Every year, I tell myself I’ll have a beautifully handmade Christmas—stockings lovingly sewn, festive bunting strung up with precision, and perhaps even some matching pyjamas if I’m feeling extra smug. This year? Not so much. Between life, a baby who believes sleep is optional, and the general chaos of the season, my sewing machine has been gathering dust.

But let’s not dwell on that. Instead, let’s pretend I’ve been effortlessly crafting away and take a look at some of my past Christmas makes, plus all the festive sewing projects I would have made if time (and a certain tiny human) had allowed. From embroidered napkins to scrap-busting stockings, here’s some holiday inspiration for the overambitious sewist in all of us.