Handmade Christmas Gift Ideas - Yarn Dolls (I Love Yarn Day)

Today is/was "I Love Yarn Day," so I went searching for a really good tutorial for those lovable yarn dolls we've all seen and remember, but which some, like me, cannot remember how to make. They are so simple but unless I have one in front of me, or have the instructions, I end up with just lumps of yarn strands.

For our ongoing series (9/21-12/24) of handmade Christmas gift ideas, these seemed perfect because they are good for so many things this coming season. They are package trims. They are stand-alone gifts. They are ornaments. Depending on the yarn (or even thread), they can be pendants, mobiles, and much more. I've seen some with braided arms and legs. Trims such as wiggle eyes can be added.

The best tutorial I found is at SpudandChloe's site, posted by Susan, and here is the link. Susan uses a special gadget to wind her yarn but she clearly explains how to do it by simply wrapping around cardboard. 

Her photos are clear and detailed. I loved the story of how her daughter was the one who got these started in her household and how they turn up everywhere now.

Through the years, I have tried to make these, but mine always end up lumpy. I never had really good steps to follow. Now I have no excuse. I plan to make a zillion of them.

For other projects in my series, just look along the right sidebar for the label "Christmas Gift Projects." I hope to post only tips that do not require knitting, crocheting, machine sewing, tatting, embroidery, or any other skilled technique.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway (deadline Oct 31) for $25 in handcrafted merchandise from my Etsy store.