The art of gifting

The Christmas season is definitely upon us! How did that happen so quickly?

Handmade gifts are a thoughtful and truly personal option as you want to find the ideal gift for the person you have in mind. At Handmade Design Studio, we specialise in one of a kind handmade gifts all designed and made in Ireland, ranging from textiles to ceramics and artworks. Each gift item is carefully gift-wrapped in either an eco-paper or a handmade fabric pouch all individually sewn behind the scene by myself!

Here are a couple of gift idea suggestions: A  piece of jewellery for a special occasion is always a great choice:  made from porcelain, sterling silver, semi-precious stones, fine wire, vintage beads or even silk:  All jewellery designers have their own recognisable style and create unique and intricate pieces by hand. My favourite designer of the moment is Fernanda from Wild Wire: she crochets fine colourful wire into exquisite necklaces and earrings guaranteed to be noticed!

Artisan Candles made from 100% natural ingredients, infused with essential oils and presented in beautiful containers are a truly classic gift: Try ‘Silent Night’ by Wild Atlantic Wick and you’ll be immediately transported into an enchanted pine forest …

Christmas handmade ornaments are great stocking fillers: adding a new decoration to the tree every year is a lovely way to customize  your Christmas tree; they also become part of the family heirloom and will be cherished for years to come. Check out Ashley Walsh’s beautiful ceramic stars!

Handcrafted willow baskets are both sustainable and durable items; they come in many shapes and earthy colours ranging from dark brown to green and reddish hues.  We have a beautiful selection made locally by Gearóid Breslin, a skilled willow weaver and basket maker from Mullingar.

More than a shop

Sadly once again, Handmade Design Studio has to close its doors due to the level 5 restrictions being introduced from midnight on Wednesday. The coming weeks will be a real challenge but hopefully we will come out of it stronger as a community and more aware of what truly matters in life. I want to really thank everyone for supporting local shops and for the heartwarming good wishes. It means a lot to me. Handmade Design Studio is more than a shop: it is also about the chats, the stories and sharing creative ideas. I will miss all of that dearly.

 

Made  Local

The Made Local is a campaign organised by the Design and Craft Council of Ireland. It was launched at the end of July by An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and actor/writer Amy Huberman. This initiative which I am proud to participate in as a craft shop owner recognizes the exceptional talents that Ireland has to offer of craftspeople throughout Ireland.

They make high-quality and sustainable pieces that show pure craftsmanship and skill and these items will be cherished for years to come. Behind each piece , there is a story and an authentic artisan who puts his/her heart and soul into their work.

Support the makers and the local shops for a truly unique experience: it only takes one person to start a trend.