The 10 Best Christmas Stockings
Special Honors
L.L.Bean Classic Velvet The L.L.Bean Classic Velvet, with its handsome plaid body and cream-colored trim, certainly lives up to its name. With three styles of monogramming, it can be easily customized to suit the recipient, while the sturdy hanging loop ensures that it stays where you put it. llbean.com
Appalachian Baby Design Christmas Stocking Kit An option for knitters, the Appalachian Baby Design Christmas Stocking Kit is offered in your choice of several patterns, including one with hearts and another with owls and hares. You'll receive enough yarn to complete the project, as well as the required pattern, but you'll need to provide your own knitting needles. appalachian-baby-design.myshopify.com
Pottery Barn Scroll Quilted Velvet The Pottery Barn Scroll Quilted Velvet can be personalized, whether you select the white or ivory version. Each measures 9 inches wide and nearly 16 inches long, and it is safe for both your washer and dryer, in case of any unfortunate mishaps. potterybarn.com
Editor's Notes
September 23, 2020:
Christmas can bring out the joy in family members young or old, with two legs or four, so we looked at options that can suit a variety of needs and households. For kids, the BambooMN Classic Hand Embroidered is a fun choice, as is the Vandor Rudolph, which lights up. Children will probably also like the cute LimBridge Minis, although you won't be able to fit too many stocking stuffers in them, as they're rather small.
For adults, the classic Kunyida Knit are a handsome choice — that are also on the small side. Or, you might try decorating the Sunshane Burlap, which are affordably priced and perfect for those who enjoy DIY projects. The Dimensions Needlecrafts Gold Collection is an excellent option for personalization, as well, that will remind the recipient of the stocking's maker. You'll probably need to have some cross stitch skills when it comes to this Dimensions choice, though, because the kit is decidedly not for beginners. We selected the Garud Tactical for those who want to avoid cutesy or handmade altogether, although there is indeed a pink camouflage version available.
Finally, for your furry family members, there's the Glitzhome 19" Handmade Hooked. With versions for cats or dogs, there's one for everyone; there are even a couple of LED options that will pair nicely with your Christmas lights. It should go without saying, but just in case, be sure not to let your pet chew on or play with these, as they aren't actually toys.
October 15, 2018:
Updated to include a wider assortment of styles for use as home decorations, to give as gifts, for party favors, or to put pet treats in.