At Purl this month customer after customer rush into the store, breathlessly asking, "What can I make in a week?" And as time marches forward, "What can I make in three days?", "In a day?", "In two hours?". With every passing day, the options dwindle and the stress rises.

I think what becomes so stressful is the idea that we'll have a give a gift that's kind of, well, embarrassing. Not good enough, amateur, obviously hurried... heck, flat-out ugly! So, I wanted to come up with an idea that would answer the pressing need of the last minute gift without sacrificing quality, a gift that we can give without sheepishness or apologies. In fact, one that will be given with pride and received with gratitude, and one that, not insignificantly, you can start at the beginning of a movie and finish before the final credits roll!

This scarf is made with two strands of Blue Sky Alpaca's Bulky, a beautiful blend of merino and alpaca. It's soft and luscious, and, doubled, it's as cozy as can be! To make one (or many) please visit our Eleventh-Hour Scarf Project Journal. Thanks! - Whitney

The Purl Bee has some other great gift ideas that won't keep the midnight oil burning. Check them out too!

Knitted Gifts:

• Baby Moccasins
• Dragon Scale Mitts
• Jen's Sweetie Pie Hat
• Mary Jane Slippers
• Pretty Lace Hand Warmers
• Simple Pleasures Hat
• Wedding Washcloths
• Whitney's Pine Tree Sachets

Crocheted Gifts:

• Granny Chic Crocheted Hat
• John's Favorite Bucket Hat

Patchwork Gifts:

• Apple Picking Tote
• Cozy Quick Blankie
• Fabric Beach Balls
• Mari's Bias Tape Purse With Zipper
• Molly's Star Ornaments
• Rolled Hem Handerkerchiefs
• Swatch Portraits
• Quick Bias Tape Bib
• Purl Frog

And for more ideas, you can always check in with Joelle's books, Last Minute Knitted Gifts and Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts!