The best gifts for makers offer either something useful for a craft they already love or the chance to try something new. Creative kits, inspiring books, beautiful tools and thoughtful accessories can all make wonderful presents. If you know whether they enjoy embroidery, cross stitch, sewing, knitting, crochet or another craft, start there; if not, choose something versatile that doesn’t rely on specialist knowledge.

You don’t need to know the contents of their craft cupboard to find something thoughtful. An inspiring craft book, a beautiful general-purpose making accessory or a small creative treat can be a safer choice than a specialist tool or material. Our unique gift ideas are a good place to browse when you’re looking for something a little different.

Yes – a well-chosen kit can be a lovely introduction to a new craft because it provides a project to work towards as well as guidance along the way. Look for a kit clearly described as suitable for beginners and check the individual listing for what’s included, the suggested ability level and whether any additional tools or materials are required. Our beginner sewing and craft kits are a good place to start.

Check the type of craft, suggested ability level, finished project and exactly what is included. Kit contents vary between makers, and some require additional basics such as scissors, needles, thread or a hoop. It’s also worth considering whether the recipient will enjoy the finished piece as well as the process of making it – choosing a design that suits their taste can make the gift feel much more personal.

Hand-stitching crafts such as embroidery, sashiko and cross stitch can be lovely choices for someone who enjoys settling down with a project and working at their own pace. A craft book can also provide inspiration for a whole series of future projects rather than a single make.

Think about how the recipient likes to make. A kit is ideal if they enjoy having a complete project to get stuck into, while a book gives them ideas and techniques to explore in their own time. Tools and accessories are particularly good for established makers who already have favourite crafts and will appreciate something useful they can return to again and again.

Small creative gifts can be just as thoughtful as larger ones. Needles, needle minders, threads, little tools and useful accessories are perfect for adding to a craft basket or giving as a stocking filler. Choosing something connected to a craft they already enjoy is an easy way to make a smaller present feel personal.

Absolutely. Choose a kit featuring a motif or colour they’ll love, a beautifully designed tool they’ll enjoy using or a book about a craft they’ve mentioned wanting to try. A short handwritten note explaining why you chose it can make even a ready-to-give creative present feel especially thoughtful.

Rather than adding more basic materials to their stash, look for something that offers a new experience or makes their existing craft more enjoyable. An unusual kit, beautifully made tool, specialist accessory or inspiring book can introduce a new technique without requiring you to know exactly which supplies they already own. Our unique and creative gifts are a good place to look for less obvious ideas.

A maker who moves between crafts may particularly appreciate something that isn’t tied to a single technique. An inspiring craft book, useful general-purpose tool or a kit introducing a completely new skill can all work well. Alternatively, choose something small from one of the crafts you know they already enjoy – there’s no need to find a gift that covers everything they make.