November 9, 2017 @ 11:58 AM

"You can't buy love, but you can buy handmade and that's kind of the same thing."

Over the years craft fairs have become more and more popular, to the point where it is sometimes difficult to even see the crafts for all of the shoppers.  Etsy has a huge online presence, offering crafts and supplies of all kinds.  Everyone is on Pinterest pinning ideas for recipes, home improvements, and crafts.  Stores such as Michaels, Hobby Lobby and JoAnn are everywhere, making it easier to find supplies.

In general we've also gone from shopping at physical brick and mortar stores to shopping online in our pajamas.  Maybe it's easier or takes less time.  We can open an email, see a sale and pounce on it before our feet even hit the ground in the morning. But when it comes to finding that special gift, handmade is still often the best!

We give gifts for multiple reasons.  Maybe it's a holiday or birthday.  The receiver is a family member or co-worker.  It's hard to find just the thing for just the person!  You can scroll through online sites for hours and still not see the right color or size.  That's when it's best to make something.  It will be a one-of-a-kind, even if you follow a pattern or outline.  You can choose the colors and even personalize the gift specifically for your receiver.  Nobody else will give the exact same thing.  It will be meaningful, and show you care.  You took time to choose the materials, design and to make it!

Even those who have everything will not have a mug painted by your 4-year old or mosaic coasters designed by your family.  They will never regift something made by you!  

Start a new tradition and come in to make a personalized gift this year.  Your family will have the fun of crafting and the receiver will get a gift that shows thoughtfulness and care.