grateful. It’s your pattern and YouTube video that click and make sense to me.