Shoppers urged to ‘gift differently’ and buy local crafts

Recognising that artisan makers desperately need a boost from their local communities in the run up to Christmas, the body responsible for the promotion and development of the craft industry here, has launched it’s ‘Buy NI Craft’ campaign.

Craft NI is not only asking local people to actively support independent businesses and makers across the country by shopping local but is also encouraging the public to use the hashtag #madetogive online to raise awareness. ‘Gift Differently’ and ‘Buy Local Craft’ aims to help makers in promoting their handmade items across their social media platforms using the uniquely designed ‘Buy Local Craft’ digital campaign badge and to highlight their investment in online retail. Craft NI has created a designated ‘Where to Buy Local Craft’ listings page on its website, helping customers find retailers by county and browse makers who are selling online at www.craftniwheretobuy.org.

Craft NI have put together a small selection of gift ideas to inspire you this Christmas.

For that someone special this Christmas: A hand-crafted piece of beautiful jewellery from some of Northern Ireland’s many talented designer-makers is sure to make that someone special smile this Christmas. Made in a variety of mediums, with Celtic, classic or contemporary influences, all demonstrate a high level of artistry, talent and skill, are made locally and are available for sale online. From sapphire rings by Robyn Galway to rose gold earrings by Nua Jewellery and stunning pendants by Abbie Dixon, there is a little bit of everything to tickle your fancy.

For the home lovers: For the happy decorators who love their art and interior design, you can choose from a range of stunning craft this Christmas from a variety of paintings and prints from Gallery 1608, household ceramics from Adam Frew Ceramics or even place an order with Designer and Craftsman John Piekaar for some contemporary furniture. Additionally, Belfast based designer Deborah Toner, uses her architectural drawing skills to create beautiful, embroidered pieces for the home such as lampshades, cushions, door stops and mounts.

For the Christmas creative in you: Bring a little bit of Christmas craft into your home this year with a flameworked glass Mistletoe ornament for hanging on the tree, handmade Benefield Spencer Glass Shop created in Ballintoy, Co. Antrim. Get your hands on some Olla Nua natural fibre Christmas baubles made in Belfast from a core of woollen waste yarn, wrapped and felted with beautiful Falkland and organic Merino fleece. Decorate your walls with Christmas themed hand embellished art prints made on Irish Linen in Ruth Osborne’s studio in County Down.

For the man in your life: Want something that oozes quality and is long-lasting? Laura Morwood has been creating textiles and leather items for many years and you can purchase the perfect wallet or satchel from her directly. If he is a fan of the great outdoors, then a handmade silver countryside keyring made by silversmiths in Northern Ireland would be the ultimate personalised gift.

To find out visit https://craftniwheretobuy.org/