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I don’t know about you, but I LOVE giving gifts for the holidays.  It’s seriously my favorite part of the Christmas season.  But some years, it’s also the most stressful.  And I don’t want that to be the case for you!

So here goes the rundown of how to take the stress out of holiday planning!

Planning For Holiday Gift Giving

1. Make a List of Who You’re gifting to

Really think this one out.  Try to keep it realistic and limit it to people you know who would love and appreciate not only the finished product but the love and effort went into it.  It takes a lot of work to make these gifts, apply your efforts where it counts.  I know my 13 year old nephew would prefer a Fortnite gift card. Just sayin’.🤷‍♀️

2. Choose a gift for each person on the list

Try not to plan a bed sized quilt for every person.  You’re just not going to have time.  Unless you start in March.  Seriously.  

3. Plan a Makers Calendar

First I want you to nail down your plans.  The gifting season usually lasts 3 weeks, which means you may have more time to make some gifts than others.  Break down how long it will take you to make each gift and then plan accordingly.  Ideally, you’ll have a few months to complete your gifts and you’ll be able to schedule your sewing sessions accordingly.

4. Give Yourself a parachute and Safety Net

I like to keep the gifts for people that I have potential back ups for, for last.  So my sewing friends, I know I can make really cute and easy gift baskets.  Which means if I run out of time to make their gifts, they will still get great gifts that they will love.  Keep that in mind.  That way, when you get to the end, you aren’t stressed because you have no ideas for replacement gifts and feel stuck making them something.

5. Have Fun

This is about the holidays and gift giving.  It is the literal spreading of joy.  Don’t lose that feeling!  Crank up the tunes while you sew, skip the gifts (or friendships) that aren’t working, and enjoy yourself.