It’s easy to get caught up in the fast pace of the holidays. And it’s even easier to get lost in the shopping that goes along with it. All this can make it hard to keep in mind that the spirit of the holidays is about giving. But just as there are a million ways to celebrate the holidays, there are a million ways to give!
You can give thanks, and you can give your time. You can give money, or you can give your effort. Big or small, giving can make an impact in someone’s life, and in the process, give you a good feeling too.
DIY projects are a fantastic way to bring the family together, and they’re easy to integrate into your existing traditions. Plus, many things you can easily create at home are in-demand at charities and organizations around the world. Here’s an easy idea to get you started.
DIY No-Sew Blankets
You don’t have to be a skilled craftsperson to make a useful and beautiful blanket. Here’s an easy, no-sew project that everyone can participate in. Find out which of your local organizations, hospitals, charities, shelters, or police and fire departments accept donations of blankets.
What you’ll need:
Scissors and two pieces of fleece with cute patterns, each two yards long.
- Lay both pieces of fleece on top of each other, and cut the raw edges for clean edges all around.
- At all corners, cut a square of 4 x 4 inches out of the fabric.
- Starting at a corner, cut into the fleece, making strips that are one inch wide and four inches long. Continue down the edge to the other corner, and repeat on all sides.
- Tie the strips of both pieces of fleece together with a simple knot—either like tying a balloon, or tying a shoelace. Continue until the blanket is finished. Ta-da!
If you’re more skilled with sewing or knitting, you can certainly make a more ornate blanket, and donate it just the same. The gift of warmth in the winter means a lot to many people around the world.
If you do make something, don’t forget to share a photo in the Mavens Facebook group–you’ll be sure to inspire other Mavens!
