I'm pretty sure I have kept every handmade gift I've ever received. From cute little pottery bowls made by nieces and nephews, to a beautiful fringed scarf my mother sewed, to an upholstered ottoman made by my sister and brother-in-law. They are so much more than the sum of their parts; these truly are the best gifts ever.

One of the fears of giving a handmade gift is that it won't be perfect. In our three-part Holiday Gift Ideas series, we've selected projects that range from easy to intermediate – nothing too difficult – and we'll warn you if we think the project takes a bit of experience. Select some fabulous fabric, stitch a few seams, make a couple of tassels, and voila: a fantastic better-than-store-bought result.

Perky Pom Pom Pillows

Seriously, how cute are these! You can whip out several in an afternoon. They take very little fabric, a 12-inch pillow insert and a little pom pom fringe. Make the front and back in different fabrics for twice the decorating possibilities.

Go to the tutorial.

Patchwork Table Topper with Vintage Buttons

Edged in vintage buttons and corner tassels, this adorable table topper makes me want to relax with a cup of tea and a plate of homemade cookies. It dresses up any coffee table and is such a lovely way to welcome guests. This project takes a little time, but is not difficult and the results are so worth it. Did you know that some sewing machines are capable of sewing these buttons on for you?

Go to the tutorial.

Bits & Pieces Felt Ornaments

Anyone can make these. You can download our patterns, or make your own. Hand stitch using embroidery floss as we did, or use a decorative stitch on your sewing machine. If you cut the stocking just a bit wider, you can fit a gift card inside. This is a great project for kids and adults alike; sit around the table and make them together.

Go to the tutorial.

Elegant Hexagonal Pillow

This pillow will shine in any room. It looks complicated, but it's very easy to make. We'll even show you how to make the tassels. It took me less than one hour to complete the pillow and another half hour to make six tassels. In a world of square pillows, the hexagonal pillow takes center stage.

Go to the tutorial.

Elf Stockings

These will catch Santa's eye. They have turned up toes, pom poms and are customized with an initial. Who wouldn't love an elf stocking! Fill with an assortment of mini-gifts, or perhaps one very special gift. Because, really, presentation is everything.

Go to the tutorial.

Reversible Gift & Wine Bags

These gift bags are a gift in themselves. They can be reused again and again or reversed for a whole new look. What a great way to add your personal touch to a gift or a special bottle of wine.

Go to the tutorial.

Holiday Gift Ideas: Part 2

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