Friday, November 20, 2009

When you think Christmas - Think Handmade (part 1)

This year when you start your shopping list - try something new - Think Handmade!

Click here to view a listing of all Think Handmade Gift Guides.

You're hoping to find something unique, something special. We don't mind shopping when we know the person we're buying for is going to love what we got them. But sometimes it's just hard. So I'm writing a series of articles to help you think outside the box. This year there is no reason to have the 'same-old-same-old' when you can have the unique, the out of the ordinary, and, maybe even save some money at the same time.

THE MALL: Oh yea! Another trip to the mall. What will I find there?

1.) Crowds 2.) Loud music 3.) Pretty much NO customer service 4.) Long lines 5.) Out of stock items 6.) Large department stores selling the same things they had last year. 7.) Closed at night when the kids are finally in bed!

ETSY - What will I find there?

1.) Unique, handcrafted, often one-of-a-kind products
2.) Fabulous customer service by the artist themselves.
3.) Possibility of personalization or customization to fit my exact needs (depending on item)
4.) Satisfaction that you are supporting an artist who is passionate about their craft, doing what they love and truly excited to have you as a customer.
5.) Something for EVERYONE - will be amazed when you take the time to browse at what you will find. Things you've never seen before and will never see anywhere else. Items for every age group and every interest.

Over the next few weeks I am hoping to post a series of articles featuring Etsy artists and craftswomen who are A.) Members of an online group I belong to called Unique Women in Business (UWIB) or B.) Sellers whom I have personallly purchased from in the past.

My goal is to provide at least some ideas for every person, every age-group on your list.

Have a really tough person to buy for? Leave a comment with age, gender, interests etc. and I'll do my best to include something for them in one of my upcoming posts. I hope you'll follow me and find out what is out there other than department store shopping!

Just to give you a taste - here is a tiny sampling of some items you might think about:


10 comments:

DawnCorrespondence said...

What a great idea! I know I am having a hard time thinking of unique Christmas ideas, so I am looking forward to your posts!

Unknown said...

This is a great idea for someone to get ideas for Christmas gifts! Thanks Carla!!!

MAB from OtterCatHaus said...

Great idea! I'm thinking of doing my own gift guides on my blog too!

polishedtwo.etsy.com said...

I always have a hard time buying for my 80+ grandfather. I usually end up buying monogrammed hankies, but maybe I could change that up after 30 years. Any suggestions?!?

Suzanne in TX said...

Carla--I love this post and the idea of suggesting gift ideas for your readers. Thanks for including one of my collars, too!
Love the ladies of the UWIB!

Anonymous said...

I'm not sure what to get my dad. He's over 50. We always get him a book or some gadget, but I'd love to look into getting him something handmade this year.

Julie B said...

I love this idea! It is often difficult to come up with unique ideas for unique and special people. Thank you for promoting handmade goods, Carla! And thank you for including one of my ACEOs in your post.

Julie B said...

For those older folks in your life, what about a handbound journal or scrapbook? Or a custom portrait of family or pets?

Unknown said...

Great idea for posts! I'm personally having a hard time figuring out what to get my teenagers for xmas this year - ages 14 to 18. I went way overboard last year... they already have all the electronics and gadgets they need. I'd like to go less expensive, handmade and recycled this year, but the gifts have got to be cool... I don't know what's teen-cool anymore. ;) One's 18 and preppy (girl), one's 14 and a goth (girl) and the last one's 19 and a closet club kid (boy). Any ideas?

Anonymous said...

Wonderful article! Great article! rita w