7 Gifts You Can Sew for Babies & Toddlers

The holiday season often leaves many parents, friends and family members of toddlers and babies wondering what to get! Instead of scrambling for the latest electronic toy for tots on the market that they'll probably bore of after the first few uses, why not use your sewing skills to make something unique, useful and practical?

Pants
Every child needs clothing, and with kids growing as fast as they do, most parents are more than grateful for any gifts of clothing they receive for their child! Pants are incredibly easy to make and don't take much time to make at all! If you need some pointers, you can follow this picture tutorial. You can even make them fancier and add embroidery, ribbon, pockets and ruffles!

Shirts & Onesies
Babies and toddlers can never have too many shirts or onesies! Pick up some jersey knit fabric and a good pattern for a onesie and you've got a great gift idea! If you can find a pattern for onesies in larger sizes, such as 2T and above, these will be a hit, as it can be hard to find onesies in these sizes in the stores! Make these onesies unique by adding an iron-on transfer, or create your own appliques using felt or fleece. If you have a bedazzler, you can even add some glam for the princess it will be given to!

Headbands & Hair Accessories
Headbands and hair accessories don't always require sewing, but sewing can be incredibly helpful when making them! Check out your local craft store for special ribbons, even stretchy sequin bands, along with accents like pretty buttons, flowers or crystals! You can make a headband by simply sewing the band into a loop, and sewing your applique directly to the band!

Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals are a classic and well-loved gift option for toddlers and babies! You might make a stuffed teddy bear, cat or even monkey. Toddlers love stuffed animals and patterns for these animals can easily be found in craft stores! If your animal is for a younger baby or toddler who likes to chew, opt for sewn-on felt or fleece eyes to prevent baby from choking on buttons or fake eyeballs that could come loose!

Diapers & Underwear
If the family uses cloth diapers, you might consider making a cute diaper for the little one, assuming they're still diapering age! If they're a little older (even in families who don't cloth diaper) some well padded underwear for potty training may be greatly appreciated! You can use some fun patterns and prints and even make them waterproof using fabrics such as polyurethane laminate.

Blankets & Quilts
Blankets and quilts are always a great idea! Try to make the blankets fun and vibrant for the little one, and use colors you know they'll enjoy! Consider adding ribbon or large appliques to depict a scene on the blanket! In no time, it could just be their favorite blanket of all!

Seat Covers
From carseat covers, to high chair covers and shopping cart covers, these are all great ideas for toddlers and babies and patterns are readily available at most craft stores! Try spicing up the shopping cart and high chair covers by adding loops to attach toys, or even sew a small, plastic, baby-safe mirror into the cover!