There’s something incredibly special about making gifts by hand—especially when those gifts are for a new baby and a dear friend.
For a recent baby shower, I decided to create a few handmade gifts. I popped into my local Waste Centre fabric store and found some beautifully soft flannel cotton fabric in 2 different designs. It felt light, breathable, and as if it would be kind against delicate newborn skin.
How I made the Baby Blankets
I cut one blanket from each piece of fabric. Using the fabric width as a guide, I cut a square of each. Then I machine stitched a narrow double hem all the way around to create blankets aound 110mm square. My inspiration came from a thoughtful friend who gifted handmade baby blankets to my daughter years ago. Those blankets became fast favourites, well-loved by my grandchildren long after they had technically outgrown them.
Drawstring Bags
With some of the leftover fabric, I made a few drawstring bags—just the right size for nappies, toys, books, or snacks. I twisted some cotton yarn to create sturdy cords, giving each bag a simple charm. Fortunately I find it very therapeutic to make cords, so was pleased to have a good opportunity! love how versatile the bags are, and how they keep things tucked away in a sweet and organised way.
Why Handmade?
Making these gifts felt like more than just sewing—it felt a bit like prayer. As I worked , I found myself thinking about my friend, her growing baby. There’s a quiet, almost sacred rhythm in creating something with someone in mind.
I love that handmade gifts are, by nature, unique. No one else at the shower was likely to bring the same thing.
Baby Blankets and More
There’s great satisfaction in giving something useful, beautiful, and handmade. We love to make and we’ve created baby gifts before. Sometime ago we screen-printed a baby blanket for a special family baby.
Creativity really is rewarding. And it’s contagious—in the best kind of way.
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