Today is monday 9 november 2026
Webzine of ecological news

Christmas

Christmas 2023: discovering handcrafted gifts

Christmas is the festival of festivals, we know, and despite the constant warnings not to fall into the traps of consumerism and materialism, we cannot escape the custom of taking pleasure in giving presents to our loved ones

[desperada] © 123RF.com]

Handcrafted gifts - The search for presents has begun again this year. The most farsighted may already have bought theirs, taking advantage of the very long Black Friday period in November. Christmas is the festival of festivals, we know, and despite the constant warnings not to fall into the traps of consumerism and materialism, we cannot escape the custom of taking pleasure in giving presents to our loved ones. And so, as the great Oscar Wilde said, ‘the only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it’. If we really cannot resist, let us at least give useful, eco-friendly gifts.

Handmade jewellery: Often made by local craftspeople, this jewellery can range from simple, elegant pieces to more elaborate creations. It is often made with local or recycled materials. You can find it in craftspeople’s workshops or at local markets.

Handmade ceramics: Ceramics, such as plates, cups, vases or bowls, are classic gifts. Each piece is unique, often decorated with traditional or contemporary designs. Here too, local workshops and markets, including antiques markets, are the places to pick up some good bargains.

Show more Show less

Textile products: Scarves, hats, gloves, blankets and other handmade textile goods are not only beautiful but also useful. Look for products made with natural or recycled fibres. If you can, do not skimp: a quality product lasts longer. To save money on a quality product, one suggestion is to visit vintage shops and markets.

Natural soaps and cosmetics: Many craftspeople make soaps, creams, balms and other beauty products using natural and organic ingredients. Always check that the products comply with the law, to protect your health. And choose craftspeople who provide all the necessary guarantees.

Handmade candles: Candles, especially those made with soy wax or beeswax and scented with natural essential oils, are always a welcome gift.

Wooden items: Wooden objects such as chopping boards, bowls, games or home decorations, often made from wood or materials from sustainable sources, can be both beautiful and useful.

Local illustrations, books and prints: Works of art such as prints, illustrations or paintings by local artists, and antique books, can be gifts with great evocative power. Another good idea might be to give old family photographs gathered in antique frames or frames made from eco-friendly materials.

Handmade food: Honey, jams, chocolate, biscuits and other handmade food products are always appreciated, especially if they are made with local and organic ingredients. Unfortunately, mainly for economic reasons, it is not always possible to afford good food products or to seek out organic ones. Christmas could be an opportunity to treat ourselves and to give food products that we would not usually buy during the year.

Blown glass objects: Vases, glasses, ornaments and other blown glass pieces are unique gifts that show off the craftsperson’s skill.

Wooden games and toys: For children, handmade wooden toys are a sustainable alternative to plastic toys and can last for generations. Always check their safety to protect your children.

If possible, choose sellers with zero-mile products. If that is not possible, you can also find products online. Happy hunting, everyone.

shoulder1

Machine translation

Rispettiamo la tua privacy

Usando questo sito, noi e i fornitori terzi indicati nelle preferenze possiamo utilizzare cookie e tecnologie simili per i seguenti scopi:

  • Necessari: Funzioni di base: sicurezza, sessione e memorizzazione delle tue scelte.
  • Servizi esterni: Contenuti incorporati di terze parti, come i video. Si caricano solo se li autorizzi: a quel punto il fornitore riceve il tuo indirizzo IP e può usare cookie propri.

Solo i cookie necessari sono attivi senza consenso. Alcuni fornitori possono trasferire dati fuori dall'UE. Puoi modificare le scelte in qualsiasi momento dal collegamento «Modifica privacy» in fondo alla pagina; chiudendo con la X continui con i soli cookie necessari.

Personalizza