Saturday, October 3, 2009

Going handmade this holiday season? Start now!

Handmade holiday gifts - it's surprising that they didn't take off much last year, following the gas crisis, the credit crisis, etc.

This year, though, the idea seems to be everywhere - from a host of environmental blogs to Paula Deen's Christmas magazine.

If you're a shopping slacker, the key to remember is you can't start most presents on Dec. 23. You have to plan ahead.

Crunchy Chicken recently had a discussion on this topic, and the readers posted some very creative ideas, including:

  • gift certificates to a CSA
  • market bags made from repurposed denim jeans
  • buying vintage
Determined to make gifts on your own? Check out sites like www.oneprettything.com, or if you're looking for other ideas, check out last year's posts:
Not the crafty type? That is completely OK. There are plenty of people who are willing to sell handmade goods that you can pull together for a holiday gift. Check your farmers markets for vinagrettes, sauces, soaps or candles; visit the multitude of holiday fairs; or check out etsy for ideas from small business owners.
Of course, the one gift idea I can't beat - or ever dream to replicate - is from Abbie at Farmer's Daughter:
my then-boyfriend (now husband) gave me a 4-poster cherry bed that he built
on Christmas Eve, then proposed on Christmas morning.
If only all of our gifts had such meaning!

3 comments:

Farmer's Daughter said...

Haha! I gave Ed a welding helmet that Christmas.

Ed wanted to propose in October, but I'm thankful his mom made him wait til Christmas. She knew it would be an awesome memory :)

Green Bean said...

Wonderful list of resources. I agree. Handmade gifts are everywhere this year. I'm following your links. :)

Robbie said...

Abbie, isn't it funny how things work out? But aren't you glad he waited? I just love your story!

GB, thanks for checking out the links...though I'm sure you'll manage to dig up other great ideas!