According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF), just over 19% of holiday shoppers plan on purchasing jewelry as gifts this season. That makes jewelry one of the most popular gift ideas this year, behind other festive favorites like clothing and accessories (57.4%), gift certificates (53.5%), and personal care and beauty items (20.8%).

Tracy Mullin, NRF president and CEO, recently told JCKonline.com, “Americans may be hesitant to purchase expensive gifts this holiday season, but personal and practical gifts will resonate most with shoppers this year.” Which makes jewelry the perfect gift – a handmade piece is both personal and practical!

If you’re looking for projects to make as gifts, you’re in luck. Every BeadStyle online project is on sale for 50% off – that’s only $1.95 for step-by-step photos, easy-to-read instructions, and complete supply lists! Our sister publications, Bead&Button and Art Jewelry magazines, are also participating in the sale, so the selection is phenomenal. To shop, click browse BeadStyleMag.com's projects for sale. To see Bead&Button and Art Jewelry offerings, visit BeadAndCraftBooks.com.

Not sure you’re up to giving handmade jewelry this season? Try giving the Beading 2009 calendar. Every month features a beautiful jewelry project with photos, instructions, and supplies. And for the beader who has everything, Kalmbach Publishing gift certificates will give her the BeadStyle, Bead&Button, and Art Jewelry projects and products of her choice!