{Hit the Books!} Handmade Gifts for Back to School

Summer is winding down fast, and that means back to school shopping is in full force. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, our gift guide of must-have school accessories and teacher gifts will help you hit the books.

Professors and students will love these stylish, refillable leather journals by Ox & Pine. Personalize it with initials, graduation year, or a favorite quote.

Be sure to get a teacher thank you card by Kat French Design for those everyday super heroes.

On the professor’s desk or away at college, display cherished memories with this desk photo holder by Creteation.

Rock your school ID with a personalized leather lanyard by Ox & Pine.

When it’s time for a little R&R, relax with a DIY kit for watercolor cacti by Maya X Kiwi.

Mark your page with a personalized leather bookmark by Ox & Pine. Make it a truly special gift by adding their name, graduation year, or favorite quote.

Even during finals, remember to breathe with these gorgeous hand stamped mini cuffs by Kathleen Care Jewelry.

Teachers and parents alike deserve to unwind with these DIY watercolor kits by Maxa X Kiwi.

Handy gifts for all the super manly teachers and students in your life, Sasha’s Hand Poured.

Some teachers make a difference beyond words. Show your appreciation with a customizable teacher bangle by Expressions Bracelets.

{Red, White & Blue Roundup!} Your Local Gift Guide for July Shopping

Summer is sizzling, and your to do list is a mile long, so let’s make shopping easy for you. Whether you’re looking for amazingness for your BFF's birthday, a thank you for that special coworker you share glares with during meetings, or some long overdue self care, we have the perfect summer gifts from local handmade artists in the DFW area. Shop local, support your community, and feel all warm and fuzzy knowing you mean the world to a small business. Enjoy our gift guide of modern Americana-inspired favorites and not-so-traditional red, white, and blue goodies.

Creteation

Expressions Bracelets

Earrings by Eryn

Mesa Blue

Ox & Pine

Uptown Pet Wear

Sasha’s Hand Poured

The Pig & The Peacock

Whipped Up Wonderful

Calisher Glass

Martolana Studio

Maya & Kiwi

The Crafter Way

Wandering Paper Co.

Designs by Andrea

{Artist Spotlight} Rebecca Ramos Jewelry

We know many of you love Rebecca Ramos Jewelry. We are thrilled Rebecca will be back as one of our vendors for the 2019 Etsy Dallas Spring Bash on May 4. Rebecca took a few minutes to do a little Q&A session just for y’all …

What are you most looking forward to for the Spring Bash?
I love the Etsy Dallas Spring Bash because the weather is always beautiful and shoppers are out and about looking fresh and happy. They are usually looking for gifts for mom as well as special little treats for themselves. It’s a bright and shiny show for sure.

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the Bash?
This show I have some fantastically trendy materials to work into my line. The new mother of pearl and acrylic accents blend flawlessly with the layered looks that are so popular right now. It’s very exciting and airy for Spring and Summer.

What is your favorite part of prepping for an upcoming show?
I love changing up my displays and jewelry offerings. Finding all the newest trends and doing them in my style. It’s always a super rewarding challenge.

What makes this event special for you?
I absolutely love seeing all my past customers. I love it so much that I even offer a “super customer” discount. If you are wearing a piece of Rebecca Ramos Jewelry that you purchased at a past show, you get a discount on your purchase at this show. I especially love it when the customer just happens to be wearing a piece and didn’t even know about the special discount. That’s the best!

What is a typical day of work like for you?
A typical day starts off with all the business part of business. Yuck. I get that out of the way first thing so I can move on to all the fun. The afternoons are spent getting dinner ready and hanging out with my kiddos. I don’t really get moving and creative until the later hours. I am definitely a night owl.

What is your professional background, and how did it lead you to the creative work you are pursuing now?
I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the arts — I was very lucky in this matter. I studied Industrial Design in college and then ended up working at a marketing company after graduation. I went on to open my own advertising agency and helped others with their brands for about 10 years. From there I found my love of making again and taught myself all about metal clay and jewelry making processes.

What inspires your work?
There is a strong form and function theme that runs through my work. I love when a piece just has that perfect “movement.” The way the metal moves from one shape to another. Each of my sculpted pieces are true one-of-a-kinds, and I love that aspect of my work.

What do you find the most challenging about your work?
It’s very challenging to stay innovative and relevant in this industry. There are so many amazing makers — especially at the Etsy Dallas shows. Each maker is constantly bringing their “A game” and it is a challenge to stay on trend while still remaining true to the vision that you have for your work.

Do you have any tips for finding work/life balance?
For me, it comes down to segmenting my day into little pockets. When my family is at work and school, I’m working. When they are home, I stay present and available for them. It doesn’t always work out this way. I definitely haven’t won any mom or wife awards lately. But when the family is home, I try my best to be here — both physically and mentally — even if it does mean that I miss out on a bunch of sleep when I have to work into the late hours to get my work finished.

Shop from dozens of artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Spring Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 4. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} Ox & Pine

Stephanie’s booth is always one of the most popular spots at the Bash so we know many of you will be excited to find Ox & Pine at the 2019 Etsy Dallas Spring Bash. We caught up with her for a quick Q&A just for y’all …

What are you most looking forward to for the Spring Bash?
Seeing and meeting customers in person. I love being able to talk one-on-one and to learn about the special gifts they're giving that we can help a little with.

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the Bash?
We have our famous leather luggage tags and will be selling our lovingly dubbed cheery mishaps for a big discount (leather journals that are cut a little funky or have a large scar).

What is your favorite part of prepping for an upcoming show?
It's exciting to think what fun and special personalizations everyone will have us stamp on their leather good.

What makes this event special for you?
We really only do the Etsy Bashes, so we really put our heart and soul into it.

Is there a story behind your shop/business name?
We went with something descriptive of what we do — ox for the leather and pine for the paper.

What is a typical day of work like for you?
I look through messages and go over orders each day. Then, it will vary from product development to working on social media and other marketing.

What is your professional background and how did it lead you to the creative work you are pursuing now?
I spent years learning leatherworking and bookbinding before starting to sell my leather goods.

How would you describe your shop?
We make personalized, handcrafted leather goods that create a connection through meaningful gift-giving.

What inspires your work?
A desire for beautiful and functional leather goods that mean something and will last forever.

What do you find the most challenging about your work?
Figuring out the best processes and fine-tuning our products to what others need.

Do you have any tips for finding work/life balance?
It's a daily challenge that sometimes you feel like you're winning at and other days you don't.

Shop from dozens of artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Spring Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 4. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} Mesa Blue Jewelry

Linsey combines textile, metal, gemstones, geodes and more in her Mesa Blue Jewelry line. We can’t wait to see her booth at the 2019 Etsy Dallas Spring Bash on May 4. And we know many of you are looking forward to shopping Mesa Blue again this year.

All of Linsey’s work is handmade by her and photographed right here in Dallas. She has been creating jewelry since she was a little girl. You’re sure to find something perfect for those on your Mother’s Day shopping list, graduates and a little something (or three) for yourself too.

She launched Mesa Blue on Etsy a decade ago and now the line is her full-time job. Because she makes every piece herself, each is one of a kind. We love how special that makes her work and we know you do too. Be sure to stop by her booth and tell Linsey hello. We’ll see y’all at the Bash!

Shop from dozens of artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Spring Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 4. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{We love you, Mom!} Your Local Gift Guide for Mother's Day Shopping

Whether you’re shopping for your mom, a friend, that coworker two cubicles down who is always covered in cat hair or your bestie who’s expecting, we have the perfect Mother’s Day gifts from makers right here in the DFW area. Shop local, shop small and support your community. It’s a win all around, if you ask us. Here are a few of our favorite finds for all the moms in your life.

Liz Wiley

Kat French Design

Heidy Henke Jewelry

Papertate

Nest in Progress

Mesa Blue

Wandering Paper Co.

Uptown Pet Wear

Expressions Bracelets

Whipped Up Wonderful

Calisher Glass

Tokodots

Ox & Pine

Designs by Andrea

Our favorite local finds for Floral Design Day

It’s Floral Design Day and we have a roundup of some of our favorite handmade floral finds from makers right here in DFW. We are sure you will find something here that you love for yourself and your favorite people (and pets!)

La Rosa Loteria Tee by bbchez

Glass flower garden stake by CalisherGlass

Texas Sticker by Designs by Andrea

Rutilated Quartz Necklace by Earrings by Eryn

Yoga meditation lotus flower keychain by Expressions Bracelets

Baby Shower Printable by Favors & Stuff Designs

Funny Wedding Card by Kat French Design

DIY Watercolor Kit by Maya by Kiwi

Yellow rose of Texas wall art by Martolana

Calabrian Bergamot, Red Currant and Violet lotion bar by The Pig and the Peacock

Thinking of you notecard by Tokodots

Brigette over the collar bandana by Uptown Pet Wear

Texas Bluebonnet Digital Art Print Wildflower by Wandering Paper Co.

Sweet Texas Honeysuckle Perfume by Whipped Up Wonderful

Congrats greeting card by Whiski Designs

{Sponsor Spotlight} Etsy, Inc. partners with Etsy Dallas for 2018 Jingle Bash

We are so honored and excited to have Etsy, Inc. as an official sponsor for the 2018 Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash. Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. Many of our Jingle Bash artists can be found on Etsy.

With 2 million active sellers and shops in nearly every country in the world, Etsy’s mission is to keep human connection at the heart of commerce. Etsy works to make a positive impact on the community, environment and the global economy. We are excited to partner with Etsy for the 2018 Jingle Bash, and to work toward our mission to promote the handmade movement in the greater Dallas area and beyond. 

Please join us in sending a huge thank you to Etsy for supporting the Bash and for helping our nonprofit achieve its goals and continue to put on premier art and craft shows in Dallas. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

Shop from over 100 artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bashfrom 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 10. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} Our Interview with April of Mini Muse

April burns the midnight oil to work on her Mini Muse line. Her typical work day begins at midnight and she does all she can until 3 a.m. She describes her shop as fun, lively, one-of-a-kind custom heirloom dolls. 

You’re going to love her adorable dolls, and we know lots of little ones and moms-to-be are going to want these for the holidays. You can choose your perfect Mini Muse at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash, sponsored by Etsy, on November 10 at the Fashion Industry Gallery. We caught up with April for a quick interview. 

What are you most looking forward to for the Jingle Bash?

I can’t wait to meet more Mini Muse lovers. I met so many people at the Spring Bash and received so much amazing feedback that really motivated me to bring out more designs.

Is Mini Muse offering anything new at the Bash?

I will be releasing our new Mini Men line as well as adding a few more animals to our collection.

What makes this event special for you?

I love the holidays. The holiday spirit makes my heart happy.

Is there a story behind your shop’s name?

My daughter’s nickname is Mini. She looks like my husband yet has my exact personality and interests. The nickname Mini fit her perfectly for us. She has been my muse and motivation since day one. Thus Mini Muse was born.

Shop from over 100 artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 10. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} Our Interview with Stephanie of Untamed Arte

When Stephanie is creating pieces for Untamed Arte, her goal is to make something special and different. Each one-of-a-kind piece is just that – unique and eye-catching. Untamed Arte is all about trying new things and thinking outside the box. 

You’re going to want to explore all the pieces in the Untamed Arte booth at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash on November 10 at Fashion Industry Gallery in Dallas. We caught up with Stephanie recently for an interview.

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the 2018 Jingle Bash?

We are trying out new designs of our resin work. We are also offering 15 percent off. 

What is your favorite part of prepping for an upcoming show?

Gathering materials to make new inventory is the best feeling. Completing orders gives me such an adrenaline rush. 

What makes the Bash special for you?

Meeting our sales goal is always a great feeling but what matters is the feedback that we get. We want to feel like we’re creating a product that people enjoy and want to take home. 

Is there a story behind your shop’s name?

Untamed Arte came about from not knowing what to name the business. There isn’t one type medium or main style that we do. We really enjoy experimenting and pushing the limits. 

What is a typical day of work like for you?

A typical day consists of filling orders. Reviewing my planner. For every task I check off, I add 10 more. I do a lot of research on how I can improve my craft and what new materials I can use.

How would you describe your shop?

I would describe it as fun and colorful. And a place where you just want to hang out for a while and really look at all the texture and pigments used in each piece. 

Art has always been a passion for Stephanie. She knew it was what made her happy and that’s what pushed her to finally take it from a hobby to a business. She works with her family on Untamed Arte and she said she is excited about the atmosphere at the Jingle Bash. We are too!

Shop from over 100 artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bashfrom 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 10. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

{Artist Spotlight} Our Interview with Stephanie of Ox & Pine

Stephanie fell in love with creating leather journals and her passion for making beautiful pieces inspired her to launch Ox & Pine. You can shop the Ox & Pine handcrafted leather goods booth at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash on November 10 at Fashion Industry Gallery in Dallas. 

One of her favorite parts of prepping for a show is planning out her displays so that shoppers can feel and smell them. Ox & Pine goods make wonderful gifts for loved ones on your holiday shopping list. They’re also a wonderful way to treat yourself this season. We caught up with Stephanie recently for an interview.

What are you most looking forward to for the Jingle Bash?

I’m most looking forward to meeting everyone in person. It’s so fun to hear about how a special gift will be given and to add personalizations on the spot to our leather goods.

Is your shop offering anything new, special or different at the Bash?

We’ll have a few new special products available at the Bash this year including our new leather bracelets and leather lanyards – all with personalization options. 

What is a typical day of work like for you?

A typical day involves cutting leather, sewing pages into journals, stamping personalization on journals, prototyping new products, and helping customers with questions. 

How would you describe your shop?

My shop is full of high-quality leather journals and other leather goods that are personalized – perfect for a gift for you or a loved one.

Stephanie said she loves creating products that means so much to the recipients. And she loves getting to work with her hands to create leather goods every day. We think the love she has for Ox & Pine shows and we can’t wait to see her booth at the 2018 Jingle Bash. 

Shop from over 100 artists offering unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 10. From original art, home goods, and artisanal soaps to local jewelry designers, leather workers and so much more! Check out the event on Facebook here. And find out how to shop the Bash like a pro here. We’ll see y’all at the Bash! 

13 Tips for Shopping the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash Like a Pro

The highly anticipated Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash is November 10 at F.I.G. Admission is free! We will have a free photo booth and fun make-and-take crafts. We put together a few tips for making the most of your Jingle Bash experience ...

1. Bring your favorite shopping buddies and be sure your phone or camera is charged. There are fun photo booths in the works and you’re going to want those selfies. Don’t forget to tag @etsydallas so we can see too!

2. Make your list before Bash Day so you won’t forget anyone on your shopping list. Don’t forget holidays are right around the corner. You can even browse the 2018 Jingle Bash Artists ahead of time.

3. Grab a map when you come in so you can head straight to your favorite booths. We will have some Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash swag at our information booth while supplies last. And be sure to visit the free make-and-take craft table hosted by Creative Arts Center of Dallas.

4. Bring a tote bag for your purchases if you want to keep your hands free for browsing all the beautiful handmade pieces our artists will have at the Jingle Bash. We will have extra totes for sale but supplies are limited.

5. The first 50 shoppers in line get our coveted Bash Bags. We are always excited with the contributions for the Bash Bags. Those 50 lucky shoppers who are first in line will love what they find inside.

6. Don’t stress if you arrive at opening to see people lined up outside the door. Diehard Bash shoppers are there to get their hands on our Bash Bags. Once doors open, everyone gets ushered right in without a wait.

7. Our all-volunteer leadership team works on planning for our Bashes all year long! We are passionate about putting on an event you will love but we can’t control the weather or traffic. If you’re planning to wait in the line before the show, be prepared.

8. Expect traffic. Plan your route ahead of time. It’s downtown Dallas, y’all. Check the news for construction or any big events that may affect your route. Consider carpooling with friends or taking DART if driving downtown stresses you out.

9. Thankfully there are several parking options for F.I.G. We will have food trucks and a bar onsite as well. 

10. Expect a crowd. We love how the community comes out to show support for our artists! If you want to browse with a little more elbow room, arrive after lunch. Don’t worry. Our artists are stocked for the whole day.

11. You may want to leave the stroller in the car or at home. If possible, wearing your little one may make shopping the Bash easier for you.

12. Find the Etsy Dallas table to find out how to win Bash Bucks (that’s money that only works at this Bash, y’all). We want to give you extra $$ to spend at the Bash, so don’t miss out!

13. If you haven’t already, sign up for our newsletter. We promise we only send out fun and happy emails. It’s a great way to get the scoop on all our upcoming events.

Let's go back to school in style with these handmade finds from Dallas artists

There's more to back-to-school season than No. 2 pencils and late nights wrapping up new lesson plans. We put together a roundup of handmade gifts for students, teachers and parents gearing up for the new academic year. 

Expressions Bracelets has wearable inspiration for all you teachers and professors.

Get those college or high school beards in shape with The Immaculate Beard. 

These personalized graduation necklaces from Kathleen Care are lovely gifts for grads, moms and college students looking forward to wrapping up their studies. 

Show your kid's teacher you care with these hilarious cards from MayaXKiwi based on that Dena Blizzard video you may have seen. 

Keep it together (or at least keep your earbuds from tying themselves into a hundred knots) with one of these gorgeous cord wraps from Ox&Pine. 

Pro Tip: Those teachers deserve a relaxing bath and we know the perfect bath bombs. Scoop up some Whipped Up Wonderful for yourself while you're at it. 

Prioritize coffee before those things you need to get done while the kids are at school, with this Kat French Design notepad.

Pack all of your kid's essentials in this cute pouch from Hearts and Sharts.

Use the start of the new year to jump-start a new habit with this gratitude notebook from MadeByRori.

Maybe you would rather list your to-do's on this colorful kantha stitches notepad from tokodots.

However you start the school year, just remember, it means sweater weather is around the corner.  Right??  Get ready for fall with this mug from Fresh Out of Ink.

Shop+Interview with Spring Bash artist Jillian of Vintage Static

Jillian and Matt are the makers behind Vintage Static. Her modern, handcrafted soaps, scrubs and bath products are made locally in Frisco.

Vintage Static is bringing new bar soap scents and all of their beard oils to the Spring Bash. “This is our first show,” Jillian said. “We are so grateful and excited to be included.” If you’re shopping for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, she recommends her whipped soaps/scrubs and bath bomb hexes, and the solid shave soaps and beard oil.  

The shop’s name came to her in a dream. “It derives from the nostalgic feel of listening to records, which we do all the time, and the static at the end of the LP side,” Jillian said. She describes their shop as modern and muted, using natural colorants and clean lines with a restrained color palette. 

Jillian describes herself as high-energy and finds inspiration by scanning her Instagram feeds. After sharing some of her favorite grammers, she said, “And of course the Texas ladies crushing it! There are so many. I am constantly impressed by the talent here in Dallas.” We couldn’t agree more! “To see all the talent out there really drives me,” she said. The challenge is to not create every scent or color that comes to mind and to remain selective and focused, she said.

Stop by the Vintage Static booth and say hello to Jillian at the 2018 Etsy Dallas Spring Bash where you can shop the best handmade artists from near and far. We will be at Gilley’s 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, May 5, 2018. We’ll see y’all at the Bash!

Shop+Interview with Spring Bash artist Stephanie of Ox and Pine

Stephanie is the bookbinder and artist behind Ox & Pine. Her personalized leather journals, handmade notebooks and other leather goods are made here in the Dallas area.

She will be offering personalization stamping on the spot at the Spring Bash. “We’ll have some fun designs stamped onto leather luggage tags for a special price only available at the Bash,” Stephanie said. “It’s so fun to see customers face-to-face, and to be able to physically show them our leather goods.”

Stephanie said she is excited to meet people in person at the Bash. “I don’t do other any other in-person events, so this is a special occasion for me to meet and talk with customers in person.”

If you’re looking for a meaningful, lasting gift for a loved one for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation or some other special occasion, something from Ox & Pine may be the perfect fit. “I love creating leather goods and working with my hands,” Stephanie said. “I’m always on the lookout to create something special that will be useful and beautiful.”

Stop by the Ox & Pine booth and say hello to Stephanie at the 2018 Etsy Dallas Spring Bash where you can shop the best handmade artists from near and far. We will be at Gilley’s 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, May 5, 2018. We’ll see y’all at the Bash!

Gifts for Teachers: Show your appreciation with a handmade gift

Teacher Appreciation Day is May 8 and we have a roundup of handmade gifts teachers are sure to love from some of our favorite Dallas artists. We love these pieces and we know you will too. 

University of Texas Map - Joy Street Maps

Modern Gold Hoop Earrings - Kathleen Care Jewelry

Hand painted Canvas Clutch - Liz Wiley

Coffee Henna Art Print - Selah Vie Studios

Dried Wild Flower Pendant Necklace - Gnome Stones

Teacher's Quote Wood Sign - The Chatham Collective

Sea Salt Sage Soy Candle - Mythology Candles

Personalized Leather Journal - Ox & Pine

Dallas Skyline Print - Wandering Paper Co.

The Apple Pi Soap - The Pig and the Peacock

Personalized Teacher Appreciation Bracelet - expressions bracelets

Geometric Planter - DCD Design Co

Forget Me Not Cuff Bracelet - Whispers in The Glen

HELLO Boxed Note card Set - Hearts and Sharts

Upcycled Silk Tassel Necklace - Handing by Threads

8 handmade finds for your best 2018

We have big plans for 2018 and a list of resolutions to prove it. How do you motivate yourself to stick to your goals? We have a roundup of 8 local finds which are great for helping us meet our goals and for rewarding ourselves for our achievements. 

1. Track goals with pretty stationery from Kat French Design. We love this to-do list notepad (and the calendar notepad above) for helping us knock out our daily and monthly tasks. 

2. Keep things tidy and smelling fresh with soy wax candles from The Pig and the Peacock. This one in Lemongrass Sage is uplifting with garden and citrus notes that leave us feeling refreshed and energized. 

3. Recover from workouts and practice self-care with a bath bomb from Whipped Up Wonderful. This Honey Almond bomb is made with hand-ground honey and oat powders that will pamper your skin and is thought to reduce the signs of aging. Yes, please!

4. Take better care of your skin with soothing lotion from Sasha's Hand Poured. We love this silky Spearmint Eucalyptus lotion for winter. 

5. Make more meals at home. Pro tip: We hear good things about the Instant Pot. Don't forget a cute apron while you whip up something yummy. We love the selection from Mia Maria.

6. Feed your friendships. Send your friends some real mail and let them know you're thinking of them. When is the last time you got some happy mail? Didn't it feel great? We love the Texas Knit notecards from Tokodots. 

7. Remember to meditate. The Texas Zen Garden from SurlyBunny has everything you need. 

8. Keep a journal in 2018. We love these personalized leather journals from Ox & Pine. 

Here's wishing you all a magical and adventurous 2018! We hope you have a good one. 

Handmade Father's Day Gift Guide with Heidy

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 18th. Do you have your present yet? We’ve shopped through the best of local Dallas Etsy artists to find unique, handcrafted gifts for Dad and gathered our favorite fifteen here.

From left:  Kat French Designs, Tokodots

But first, the card. Designer, Kat French on her inspiration:

“I made this card thinking of my own dad and my husband who labor all week long then give it their all on the weekends taking care of the house, cars, yards and do it all without complaining.”

And Tokodots’ card is, of course, perfect for anytime you want to thank Dad.

The Top 15 Handmade Father’s Day Gifts

Clockwise from left: Jenny N Design, Mesa Blue, Wingbean Woodworks 

​1. The Professional Backpack from Jenny N Design, $253

2. Leather Wrap Bracelet from Mesa Blue, $25

3. Drink Local Bottle Opener from Wingbean Woodworks, $35

 Clockwise from top left: Piece of Shards, Expressions Bracelets, Rhapsody Letterpress, A Cheery Blossom

4. Docking Station and Organizer from Piece of Shards, $59.95

5. Best Dad Ever Keychain from Expressions Bracelets, $15.95

6. Fahrenheit 451 Literary Quote from Rhapsody Letterpress, $20.00

7. Personalized Leather Notebook from a Cheery Blossom, starting at $30.00

Clockwise from top left: mini-Fab, The Pig and the Peacock, Sasha’s Hand-Poured, Big T Woodworks 

​8. The Trio Multi-tool Pocket Beard Comb from mini-Fab, $34.99

9. Tobacco and Leather Scent Soy Wax Candlefrom The Pig and the Peacock, $10.00

10. Beard Balm from Sasha’s Hand-Poured, $18.00

11. Paduak and Zebrawood Beard Comb from Big T Woodworks, $28.00

Clockwise from top left: Joy Street Maps, Wandering Paper Co., Vinyl Revamped, Mush Tushy 

12. Hand Drawn Map of Dallas Print from Joy Street Maps, starting at $25.00

13. Dallas Skyline Linocut Block Print from Wandering Paper Co, $20

14. Jimmy Buffet Lyrics on Reclaimed Vinyl Record Wall Art from Vinyl Revamped, $15.95

15. Dallas Cowboys Inspired Wall Art from Mush Tushy, $55.00

Happy Father's Day to all our wonderful dads, and thank you for all you do!

Etsy Dallas 2017 Bash Mothers Day Gift Guide with Heidy

Mother’s Day Gifts Guaranteed to Make You the Favorite.

On Sunday, May 7th, the crafters and creatives of Texas are descending on Gilley’s in Dallas to sell unique handmade wares at the Etsy Dallas Spring Bash.  It’s a shopping experience like no other – great music, free make & takes, multiple bars + a restaurant on site, and don’t forget the famous Bash bags – you won’t want to miss it!

While you’re there shopping for yourself, don’t forget to get a gift for mom that she’ll cherish. (Because Mother’s Day is May 14th, *hint, hint*)  We’ve put together a few of our favorite gift ideas for you.

Because you’re the reason why she needs wine and bubble baths:

Whipped Up Wonderful

The Pig and the Peacock

Sasha's Hand Poured

Luna Tigre

My Dearest Danae

For the Nature loving mom

Glass House Collection

Heidi Miller Lowell

Sweet Tees Shop

Valerie Morgan Designs

Whispers in the Glen

For brand-spankin' new moms:

Bebe Mine Boutique

Precious Little Tot

For the mom who loves lounging and breakfast in bed:

Alexandria Dayne

Scribbles Lettering

Sweet Marcel

For the mom who loves travel:

Alohomora Design

Wanderlust Wares Shop

Carry It Well

For the spiritual mamma:

Expressions Bracelets

Live Bree

Woodworx

Because jewelry is always a good idea:

Sarah Briggs

Shop Daisy Made

Gabrielle's Little Secrets

Adorn Goods

Mesa Blue

Dandelion Leather Co

Earrings by Eryn

Dawn Franklin Designs

The Distillery

For the mom who likes to pretty her nest:

Joy Street Maps

Jude Landry

Shadow Box Gems

Spring Bash Shopping Guide: Mother's Day Gifts

Mark your calendars, Mother's Day is May 14th. Let's honor those super-women in your life with something special and handmade this year. I have you covered for all the mamas you know:  Mom, Mother-in-law, Grandmother, and maybe something special for yourself!  You can find it, smell it, and feel it all at the Spring Bash on May 7th. Check it out!

Ceramic Planter from Kristen Saksa Juen

Tassle Hoop Earrings from Mesa Blue

Natural Boutique Soap from My Dearest Danae

Floral Mandala Floral Specimen Art from Glass House

BOHO Natural Bead Bracelets from Expressions Bracelets

Small Batch Soy Candles from Luna Tigre

Marbled Leather Valet Tray from Byndr Leather Goods

Large Angled Serving Board from Gaston Made