5 Gift Ideas That Support Small Local Businesses

We are all aware of the devastating effects Covid had on our everyday life, but it affected small businesses and the craft particularly hard. As microenterprises and sole practitioners dominate the industry, crafters found it especially difficult to cope. Craft NI found that the pandemic has halved local makers’ profits and negatively affected workshop, teaching, and other craft-related income. 

Finding gifts for our loved ones can be pretty challenging, especially if you want to give something unique and locally made. While things slowly return to normal, local makers still need your support. 

We selected a few items made by our Designer Makers here in Northern Ireland to make it easier for you.

1. Flaxfox - Tea Towels

https://thedesignerie.co.uk/products/teatowl-causeway?_pos=1&_sid=921757bc9&_ss=r 

Self-taught artist and small business owner Danielle Morgan draws inspiration from local architecture and heritage from across Northern Ireland. 

She creates beautifully designed, screen printed textiles, printed souvenirs and original artwork. Danielle’s range of 100% linen tea towels make perfect housewarming gifts with local sentiment.

You can buy here range online or in-store.

2. Ellen Woods - Small Organic Vase

https://thedesignerie.co.uk/products/small-organic-vase?_pos=1&_sid=445cbbd9f&_ss=r 

This charming piece is part of Ellen Woods’ range of ceramic vases that are finished and decorated with her iconic Cottage Garden patterns.

Drawing inspiration from the rural landscapes of Northern Ireland, County Down born Ellen combines her emotions, thoughts and love for the material into ceramic art pieces for others to enjoy.

You can see her range here or in-store at The Designerie.

3. Linda Lewis - Wilbert Sheep Felt Art

https://thedesignerie.co.uk/products/med-felt-sheep?_pos=1&_sid=574d23dc6&_ss=r 

Employing a combination of wet felt and needle felt, local textile artist Linda Lewis uses locally sourced sheep’s wool to create felt pictures that respond to the local landscape. Gift a piece of Northern Ireland with this adorable sheep Wilbert Sheep Felt Wall Art.

You can buy the piece here or check out Linda’s other pieces in-store at The Designerie.

4. JanMary Designs - Honeycomb & Bee Drop Earring

https://thedesignerie.co.uk/products/earrings-bee?_pos=1&_sid=11039cc23&_ss=r

You can get your hands on this adorable honeycomb and bee earring set, handmade by Janine Mayes, owner of Janmary Designs. Janine started creating jewellery in 2009, first for friends and family, then online and at craft fairs. Now more than 20 shops in Northern Ireland carry her unique designs.

To see more products by Janmary designs, go to our online shop, or pop into The Designery. 

5. Strombolitwo - Infinity Scarf

https://thedesignerie.co.uk/products/infinity-scarf-strombolitwo?_pos=3&_psq=strom&_ss=e&_v=1.0 

This upcycled kimono silk infinity scarf is sustainable and handmade by Helen Perry, owner of Strombolitwo. Helen found her love for textiles again in her workshop on the countryside of Northern Ireland, where nature inspires her creative process. You can surprise your fashionista friends with her beautiful designs.

Find more products of Strombolitwo on our website, or visit us in-store.