Gift Ideas
Gifts Made With Love Keep Holiday Costs Down
By
Sep 25, 2005, 12:45

(NUI) - What is the true cost of the holidays? Every year the gift- giving industry generates nearly $50 billion from the holiday selling season, according to PNC Financial Services.

Instead of buying gifts for everyone on your list this year, consider giving gifts that are more from the heart.

"With the uncertainties of the economy, creating gifts for your family and friends will not only be appreciated and enjoyed but also save you money," said Nancy Jewell, publicity director for the Swedish-made Husqvarna Viking sewing machines. "It's the perfect time to rediscover sewing."

Now, take heart. You don't have to start thinking about the holidays months in advance to create personalized gifts. Today's sewing machines are nothing like the sewing machines of the past. They have transformed into computerized "sewing designers."

For instance, the Husqvarna Viking Designer I sewing machine is complete with a built-in disc drive and software that can transform family photos into stitches. You can bake holiday goodies while your sewing machine is embroidering all by itself. The machine makes larger-than-life designs on just about anything, including ready-made shirts and linens.

To help you get started, Husqvarna Viking is offering a free holiday gift book with fun and easy-to-make gifts and decorations. Each project has a complete material list, detailed instructions and illustrations that make them quick and easy to complete.

Here are a few quick ideas from the experts at Husqvarna Viking:

* Pampered pet stockings: These fun stockings are for your favorite dog or cat. Fill them with bones or toys for the holidays. All you need is two pieces of felt and some red and green thread. Cut out any pattern you like, such as a bone or fish, on both pieces of felt and sew together leaving an opening at the top. Attach a ribbon to the top and hang on the mantel for Santa to fill.

* Decorative pillowcases: Make or buy pillowcases or shams to decorate for the holidays. Embroider holiday pictures or sayings onto the pillowcase or sham to help the entire family get into the holiday spirit during nap time or nighttime.

* Fleece blankets: Make sure your loved ones are warm this holiday season by making blankets. Go to your local fabric store and buy fleece. With so many prints and colors to choose from, there is a type of fleece to match every personality. Cut a rectangular blanket to whatever size you choose, making sure to keep the corners rounded. You don't even need to turn on your sewing machine; there's nothing required except cutting.

To receive the holiday book, visit your local Husqvarna Viking dealer. For more information, visit www.husqvarnaviking.com or call 1-800-358-0001.

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