21 of the best gifts for crafters

We all want our gifts to be used as well as being appreciated, but it can be a bit of a minefield at the best of times.

If you’ve got friends and family members with a creative hobby, you would think it would be easy to find a present, but actually it’s surprisingly difficult.

After all, you might not know what they’ve already got and individual taste can be a fickle thing!

Or perhaps you want to introduce someone to a new hobby, but don’t know where to start. Well, we’re here to help.

We’ve scoured the internet and combined it with our years of crafting experience to help you find a creative gift that will genuinely be treasured!

21 of the best gifts for crafters

Let’s get cracking with the crafting gifts! We’ve tried to select a range of unique gifts that would suit the crafter who has everything, but if you’re looking for more choice we’ve also included some handy links to our full buyer's guides!

1. A proper needle case

Best for serious sewists and cross-stitchers

• Find these Metal needle cases on Amazon (£14.99)

Pros – Safe and convenient

Cons – The only con is that if you lose it, you lose all your needles!

When it comes to sewing needles, we’re forever misplacing them! They seem to have a habit of going walkabout, normally exactly when you need them.

Many crafters will combat this by making a simple needle book or case out of fabric, or just popping them in their pin cushion. But we think this is a perfect opportunity for a bit of a treat.

Needle cases come in a range of different styles (and price tags), but we particularly like these lovely vintage-style needle cases that allow you to store those sewing needles in style.

These ones feature a sturdy metal design and come as a pack of two – so you can have one in your sewing room and one for on the go!

---

2. A bead loom

Best for jewellery makers and weaving fans

Pros – Affordable price, allows you to be really creative

Cons – Can be a little bit fiddly, requires a steady hand/concentration

While this is an obvious choice for people who like to make their own jewellery, it’s also a fantastic project for most types of crafter – as it requires both concentration and creativity.

A bead loom works much in a similar way to regular weaving looms, but with tiny seed beads being incorporated and locked in place on every row.

It’s one of those crafts that looks incredibly complicated at the start, but once you’re set up you won’t believe how easy it is and before you know it you can let your creativity go wild making colourful designs.

• Buy a bead loom kit from Amazon (£14.32)

---

3. Fun craft pencils

Best for crafters who like big projects

• Buy these craft message pencils on Etsy

Pros – Always useful, affordable

Cons – Some people prefer pens

Ask any crafter who’s taken on a difficult project and they’ll tell you that making notes is essential!

Knitters and crocheters use them to keep track of their progress, sewists to remind themselves of adjustments, needleworkers plotting out their designs and so on.

You can never make enough notes, which is why we think these craft message pencils are a fun and useful gift. They’re also available with craft-specific messages too!

---

4. Cyanotype printing kit

Best for papercrafters/printmakers

• Buy this Cyanotype kit from Etsy (£15)

Pros – A fun activity that harnesses nature

Cons – Small A6 sheets

If you’ve got a friend or family member who loves making cards or other paper projects, then we think this cyanotype printing kit is going to go down a treat!

Cyanotype printing is a technique where you place objects (often flowers or plants) onto light-sensitive paper which you then expose to the sun – resulting in a silhouette style print.

It’s a fun project that you can get really creative with, and this small kit is an easy way of trying it out!

---

5. Craft slogan enamel badge

Best for all crafters

• Check out these Craft slogan enamel pins on Etsy (£7.50)

Pros – A nice simple gift

Cons – You can never have enough pins – Once you start collecting you won’t be able to stop!

You can’t go wrong with a pin badge, especially if it spells out your favourite craft! These hard enamel pins have become really popular in recent years, especially with knitters and crocheters.

They come in a range of craft slogans – knitter, crocheter, stitcher, maker, crafter or yarnivore, so you can find the perfect pin for your recipient (there’s also t-shirts, hoodies and bags in the same style available too!)

---

6. Yarn Dyeing Kit

Best for knitters and crocheters

• Buy this yarn dyeing kit from Etsy (£27)

Pros – Full kit with everything you need

Cons – Has the potential to be messy, not suitable for children

It doesn’t matter how big their yarn stash is, knitters and crocheters will absolutely love this kit!

Hand-dyed yarn is super-popular among wool-crafters, and this fab kit comes with a clear instruction manual and everything you need to dye your own yarn!

Speaking from experience, we would definitely recommend that every knitter or crocheter should try dyeing yarn at least once, as it’s super-fun and you’ll really treasure your hand-dyed yarn!

You can also choose from a few different colour options and the type of undyed yarn that is included.

---

7. Project planner notebook

Best for crafters with lots of projects on the go

• Get this Personalised project planner notebook on Etsy (£7.49 )

Pros – Great for keeping track of projects

Cons – Some people are particular about their preferred notebook style

As we mentioned earlier, keeping notes is always important for crafters, especially if you have multiple projects on the go at once!

Why keep your notes in a plain notepad when you can use this project planner that has been specifically designed for keeping track of craft projects?

It has sections for writing your materials, measurements, inspiration and much more, you can also personalise the cover with a name too – making it a perfect craft pressie!

---

8. Indigo dying kit

Best for yarn and fabric fans

• You can find this Indigo dying kit on Etsy (£24)

Pros – All natural products, you can dye a lot with the kit

Cons – You may end up completely dressed in blue

Here’s a kit that we think will be a hit with both fibre and fabric lovers!

Indigo dyeing is a historic and natural dyeing process, and this kit comes with everything you need to create a dye vat – you do need your own yarn or fabrics to dye though.

We think inquisitive crafters will have loads of fun trying this kit out!

---

9. DMC Magnetic board

Best for cross stitchers

Pros - Handy design,

Cons - Too small for full magazine pages (although a bigger version is available)

This clever little board from DMC is principally designed for holding your cross-stitch patterns, but it would also come in handy for embroidery, crochet or knitting patterns and charts.

Artists could use it to hold a reference photo for their work in progress too..

It has a built-in stand at the back that means the board can act like an easel, as well as magnets to keep your pattern in place (plus a clever magnetic ruler so you can keep track of exactly where you are on your chart).

It may not be the most exciting gift in the world, but it’s certainly a practical one!

• Buy the DMC Magnetic board from Amazon (£14.40)

---

10. A Craft Storage bag

Best for messy crafters!

Pros – Organised storage solution, great for crafting on the go!

Cons – The patterns on the bags might not be to everyone’s taste

It’s fair to say that many of us crafters can be a messy lot!

We know all too well how easy it is to have wool spilling out of cupboards, pens and pencils all over your desk, or embroidery threads making their way down the side of the sofa. Help your crafty friends and family members get organised with a dedicated storage bag!

These handy bags by Coopay are waterproof with a funky design and transparent top, plus lots of useful pockets.

Although these specific bags are predominantly marketed at yarn crafters, we think they’d be useful for organising any type of craft supplies!

• Buy this Coopay craft storage bag from Amazon (£18.88)

---

11. Kintsugi kit

Best for pottery and interiors fans!

• Try this Kintsugi Kit from Etsy (£17.99)

Pros – Stylish and unique

Cons – You’ll need some broken pottery

Kintsugi has become really trendy in recent years, and if you don’t know this craft by name we’re sure you’ll have seen pictures of it before.

Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with a lacquer of gold, silver or platinum.

It’s a really stylish way of repairing any broken treasured items, as well as being a fun and meditative craft.

---

12. A yarn bowl

Best for yarn lovers!

• Order your Personalised yarn bowl on Etsy (£35)

Pros – A lovely gift that isn’t something everyone has already

Cons – Ceramic ones can break easily

If you fancy getting a special gift for the knitter or crocheter in your life, then a yarn bowl is a fabulous present idea!

These sweet bowls are a really handy accessory, as they keep yarn in place while it’s being worked so it’s not rolling all over the floor!

There’s loads of shapes and sizes of yarn bowls available, but we particularly love these pretty ones that allow you to choose the design and colours, as well as personalising it too.

---

13. A DIY electronic project

Best for computer geeks, musicians and noise-makers!

• Buy a Rakit atari punk console kit from Etsy (£15)
• Pros – A fun project for all ages, good introduction to circuits Cons – Soldering irons are very hot and dangerous!

Ok, we know we’re sticking in a real wild card here! But we think this kit would be perfect for anyone who’s obsessed with computers and circuitry, interesting instruments or just making a lot of noise… be they adults or children!

This kit comes with everything you need to make a cool little noise module - you just need your own soldering iron (which should most definitely be supervised if making with a child).

This may seem like an odd suggestion for some, but we’ve got personal experience with these sorts of kits and can confirm it’s super-fun and satisfying to make your own electronic instrument!

---

14. Natural fabric art kit

Best for introducing kids to fabric art!

• Find this Natural fabric art kit from Not on the High Street (£24.50)

Pros – Natural products, everything you need included in the kit

Cons – Has the potential to get messy!

We’ve already shown you a couple of kits that involve dyeing yarn or fabrics, but here’s one that is perfect for getting kids into craft!

This kit uses purely natural plant dyes (beetroot, spinach and turmeric powders) and comes with instructions on how to make four fab dye effects on a cotton calico banner, bunting and two flags.

---

15. A beginners loom kit

Best for fans of colourful textiles!

• Buy a Loom weaving kit from Not on the High Street (£39)

Pros – A fun yet involved craft that is really engaging

Cons – Can be a bit fiddly to set up at first

The thought of ‘weaving on a loom’ might make you think of ye olde days, but it’s actually loads of fun!

It makes a particularly good project for people who are already fans of yarn crafts, but all types of crafters and artists will also enjoy the creative freedom too.

---

16. A Swiss army pocket knife

Best for crafters on the go!

Pros – Perfect for so many different craft and DIY uses

Cons – Definitely not for kids! Remember that different countries have different laws regarding carrying knives, check your local laws before you buy

We understand that this one may seem an odd choice (and one that not everyone will be comfortable with), but there’s some sound logic behind why a Swiss army knife would be a great gift for crafters! There’s one member of our team that’s always got one to hand!

You can use the snips-style scissors to cut off knitting yarn, using the knife to sharpen a pencil, or even using the handy magnifying glass on this particular pen-knife to look at those stitches up close. You’ll be surprised how much a crafter will use it!

• Buy a Swiss army pocket knife from Amazon (£50)

---

17. Friendship bracelet kit

Best for kids and adults alike!

• Get your Friendship bracelet kit from Baker Ross (£5.95)

Pros – A fun and affordable project

Cons – May be a bit too complicated for some people

Even just the words 'friendship bracelets’ conjure up school days, but these ones are probably slightly different to the ones from your youth.

This friendship bracelet kit uses foam rings and the Japanese technique of Kumihimo to create fabulous braided cords!

We’ve always found it surprisingly fun and it’s one of those crafts which kids will probably pick up a lot quicker than adults.

---

18. Table Box Easel

Best for artists!

• Order this Winsor & Newton Table Box Easel from Cass Arts (£27.50)

Pros – Minimal assembly, quality wooden design, respected brand.

Cons – Not all artists use easels

If you’re looking for a gift for an artist, buying supplies such as paints or pencils can be a bit tricky.

However, this table box easel is a great present idea for both aspiring beginners and professional artists.

With ample storage space, sturdy carrying handle and a top which acts as an easel, it’s great for both organising your supplies as well as getting creative when out of your house (or studio).

---

19. A Socker’s Rule

Best for sock knitters!

• Buy a Knitter’s Sock Rule on Etsy (£12.50)

Pros – Helps knitters get the perfect fit

Cons – Quite a niche gift

When it comes to knitters, there’s one project which is always popular – socks!

As sock knitting requires a bit of knitting experience, it’s likely your recipient will already have plenty of yarn and needles – but they may not have a knitter’s sock rule!

This clever laser-cut ruler allows knitters to easily measure each part of their sock, meaning it’s never been simpler to get that perfect fit!

---

20. Beginner’s Pottery Kit

Best for couples!

• Find this Beginner’s pottery kit on Etsy (£30)

Pros – Includes everything you need, great couples/friends/family activity

Cons – May get a bit messy, but that’s all part of the fun!

Here’s a fun gift that is perfect for crafty couples, or even parents and children! This air dry clay kit comes with all the clay and tools you’ll need and is aimed at complete beginners.

You can start off by making simple pinch pots, then you can use the provided YouTube videos for more ideas to help you get creative!

We think this is the perfect gift if you’re really not sure what to get for the crafter in your life (unless they’re already a professional potter of course).

---

How to buy creative gifts for craft beginners?

In our opinion, a crafty gift is (almost) always a good choice. Your recipient not only ends up with something to treasure but hopefully will enjoy a bit of making time too. But unless they’ve dropped you some hints, it can be tricky knowing where to start.

If you’re looking for a creative gift for a non-crafter (or a crafter who has lost their mojo), here’s a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, think about your recipient's interests! If they’re a follower of fashion with a stylish outfit collection then they may be interested in sewing or knitting as it could inspire them to make their own clothes.

Equally, think about your recipients' dislikes! If they can’t stand getting messy, then maybe they wouldn’t enjoy a pottery or painting kit. Or if they have a short attention span, maybe that intricate embroidery kit isn’t the best idea (although it’s surprising how many people actually find that crafting helps them with this!).

It’s also important to consider your budget! You don’t want to splash out on a really expensive craft gift only for it to sit unused in the back of a cupboard. If you’re not certain that your recipient will try your crafty gift, maybe go for a simpler cheaper version just to give them a taste!

---

Give the gift of creativity this Christmas

Hopefully, you’re now feeling a bit more confident about buying a creative gift for your friend or family member. But if you’re still a little unsure, then don’t panic, we’ve still got a few more suggestions.

Firstly, have a sneaky peek at their bookshelves. Most crafters love a good book and there’s plenty to choose from including stitch tutorial books to pattern books.

Equally, you could always buy them a magazine subscription to one of our many fabulous craft magazines.

And if you’re still drawing a blank, then forget to make the decision yourself and get them a gift voucher! They’re a good way of making sure they treat themselves to some craft supplies.

Many craft companies such as Wool Warehouse or Cass Arts have gift voucher options, as well as larger online retailers such as Amazon.

Whatever you decide to give to your crafty friend or family member, why not get inspired yourself and try making your own gift packaging?

Make your own gift bags!

First impressions are everything, so show your crafty loved ones how much they inspire you by learning how to make your own gift bags – there’s 31 projects to choose from!