So, we're back on our journey of great socially and environmentally conscious companies to check out for your holiday gift giving ideas! Today's shop is Living Theads Co.
Living Threads Co.
My sister is the one that told me about this company. Her grad school friend actually started this company. The philosophy behind it is that small groups of skilled artisans use traditional methods to create beautiful products, and are provided with a reliable income, and 10% of the profits are provided back to the artisans for micro-credit and training programs. Nice, right? Okay, let's get to the gift ideas!
For Small Kids:
Handmade Finger Puppets $5 each - various animals and insects available
In a world of plastic toys with flashing lights and migraine-inducing noises, these seem like they would be too simple. BUT, small children need very little in the way of entertainment. These finger puppets are a great alternative to all the other crap that's out there marketed for little kids. They can use their imaginations and enjoy free play. Your quality time + simple finger puppets = exactly what little kids want.
Letras Handmade Alphabet - $70
Okay, so you could totally DIY this, IF you like sewing and cutting and spending hours on stuff. BUT, if you don't like those things (like me), and you're looking for a good gift for a small kid, these are great! They can practice their letters in a tactile way, and they're cute! When they're not playing with them, you can stick them on a shelf and call them decor. :) I'm a big fan of not ugly plastic toys.
For Your Girlfriend, Wife, or Sister:
Handwoven Wool Clutch (man translation: small purse you hold in your hand) - $40 - Woven with all natural non-dyed wool, with cotton wriststrap
This little clutch is perfect if you don't know what to get! Every gal can use a little purse, and this one is super cute! I love that red wriststrap next to that natural color.
For Your Boyfriend, Hubby, or Basically Any Guy:
Lola Clutch - $55 - Handwoven in Guatamala of cotton, gold zipper
Even though this is listed as a clutch, it can very easily be used as a little organizer bag or shave bag! Throw a few toiletries in there, and he's ready to travel! Even if it's just down the hallway in a college dorm.
For Your Mother or Mother-in-Law:
Tara - Cashmere Poncho - $165 - Handwoven in Nepal - 100% cashmere
Okay, this looks ridiculously soft and warm! Now, if you want to get your mom or mom-in-law a great gift, this is it! You can basically just throw this over any outfit, and you look instantly polished and put together. Wear with jeans for a more casual look, or with slacks for a dressier look. Also, you can bundle your arms up underneath and stay even warmer! Instant outfit = awesome.
For Your Father or Father-in-Law:
Bene Cashmere Scarf - $85 - Handwoven in Nepal - 100% cashmere
Now, you can't forget about the distinguished gentleman in your life, especially if you are getting his wife that beautiful poncho above. This scarf is the its counterpart! You throw this scarf on with a wool coat, or just with a sweater, and you have instant warmth, and instant class! Love a man in a scarf...
For the Host/Hostess in Your Life:
Placemat and Nakin Gift Set - $85 on sale, $90 usually - woven in Nicaragua of 100% eco-dyed cotton
I'm a big fan of cloth napkins! If you are buying for someone that likes to host casual dinner parties, these napkins and placemats are perfect!!!!!!!!!!!! They come in various color combos.
Lizabeth Hand Towel - $35 - Handwoven in Nicaragua of 100% eco-dyed cotton - Comes in many different colors, but this is my favorite!
A nice handtowel is a good gift because it is useful, and in this case, nice to look at. This comes in lots of different colors, but this one was my favorite. You can use it in the kitchen or in the bathroom. And any host or hostess will appreciate something they can use to pretty up these rooms :)
For the Person You Know That is Always Cold, And Loves Good Design:
Zuru Throw Blanket - $95 on sale right now, usually $120 - made in Nicaragua of 100% cotton - comes in various colors
I'm always freezing, so a throw blanket is always on my list. But only if it's pretty or cool looking like this!
Okay, so that's it! Hope you got some good ideas, or at least discovered another socially-conscious company to check out!
The next company/shop is going to be a surprise. Until next time!