It’s almost September, y’all – and that means it’s time to start organizing for the holiday knitting season! While some of us actually like the pressure of knitting under deadline stress, I’m not in that camp; I prefer to knit while relaxed and filled with good thoughts for the giver. This is how I get presents finished in time; take what you like and leave the rest!

First of all, I make a list of everyone that deserves a knitted gift. Then I go over the list carefully. Some of the people I love like the idea of handmade presents but don’t use knitted items; these are the people that would better appreciate baked goods. There are others with special size needs, such as my two friends who wear a 13 shoe, and those who have recently received one of my creations. My objective is to pare the list down to three or four people, maximum; if one of the projects will take extra time, I may choose to knit for fewer people and save the rest for next year.

I tend to be a “planner” rather than a “pantser”, and so once I’ve decided who gets what, I like to plan the projects out in advance. How many pairs of socks do I want to knit this fall? Would so-and-so prefer a scarf or a hat? If possible, I like to mix up projects and gauges to keep things interesting and to make sure that the finished item will match the recipient. Keep in mind that different people prefer different gauges! I also like to mix up techniques; stripes or color work can be followed by lace or entrelac.

Perhaps think outside the closet in terms of projects. Home decoration gifts can also be beautiful presents. How about a pillow cover, with little shaping involved? Afghans can be time-consuming, but perhaps one in a bulky yarn would delight? How about a tea or mug cozy for a friend who loves to read? Or a Christmas tree skirt? Or a gift certificate holder if you're really running short of time!

Having chosen the recipients, items, and projects, it's now time to locate and purchase needed yarn. If possible, I like to work from my stash when I can, but if I need to buy (I know, such a chore….) I have the time to do so. I want to be able to start knitting the first project by Labor Day.

As I finish each gift, I like to store them in a particular place so that I can find them when it’s time to wrap presents. I also like to use a bit of potpourri so that the items smell festive and pretty. Because I tend to wrap at the last minute, I need to schedule another shopping trip, this one for tissue and paper. I try to do this before Thanksgiving.

Come December, I have a gift or two to finish, and wrapping to be done. Otherwise, I’m ready for the holidays! This allows me to spend the season enjoying the lights, music, and baking sessions. If any of these ideas work for you, feel free to use them!