25 fabulously festive last-minute projects

Published on September 8, 2026

You might have started with grand plans for a handmade Christmas; where every present under the tree has been handcrafted with love. But things don't always go to plan and you’ve left all your festive crafting to the last minute, hope is not lost!

Look, it happens, we’ve all been there. This is a judgement free zone! If Christmas has snuck up on you and you’re looking for some quick last minute makes, we’ve got you covered. Speedy crochet accessories for Christmas gifts, toys to fill those boxes on Three Kings Day, and embroidery ideas to make a pretty bag filled with chocolate coins for Hanukkah - there are so many festive crafts to choose from! Fill your boots, or should we say stockings?

Terrific toys to make for kids

Knit or hook up some adorable little creatures for the kids in your life! Quick to make, and there's nothing better than the smile that lights up a little one’s face when they open their new favourite toy.

Knitted toy patterns

A Child Is Born Nativity Set

Space Rocket and Astronaut

A Little Kindness Monster

Explore More Knitted Toy Patterns

Crocheted toy patterns

Kobi the Penguin

Chocolate Reindeer Cake

Snowman Friends

Discover Crochet Toy Patterns

Find More Toy Patterns

Gorgeous Christmas decorations

Give the gift of festive cheer with these cute knitted and crocheted festive decorations.

Knitted decorations

Tassel Bunting

Christmas Baubles in Regia 4 Ply 50g - R0095A - Downloadable PDF

Crocheted decorations

Starry Dream Hanging Ornament

Christmas tree garland

More DIY Christmas Decorations

Stitch up a storm!

Cute, quick and easy, these embroidery and cross stitch patterns are the perfect projects to sink your needles into! These designs make gorgeous gifts to pop into a frame, or even jazz up a jacket or jumper!

Enchanting Christmas - Money Holder in Anchor - Downloadable PDF

Llama in DMC - PAT0776 - Downloadable PDF

Mistletoe in DMC - PAT0802 - Downloadable PDF

Wool and the Gang Love Story Cross Stitch Kit - 16cm x 23cm

Lemon in DMC - PAT0120 - Downloadable PDF

Christmas Tree - Forest Animals in DMC - PAT0878 - Downloadable PDF

More Free Needlecraft Patterns

Sweet secret Santa presents

If you've got a low budget for an office secret Santa, then a super speedy handmade gift that you can make with what you've got in your stash could be the answer! These quick and easy patterns might tick all your boxes, but if not, we've got loads of great stash-busting patterns to choose from!

Sakura Face Scrubbies

Reindeer Chocolate Orange Cover

Easy Little Heart

Grab a quick kit

In a hurry and just want to get one thing with everything you need? These handy kits will do the trick!

Hoooked DIY Kit - Giraffe Eco Barbante

Bothy Threads Jolly Robin Cross Stitch Kit - 26cm x 26cm

Shop More Knitting Kits

Stock up your stash

These last minute makes are great stash busters, but sometimes you just gotta stock your stash!

Stylecraft Special DK

Paintbox Yarns Simply DK

Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino

Shop Bestselling Yarns

Festive gift guide and quick festive projects

The Ultimate Gift Guide: What to buy the knitters, crocheters, bakers & makers in your life

47 last-minute and quick makes for Christmas

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