We are back with part 2 of our independent gift guide! If you’ve read part 1, then you have already seen some of the talented makers we included from the Liverpool City Region. It is a fact that small business owners do a happy dance every time they get a sale and we want to get them dancing all through December. We had so many independent businesses to share with you, that we had to split our gift guide into two parts. So if you’re looking to tick off your Christmas gift lists and shop small while you’re at it, take a look at some of our faves below!
Lottie knits
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a knitter, crocheter or crafter, take a look at Lottie knits gorgeous hand-dyed yarns. Lottie individual hand dyes each skein of yarn in her studio at Make. They come in the most beautiful colours, perfect for any of your crafty loved ones who love a unique coloured yarn.
Our Favourite: Paua Shell – Aglow DK
Where to look: https://www.lottieknits.com/yarns/paua-shell-aglow-dk
Social media: @lottieknits
Gina Christina Therapies
Is there anything better than a pamper sesh? And it’s even better when someone is doing it for you. Gina Christina Therapies can help you get all the self-care you need. From manicures to facials to sports massages, Gina does it all. Gina has gift vouchers, so you can buy a loved one a much needed relaxing massage, or maybe they just want to start the new year with a fresh pair of gorgeous nails!
Our Favourite: Gina Christina Therapies Gift Voucher (Ps. Gina’s vouchers are also part of our Self Care Christmas Hampers)
Where to look: https://www.ginachristinatherapies.co.uk/
Instagram: @gc_therapies
Facebook: @GinaChristinaTherapies
Cut Out Collage
Collage art is taking Liverpool by storm thanks to the brilliant Cut Out Collage, ran by Catherine Rogers from her studio at Make Baltic. Cath is a collage artist who makes beautiful collage prints, cards and decoupage furniture pieces. They also run collage workshops, and after taking part in one myself a few weeks ago, I’m definitely hooked! You can become part of the collage revolution too as they’ve just launched Liverpool Collage Club, starting in January 2021 . You’ll have access to collage workshops, materials and rewards!
Our Favourite: Collage Kits for Grown Ups!
Where to look: https://www.cutoutcollage.com/product-page/collage-kit-for-grown-ups
Instagram: @cut_outcollage
Facebook and Twitter: @cutoutcollage
Alex Fletcher Art
Got a football fan in your life? Or if you’re looking for a great print for a loved one to jazz up their home, check out Alex Fletcher Art. Alex has some great Liverpool FC prints on his website that would make a fantastic gift for the red in your life. And he even has his designs on some t-shirts, perfect for match days.
Our favourite: “A Managers Dream” A4
Where to look: https://alexfletcherart.com/online-store/ols/products/a-managers-dream-a4-print
Instagram: @alexfletcherart__
Noctua Jewellery
As an aforementioned jewellery lover, I am IN LOVE with Noctua Jewellery’s stunning pieces. If you’re looking to gift a lovely piece of jewellery, that will last forever, be sure to check out Noctua. Each piece is handcrafted by silversmithing expert, Britt, in her studio at Make North Docks. They even run a massive variety of silversmithing courses, which would make a perfect gift for the new year!
Our Favourite: Make Your Own Sterling Silver Workshop
Where to look: https://noctua.co.uk/workshops/make-your-own-sterling-silver-rings-workshop
Instagram + Facebook: @noctuajewellery
No Mind collective
Over the past few months, I’ve been making a conscious effort to cut down on fast fashion and shop small and sustainable where I can. One of the pieces in my collection is a t-shirt from No Mind Collective and it’s definitely a fave. ‘Spawned in Scouseland’ in the words of Founder Alex, who works from his studio at Make North Docks. No Mind drops loads of new collections throughout the year, so you can be sure to find a cosy, fluffy Christmas set on the way.
Our favourite: Summer Whip Hoodie
Where to find: https://nomindcollective.com/shop/bits/summer-whip-hoodie/
Instagram: @nomind_collective
Pretty Flamingos
Another one for the vintage lovers is Pretty Flamingos, ran by Sally from the beloved Freida Mos on Lark Lane. They have stunning vintage pieces, including jewellery and clothes. I have even got a few accessories from them myself. You can check out some of the clothing and accessories online for now, until the shop is back open in December. And when the shop is back open, have a browse and grab a delicious palma violet coffee while you’re there!
Our Favourite: Spaceman earrings
Where to look: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PrettyFlamingos
Instagram: @prettyflamingosvintage, @freidamos
Facebook: @ithastobeVintageDarling
Rethinktgings Ltd
Rethinkthings have lots of locally themed gifts if you’re looking for some quirky presents this festive season, or you know someone who just loves Liverpool! From coasters to prints to tote bags, they’ve got it all. They even have some super cosy snoods that are perfect for the winter season. I’ll definitely be adding the snoods to my Christmas list, as I’m always freezing!
Our favourite: Scouser Sound Mug
Where to look: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/565662793/scouser-sound-mug-red-liverpool-mug?ref=shop_home_active_14
Blast From the Past
If like me, you’re a music lover, then you will love our last independent business, Blast from the Past. For me, there’s nothing better than chilling at home with your favourite record on and a glass of wine in hand (mulled if you’re feeling extra festive). Blast from the Past Vintage have loads of vinyl records available online to suit all musical tastes. From the 60s to 90s, punk to reggae. Or if Vinyl isn’t your thing why not gift a fab vintage garm, as they’ve also got a depop page with loads vintage fashion pieces!
Our Favourite: The Beatles Revolver
Where to look: https://blastvintage.com/item/the-beatles—revolver
Instagram: @blastfromthepastmusic
Classes at Make
If you don’t want to buy someone a physical gift this Christmas, why not give an experience? We have loads of classes taking place at Make in the new year, including macramé, perfume making, furniture painting and more. You can check out our workshops over on our Eventbrite page. We also have classes vouchers and intro woodwork tokens over on our Etsy page (which can also be used on a woodwork membership).
Our New Skills hamper also comes with a class voucher which can be redeemed on one of our classes along with loads of over exciting stuff from our Make residents!
Want to see more?
If you haven’t already, make sure you read part 1 of our independent gift guide and remember to try and shop small this festive period.
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