Taking the time to sew a gift, together with your child, pays heaps of dividends. For one, the lucky birthday girl or boy receives something unique that money cannot buy. Second, your child experiences that showing love costs planning and time. Plus, the two of you get to enjoy a special project together that is directed at your child’s interests and aesthetic. I have many happy memories sewing gifts for my kids and with my kids. Here are some favorites as jumping off points for you!

no. 1 Crayon Rolls

I am a big fan of Stockmar beeswax crayons. The blocks are unbreakable, thus ideal first crayons for little hands. The colors are gorgeously rich. Sew a crayon roll to go along with the crayons and you have such a very nice gift. Bonus, rainbow themed!

no. 2 Doll Diapers

There is a certain age when doll diapers are the best gift. Doll dresses and pjs abound, but the diapers aren’t so easy to find commercially. Luckily they are very easy to sew and take such little snippets of fabric. You’ll both have fun with this one!

no. 3 Sleeping bag

A quilted, patchwork sleeping bag is great for summer camping. It’s not hot and sticky like a synthetic bag, something my kids really appreciated. I have a free tutorial to guide you through construction. Of course, the fun comes in dreaming up the perfect patchwork and fabrics for your dear one.

no. 4 drawstring backpack

A sure win! Personalize the front with patchwork that will delight your child - an ideal way to show off a machine paper pieced block. This backpack is sewn with the free tutorial at SOTAK Handmade.

no. 5 comet Ball

These are super simple and fun throwing balls! Fill the circles with something heavy like beans or rice, so that they throw well. The long silk tails are lovely to see arching through the sky and easy to catch. Sew them with a group of kids for a crafty party experience!

no. 6 boxy pouch

These are nice stuffed with candy, new pencils or another small surprise, for Valentine’s Day or in an Easter Basket. Endlessly useful, of course! I think that Liam ended up keeping rocks in his, haha.

no. 7 scottie Dog

Scottie Dog is a free pattern by Denyse Schmidt. It’s happy scrappy patchwork just waiting to happen! Very huggable.

no. 8 pixelated initial pillow

What child can resist a gift that celebrates his or her name? Choose a color scheme and map out the letter in little squares on graph paper. Simple squares patchwork is easy enough for your child to sew along. I suggest an invisible zipper finish for a professional look.

Did I forget something special? What is your favorite kid gift to sew? I’d love to hear!