“It’s giving handmade” this Holiday Season
Image generated by author using ChatGPT.
There’s a bitter chill to the air, snowflakes are falling, and you’ve just picked up your pace to reach the store doors a few seconds sooner, searching for that warm air to greet your face and warm your bones. You step inside, stomping your boots on the mat, dusting off the snowflakes from your jacket, and just as you start to pull off your gloves, that’s when you see it - the perfect, thoughtful, and unexpected gift for that special someone. The type of gift that makes your heart beat a little faster when they grab the box from under the tree. The gift that you almost give early, because you’re so excited to see their reaction as it’s unwrapped. Pure uncontainable joy.
As a passionate gift-giver, I’ve always loved hand selecting special one-of-a-kind gifts for my family and friends. However, I’ve found that over the years it’s gotten more and more difficult to not fall into the “click and buy” route through Amazon and other companies who have monopolized the industry. Each year Christmas rolls around, I draw a name and hope that person has a detailed Christmas list. I used to be bursting with excitement to hand a loved one a “mystery” gift that they couldn’t possibly guess what was inside.
“When did I catch the gift giving slump? ”
I find that I’m the most excited about a gift when there’s a story attached to it, and generally that story involves a personal touch, quite literally. I love purchasing from artisans who continually push themselves to be creative and think outside the big box stores. Pittsburgh is a treasure trove for discovering talented makers.
You may know exactly what your friends and family are wishing for this holiday season, or it may be one big mystery. Explore the gift guide below and avoid that last minute Target trip on your way to the gift exchange.
The Pittsburgh Artisan Gift Guide
Curated by an interior designer
The “What do I buy my coworker in the $25 gift exchange?” gift
Houses of PGH Postcard Pack by Sophia Fang at love, Pittsburgh ($14)
Head on over to love, Pittsburgh and check out their offerings from 100+ Pittsburgh based artists and makers. A one-stop-shop for one of a kind items!
These postcards are the perfect gift since the recipient can either send them out and spread the cheer with others or simply frame them for a gallery wall and enjoy them long term.
If your coworker loves to cook, you can add this salt trio ($19) to their spice drawer. I personally own the Steeltown Garlic and Herb Blend ($11), and it's delicious.
The “What do I buy for my partner?” gift
(Top left) VINTAGE VAULT SS 15, (Top Right) NAÎTRE BOWTIE VII, (Bottom Left) NAÎTRE BOWTIE XIII, (Bottom Right) OCEANIA: ABYSSAL ELEGANCE BOWTIE II, by Knotzland
Knotzland has been in business since 2015 and has saved tons of fabric waste from landfills. They use textile discards to create their beautiful one of a kind accessories - including these fabulous bowties above.
Watch Nisha share her journey and explain the heart behind Knotzland.
The “What do I buy for my on-the-go friend?” gift
Sunrise Smokies Takeaway mugs by Andrew Jowdy Collins ($45)
Look no further than Andrew Jowdy’s studio in Pittsburgh’s East End for a gift that will make the recipient think of you daily. Inspired by the landscapes of places he’s traveled, this is the perfect gift for those on the go!
The “What do I buy for my friend who loves shiny things?” gift
Hammered Heart Studs by Skeleton Jewelry ($55 - $215)
These dainty hammered heart studs are sure to be a winner in any friend group. Located on Penn Ave, Skeleton Jewelry has a variety of options for any shopper. They are currently offering permanent jewelry appointments which are quite the rage and definitely more chic than the broken heart Claire’s friendship bracelet I had in middle school. Feeling nostalgic? Permanent jewelry, usually a bracelet, anklet or necklace, is welded together with no clasp for removal.
If you’re looking for something a more sparkly and a bit more unique for someone special, I can’t take my eyes off of this Shelbie Diamond Sun Ring ($2,150). Can I get proposed to all over again?
Pittsburgh Experiences - “it’s giving memories”
Book a Candle Making Class
Wildflowers of Pennsylvania Candle by PGH Candle ($25)
Book a private candle making party ($45 per person) at PGH Candle for a one of a kind experience. A class includes small bites, a bar with 2 wines and a custom cocktail, and the candle making bar. They also have a parking lot with free parking - whatttt?! The older I get the more I realize I don’t want to deal with street parking, so that’s a win-win.
Book a Glass Blowing Class
Blown Glass Ornaments at the Pittsburgh Glass Center
In the fall of 2021 my mom and I took a class at the Pittsburgh Glass Center and we made glass pumpkins. It was one of our favorite experiences together! Our instructor was so knowledgeable and it was a smooth learning process.
Check out their holiday classes before they fill up!
Pumpkin making class at the Pittsburgh Glass Center
Book a Pasta Making Class
Pasta from Scratch Cooking Class, Chef Alekka
Have you been dying to get your partner in the kitchen with you? Did you have romantic plans to listen to Bella Notte and accidentally share a spaghetti noodle? The Pasta from Scratch class ($75 per person) is a great first step. Carbs? Sign me up!
Booking a cooking class is a great way to tackle your culinary talents (or lack thereof) head on. Chef Alekka offers a variety of options ranging from a knife skills class to private lessons.
Happy Shopping, Friends!
If you’ve made it to this point - congratulations! You now have a handful of solid gift options throughout the Pittsburgh area and you’ll be supporting local folks with your purchases.
To note, I am not using any affiliate links. I am simply sharing resources and highlighting local companies who deserve to stay in business! #shoplocal