When it comes to handmade gifts, it’s the thought that counts—as long as the present doesn’t come out looking like an afterthought. This year, rather than muddling through a too-lofty Pinterest project on your own, let these Denver crafting destinations guide you.

Friends who deserve benefits deserve:

Courtesy of Fancy Tiger Crafts

Fancy Tiger Crafts

5280 December 2015
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DIY-ers love Fancy Tiger Crafts for its inventive classes, supplies, and Tuesday evening Open Craft Nights, when you can get guidance on whatever project you’re working on at home. In December, this spot will also offer classes on making scarves, aprons, monogrammed totes, and more. Check website for schedule; $25–$35 (materials not included); 59 Broadway

Courtesy of Aurora Sisneros

The hostess who has everything needs:

Fabric Bliss

Throughout the year, Fabric Bliss, a bright and airy fabric shop in Lincoln Park, hosts series of three- to four-hour classes, during which you learn how to make thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts—from festive napkins to an appliquéd throw pillow—that are ideal for your favorite fete-throwing friends. Check website for schedule; $35–$45; 989 Santa Fe Drive, 303-893-7922

Courtesy of 4 Favorites Rugs

Make grandma’s house even warmer with:

4 Favorites Rugs

Got a particularly artistic child? Email a photo of her latest masterpiece to 4 Favorites Rugs, and the e-retailer will turn it into a playful wool accent rug. Pick the size and customizations (background color, monogram, etc.) and receive options to choose from. The process takes eight weeks, but you can print out your pick and use it as a stocking stuffer. $360 to $2,800

Courtesy of Becky Hensley

Mommy dearest (not the Joan Crawford kind) would love:

Share Denver

Learn the basics of hand embroidery and pattern transfer during the two-hour beginner workshop available at Share Denver—an online marketplace of DIY classes—and come away with a great gift too. You’ll practice stitching on sample cloth then graduate to a tea towel. Mom will be so proud. December 10; $35 (materials included)

Don’t Miss: Manmade

If you can’t make it, just fake it at Holiday ManCraft—a gift fair for dudes, by dudes.

If doing it yourself isn’t really you but you’d still like to keep the handmade spirit alive, check out Holiday ManCraft. Since its inception in 2011, this market of man-cave-worthy gifts has grown from 11 vendors to more than 70 hawking original art, handmade travel bags, flasks, screen-printed posters, and concrete toothbrush holders—all fashioned by men (or man-woman teams). Bonus: This year’s fair includes a pop-up barbershop, food trucks, and vintage vehicle displays so your husband will stay distracted while you pick out his gift.

If you go: Friday, December 4, 4 to 10 p.m.; Forney Museum of Transportation, 4303 Brighton Blvd.