Top Ten Gift Ideas for Crocheters

It's hard to know what to get an avid crocheter for the holidays, especially if you know nothing about the craft. Well this guide will take the guesswork out of finding that right gift. Here are my top ten gift ideas for crocheters.

Specialty yarn

Specialty yarn is any type of yarn that isn't just your regular acrylic 4-ply. If you look in stores that carry yarn you will see that specialty yarns can be 'furry' or even look like pom-pom strung together. These yarns are expensive-ranging from $5-$8 for a mere 3 oz skein. So you can imagine the delight a crocheter would have at finding some of these under the tree. Some of the most notable brands include Patons, with a wide range of styles including glittery and fuzzy, Lion Suede (which is a suede-feel yarn that makes beautiful hats or purses), and Chenille fiber yarns that will make cuddly soft projects in no time. As a general rule, purchase at least three skeins (a skein is simply one package) so that your recipient will have enough of that style to make at least one project. They'll be so surprised you knew how great these yarns were.

Fancy hook sets

Crochet uses a hook instrument to make the stitches. You can buy hooks in aluminum or steel, which is what the average crocheter will have in their supplies. But you can find wooden hooks that are decorative and comfortable. Most Crocheters will stay away from these lovely hooks because they are far pricier than the regular aluminum hooks. So why not shock them with a carved wooden hook that feature their favorite animal? These can be found in craft stores in the same aisle where hooks are sold. These hooks are sized for use with bulky or chunky weight yarns and would be great combined with a specialty yarn. Don't worry about the size options because Crocheters use all sized hooks for their projects.

Fresh patterns

The latest trends in crochet have been in crocheted fashions. From shrugs to shawls to dresses, you can make stylish fashion statements in yarn now-a-days. If you don't know what type of crochet pattern to purchase, you can get a book of pattern styles. There is a best selling crochet book called "The Happy Hooker" by Debbie Stoller, that features dozens of wearable crocheted items; your recipient is sure to find something of interest in it. Another option is a subscription to Crochet!, a bi-monthly magazine publication that keeps you in the loop on the latest wearables.

A pocket guide of stitches

From the beginning crocheter to the advanced, stitch guides come in handy. Because every crochet pattern uses different stitch techniques and the world of crochet keeps growing, this gift will be worth its weight in gold. Needlecraft books sell a decent guide for just under $6. It's a great stocking stuffer.

All-in-one basket

One of the most annoying things about crocheting is finding all the right materials for a project. A wonderful gift idea for a crocheter consists of doing this work for them. Find an easy pattern for a stuffed animal, scarf, hat, or purse and read the listing of materials needed for the project (these will be listed under 'materials' in the beginning of the pattern). Don't worry about the crochet hook, thread, or tapestry needles part because your crocheter is likely to have these already. Just buy the amount of yarn needed and any other accessories mentioned and put it all in a basket for an amazing gift.

Crochet jewelry bead kit

Crocheting can be done with beads to make fabulous jewelry. Simply find a kit at your craft store or online and you can cross this person off your list.

Lady paradise pattern

If your crocheter loves historic dresses, than this is the item for them. Lady Paradise is a pattern company that feature authentically designed period clothing for 11 ½" dolls (that's about Barbie's size). I can't say enough about how gorgeous these dresses are-they don't even look like they can be handmade. Patterns run for about $7 and come complete with instructions to make the accessories and the dolls authentic hairstyle. And if you are looking for a kit, you can also purchase all the materials needed for select dresses for under $100. What a marvelous idea!

Yarn basket

This is a simple, but appreciative gift. Yarn can get unruly, but if you can find a nice picnic basket style container for your crocheter they'll be sure to utilize it.

Lamps

For older Crocheters, the purchase of a special lamp will improve their enjoyment of the hobby 100 fold. You can find lamps that have super bright lights and a swivel head for precision angling for under $50 at a hardware store or online. Floor lamps are the best, as you can position them behind a recliner without much trouble. This is a gift sure to make spirits bright!

Learn to's

In the same aisles as crafting books you can find books that teach Crocheters how to use their basic techniques with other materials. For example, there are learn to's for Cro-tat (a combined skill of crocheting and tatting), or crocheting with felt. Learn to's are a great way for your crocheter to advance their techniques. They usually fall in the price range of $10-20 and come with clear illustrations. Companies such as Needlecraft and Annie's Attic have well done manuals for any skill level.