So Christmas...I don't know about everyone else, but for the last couple of years for me it has become an almost steady stream of Amazon deliveries arriving at my door in the run up to the big day. It just seems convenient, and I get to avoid the horrible traffic, masses of jostling people and general retail craziness that seems to engulf the whole of December. But… ordering so many things from Amazon doesn't sit well with me. There have been so many media stories about how they treat their staff and suppliers, the fact that they reportedly engage in tax avoidance and that they have such a monopoly - all of this makes me feel a bit queasy.
Christmas 2018 is my turning point! This year I'm going to try something different and I would absolutely love it if you would join me in this new adventure. I'm going to try to give the people I care about in my life handmade presents. I know it sounds a bit scary, but not everything has to be made by YOUR hands!
Across the British Isles we are literally surrounded by a wealth of so many talented crafters - both locally and via online sites. There are some truly amazing people out there trying to make a living from what they are truly gifted at and dedicated to doing. My pledge for this Christmas is support and help keep them going by spending my pound with the little guy rather than the big multinational – surely, it’s such a brilliant thing to do? And you get a wonderful handmade gift to give to people dear to you. Add to this the fact that you are decreasing your carbon footprint by buying local and it is easy to see that you are onto a winner.
Over the coming weeks we are going to share with you some top tips and ideas for #ourhandmadechristmas on our blog and also our social media channels. From ideas for things you can make yourself easily at home and craftsfolk who have some fabulous gifts to buy locally, to national websites showcasing the very best of British craft and handmade. We intend to encourage, showcase and support as many people as we can so that this Christmas really is #ourhandmadechristmas.
Are you in?
