I think I’d better confess – my grand plans of making all my Christmas cards this year are looking all-too optimistic. I’ve found myself in real need of lots of last-minute festive ideas to see me through these last few weeks!

Thankfully the You Can Craft design team have come up trumps with lots of speedy makes that anyone can rustle up – and in bulk too, if needs be! Tech ed Angela was telling me: “It’s been great fun making lots of festive ideas using a craft kit that’s in less-traditional Christmas colours!”.

I’m just as impressed by the huge craft kit we’ve put together for you this month. Rich coordinating papers and embellishments… exclusive glitter stickers… a rubber stamp to use over and over… even beads and cord for a bracelet. Treat yourself or make a fast-fix stocking filler…

Meanwhile I’m looking forward to boosting my crafty stash on Christmas Day – maybe spending some gift money in the sales – and also getting on with more makes in the New Year. With thank yous to do and spring birthdays around the corner (both of which we've featured this month), I’ll be busy…

Until next time, on sale on 24th December,

There are exciting developments afoot and on Wednesday 7 January 2009, a brand new knitting magazine will hit the shelves, designed especially for you.

The Knitter will feature more than ten challenging patterns in each issue, as well as regular features and a column written by Mason Dixon.

“As the editor I’m looking forward to bringing knitters patterns by the best designers from around the world,” says Juliet Bernard, The Knitter’s new editor. “As a knitter, I can’t wait to start knitting them!”

Hotfoot it over to the Simply Knitting blog for a bit more information and to keep up to date with what’s going on!

Congratulations to Eleanor Reid from Angus and Debra Siddle from County Durham who won a massive box of glittery crafting stash each! Well done ladies!

Hold onto small boxes and bags, and pretty packaging to embellish later for gorgeously wrapped gifts. Make matching tags!