The Best Handcrafted Gifts — Because Store Bought Just Won’t Cut It
27 Presents That Are Original, Chic and Completely Creative
BY Maggie Miller // 11.17.24
Framed Matchbook Print Clydes ($185)
Editor’s note: The most wonderful time of year is almost here and who doesn’t want to be the gift giver that everyone remembers? But gift giving’s hard, and everyone could use a little help. With that in mind, PaperCity is rolling through its 2024 Gift Guide Series. Expect anything but the usual gifts, and categories built around the quest of living your very best life.
Next up — The Best Handcrafted Gifts:
Gifting handcrafted and artisanally created items can make a holiday gift extra special and bring additional appreciation. But it doesn’t require getting draped in glue & glitter to make someone feel special. Leave it to the experts. These beautiful pieces also champion sustainable shopping, talk about a gift that truly keeps on giving.
A gentle reminder: handmade elegance requires patience, so do order ahead. With that in mind, here is a curated selection of gifts and art pieces handcrafted with care. These are The Best Handcrafted Gifts:
Embroidered Dinner Napkins
In this ongoing season of hosting, hand-embroidered linens are the perfect gift for the hostess who has everything. You’ll adore these Donnine cocktail napkins from Taf Firenze that feature unparalleled embroidery, each adorned with a unique motif inspired by the company’s charming 1950s archive. In addition, here are some other unique embroidered items to elevate your bar cart.
Hand Painted Dinnerware
As Martha Stewart wisely noted, dining well is all about “the presentation, the ambiance and the luxury of enjoying food with those you love.” What better way to embody this sentiment than with these hand-painted dinner plates.
SHOP
Glassware That Looks Like Art
Glassware is the perfect way to elevate any surface, without the need for flair. These art-inspired glass creations would make the perfect gift for a friend with a stacked bar cart.
Collegiate Scarves Inspired by Campus Architecture
This is not your typical game day gear. Each scarf has been thoughtfully crafted by The Clearly Collective, drawing inspiration from the unique architecture of each college campus or setting. I’m eagerly awaiting the release of a TCU piece, but until then, I’ll be gifting these lovely scarves to my college rivals.
Handcrafted Home Decor
These handcrafted marble catch plates from Anastasio Home are simply chic. They’re also to the trend we’re still not over. Just imagine these Gustaf Westman candle holders on a Thanksgiving table. Shop more home stores near you.
Needlepoint
Needlepoint is experiencing a chic revival, far removed from the styles of our grandmothers. Lycette offers clever puns and witty sayings, all without feeling clichéd.
Matchbook Prints
These prints by Charles Ryan and Clarke are a thoughtful way to transform a go-to happy hour spot, alma mater, or favorite golf club into home decor. You can commission a collection of your own favorite beloved locations or choose a standout piece.
Charm Jewelry
A charm necklace adorned with meaningful symbols serves as a lovely, understated accessory while also making for a thoughtful and personal gift.
Framed Art or Art Prints
We’ve been quietly stalking these artists on TikTok for some time now, from Western scenes to cityscapes. These artists also sell prints to gift your art aficionado, in case you aren’t ready to break the bank on one of their original paintings.
Part of the Special Series:
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