There’s something to be said for a gift given that can’t be found in any department store. “Just make me a card,” my mother always said if I remembered to ask her what she wanted for the holidays.

And she’s not alone; handmade gifts, many parents tell us, are the best ones. And while our first handmade gifts might not win any prizes, there’s still something to be said for giving a friend or loved one something they couldn’t go out and buy themselves.

There are still a few opportunities to create just such a thing at the ArtWorks Center before the fast-approaching holidays are upon us, one being a silk scarf dyeing class with Mary Nordeng from 2 to 4 p.m. on Nov. 22.

An award-winning professional fiber artist and teacher, Nordeng’s work has been featured in magazines in the US, Great Britain and Australia, and she’s published four books on machine quilting design.

But her own expertise doesn’t mean you yourself have to — or should be — an expert in fiber art before signing up for her class; no experience (or sewing) is necessary to enjoy the process of creating. Not only will you leave with a ready-to-wear scarf,  but you’ll have learned a new skill without having invested your nest egg in dyes and materials; cost for AACA members is just $49, and $55 for those who haven’t yet signed up to be a member (wink nudge).

As to whether you decide to give your scarf to someone special or keep it yourself, that’s up to you. I won’t tell.

Sign up at the Center (300 N. Main St.) or by giving us a ring at 507-434-0934.