Do-it-yourself Valentine's Day gifts let you show the love, no matter your budget

They say that love is both patient and kind. As I balance my accounts, I hope that it is also frugal and doesn't require expensive gifts for Valentine's Day. Luckily, local stores can help you make a variety of do-it-yourself gifts that will impress your loved ones without landing you an impressive credit card bill.

Lauren Lindeman, owner of the Belltown-based knitting mecca So Much Yarn, is offering a five-week beginner's class ($75) which starts on Sunday, Feb. 1, at 12:30 p.m. and promises to have knitting novices quickly casting on with conviction. Students will be on schedule to complete a project, like a scarf or hat, by Valentine's Day. In addition to the class fee, you'll need yarn and needles (about $20) and can purchase both at the shop, which offers a wealth of knitting and crocheting supplies. (Reserve your class spot soon.)

This year, instead of purchasing pricey cards for close or far-off loved ones, make your own at Monkey Love Rubber Stamps. Owner Sandy Ono is offering two Valentine-making classes ($18 each or $30 for both) on Jan. 31; the first is from 1-2 p.m. and the second is from 2-4 p.m. If you take both classes you'll receive a free Valentine stamp.

Another option is to gather a group and schedule a private card-making class with Ono. Necessary supplies will be provided for you and three to 11 friends ($22/person), and depending on skill and dexterity, everyone will leave the two-hour class with six cards. (Plus, if you get hooked on card-making, you'll be able to enjoy a 15 percent discount on all of Ono's card stock, stamps and other card-making supplies on the day of your class.) Private classes can be scheduled Tuesday through Sunday and Ono recommends scheduling the class at least a week in advance.

If you adhere to the old adage that the quickest way to your Valentine's heart is through his or her stomach, you may need some supplies to help you cook up some enticing edibles. Stop by Sur La Table in Pike Place Market, Kirkland or online and take advantage of their Winter Sale which runs until Feb. 2. Downtown store assistant manager Andrea Wright says that much of their cookware and bakeware is currently available at up to 40 percent off regular prices. Examples of great savings include a 20 percent savings on the full "Things Cooks Love" tool line (their zest stripper is $12.95, down from $16) as well as a 20 percent savings on all aprons and great deals on ramekins (individual soufflé dishes are now $2-$18, down from $ 4-$22).

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