Holiday shopping is in full effect as the countdown begins to the winter gift-giving holidays. When shopping for those you cherish most, we hope you consider buying handmade presents that are as unique and special as everyone on your list. To help you with this daunting task, we’ve asked past Small Business Grant recipients to share their favorite picks to help you expertly select gifts for your loved ones and support artists at the same time. Check out the list of curated products, along with a reminder of why shopping small is important from our Maker Community Manager Alexa Terry Wilde, below!
What is Small Business Saturday?
Alexa: In 2010, American Express launched a movement called Small Business Saturday as a way to encourage consumers to shop small and local businesses during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. Taking place the day after Black Friday, it falls in the lineup for Cyber 5—the five days between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday. For some small business owners, Small Business Saturday can be one of the most profitable sales days of the entire year.
Small Business Saturday Makes a Meaningful Impact
When I ran my brick-and-mortar store, my customers showed up in a big way on Small Business Saturday, searching for the perfect found or handmade treasure that would delight their loved ones during the gift-giving season.
When you shop small, you’re directly supporting the creative mind behind the product and, in turn, the local economy. You’re likely to receive a product that is crafted over several hours with love, care and quality. Last, but certainly not least, the recipient of your gift (even if that recepient is YOU!) will be hard pressed to find something exactly like it in a big box store as handmade gifts are often authentic and unique!
Scroll on to see what these small business owners have curated especially for the Spoonflower community. They’ve each shared either a little bit about their brand or what makes their pick a stand-out product. Some grantees have even included a coupon code as well for you to use too!
Clothing
“These tunics are designed to be cozy. With convenient side pockets, they offer functionality you need on the go. Stay warm, comfortable and fashionable no matter what your day holds.”
Receive 10% off your entire order
with code “spoonflower.”
“Our recycled hoodies are definitely our best gift! The blooming flowers are anything but basic, and they feel as good as they look with a super soft plush inside.”
Get 20% off all hoodies until December 31
with the promo code “Spoonflower.”
“Sarah Tremain’s goal is to support women who have experienced sexual trauma heal by donating a portion of profits towards healing services and related organizations.”
Free shipping with promo code “HOLIDAYFREESHIP” through December 20.
“The Maracas Lookout Exaggerated Caftan is a captivating piece where beautifully bold colors meet melodious movement—a picture-perfect caftan fit for only fabulous vacationistas.”
“You can create the most unique wardrobe of beautiful, creative things by shopping small! You become a style curator when you take the extra time to find small emerging brands.”
“This sweater is perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties and for whenever you want to stay cozy but stand out. The color blocking allows you to pair this sweater with jeans, slacks and sweats to take you from running errands to after-work drinks!”
Use the promo code “BROOKLYN’$FINE$T” to receive 10% off through January 1, 2024.
“Spoonflower-printed chest binders are fully unique and one of a kind! Everything is made to measure in our Vermont sewing studio. We especially love signal-noise prints, for those whose gender is unperceivable to mortalkind.”
“This repeat pattern is a custom ginkgo leaves design by request from a client. While I love to create whatever inspires me at any given moment, I also love to be inspired by others’ requests.”
Direct message christa_studiohaus on Instagram to purchase.
“SUITE by Jennifer Diederich is a brand of colorful, vintage-inspired, conversation-starting, quick escape coats and party dresses made in NYC. This is a perfect joyful jacket for all your holiday events—from Christmas tree lightings to holiday parties!”
Use promo code “SHUFFLEBOARD” for 20% off coats and accessories through December 1.
Personal Care
“This Aussie-made, women-owned company makes lupin-filled hot and cold packs that contour to your body to assist with pain management and comfort. They don’t sweat when heated, retain heat longer than traditional wheat bags and are odorless.”
Use promo code “Spoonflower15” for 15% off.
“FishBellies are fish-shaped, corn-filled bags used to soothe aches and pains either microwave hot or freezer cold. Fun and functional, Ivy Little Fishbellie not only soothes your achy body parts, she will also cheer you up with her bright and bold colors!”
Use one-time use promo code “SPOONFLOWER” for 20% off through June 30, 2024
“We offer a fabulous range of reusable cloth pads that not only reduce waste but also bring a touch of humor and wit to your period when you may not be feeling your best. This starter set features our most popular size in a curated mini set, ready to make your day a bit brighter.”
Use promo code “SPOONFLOWER” to receive 15% off through January 31, 2024.
“Pena Pads is a one-stop shop for reusable pads and wet bags made from exclusive prints designed in-house. Bright and colorful, this design cheers me up whenever I have to change my cup or pad!”
Buy 5 pads in the same order and receive 5% off with promo code “SPOONFLOWER5” through December 31. Only available to European Union (EU) customers.
“This is a perfectly soft sleep mask in a beautiful fabric that’s gently padded and has Sherpa backing. What’s not to love? It’ll be your new nightly companion!”
Receive 10% off through December 31.
Accessories
“Mom’s Fanny was designed to hold up in extreme environments and situations, such as mothering. It’s the perfect companion for a hike to the coffee shop, a grueling kids party or a walk with your fur baby.”
Receive 20% off your entire order using promo code “spoonflower20” through December 31.
These simple crossbody bags are perfectly sized to fit the on-the-go essentials. Featuring mushrooms, trees, florals or mountains and leather accents—these small bags have big personalities!”
Take $5 off any order using promo code “TAKE5OFF” through December 31, 2024.
“Freon Collective is a low-waste lifestyle brand based in Toronto. Our tote bags are handcrafted with sturdy handles and include an interior pocket so your smaller items don’t get lost in the spacious bag!
Receive 20% off using promo code “SPOONFLOWER20” through December 31.
“These tote bags are perfect for eco-conscious people who like items that put the “fun” in functional. The exterior features colorful art printed on Recycled Canvas; the lining is made from thrifted, repurposed or deadstock fabric.”
Receive 10% off using “SPOON10FLOWER” through December 15.
“Our mini pouches are the cutest and handiest gift for anybody who is always on-the-go. Especially when paired with its matching keychain, they’re the perfect size for carrying around your daily essentials hands-free—perfect for concerts or sporting events when bag sizes are limited. Plus, it’s small enough to stash in almost any purse or bag for longer trips.”
“TA ART Shop offers roll-up brush/pencil cases for any artist. Use them for paint or make-up brushes, pens, pencils, markers, crochet hooks or knitting needles. All cases are handmade by Tatiana Anisimova and based on her original artworks.”
Purchases can be made through Instagram direct message. Get free shipping within Canada and USA using code “Freeshipnorth” through December 15.
“This purse is the perfect way to spice up any outfit. With bold colors and fun imagery, it’s bound to be your next conversation piece! Lavender Lion is a place to find purses and accessories that showcase wildlife and everyday objects in a fun and creative way.”
Get free shipping using promo code “SPOONSWOON” through December 15.
“Moon Moth creates handmade butterfly and moth costume wings made by Anne Rea, an autistic seamstress and artist. Moon Moth focuses on designing whimsical and unique accessories.”
“Our scrub hats help veterinary, medical and dental healthcare heroes become more sustainable by switching to reusable scrub hats. Not only are they better for the environment and our patients, they also help you look and feel good while operating!”
Receive 10% off using promo code “Spoonflower10.”
“I love this product because you can gift your loved one something they can wear to “jazz up” any occasion. The Don kit, featuring our Port of Spain Jumbo Bow Tie and matching flower pin, is perfect for parties, weddings and everyday show-stopping.”
Save 23% with promo code “SpoonGG23” through December 31.
“I look for unique, quirky gifts. Something that will elicit a smile. I also really appreciate the skills and craft that go into making things.”
Stocking Stuffers
“A handmade item has a level of attention to detail, precision and craftsmanship that carries magic with it. Covered in one of my favorite designs of this year, this sketchbook is filled with mixed-media paper that will hold whatever your creativity throws at it.”
Get 10% off using promo code “SPOONFLOWER.”
“I handcraft unique small-batch notebooks. Each is made by hand with so much love using vegan and eco-friendly materials. It’s a thoughtful way to show someone you care about their interests and passions. With a notebook in hand, the possibilities are endless.”
“This colorful star is a good beginner project that introduces you to the woven stitch I use in most of my patterns. It’s a satisfying project for the holiday season that can be gifted as a kit or you can make the star yourself and gift the finished product!”
“Tiny, hand embroidery hoop ornaments make sweet keepsake presents, gift tags or yearly ornaments. Little dear creates unique and beautiful hand embroidery patterns, DIY craft kits and fun felt sewing patterns to delight your crafty heart.”
“A gift certificate for queer style coaching is such a powerful way to show your support for your queer loved one! This is especially helpful for folks who have recently come out as queer/trans or are going through a transition in their identity. This is literally a life-changing gift that will change the game for them on a daily basis; it also shows your loved one that you accept and support them for who they are.”
“To me, a gift is something that reminds me of who the recipient is and should be an item that they would truly appreciate. It’s even better when it comes from a small business because it shows an extra level of thoughtfulness and care. “
“Gift Me Again helps you to gift wrap in a unique and memorable way with our practical, fun and eco-friendly gift bags that will perfectly complement your thoughtful present.”
Receive 10% off all products with promo code “SPOONFLOWER” through December 31.
“Needle and Dagger offers handmade book sleeves that keep your books secured and protected. They also provide utility without sacrificing cute design details. The Mushroom Book Sleeve is a great choice to keep your books cozy and safe.”
Receive 10% off your order with promo code “COOLSPOON” through December 31.
Kids
“Chispa Park creates basic wellness education concepts for children. I am an Ayurveda-trained diet and lifestyle coach, who designs items to introduce wellness basics at home. These cloth books are my babies and the first seedlings of a greater concept and vision. They are fun and educational on their own, but also a part of a series well on its way.”
“Each Camp Clever play bundle comes wrapped up and ready to gift in a keepsake storage bag with a list of open-ended play benefits, ideas to get playtime started and care instructions. Camp Clever creates surface design for housewares and stationery as well as handmade pretend play toys and home decor.”
Receive 10% off quick ship categories using promo code “SPOONFLOWER” through November 30.
“SO Handmade provides eco-friendly children’s travel toys that fill the gap between organization and fun. They give kids the chance to explore their own imaginations and engage in self-directed play on-the-go! This bag comes with a set of triangular crayons so they can be creative wherever they go.”
Use promo code “SPOONFLOWER” for free shipping.
“Washable coloring mats are the perfect stocking stuffer! They are made of fabric and waterproof backing, so they are perfect for travel. Use washable markers and you can color over and over. Shopping from small businesses supports more variety of perspectives and ideas in the marketplace.”
Receive $5 off any order using promo code “SPOON23” through November 30.
“This is such a great screen-free attention-keeper while out and about. It’s bright and makes a lovely sound. Fun for all ages to play with—even the big, big kids have fun with the challenge of building with the pieces safely inside the square.”
Receive 10% off using promo code “NEWFRIEND10.”
“Monty & Mabel make bespoke hair accessories using fun and colourful fabrics. The colors aren’t your stereotypical Christmas red and green, it’s a fun twist on the classic Christmas tree!”
Receive 10% off using promo code “SPOONFLOWER10” through November 30.
“When you shop small you support a dream. You enable someone to provide for themselves and their family in a way that brings meaning and purpose. “
“Our sleeping masks are not just accessories; they’re a passport to a world of restful and fantastical dreams. Luvaboo’s handmade creations are lovingly made with a passion for detail.” For orders please send a direct message via Luvaboo’s Instagram account.
Receive 10% off on orders through December 31.
“Little Olive is an organic kidswear brand that is handmade in the Scottish countryside. I love that our Magical Forest pajamas feel festive enough to be the perfect Christmas PJ set. The print is one that can be worn all year round so our customers will get great use out of them rather than just for the festive season!”
“Inspired by an ordinary neighborhood walk with my little ones in the Pittsburgh suburbs, this was one of my first fabric designs and still one of my favorites. Our bestselling stay-on baby shoes and bandana bib gift set in this original, happy print would make an adorable gift for all the little ones in your life!”
Use promo code “SPOONFLOWERHANDMADE” for free shipping for orders over $50. Offer expires 11:59 p.m. EST, November 30, 2023.
“Our pram nests are uniquely designed pram sleeping bags grow with your baby from newborn to 5 and flip out to a pram liner in warmer months! They’re carefully crafted using high-quality New Zealand wool and cotton and fit all pram models. No more blankets getting caught in the wheels or grumpy babies because they’re too cold when out for walks.”
Free beanie and nappy wallet with your pram nest order using promo code “nestbundle” at checkout.
Pets
“Our pet bandanas come in many unique patterns to choose from and are made with Sport Piqué. They also snap on, making them easy to put on and off. Each bandana has a STEM-related name with three fun facts about them, adding a nerdy flare!”
Receive 10% off using promo code “SPOONFLOWER10” through December 31.
“Bramble and Friends is a hub for unique dog accessories made with top-quality materials for all shapes and sizes. I love to see creative, beautiful items that have been made with care.”
Receive 10% off using “SPOONFRIENDS” through December 30.
“Is there anything better than sharing a warm, uplifting story with a loved one? When you give a gift from a small business, you can cultivate a deeper connection with the person you’re gifting to.”
Home Decor
“Our 2024 Simple Days Calendar is filled with barns and farmhouses, sheds and gardens. It’s made to remember those simple, good things that never change; working with our hands, cultivating a warm and loving home and noticing with gratitude the rich beauty that surrounds us each day.”
Receive 20% off with promo code “SIMPLEDAYS” through November 30.
“My 2024 calendar tea towel is beautiful, happy, functional, and checks all the boxes for the kind of gift you’ll want to keep for yourself! I love to find a gift that I’m confident will bring joy, but also is something unexpected that I know that no one else will think to give.”
Receive 10% off with promo code “AARYNWESTFRIENDS” through December 31.
“This calendar adds a burst of color and abstract pattern to any office, classroom, dorm room or kitchen. It’s printed on stunning paper with bright, beautiful inks. Each month provides an opportunity for contemplation and joy. It also becomes 12 fine art prints that you can cut out, frame or gift when the year is over.”
Receive 10% off with promo code “SPOONFLOWER10.”
“Shopping small not only helps small business owners and contributes to your local community, it also expands our ideas for what a good, thoughtful gift could be. Though the latest technology and trendy appliances are nice, sometimes the most impactful gifts are simpler in appearance but carry a lot of meaning and intention.”
“Our hand-drawn embroidery samplers are printed and ready for stitching right away. The blank spot at the bottom of each house in these ornaments is the perfect spot for a name, a baby’s birthdate or the address of a first home. These easy-to-stitch ornaments are both sentimental and adorable.”
Save 10% on all Dropcloth Samplers’ ornament projects using promo code “SPOONFLOWER10” through November 15.
“These stockings are a one-of-a-kind sustainable decor item that can be passed down for generations! We’re based in Knoxville, TN, and have a primary focus on repurposed textiles, sustainable fashion and reclaimed fine art—all work is mindfully handcrafted by our small team.”
Receive 10% off our holiday collection using promo code “SPOONFLOWER10” through December 31.
“Turning these designs right side out after sewing always makes me happy. Our eclectic mix of ceramic sculpture, functional kitchenware and unique designs made into pillows, napkins and tea towels are sewn, fabricated and designed by Kim Murton.”
Featured designs: Tradition and The Gift by ernieandirene
“Inspired by an ancient textile, this pattern honors the many past generations of women who have created meaningful textiles for their communities that feature a beautiful, universal and visual language.”
“I like gifting things that stir up some sort of emotion. This design was illustrated by hand with gouache paint, printed on beautiful Linen Cotton Canvas and sewn together by myself! Lots of work and love goes into these tea towels.”
Free shipping is available in Fox & Fables’ Etsy shop.
“Our magic cat towel is a perfect gift. It features original artwork by founder Gabrielle Mandel of two cats playing. Printed digitally on organic cotton, this tea towel is super absorbent and makes your kitchen feel bright.”
Receive 20% off using promo code “Spoonflower20” through December 31.
