Giving and Making Handmade for the Holidays

As the holidays quickly approach (everything seems to be quickly approaching these days!..where does the time go?!), the stress of what to buy, what can be afforded, who to shop for, etc can be overwhelming. This year I'm really concentrating on either making gifts myself or supporting other artists by purchasing from them. I challenge you to do the same!

Take time to make special gifts for dads, grandparents, teachers (and list can go on) with your kids so not only are you making a special gift but you're also making a special memory with your children.

If you don't have the desire or the time to make gifts, or at least all of them, then try to support your local crafters by going to craft fairs in the area. Check out your local paper that you can each week at your doorstep that tends to go right to the trash (well at least at our home) and see what local events are going on in the area. Also look on Craig's list online for local events since a lot of smaller venues advertise on Craig's list since it's free.

I do most of my gift shopping either by going to local craft fairs or buying online through Etsy or 1000 Markets is another great venue full of wonderful artists. If you feel nervous about shopping online, Etsy does show feedback for sellers so you know the history of that seller. There are so many talented artists out there and I really enjoy supporting them, especially with the gift giving season sneaking quickly upon us.


I'm going to try to highlight fun projects in November that would make nice gifts as well fun projects to do as a family. And also highlight other crafters I find and enjoy on Etsy, since I do a lot of my shopping on there for gifts I'm just not talented enough to make myself! :-)

Visit my Etsy shop here and stop by my 1000 Markets studio here.