As the holidays approach and we are all trying to think of unique gifts for friends and family, quilters have the creative edge. Even skipping over the obvious gift of a quilt, quilted vest, or quilted home accessory, quilters can give a truly unique gift.

How about giving quilting kits for holidays and other gift-giving occasions?

Chances are that friends and family have been admiring your work and have even stated they wish they could quilt. Those are the very people you should give a special quilting kit to this year. Assembling a quilting kit is easy and it will help you share your craft with others.

First, remember to keep your quilting kits simple. A throw pillow, a wall hanging, table runner or placemats are a good start.

Next, pick your designs. Be sure to keep them pretty basic so beginners will not easily be discouraged. Make a copy of the finished design or quilt block so it can be used as a check point throughout the project.

Cut and label the pieces of fabric needed to complete the project. Don’t forget to include directions. Either handwrite them or type them. Remember to include information about the batting unless you plan to include it in your kit as well.

Be sure to include other necessary notions in your quilting kit: a small pair of scissors, coordinating threads and a couple of needles. Your recipient will be delighted!

Quilted holiday ornaments and tree skirts also make nice quilting kits. Find your favorite designs and make holiday quilting kits for your friends.

For friends who have some quilting skills, you could assemble kits to make quilted clothing items or larger projects.

If you are part of a quilting club that is looking for a fundraiser, creating quilting kits would be ideal. Quilting kits encourage others to learn the craft and give a sense of satisfaction upon completion. The fundraiser could be year around since many of the projects could be completed and be given as gifts or holiday ornaments themselves. Break the kits down to various skill levels: beginner, intermediate and experienced.

If your club is making quilting kits for a fundraiser, keep in mind to price the kits according to the level of difficulty for which they are designed and on the contents inside the kit. For example, a beginner kit will likely cost less than a quilting kit for an experienced crafter because the beginner kit will be easier to complete. The more complex the design, the more work involved in putting the kit together. More supplies will also be needed to complete it…which in turn means more cutting of pieces