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

Updated Scottish Business Showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in Scotland? 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.


Elibee Gifts 
Based in Scotland here you will find beautiful handmade gifts for all ages and occasions. They have a wonderful range of items and you will not be short of choices for the perfect gift. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/elibeegifts
http://www.elibeegifts.co.uk/


Perfect Presents
Here you will find gorgeous gifts for all ages. From Nappy cakes for babies to Towel Cakes for adults you're sure to find something for that special gift. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Perfect-Presents/172048176150717


Squinty Jewellery
Here you will find a wonderful collection of handmade jewellery. They have some gorgeous sets so pop over to their page and see what's for sale.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Squinty-Jewellery/312834668985


Soapy Essentials
Based in Scotland, they make and sell wonderful aromatherapy products for the body; soaps, bath bombs, shower gels and much much more. Perfect for pampering yourselves pop over and have a look at the wonderful items on offer and if you know someone who would like them too pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Soapy-Essentials/132254746844860


Wax Teddies
Based in Scotland they have some wonderful hand dipped scented teddies and wax melts, great for replacing air fresheners around the home, they come in a beautiful variety of bears and other animals and would make great gifts. If you think someone would love these then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wax-Teddies/134832249919741
http://www.waxteddies.com/


Harts and Crafts
Based in Scotland, they make and sell beautiful home wares from cushions to jam jar candles, they have a wonderful range that is definitely not to be missed. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves their gorgeous range and if you know someone who would love their items please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/Hartsandcrafts2011


Handmade by Jacqueline
Based in Scotland, they have stunning hand made cards available for all occasions at reasonable prices. Pop over to their page and I'm sure you will see something you love and is right for the occasion. If you know someone who would like one of these cards please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-by-Jacqueline/152423071444403


Accessobride
Based in Scotland, they specialise in bridal and wedding accessories. If you are looking for beautiful accessories then these have them and if you know someone who will be interested in them then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Accessobride/102349166510934


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

Updated South East Business Showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in the South East? 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.


Chubbie Chique Kiddie Boutique (CCKB) 
Based in West Sussex you will find a very cute range of children's clothing, toys and gifts. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves these gorgeous items.
http://www.facebook.com/CCKB.fanpage


I Heart Baby 
Based in Hampshire you will find cute and funky baby and children's wear. Pop over to their page and see if they have anything you'd love for your little ones.
http://www.facebook.com/iheartbaby


Indi-Panda- Handmade buttons 
Based in Kent you will find gorgeous handmade buttons. If you are looking for something to brighten up an old wardrobe and more then pop over to their page to see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Indi-Panda-Handmade-buttons/184611538249730


Metal Munchiez 
Based in Portsmouth you will find a fantastic range of handmade cakes for your occasions. If you love anything different and a little bit metal then you'll love these. Pop over to their page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Metal-Munchiez/196534610361555


Fabbylicious Cakes 
Based in Berkshire you will find a beautiful range of handmade cakes for all occasions. If you are looking for great cakes for your occasion or event pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fabbylicious-Cakes/180299065339481


Heather's Beads 
Beads in Hampshire you will find a great selection of beads, findings and some gorgeous handmade beaded bracelets. Pop over to their page to see their selection and offers.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heathers-Beads/140164126039093


Cards By Ems 
Based in Oxfordshire you will find gorgeous handmade cards and candles. If you are looking for something special for your loved one or friend then pop over to their page and see what's on offer. 
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cards-By-Ems/170355926351354


Batcatz Crafts 
Based in Southsea you will find beautiful and amazingly cute handmade crochet and sewn items. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves their wonderful creations.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Batcatz-Crafts/204251776254004


My Little Paintpot 
Based in Suffolk you will find beautiful hand painted artwork for children and adults alike. Made using fun bright colours and shapes you're sure to find something you like. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/mylittlepaintpot


BEC MAKES SCENTS 
Based in Cambridgeshire you will find a gorgeous range of handmade soap and wax melts. If you are looking for something to pamper yourselves with then pop over to their page to see what fantastic products they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/BEC-MAKES-SCENTS/112061288830378


Elixirs of Life 
Based in Essex you will find a fantastic range of handmade, natural and affordable skin and hair care products. If you like natural products or have sensitive skin pop over to their page and see what they are offering.
http://www.facebook.com/elixirsoflife


Dewdrop Beads 
Based in Essex you will find a wonderful range of handmade jewellery. Earrings, bracelets and necklaces all in beautiful colours and designs pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer!
http://www.facebook.com/DewdropBeads


CompliCakes 
Based in the South East you will find beautiful handmade cakes for all occasions. All wonderfully decorated you are sure to find something you like for your special event or occasion. Pop over to their page and see what they can do for you.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/CompliCakes/222890651061844


Teeny Tiny Soap Co. 
Based in Chichester you will find a gorgeous range of handmade soaps and creams. If you are looking for brightly coloured and highly scents bath products then pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/TeenyTinySoapCompany


Cazzy's Crafts
Based in Cambridge you will find a beautiful collection of handmade cards, jewellery and candles. If you are looking for the whole gift package then pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cazzys-Crafts/140950689305925


Babysmalls.co.uk 
Based in Oxfordshire you will find fantastic handmade baby and children's clothing. If you are looking for something a little different for your little ones then pop over to their page and see what they have for sale.
http://www.facebook.com/Babysmalls.co.uk


Twisted Trinkets 
Based in the South East you will find a wonderful collection of jewellery and gifts with a unique touch. If you are looking for something different but beautiful then pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/Twisted.Trinkets


HedgeHogHill 
Based in Norwich you will find beautiful handmade wooden items for your home. If you are looking for wonderful and personalised wall plaques or signs then pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/HedgeHogHillWoodenSigns


Ella's Journey to Raise Awareness 
Based in Peterborough they are trying to raise money and awareness for new equipment for hospitals. To find out more information on what they do and who they are stop over their page and read for yourselves their amazing story and how you can help.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ellas-Journey-to-Raise-Awareness/195746520444790


Caroline's Creations 
Based in Surrey, you will find a gorgeous range of bath pampering products. If you are looking for a great night in or a present for someone who loves great smelling products then pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carolines-Creations/168138703196382


The Baby Blankie Company 
Based in the South East you will find beautiful handmade baby blankets and other soft furnishings. For great gift ideas pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/thebabyblankie


Sarah's Funky Monkeys 
Based in the South East you will find gorgeous cuddly handmade sock monkeys and more. If you are looking for a soft cuddly gift then pop over to their page and see what's on offer. 
http://www.facebook.com/SarahsFunkyMonkeys1


Princess moo 
Based in Portsmouth you will find beautiful gifts for yourselves and your home. Their items are gorgeous and I'm sure you'll find something you love. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves. 
http://www.princess-moo.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Princess-moo/151614321566248


Funky Oranges - The Jewellery Collection (Chic Boutique)
Based in Milton Keynes you will find cute handmade jewellery in a variety of shapes, colours and styles. If you like funky cute and different jewellery then these are for you. Pop over to their page for a look at the items on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Funky-Oranges-The-Jewellery-Collection-Chic-Boutique/198923106815169


Doodlebags
Based in Kent you will find stunning handmade bags made with a variety of recycled material making them not just beautiful to look at but environment friendly too! Pop over to their page to see these items for yourselves. 
http://www.facebook.com/oneoffs


Sock monkeys and more
Based in the South East you will find a fantastic range of handmade sock animals. Made using fantastic colours and styles your sure to spot something your interested in. They make wonderful gifts.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sock-monkeys-and-more/217104848307072


Sock Toys 4 U 
Based in Portsmouth you will find handmade and custom stuffed animals. Right now they have a gorgeous range for sale for great prices so pop over and have a look. 
http://www.facebook.com/sock.toys4u


Handcrafted - 'Especially for you' 
Based in Milton Keynes you will find gorgeous handmade blankets, sock creatures and gifts. They have a wide variety of items available so pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/handcraftedespeciallyforyou


I hoped you enjoyed visiting these wonderful businesses, if you are not from the South East 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

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

Artinkulate Keepsakes Product Review

Welcome to our first product review.


Today I will be reviewing an item from Artinkulate keepsakes. The item I received was a beautiful miniature piece of art 1 inch magnet tile. The price for this one was £3.60 with postage.


It was posted quickly and securely, and came wonderfully presented as you can see in the picture below. It came delivered wrapped in bubble wrap to keep safe and included in the packaging was a business card for you both to keep and have the contact details of the artist at hand. 

It is a very pretty piece of work, the colours are gorgeous and stand out well without being too much and the wording is beautiful and well written. The detail and hard work that has gone into producing this item shows immediately and I was so pleased with the item that I forgot that I was to be reviewing it and instead was beaming and showing it off to everyone I know.
The size was perfect for my needs, it is big enough to show off its delicate details whilst being small enough not to over shadow my tiny fridge in my tiny house, however if space isn't an issue for you as it is me then you'll be please to know that they do produce larger pieces. 


The customer service was brilliant. I was kept up to date with the items progress from studio to my home and I never once felt that I couldn't contact the seller. The contact was friendly and professional and you can see from the item above and those shown on their website that the artist truly loves her creating her work.


Everyone I showed it too was impressed both by it's attention to detail, price and beauty. They will make wonderful gifts and with the choices available you really should be able to find something to buy for either yourself or your loved ones.
The price was fantastic and I really could find no faults with the item, the packaging nor the customer service and I would recommend you take a look at the other great items for sale at the moment.
You can find Artinkulate Keepsakes via their website or facebook page here:
http://www.artinkulate.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/inkyart

Updated Yorkshire Business showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in Yorkshire? 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.


The Vintage China Cabinet - China Hire North Yorkshire 
Based in Yorkshire you will find a stunning range of vintage china for hire. If you are looking for something beautiful for your event then look no further pop over to their page for more information and what area's they provide to.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Vintage-China-Cabinet-China-Hire-North-Yorkshire/120361428021664


Arty Aitch 
Based in Yorkshire you will find beautiful handmade pieces of art in many forms, including notepads and trinket boxes. Pop over to their page and see what gorgeous items are on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Arty-Aitch/133421910016680


Kirsty's Kross Stitch 
Based in Doncaster you will find great cross stitch charts to get you started. If you looking for something personal to give to someone who loves cross stitching then you can also have photo's converted into charts. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kirstys-Kross-Stitch/166228760099092


Craft-Stables 
Based in Driffield you will find fantastic and friendly jewellery making courses for everyone. With great offers and friendly staff you're sure to have a great day! Pop over to their page to see more information.
http://www.facebook.com/CraftStables


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


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


I hoped you liked visiting these great businesses in Yorkshire. If you aren't from this area and would like to see shops and services for your area see our other blogs or visit our facebook page!
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts