Linus,
I had someone knit me a cigar holder. I am not kidding. It was fabulous. I used it until I wore it out, and the bottom fell apart. I took it everywhere with me, and used it like a cigar case.
Another idea would be to make kleenex box holders. Maybe if you can learn to sew/knit in their initial or a symbol of something they enjoy (like a sailboat, a tennis racket, a lacross stick, a football, etc.).
I think it is good to have a hobby to keep your mind active. There is nothing wrong with that.
Andrew