There are just over six weeks left until Christmas: just enough time to sew beautiful gifts without rushing. What if we set clothes aside for a season and turned to accessories? A bag, a pouch, a sleep mask, or a kimono takes very little fabric to sew, can be personalized in countless ways, and is always a welcome gift. Here are our favorite accessory patterns to give (or treat yourself to) a handmade Christmas gift.
Why an accessory is the perfect gift to sew
A garment requires knowing the recipient's size, taste, and measurements. An accessory, on the other hand, suits (almost) everyone. Here are a few reasons to give it a try:
- No measurements needed: the bag or pouch will suit anyone, with no risk of getting the size wrong.
- Just a little fabric: canvas, corduroy, denim, or quilted fabric remnants are enough, making this a great way to use up your scraps.
- Easy to personalize: choose the fabric, lining, zipper, or a small sewn-on label… every gift becomes unique.
Our favorite: the VOYAGE bag and toiletry bag
Our pattern VOYAGE brings together two gifts in one: a travel bag and a toiletry bag, in sizes ranging from a pouch to size L. Sewing level: intermediate, available as a PDF to download or project.
Three fabric ideas to suit the recipient
- Canvas or denim for a sturdy bag that can handle weekends and everyday trips.
- Quilted printed fabric for a more luxurious version, designed as a truly exceptional gift.
- Sherpa for a very soft, “cozy” bag.
Our tip: if you’re new to accessories, start with the toiletry bag, the smallest size. You’ll get the hang of inserting the zipper and assembling the lining before moving on to the bag. A pouch sewn in a beautiful fabric, tucked into a gift bag, already makes a lovely present.
Pay attention to the inside: that’s where the handmade quality shows
A lining in a contrasting fabric, a few interior pockets: these are the details that make an accessory feel “boutique-made.” Choose an easy-to-wipe lining for a toiletry bag, and a fabric that coordinates with the exterior for a bag.
Five more accessory patterns to give
Not convinced yet? Here are some more ideas, from the simplest to the most ambitious.
MANHATTAN: the versatile drawstring bag
MANHATTAN is a versatile bag available in three sizes, to carry by hand, over the shoulder or crossbody, depending on the version you choose. Easy level: a lovely project for a first try.
IKABANANA: the belt bag
IKABANANA is a belt bag available in sizes S, M and L, at an easy to intermediate level, with a video tutorial to guide you step by step. Ideal for a teenager or an adult who likes to keep their hands free.
BRISTOL: the pouch or vanity bag
BRISTOL is a pattern for a pouch or vanity bag in four sizes, for intermediate to advanced sewists. A lovely option for giving a set of several matching pieces.
ALEXANDRIA: the relaxation set
ALEXANDRIE includes four patterns: a kimono, slippers, a sleep mask, and a jewelry case. You can sew the whole set or choose just one item, such as the mask or slippers for a small gift.
SOFIA: the baby shower gift
SOFIA offers accessories for baby's bath and changing needs: a diaper organizer, hooded bath towel, washcloth, and portable changing mat. A very useful gift for an expectant mother, sewn in soft, washable fabrics.
Our tips for making your gifts
- Choose the pattern based on the recipient, not just your skill level: a functional bag for a traveler, a kimono for someone who likes to relax.
- Order your fabrics and notions early: zippers, straps, shoulder straps, and linings should be ready before you start.
- Test on a fabric scrap before cutting into your beautiful fabric, especially when installing the zipper.
- Spread out the work: one item per weekend is enough to have several gifts ready before December 25.
- Add a personal touch: a sewn-on label, an extra little pocket, or fabric chosen for the recipient makes the gift unique.
Ready to get started?
ikatee patterns are available in PDF format, to print or project, and several of them come with a video tutorial to guide you through the key steps. All you have to do is choose your fabric and get started.
👉 Discover the pattern VOYAGE: bag and toiletry bag
And you, what accessory will you sew for Christmas? Tell us in the comments, or share your creations with the hashtag #ikatee: we love discovering them.
