Gifts for Grown-ups

Gift buying isn't always easy especially if you are trying to buy for someone who seems to have it all or if you're like me you have people to buy for that aren't into socks, a generic dvd or a box of dairy milk!


The high street can provide gifts for grown-ups but the choice is limited and just a little bit predictable. What if you were looking for something unique, handmade or even custom made where would you go and how much would they realistically charge you for it?


All over the UK there are fantastic businesses that specialise in unique and handmade and all for very reasonable prices. To guide you on your gift search Our Local Crafts have put together a list of great businesses that may just sell what you are looking for.


The Write Scent
If you want pampering items for yourselves or others, then you can find a great range here. From bath bombs, to shower gels you can also buy gift sets at great prices. Pop over to their website or facebook page and see what's on offer at the moment.
http://www.thewritescent.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Write-Scent/207258439285547


Made for you

Used with permission from Made For You

If you are looking for something unique and personalised then maybe you would like a handmade family tree quilt? Made using fantastic fabrics and photo's of your family this is a keepsake that is practical and beautiful. Or maybe you would like some handmade bags? You can also find these here, using more fantastic fabric and with a great range of designs you will be able to find something you love. Visit their website or facebook page for more information and a gallery of their works.
http://www.stitchedmemories.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-for-you/123880201010864

Elibee Gifts

Used with permission from Elibee Gifts

If you are looking for gorgeous and handmade gifts then these are for you. With a wide variety of items you are sure to find something that catches your eye. Maybe you are looking for a clock, a bottle opener or maybe even a notepad with a unique or personalised feel then take a look at their website for brightly coloured, fun and funky items plus a full gallery of their work.
http://www.elibeegifts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/elibeegifts


Smellies by Heidi

Used with permission from Smellies by Heidi

If you are looking for great smelling bath bombs and creams then look no further. What better gift for someone who loves pampering themselves than beautiful handmade bath products. Made using fantastic ingredients, these bath products look bright and fun and come packaged beautifully. Visit their website or facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Gifts 4 The Family

Used with permission from Gifts 4 the family

If you are looking for a wonderful gift for someone who loves to be pampered then take a look at these. They make wonderful 'beauty cakes' with contents that would make any woman happy. You can also buy fantastic handmade cards too so why not visit their facebook page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gifts-4-The-Family/182143941823822


Burgh Bakes - Homemade Gourmet Marshmallows

Used with permission from Burgh Bakes -  Handmade Gourmet Marshmallows

Are you looking for something tasty, different and perhaps a little alcoholic? Then why not try some alcoholic marshmallows, handmade and made to order so you will always receive them in the best condition. Don't worry they also make non alcoholic ones too! If the person you are buying for has a sweet tooth why not pop over to their facebook page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Burgh-Bakes-Homemade-Gourmet-Marshmallows/160818280623765


Daniel James Photography - Based in the West Midlands

Used with permission from Daniel James Photography

Are you buying for someone who seems to have everything? Then how about a photo shoot? It's different and will be unique to the person you're buying for and would make a great day out with some fantastic, fun and professional keepsakes. Gift Vouchers are also available. Visit their website and facebook page for a full gallery of works, prices and opening times.
http://www.danieljamesphotography.net/portfolio/
http://www.facebook.com/danieljamesphoto


Cathy's Keepsakes

Used with permission from Cathy's Keepsakes

Looking for something unique, personalised and practical? How about an artwork cushion? These wonderful cushions are handmade using great fabrics and can be personalised using any drawing or photos you send to make them personal to you. These would make great anniversary and fathers day gifts. Visit their facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/CathysCratfts


Button Box Gifts

Used with permission from Button Box Gifts

Are you looking for something handmade, different, and maybe even artsy? Then these are for you, with a wonderful range of handmade dolls, jewellery and gifts each with an artistic and unique perspective you are sure to find something you will love. These items make wonderful gifts either to yourselves or others so make sure you visit their website or facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.kristajoy.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Button-Box-Gifts/218731223134


Sparkles Beauty - Torphins and surrounding area.

Used with permission from Sparkles Beauty

How about a professional pamper session you never have to leave the house for? If you live in the Torphins area in Scotland then you're in luck! Great, professional and relaxing beauty treatments you can truly relax with, why not treat yourselves or a friend. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and pricing. 
http://www.sparkles-beauty.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sparkles-Beauty/183503855001662

Fairy Annie Mary

Used with permission from Fairy Annie Mary

Know someone who loves cuddly and soft animals? Then these are for you. Wonderful handmade sock animals and door stops made using great fabrics, bright colours and created with love. These cute soft animals will make great gifts for all ages and their bride and groom sock monkeys make wonderful wedding and anniversary presents. Visit their facebook page for a full gallery of their work.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fairy-Annie-Mary/161397357222278


Squinty Jewellery

Used with permission from Squinty Jewellery

Are you looking for fantastic handmade jewellery? Then try these, with a wonderful collection of handmade necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more you are sure to find the right set for yourselves or for others. Made using bright colours and fantastic materials make sure you visit their facebook page for a full gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Squinty-Jewellery/312834668985


Top That Cards

Used with permission from Top That Cards

How about something personalised, handmade you can keep? Then you will find those here, with a great range of handmade personalised photo frames and albums you are sure to find something you will love. And if you are looking for cards too then you won't have to go far. All their cards and keepsakes are made with bright and fun materials and are made to a high standard. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.topthatcards.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Top-That-Cards/178898120935


There you have it, a wonderful collection of business selling fantastic items and services. I hope you enjoyed visiting these pages and websites and if you want more why not pop over to our website and facebook page too :)
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Welsh Business Showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in Wales? Then this feature is for you. It includes businesses from Our Local Crafts Facebook shout out earlier this week and businesses from previous shout outs to give you a wide range of shops and services in your area.


Happy Plants 
Based in Swansea you will find a fantastic collection of vintage, home wares and beautiful plants. If you are looking for a great gift for someone pop over to their page and see for yourselves what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/HappyPlants


Sofairy Cakes 
Based in Swansea you will find gorgeous looking handmade cakes for all occasions. If you are looking for something sweet, gorgeous looking and a little unique pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sofairy-Cakes/120998094643166


Clydach produce and craft market 
If you are looking for a craft fair in Swansea then look no further. Pop over to their page to see what's happening and when, I'm sure you'll find some great stalls and items there.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=103506819686664


The Little Treasure Company 
Based in Swansea you will find fantastic handmade and hand painted toy boxes, clocks and gifts. If you are looking for great items as a gift then pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Little-Treasure-Company/125926897482556


Petal-works.co.uk 
Based in Swansea you will find a wonderful range of handmade felt craft items. Hair clips, corsages, pieces of art and more are available. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/Petalworks


Mamas home baking
Based in Swansea you will find fantastic looking home baked cakes for all occasions. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer and where you can find them.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=149123571787338


Stitching Dreams 
Based in Wales you will find beautifully designed cross stitch charts in a wide variety of different styles. If you like cross stitching pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stitching-Dreams/126274297402607


I hoped you enjoyed visiting these wonderful businesses, if you are not from Wales and would like to see businesses in your area take a look at our other blog postings or visit our facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Mum's Who Make To Make Ends Meet Special Feature.

Today's special feature focuses on Mum's who make to make ends meet. The crafting world is made up of some very talented people from all walks of life; young, old, married, single, men and women, crafting does not discriminate! But out of all the groups there is an growing number of mums out there that are crafting as a way to make ends meet be it due to a family illnesses or disablities causing them to be both carer and breadwinner to their families or for those just wanting to pay for the little things in life including holidays and treats.


Many of these mum rely on word of mouth and friends of a friend to earn what they do, so here is our attempt to get the noticed by a wider range of people. You will find good quality, often overshadowing that of high street equivalents, handmade and unique goods for sale. 


We have a wonderful collection of businesses and their items to show you, so grab a brew and settle down for some great shopping!


Hair Accessories Boutique - Based In Ireland - Posts to the UK and Ireland

Used with permission from Hair Accessories Boutique

This is run by a stay at home mum of 4, who tired of spending a fortune of her daughters hair accessories decided to make her own and business took off! You will find a gorgeous collection of hair accessories, made with bright fabrics and a lot of care you are sure to find something you love. You can find a fully gallery of their work available on their facebook page. 
http://www.facebook.com/hairaccessoriesbowtique


Butterfly Candles and Soaps - Posts across the UK

Used with permission from Butterfly Candles and Soap

Looking for some time to yourselves? Candles and great smellies? Then look no further, here you will find an amazing collection of handmade candles and soap, made from quality ingredients and presented beautifully, you won't be disappointed with what you see. For a full gallery of their work please visit their website and facebook page.
http://www.butterflycandlesandsoaps.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Butterfly-Candles-and-Soaps/106239439442322

Clips & Glitz - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Clips and Glitz

Mum of 2, she began making and selling hair accessories after being unable to find something different and unique to put in her little girls hair and the business grew into designing and making hair clips, headbands and bracelets for other people. If you are looking for cute designs made with quality fabrics then these are for you. You can even design your own hair band and clips for a more personalised touch. For a full gallery of their work visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/ClipsAndGlitz

Happy Plants - Plants can be delivered around Swansea and Llanell everything else can be delivered across the UK.

Used with permission from Happy Plants.

After deciding to take a career break to look after her youngest at home this business has to pay for all the extras including day outs and school trips. They have a beautiful range of handmade candles, wooden giftware and of course plants. If you are looking for something unique and beautiful as a gift then look no further. For a full gallery of their work visit their website and facebook page.
http://vickyshappyplants.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/HappyPlants


Sok-tastik animalz - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Sok-Tastik Animalz

A small family run business offering personalised sock animals. If you are looking for hand made unique gifts of the cuddly variety then look no further. These beautiful animals will be loved from the first day. They have a wide variety of materials to use so that you can request the perfect sock animal for you. For a full gallery of their work visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sok-tastik-animalz/111757562233409

Della's Sweet Treats - Will be able to post within the UK

Used with permission from Della's Sweet Treats.

Setting up her business in the hope that she can stop working full time and be at home more, Della's Sweet Treats opens on the 15th June. If you have a sweet tooth, looking for a great gift or wanting to cater for a wedding or occasion and need wonder wedding favours then look no further, handmade using quality ingredients truffles, chocolates and more. For a sneak peek of what'll be on offer visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/DellasSweetTreats


Gifts 4 The Family - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Gifts 4 the Family.

Using the money made from sales this mum treats her kids and uses whatever's left to buy more materials. You will find nappy cakes, hampers and more here. They have such a great range your sure to find something you want, whether your looking for a gift to treat yourselves or to treat someone else you won't be disappointed. For a full gallery of their wares visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gifts-4-The-Family/182143941823822


Little 'erberts - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Little 'Erberts.

Any extra money made is a bonus to this mother of 4. If you are looking for unique children's clothing that have personality then look no further. You will find amazing, bright and cute clothing for your little ones. There are both girl and boy designs. For a full gallery of their range please visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/littleerberts

Belladumpling - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Belladumpling.

This stay at home mum uses the money made to subsidise her family's income in a financially tight economy. So if you are looking for handmade and personalised wooden home wares then these are for you. Suitable for children's rooms, wedding gifts, birthday's and more. You will find a full gallery of their work on their website and facebook page.
http://www.belladumpling.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Belladumpling/122514194493006


Hand Made Sparkle - Posts within the UK


If you are looking for jewellery making supplies at great prices then this is the place for you. They have a wide range of glass beads, charms, crystal beads and findings so you are sure to find something you like. You will also find a small collection of handmade jewellery for sale. For a full gallery of their wares please visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hand-Made-Sparkle/147387301952501


Making rainbows. Sun catchers by Tracey - Posts within the UK


Do you love sun catchers? Then you will love these, gorgeous handmade sun catchers in a variety of designs, perfect for the summer, you are sure to find something you love. For a full gallery of their works visit their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Making-rainbows-Sun-catchers-by-Tracey/199524506752813


Caroline's Creations - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Caroline's Creations

This single mum needed extra income to supplement her 2 day jobs without working nights and decided to work from home making and selling fantastic handmade bath bombs and other great looking bath products. These make wonderful gifts and are great if you need a night in with yourself. For a full gallery of their work visit their website and facebook page.
http://www.carolines-creations.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carolines-Creations/168138703196382


Baby Name Pictures - Delivers worldwide

Used with permission from Baby Name Pictures

This mum has been making and selling products since her daughter was born.. 5 years ago! You will find a wonderful collection of handmade, hand painted individual pictures for children and babies. These make wonderful gifts that last. You will also find a wonderful collection of Wedding and Christening pictures too. For a full gallery of their work visit their website and facebook page.
http://www.babynamepictures.co.uk/index.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Baby-Name-Pictures/139538419443416


There you have it, fantastic items made and sold by fantastic people. 


You can find all these and more on our facebook page and our website. If you love shopping then visit our page and see for yourselves what's on offer!
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
If you know someone who would be interested in this feature or others we publish please feel free to pass it along :)

Special Wedding Feature

Summer is fast approaching and that can only mean one thing.. wedding season! And why not; sunshine, outdoor pictures and parties and a better more natural tan! But what about the little things, you know favours, gifts for the bridesmaids, thank you cards and the myriad of other items, doesn't it make your head spin? I know it does mine. 


Where do you start?
There are a thousand and one websites, books, people all shouting at you to let them help and by the end of it all your still not sure of anything other than the growing need to take an aspirin!
Our Local Crafts has come up with a list of fantastic businesses to help with this problem all under one roof. These are all small businesses which means you get the attention you deserve with the quality you demand.


Jude's Jewels Handmade Designer Jewellery - Stirling, Scotland. Posts worldwide.
Offers a wonderful range of handmade bespoke jewellery. If you are looking for something different yet special then they are for you. Brooches, tiaras, hair pins, cufflinks and more, made to order for your tastes. They have a full gallery of their work on their website and facebook page.
http://www.judesjewels.co.uk/ourshop/cat_49815-WeddingBridal-Prom-and-Special-Occasion-Jewellery.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Judes-Jewels-Handmade-Designer-Jewellery/211021065361


JewelleryMadeWithLove - Posts within the UK
Offers a beautiful range of handmade to order cufflinks, bracelets, bookmarks and wine glass charms as wedding favours. They have a wonderful range available and if you are looking for something different to use as wedding favours then look no further. For a full gallery of their work see their facebook page. They also offer discounts for large orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/JewelleryMadeWithLove/188199801210633

Designer shoes not designer prices - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from DesignerShoesNotDesignerPrices

Has a wonderful range of mother of the bride/groom shoes and matching bags. If you are looking something special for your feet then these are for you. Stunning shoes with stunning matching accessories, what's not to love. You can find a full gallery of their items on their website and facebook page.
http://www.designershoesnotdesignerprices.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/designershoesnotdesignerprices

Sweet Bottoms - Delivery of sweet favours within the UK. Candy buffets to the Nottingham, Derby and Leicestershire Areas.
Can provide sweet wedding favours to suit your needs. Everyone likes sweets and they are the classic wedding favour. If you are looking for something different how about a sweet buffet? These can be provided in the Nottingham, Derby and Leicester area. Got a sweet tooth and want to stand out? Then these are for you. For a full gallery of their services you can find them on facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Bottoms/184913861538948

Relatively Pink - Delivery within the UK
They have a wonderful range of handmade bespoke wedding invites, stationary and thank you cards. They also make everlasting bouquets, beautiful flowers made from paper. If you want something special you can keep then these are for you. You can find a full gallery of work on their facebook page. They can work to your budget so that you can receive the items you want at the prices you want.
http://www.facebook.com/relativelypink1


Rosewood Flowers - Based in Cambridge

Used with permission from Rosewood Flowers

Beautiful handmade bouquets of wooden flowers. The flowers are all handcrafted to give you the attention to detail and quality needed. They are made to order so please order in advance. Bouquets, buttonholes, wall and table decorations available to order. Price is based on individual orders. To see their work a gallery is available on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rosewood-Flowers/148788755187014

Smellies by Heidi - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Smellies By Heidi

Gorgeous, scented and perfect for wedding favours. You will find a wide range of handmade bathbombs, creams and salts. Individually made so that you receive your items fresh and smelling perfect. If you are looking for something different to use as wedding favours then these are for you. Beautifully presented and made with care. You can find the full range of these on their website and facebook page.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Eleanor Jane Cards - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Eleanor Jane Cards

If you are looking for cards or invitations, then take a look at these. You will find a wide range of handmade cards, invitations and order of ceremonies leaflets. You can find the full range of these on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002285638725


These are but a few of the wonderful businesses out there and as you can see they are offering high quality items that will make any special day stand out just that little bit more. If there is something specific you are looking for just send me a message or comment and I can find it for you.
Please feel free to pass this blog along to people you think would be interested.


http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

Yorkshire Business Showcase

Since our last showcasing on business based in Yorkshire we have had quite a few more wonderful businesses based there. Take a peek at what they do and what they offer and I'm sure you'll agree these are great businesses.


PlanetKitty 
Based in Halifax you will find gorgeous handmade jewellery. They have some gorgeous bracelets and sets and would make excellent gifts for someone. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/PlanetKitty/322868133368


Jewellarama 
Based in Worksop you will find a great collection of handmade jewellery. Fun and cute you're sure to find something that suits your personality. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jewellarama/137965736274728


Hand made gifts 
Based in Leeds you will find a collection of beads and findings available and ready to frame cross completed cross stitchings. They are fairly new but it looks like they could have some interesting crafty items for sale in the future so is one to watch. Pop on over and see if they can help.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hand-made-gifts/205826132770830


Gifts 4 The Family 
Based in Leeds you will find a fantastic collection of gift based ranges; cards, chocolates, jewellery and more. If your looking for a gift for someone you could find it here. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gifts-4-The-Family/182143941823822


Giddy Designs 
Based in Sheffield you will find a beautiful collection of handmade brooches, hair accessories and more. If you love bright, fun and quality items then pop over to their page and see what's on offer. 
http://www.facebook.com/giddydesigns


Loved By Lou ~ Handmade Jewellery~ 
Based in Yorkshire you will find a great selection of handmade jewellery for all occasions. Pop over to their page to see what beautiful items are on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Loved-By-Lou-Handmade-Jewellery/211878842157303


Kirsty's Kross Stitch 
Based in Doncaster you will find a great collection cross stitch charts, they can even convert your photographs into charts for a more personalised gift. Pop over to their page and see what they can offer you.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kirstys-Kross-Stitch/166228760099092


Wildheart 
Based in Yorkshire you will find a beautiful collection of handmade beadwoven jewellery. There are some stunning designs and you are sure to find something you adore. Pop over to their page to see what wonderful items are on offer.
http://www.wildheartcrafts.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wildheart/176255819058125


Stacy's Sewing Box 
Based in Bridlington you will find a wonderful collection of handmade home furnishings. They have some wonderful items to offer pop over to their page and see for yourselves.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stacys-Sewing-Box/205220462829158


GLITZ & BITZ
Based in Yorkshire they have a gorgeous selection of Jewellery and gifts. Well worth a visit if you are looking for quality handmade items. If you know someone looking for jewellery and gifts pass along their details xx
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Glitz-Bitz/188795291160016


CRAFT-STABLES 
Based in Yorkshire they provide Jewellery Making Workshops for everyone. Pop over and visit and if you know anyone in the area who would be interested pass along their details xx
http://www.facebook.com/CraftStables

Hope you enjoyed taking a mini tour of businesses in Yorkshire, if you know someone who would love one of their items please feel free to pass this blog and their links along. The more people who know the better!


If you're not from Yorkshire don't worry take a look at our website or our other blog postings for businesses near you!


http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/businessdirectory.html

Northern Ireland Business Showcase

Yesterday's special showcase and shout-out was for Northern Ireland, here are the businesses that were advertised!


Snug as a bug 
Based in Northern Ireland they provide custom hand made baby blankets and more. Using gorgeous fabrics and being beautifully made these items are well worth a look at. Pop over to their page to see these beautiful creations for yourselves and if you know someone who would love one please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/nickys.snug.as.a.bug


One crafty mummy
Based in Northern Ireland they make and sell beautiful hand made jewellery and very sweet hand made sock animals. If you are looking for something special for yourselves or for your loved ones then pop on over and take a look at their items. If you know someone who would also like their item please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/onecraftymummy


Luvlii Handmade Bags 
Based in Northern Ireland they make and sell gorgeous hand made bags, aprons, skirts and other wonderful items. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what they have on offer and if you know someone who would love their items please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/LuvliiBags


Kate's Treasures 
Based in Northern Ireland they make and sell wonderful and unique gifts for all occasions. If you are looking for something a little different for your loved ones then they have them. Pop over to their page and see what gifts they can offer and if you know someone who would love these then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kates-Treasures/304574928664


Our Events NI
Based in Northern Ireland, they organize events and shows in the area including ladies nights, wedding shows and family fun events. Have a look at the events they are advertising and if you know someone who would be interested in them please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/OurEventsNI


Don't forget to pass along their details to people you think would be interested :)