The Perfect Last-Minute Christmas Gift You Can Easily Sew for the Kids on Your List

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I don’t know about you, but I have a lot of wonderful nieces and nephews! We usually get something small for each kid for Christmas, and I wanted to make something handmade for them this year. I am a big fan of practical gifts that are also meaningful and thoughtful. I know a lot of kids probably don’t get super excited about getting clothes for Christmas, but I wanted to give them something that will last and that was made with love.

This year, we decided to get each of our nieces and nephews a book from Thriftbooks on a topic that they are interested in as well as a handmade pullover–checking the boxes of something practical but also something they are interested in!

I have eight nieces and nephews in the states that I will be making pieces for in addition to sewing for my own kids, so I needed a pattern that is quick and easy but also one that is versatile and has flexible sizing. I chose the Lowland Kids Dolman pullover because:

It is beginner-friendly
I can cut and sew each one in about 30 minutes
It can be worn and layered for multiple seasons and occasions
It is slightly oversized and doesn’t require exact measurements

Although this is a nice gift, it doesn’t cost me anything except for my time during a year with a lot of expenses. I have a lot of fabric on hand, including a lot of scrap pieces that I need to work through. Dolmans are easy to color-block and customize using fabric pieces left over from previous projects. If you don’t have fabric on hand, you could visit a local fabric store or better yet, upcycle some thrifted adult sweatshirts into a new gift for kids! If you have several nieces and nephews, your own children, or other kids in your life–I highly recommend this pattern for a quick and meaningful last-minute gift–even if you are a beginner at sewing!

Because I am sewing for so many kids, here is my process for making these dolmans efficiently:

Make a List of the Sizes

I asked my sister-in-laws for the sizes their kids wore and then made a list on my phone of how many of each size I would need.

Lay Out Patterns

After determining the sizes, I printed off and laid out each pattern. I like to put each pattern in a plastic folder with a sticky note that says the pattern and size and keep it in a 3 ringed binder. If you have a projector, you can skip this step!

Sort Fabric & Choose Colors

Next, I sort through my fabric scraps and find pieces big enough for each size. For larger shirts, I use bigger cuts or colorblock. For smaller sizes (like 2T and under), I can usually work through my smaller scraps and piece together a dolman.

Cut Out Everything at Once

I have a sewing closet–not a sewing room. Getting my cutting mats and supplies out is a lot of work and usually takes over my dining-room table, so I try to get this done all at once!

Batch Sew Like Colors

I like to use matching thread, so I sew the shirts that use similar colors at the same time. I usually sew a string of pieces for each shirt, cut the string, and then string together the next line. Then, I go back and cut, pull, and tie the serger threads. After that, I sew each individual shirt together and then repeat with the next thread color.

Wrap them Up!

I am purchasing some shirt boxes similar to these, am wrapping them in brown kraft paper, and tying them with a bow!

Even if you are just learning to sew, these dolmans are fairly simple and come together quickly. If you are an experienced sewist, you can add extra details like color-blocking, embroidery, or applique.

I’d love to see your creations if you choose to make and gift some Dolmans this year! Tag me on instagram @themilleracres so I can see and share your beautiful work!