It’s showtime in the pottery/craft-making world. That means the weekends are filled with sales opportunities at festivals, bazaars, open studios and local shopping districts. Makers, like me, rely on these events to showcase our artistic efforts, make sales and gain new customers. Because the fall and winter is filled with so many entertaining and gift-giving holidays, artists focus much of their effort into one meaningful season.
These days there are so many ‘shopportunities’ available it can be overwhelming both for makers and buyers. On-line purchases are easily clicked, so artist websites (ClayByLaura) have become one more way to support your favorite maker. But, if you have a chance to attend a local craft show or holiday sales event, it’s a great way to discover new creators, share in the festive atmosphere with other shoppers and make a purchase that greatly impacts the vendor.
Here are some gift ideas that I've created for this holiday season:
Once again, I've created a special item for my local Blessings In A Backpack (BIAB) organization which helps feed hungry children on the weekends. This little bowl (4"D x 1.5"H) is a gift that keeps on giving. The bowl will be given away to participants in my Open Studio Tour and Demo on Saturday, November 12 between 1 and 2 pm as part of their $25 entree fee. Fifteen dollars of that ticket will be donated directly to BIAB. The studio sale will open to the public between 2 and 4 pm. Extra bowls will be available for sale at $20 each ($10 of that will be donated to BIAB). Additionally, 10% of overall studio sales will be donated to BIAB. Come to Frederick, Md. for this fun and meaningful event. Click on photo to purchase a ticket.
So many delicious recipes are associated with the holidays -- I created this card file to house all your favorites. I cherish all the hand-written cooking instructions that have been passed down to me over the years, so now I store them in one simple location. This box helps you organize your favorites and handily showcases the chosen recipe for reference when you are cooking. Give it as a gift to your favorite chef along with handwritten recipes from your own family's kitchen. It's a present that will be used repeatedly throughout the years. Click on photo to shop!
Need a hostess gift and tired of bringing the standard bottle of wine? Here's a suggestion for that scenario. This tray and bowl set has been a popular gift item for many (many) years. This medium sized set (tray-11"L x 5.7W x 1.5"H/bowl 5"D x 2.5"H) fits a loaf-style cake perfectly, begs for veggies and dip or services mealtime side dishes on the table. Click on photo to shop!
Here's a gift people may not know they need -- but will treasure once it's put to use! This oval caddy can hold a wet sponge (included!) next to the sink. The drainage air holes at the base allow it to dry easily. It also doubles as a small succulent plant container. Need something unusual for a person that is hard to shop for? This just might do the trick! Click on photo to shop!
So there you have it. Hopefully I've given you some gifting ideas for the people on your holiday list. Let me know if there is something special I can make -- I get my best ideas from you! Remember to shop locally and support the efforts of the makers in your area.