This is around the time of year I start snooping around for Christmas present ideas. Wanting to skip the mall rush and having little money, I’ve decided to get crafty again and awaken the do-it-myself-er.

In past years, I’ve gifted photographs or fun seasonal baked treats. And now that I’m working at Lemuria, I’ve decided this year, I’m gifting only books or things I’ve made. And because, at times, I have the type of personality to get carried away, I’ve set myself some boundaries. I’ve limited myself to these three books to pull from for inspiration: Sew It, Stuff It by Rob Merrett, The Lampshade Lady’s Guide to Lighting Up Your Life by Judy Lake, and Indie Craft by Jo Waterhouse.

Sew It, Stuff It is a great answer for your gifting needs, such as a baby shower. With several adorable designs, including “Perry the Pony” and a chapter on all kinds of “Divine Dollies”, you will be able to give a heart-felt gift for little cost. I’d be proud to give away a toy I’ve made from this book. Merrett presents so many great ideas in an easy-to-follow way. I’ve been wanting to dabble in lampshade design for a while but figured it would be too tedious.

Judy Lake, AKA “The Lampshade Lady” outlines the step-by-step process for making a wide range of uniquely personal shades in her book. Perfect for the gifting season, shades can be made from a variety of things. She suggests anything from old photos to old scarves and handkerchiefs to new kid decorated craft projects. She shows that simply updating a shade or two can change the feel of the entire space. Check out all the interesting ways you could use this fun craft to bring a personal homey feel.

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I also was really excited by Indie Craft. This book catalogs the alternative craft scene of Indie Craft: “The fantastic art and craft work being produced by artists and makers using traditional craft techniques but with a completely modern, alternative and subversive style, context and subject matter.” I think my mind was blown on every page the first time I opened it. Lots of great work to inspire the creative process. Check it out!

Rob Merrett's Perry the Pony

Need a Halloween Costume? Try one of Erin Dollar's beards.

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