This year more than ever, DIY gifts—those that you knit, crochet and craft yourself—are the most meaningful. While large projects like afghans are always amazing gifts, with limited time and resources there are lots of smaller, quick-to-make projects to consider as well. To help us find some of these easy-to-do items, as well as gift ideas for yarn enthusiasts, we asked members of the Craft Yarn Council for their suggestions. Our Holiday 2009 Project Page is full of ideas, everything from tree ornaments and toys to traditional accessories like scarves and must-have books. Plus, you'll find lots of other suggestions at the individual web sites. Check it out.

Wow! DIY was never so much fun.

Following are ideas to get your creative juices (and fingers) going and information about where to find the patterns.

Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts 2009

Something for everyone—that’s the idea behind this year’s biggest-ever issue of Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts. Knitters of all levels will find “must cast-on” projects that appeal to them, from eye-catching colorwork designs to traditional ornaments and heirloom pieces they’ll keep for many years to come. Handy tips, helpful illustrations, great gift-giving ideas, and more than fifty projects to choose from make this super-sized special issue the best Holiday Gifts yet!

Caron Holiday Home Decor & More

There’s nothing better—or easier to make—for the holidays than an easy and fun pillow!  Knitted in Caron International’s Simply Soft yarn, the pillow cover is knitted in easy stockinette stitch and the bow in equally easy seed stitch.  Hold a strand of metallic embroidery flow together with the yarn for a really festive look.

What a great “Baby’s First Christmas” gift!  This bright bear is crocheted using Caron International’s Simply Soft Brites yarn, then embroidered.      
 
Crocheted in Caron International’s Simply Soft Paints, this colorful yoga bag is the ideal gift for anyone wanting to stay fit—despite all the temptations a holiday season can bring!

Make loads of these easy Star Ornaments for your tree.  Done in an easy crochet stitch with one strand of Caron International’s Simply Soft yarn held together with a strand of metallic embroidery floss.

Bernat Great Gift Ideas

Never be stuck again for great gift ideas with this all-purpose book! Hats, mittens, scarves, sweaters, bags, blankets, slippers, toys and more, for everyone from baby to adult. Your Christmas list will be done in no time. Both knit and crochet designs.  Use all of your favorite Bernat yarns including Bernat Alpaca, Bernat Baby Coordinates, Bernat Camouflage, Bernat Cottontots, Bernat Satin, Bernat Softee Chunky, and Bernat Super Value. Retail approx $3.95.