Local Etsy gift guide

Some great holiday gifts crafted by fine artists shipping their goods from right here in the ol’ RVA.

December 5, 2013; 6:15 AM • by Valerie Catrow

I think when people hear the term “shop local,” the mom and pop brick-and-mortar shops around the corner tend to come to mind. But thanks to Etsy and its magical “shop local” feature, we also have easy access to the creations of tons of artists working right here in Richmond who opt for peddling their goods on the Internets.

If you’re still looking to finish up your holiday shopping (or for a few ideas to round out your own wish list), take a look at the items below.¹ And even if these particular items don’t jibe with your own shopping list, hopefully they’ll inspire you to poke around Etsy a bit and see what our Richmond artists have to offer.

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Personalized Christmas Ornaments

These sweet personalized embroidery hoop ornaments are perfect to commemorate Baby’s First Christmas or would be a great gift for newlyweds celebrating their first holiday season together. ($15, Burlap and Blue)

Narwhal Friendship Necklaces

What better way to celebrate friendship than a pair of narwhals cut out of stainless steel? Nothing! Because, as the product description suggests, you and your BFF “…are both magical elusive creatures that have somehow found one another in this arctic crazy world!” Sweet, quirky, and perfect. ($98 for two, Meg J. Roberts)

Piggy Bank

I can’t look at this without laughing which, to me, is reason enough to buy it for someone and pass along the joy. These are available in a variety of colors and sizes, so choose the one that best suits your fancy. ($10-$13, Donnabelle)

Ron Swanson Motivational Poster

“Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing.” So true, Mr. Swanson. So true. ($10, Kate Wadsworth)

To Cradle Leather Shopper Tote

I’m in a constant (and constantly unsuccessful) search for a durable, grown-up-but-not-fussy bag. Until now. I’ve found it. I hope someone in my family is ready this. ($95, Angela Bacskocky)

Arthur Ashe Monument Print

An artistic representation of what all Richmonders think when they drive by this spot on Monument Avenue. ($35, RVA Coffee Stain)

Silk Obi Journal

This shop offers hand bound notebooks (with blank, unlined pages) covered in the same material used to make kimonos–a great option for someone in need of a new (or first!) journal or sketchbook. ($35, Yokohama Dreams)

Teal Linen Necktie

Richmond Thread Lab offers a great selection of these handcrafted ties, but this teal one is just so handsome. Get this for your guy! ($60, Richmond Thread Lab)

Return Address Stamp

This is another great gift for newlyweds, but would also be perfect for new homeowners or a friend who’s just made a big move to a new city. Or for someone who’s always wanted a personalized return address stamp but keeps talking herself out of it because it feels very luxuuuuuurious. Yes, I’m talking about myself. ($25, Apropos Roasters)

Ollie the Beige Pug Pillow

I don’t have a pug, and I don’t really have the desire to own a pug, but I find this guy irresistible. I’m sure I’m not alone in this. There’s also a Frankie the Black Pug version; he looks a little tougher. ($28, Darling Octopus)

Fleece Monster Scarf

Get one of these for everyone on your list and then wear them at the same time so you can be like an awesome, cuddly monster squad. ($16, Phil Barbato)

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photo courtesy of Donnabelle

December 5, 2013 6:15 AM 19