From The Editor

I love this time of year. Boxes of holiday décor are brought up from the basement and their contents are dispersed throughout the house. There’s a place for everything—and always room for more. Halloween sneaks up on me, and then poof! It”s over and time to find another box of goodies. Pilgrims and Indians substitute for goblins and witches, and luxurious embroidered table linens replace patchwork ghost-print place mats. Thanksgiving dinner is served and, before my tofurky is digested, it’s time to gather the snowmen and reindeer figurines and hang the stockings above the fireplace.

Although they never last quite long enough, the holidays are so magical to me. People are more generous and caring; falling snow is a blessing rather than a nuisance; and sewing a handmade gift seems much more gratifying. If you’re looking for memorable gifts to make for your friends and family (pets included), there are plenty to choose from in this issue. And don’t forget to treat yourself to a gift, such as a new embroidery design collection, a fancy iron or slick pair of scissors. If you feel guilty, wrap it up and put it under the tree. No one has to know that the mystery gift came from you—and you’re sure to get at least one thing you want this Christmas!

Happy Holidays,