Now that Christmas is over and the gifts have been given, I can finally share some of the great things that I've found on Etsy. Here is a description of Etsy from Wikipedia: "Etsy is a website that provides the general public with a way to buy and sell handmade items as well as vintage items and craft supplies. Handmade items cover a wide range including art, photography, clothing, jewelry, edibles, bath & beauty products, and toys".
I really wanted to give handmade gifts this Christmas. I would have preferred to make them myself, but with my Dad's illness etc. that simply wasn't an option. A stuffed elephant for my 9 month old nephew was all I could manage.
Etsy was a life saver. I was able to shop online, which saved me the hassle of trying to shop with a 2 year old in tow. Most sellers ship internationally, and the dollar to euro exchange rate was an added benefit.
The best part though is the "feel good" factor. You get lovely, high quality handmade gifts that are totally unique and you're helping to support an artisan/crafter (usually a woman) at the same time. It really is nice to know that our money is going to an individual as opposed to some big company that manufactures its goods in China.
Here are some of the goods (in no particular order) with photos from the seller's Etsy Shops:
Porcelain Tea light Delight N.1. Design by Wapa Studio
Porcelain Tea light Delight N.3. Design by Wapa Studio
A pair of these went to my mother-in-law. Gorgeous porcelain from a talented ceramicist.
Amethyst Draped Marquis Earrings from Allison Mooney
Apatite and Gold Flower Earrings from Allison Mooney
Beautiful earrings for some sweet cousins.
Bugs With Style SnaxSax Three Pack from Sara Bruno
These are re-usable bags for snack food. I gave a set to my-sister-law and one to myself. What a great alternative to zip-lock baggies! A must if you have little ones.