My pledge from last year still stands: Christmas will be a handmade affair once again. And it's hardly a challenge! Since this time last year, Felt has grown radically and there's loads of gorgeous handmade gifts to choose from. I've picked out some gift ideas for inspiration here, but here's just a small selection:

For the pamper-worthy person in your life, a shea body beauty bar by manaia; a set of 5 colourful linen NZ flora print teatowels by shakyisles will brighten up the kitchen for those home bodies; for the handy man, a men's utility apron by bellathreads; pretty heart ceramic tiles by caitlin are great conversation pieces; Just like Tiki, painted onto a recycled record by organiks will appeal to music and art lovers alike; and a unique piece of jewellery like this bird ring by plainjane makes a lovely gift.

It's All About Style
Amy of the Loop Knittery in Christchurch is hosting a crafty afternoon tea with image consultant Joanna Giles from 3.30 – 5.30pm this Saturday 29th November. For more information, visit the Felt blog.

Birkenhead Artisan Market
One of Auckland's premiere markets, Birkenhead Artisan Market is on from 9am – 1pm this Saturday 29th November, featuring an array of textiles, jewellery, homewares and art. 110 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead.

Paekakariki Fair
I'm told that The Little Gems and Sonya of copper-red will be out in force at Paekakariki Fair this Sunday, so if you're in the 04 be sure to drop by and say hello to Helen, Shelley and Carmen in Wellington Rd, Paekakariki from 10am – 2pm, Sunday 30th November.

Kraftbomb
An explosion of crafty goodness, Kraftbomb kicks off at 11am this Sunday, 30th November at Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn.

World Sweet World, issue 4
Available Monday 1 December, don't forget to get your copy on Felt!

Christmas decorations and stocking fillers

Felt is full of little treasures great as stocking fillers – pop them into a recycled wool blanket Christmas stocking by claribell. Tiny crocheted Russian dolls by shirley and stickers made from Japanese washi paper by freedom make gorgeous stocking treats for Christmas morning; and your tree will look beautiful with handmade decorations like this Madonna and child ornament by sweetwilliam, beaded felt decorations by erika_eddles and a candy cane hobby horse by teribear.

It's been a great year for Felt and I've thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many talented crafty people – Felt users are such a friendly bunch! Thank you so much for your support and enthusiasm. Here's to another successful year in 2009!

Enjoy the festive season,