With the holiday season officially underway, it’s time to start thinking about gift giving. Everyone loves to receive a one-of-a-kind present; but making the time to find that special gift can be a challenge for even the most dedicated shopper. Lucky for us, NJ is home to local craftsfolk who are adept at making handcrafted gifts.
Loved ones treasure the thought and hard work that goes into the creation of handcrafted gifts, so Best of NJ has compiled a gift guide that showcases some of the singular offerings made by artisans in the Garden State.
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Pamela Bloom
Pamela Bloom creates her timeless and chic jewelry in her Maplewood studio. Earrings, bracelets and necklaces marry metal with gemstones for a look that’s both unique and versatile. Pieces can be dressed up or worn casually, and can stand alone or be layered for a more dramatic effect.
Kristin’s Country Home
Is there anything as cozy as a handcrafted quilt? Kristin’s Country Home features custom rag quilts, table runners, and pillows. Based in Sewell, all items ship for free within the U.S.
“I cherish each and every order I get for my handmade items!” she says. Kristen adds that “I find it humbling that people like my stuff! I put a lot of detail and care into each item from construction to packaging and I hope customers can see my appreciation,.”
ForageWorkshop
ForageWorkshop crafts handmade coasters, ornaments, and other housewares from natural and repurposed materials. The company’s driftwood coasters enjoyed 15 minutes of fame when they were featured on the DIY Network’s Blog Cabin. Made in Boonton, each piece is one-of-a-kind, and custom orders are welcome.
Michael Lamont
If there’s a dapper gent on your shopping list, chances are he’ll adore one of Michael Lamont’s 100 percent silk handmade neckties. The family-owned-and-operated business has been presenting cutting-edge designs in men’s fashion for more than 20 years. Located in Maplewood, the haberdashery ships anywhere and is happy to custom design ties as well as accessories.
LaGlasSea
LaGlasSea, based in Estell Manor, is a haven for handcrafted fused glass and stained glass creations that appeal to recipients of all ages. If you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for, founder Linda will make your vision come to life.
Brushes With a View
Hand-painted glasses from Brushes With a View make a pretty and practical present for anyone who enjoys sipping a beverage in attractive stemware, glasses, or mugs. Shop owner Ana of Pompton Plains says, “I truly love making these glasses and know that they bring smiles to those that receive them! So whether it is a glass for you or to give as a gift, I promise it will be a one of a kind and you will love it.”
Happiknits
’Tis the season for bundling up. Happiknits specializes in oversized knit cowls and features whimsical hand knit capes, scarfs, capelets and shrugs. Becca, the Allentown-based business owner, says custom orders are encouraged.
The Painted Cottage
In their Collingswood studio, the owners of The Painted Cottage take vintage finds and custom paint most pieces, transforming them into stunning furnishings. Benches, chairs, dressers and chests abound in shabby chic and French provincial styles. The owners say they’ve priced the items reasonably to help defray shipping costs.
Secret Garden Soap of Madison
Secret Garden Soap of Madison has been creating goat milk soaps since 2010. In addition to the citrus and herb-scented soaps, which are made in small batches and hand cut, goat milk and honey lotion are also available.
Schmutzerland
Purveyors of image-based jewelry, Schmutzerland is a family-owned business that started in 2008. Using their own images or by collaborating with local artists, customers can create their own line of jewelry. So, if you know someone who’d love a ring with a photo of their Shih Tzu on it, this is how to make it happen.
We hope these gifts help make your holiday gift giving a bit more personal. Happy shopping!
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