Yes, it's that time of year again. When it comes to the
holiday gift-giving season, there are two types of people. The first type, like
my sister, has all the holiday shopping done before the end of August, and
everything is neatly wrapped, tagged and stored in anticipation of the big day.
The second type, like me, waits until pretty much the last minute and then goes
on a fun (but frantic) bout of holiday shopping, paying a little extra for
expedited shipping so that everything arrives on time.
But when I shop for beading gifts for my friends, I try my
best to avoid shopping at the mall or at a "big box" craft supply store where I
have to deal with crowds and busy parking lots. Instead, I try to buy my gifts
online or at local craft shows from independent artists.
If you're looking for some great beady gifts for your crafty
friends this holiday season, here are a few places where you can find fabulous
ideas and do your part to support an independent artist at the same time!
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| Any beader would be thrilled to get one of these handmade bead mats by Judi Patuti! |
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Bead Mats from Judi Patuti - Bead mats are always a great
gift idea for beaders, but these bead mats from Judi Patuti are a truly
outstanding gift. With fabulous fabrics in bright patterns, these handmade bead
mats will make a cherished gift for your favorite beading friend.
Brass bead embroidery blanks from Designer's Findings - If
you know someone who loves bead embroidery, a selection of brass bead embroidery
blanks from Designer's Findings will be a wonderful surprise. Most of these
bead embroidery blanks are priced between $1 and $3 - perfect for giving!
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A Mirrix loom is the perfect gift for anyone who wants to upgrade their bead or tapestry loom. |
Bead Reference Chart from Beaded Phoenix - I can't say
enough about how much I love my Bead Reference Chart from the Beaded Phoenix. When
I owned a brick and mortar bead shop, we had one of these reference charts
posted on the back wall so that we could easily size up beads and stringing
materials. Get one for a friend and see how often they'll use it!
Mirrix Bead Loom - For a real splurge, give a gift that
keeps on giving. Mirrix bead looms are sturdy and well-made and will be
appreciated by anyone looking to upgrade their beading or tapestry loom. If
someone already owns a Mirrix loom, check out their selection of kits, patterns
and accessories!
Sample pack of Nicole's Bead Backing - The first time I
stitched some bead embroidery on a piece of Nicole's Bead Backing, I was
hooked. The best part about Nicole's Bead Backing is that it comes in a wide range
of colors, so you don't need to muck around with dyes. Give your favorite bead
embroidery enthusiast a sample pack of this fantastic bead embroidery material!
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| The Beaded Phoenix Reference Chart Poster is a gift that will be appreciated and well-used! |
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Of course, another popular gift idea for your favorite beader
is a gift certificate to an independent bead shop. Online bead supply stores
like
Beyond Beadery and
The Hole Bead Shoppe offer electronic gift
certificates, or check with your Local Bead Shop to find out if they offer gift
certificates.
Do you have a great idea for shopping local for bead gifts
this holiday season? Leave a comment and share your tips and suggestions on the
blog!
Bead (and shop!) Happy,
Jennifer