Where to Find Great Handmade Gifts
Are you stuck on gift ideas? Wondering what to buy that one friend who has everything? Stop wracking your brains – handmade gifts represent the perfect solution!
Don’t worry if you’re not a natural artist – we’re not suggesting you dig out your dusty old craft supplies just yet. If you’re willing to do a little research, there are plenty of lovingly handmade products to be found online and in physical stores. In fact, the global handicrafts market is expected to rise from around $647 billion in 2020 to over $1,204 billion by 2026, demonstrating just how many crafty entrepreneurs are willing to sell their wares.
One of the best things about great handmade gifts is that they’re truly unique. By purchasing from an independent artist or craftsperson, you can avoid gifting your recipient something they already own. Of course, there is some risk involved in buying handicrafts, as you can’t always guarantee the quality or durability of products.
With this in mind, how can you maximize your chances of securing a high-quality gift? To help you out, we’ve put together our top online and offline places for finding gifts your friends and family will cherish.
Etsy
Etsy is an online marketplace allowing users to sell their vintage treasures and unique creations. There are tons of beautiful and affordable products to discover, including jewelry, homewares, toys, collectibles, artwork, and more! Here are just a few reasons to start your search with Etsy:
• It allows you to support a community of creators who value artistry and design over profit.
• You can do business directly with the seller.
• You can compare prices across the platform and find a maker who suits your budget.
• There is a huge amount of choice on Etsy – you’ll spend hours browsing!
Handmade markets
Handmade markets are popping up all over the country and connecting creative sellers with like-minded buyers. Forget flea markets full of junk – handmade markets such as this unique space in Chicago are brimming with painstakingly crafted beauties. If you’re unsure whether your town or city hosts similar events, a simple Google search will point you in the right direction.
Local craft shows
Craft shows are similar to handmade markets in that they present creators with the opportunity to display and sell their wares to visitors. However, they tend to be larger and less frequent than handmade markets, often involving more premium products. If you’re hoping to blow your giftee away, you may just find what you’re looking for at a craft show. To find craft shows in your local area, check out Google or your local newspaper bulletins.
Online stores
Is Etsy failing to deliver the goods? Don’t give up – there are plenty more online stores to browse. Take Uncommon Goods, for example, a socially conscious platform that prides itself on selling unusual items you won’t find anywhere else. You can even browse according to the type of person for whom you’re shopping.
Ten Thousand Villages is another excellent resource. The company sells purposeful crafts from across the world, celebrating cultural differences while remaining committed to fair trade practices. If you’re struggling to find suitable products on these sites, simply type “handmade gifts” and your location into Google to find local crafty businesses.
Word of mouth
You’d be surprised how many creators are out there – at least one of your friends probably knows someone who makes handicrafts as a side hustle. Start by asking for recommendations via social media or in casual conversation. If one of your friends has a lead, they’ll enjoy helping you out and boosting their other friend’s business. You never know – you may get a discount and could even end up with a new pal!
Great Handmade Gifts
You don’t have to be a whiz at making pottery, painting pictures, knitting blankets, or anything crafty to give your loved ones unique presents. There are many options available to you to find the perfect gift and supporting local artists. Supporting artists and creators directly keeps them creating.
