Giving crochet as a gift is something that has brought a great deal of joy into my life. I’ve crocheted many gifts for friends and family over the years, as well as loads of projects for charitable efforts.
Thinking about making gifts reminded me of a discussion on Ravelry in the CLF Group. The original poster had discovered a handmade gift she had given someone in a thrift store. The conversation was interesting, and really made me think about why I make a gift or even give a gift.
Sometimes it is a matter of concern or worry for someone in my life. I love to make gifts for those I care about, especially when they may be going thru a troubling time in their lives. I like the feeling that the effort I’ve put into the gift will translate to the giftee as love.
Sometimes it is a matter of expediency too. I have made many a quick gift either by crochet, sewing, beading, paper-crafting or one of my myriad artsy/crafty pursuits to fulfill the need for a last-minute gift. In particular are the times I’ve whipped up a cute little toy for a child’s birthday present. Being we live on a mountain a good 40 minute drive (one direction) from the nearest shopping options, having those skills is very helpful.
With Christmas time almost here many of us will be burning the midnight oil attempting to finish crocheted or other handcrafted gifts in time for our various holiday get-togethers. Some of us will be lucky enough to receive handcrafted gifts from other people in our lives.
No matter if we are giftee or gifter, it is good to remember what my paternal grandmother always said. “It’s the thought that counts.” I would add to that “Once it is given, let it go.”
If your gift ends up in a thrift store somewhere trust that it will eventually find its way to someone who will treasure it. Even if it is you purchasing it at the Thrift store to bring home or to wear to the next get-together with the original giftee.
Maybe the most important “gift” of crochet, is the gift we give ourselves. Challenging ourselves to make something using the magic of hook and yarn, whether for ourselves or to give to others, the joy of the crocheting and the sense of accomplishment when a project is done is tremendous.
Better yet, give someone the gift of teaching them to crochet.
Wishing all of you great joy in this season of giving.
Mamas2Hands 
Thank you for this post. I have often felt hurt by people who seem to care less about something I have put a lot of time, effort, and love into. In these cases, I hope the items DO end up somewhere where they can be acquired by someone else who WILL treasure it.
I’m so glad it helped you. I hope you find great happiness stitching this year.