This December I’m excited to present Design Carolinas’ 2013 gift guide. For the third year running, I’ve searched, sifted and sorted through thousands of artists’ and artisans’ work to curate my absolute favorite new finds from across the Carolinas. Every year I’ve done this, I’ve been simply amazed at the variety and depth of talent in this region. With over a half million items offered from NC and SC on Etsy alone, there’s really no reason to even go to the mall…unless you enjoy crowds and parking hassles! I love the idea of supporting independent artisans and small shops, who are such an important part of our local communities. My picks this year represent more than a dozen unique artisans with gifts at all price points that are sure to delight your friends and loved ones at Christmas and at gift-giving occasions all year long.
Ice cream is yummier in hand made bowls by NC ceramic studio, HAAND. These are designed to be tilted up to the mouth so you don’t miss a single precious drop! $40 each, available in white, blue and coral. Photo via haand.us.
Get the name of your choice rendered in artistically photographed “letters” found in nature and the landscape. $69.95, by AlphabetArtPhotos. Photo via etsy.com.
For the grilling enthusiast: perfectly packaged blends add pizzazz to meat, fish and poultry, no recipe required! $16, for a set of 8, by OlifantCastelo. Photo via etsy.com.
What little girl wouldn’t love this fairy table set for tiny tea parties? $15 by MonkeysOnThe RoofKids. Photo via etsy.com.
Rocks and minerals as decorative objects is so trending right now! I give all the credit to Hank Schrader (Breaking Bad). This gorgeous set of geode coasters looks far more expensive than it is at $34. By NaturalArtWorld, photo via etsy.com.
And while we’re on the subject of rocks and crystals, how about this beautiful amethyst pendant? Even Marie Schrader would approve. $178, by AngelaArno. Photo via etsy.com.
A brightly colored mousepad in a trendy ikat pattern will brighten up any desk, $11.95. See Etsy shop yourethatgirldesigns for a variety of other fun and colorful patterns. Photo via etsy.com.
The photo of your choice, transformed into a cameo silhouette pendant. Perfect mom gift! $20 by OnceAgainSam. Photo via etsy.com.
Etsy shop VestasHome says, “Just because Zombies have taken over doesn’t mean you have to look rough surviving the Zombie Apocalypse. Look good while fighting the undead!” Cute stocking stuffer idea!$4 each from VestasHome. Photo via etsy.com.
An assortment of aromatic salt scrubs for an ultra-relaxing bath. Organic mini-salt scrubs, $14 for 3 by SeaWillowHerbs. Photo via etsy.com.
The elegant gold and white leaf pattern hand-painted on these stemless wine glasses would really dress up a holiday table. $40 for 2, from MaryElizabethArts. Photo via etsy.com.
Sometimes the simplest toys are best, like these wooden stack rings from EssentialMontessori. $15. Photo via etsy.com.
This cozy wrap top is just as perfect for yoga class as it is for Sunday brunch. $78 by BelovedThreadsByDoah. Photo via etsy.com.
Simply stunning! OK, this one’s definitely a splurge: “Byzantine Elegance” sterling chain maille necklace from BethWicker, $2000. Photo via etsy.com.
Like what you see here? Click on the photo links for even more choices from each artist, and get those orders placed soon!
Happy Holidays!
———-
Tamara Leicester is a licensed interior designer and owner of Tamara Heather Interior Design, LLC. She designs casually elegant interiors with an artistic sensibility, often drawing upon the talent of local artists and craftspeople in her work. Dreaming about updating your space? Learn more at tamaraheatherinteriors.com.