I am not one to enjoy getting elbowed and shoved around in a mad dash to buy the most popular gift item of the holiday season. I prefer to buy handmade gifts that are unique and off the beaten path.
I do my shopping in the Canton Arts District or online from artists and crafts people whose works I have come to know.
I thought I would share a few of them with you.
My favorite place to shop is Second April Galerie and Studios. Second April features artwork, jewelry, and other great gift items from local artists in the Canton, OH Arts District.
Located at 324 Cleveland Ave. NW in downtown Canton, OH, Second April has a large gallery on the first floor and individual artist gallery/studios on the second floor.
There is so much to see and do at Second April! It is a fun place to visit, making holiday shopping an enjoyable experience!
One of the studios on the second floor of Second April is White Horse Studio, featuring the artwork of my good friend Sue Steiner.
Sue is most known for painting beautiful Impressionistic paintings of horses, but she paints a variety of other subjects as well.
Sue shares my passion for animals, and often paints pet portraits of cats and dogs. She also has many items that can be purchased online in varying price ranges.
Check out this great special she currently is offering towards her pet portraits!
Last, but certainly not least, I thought I would give a shopping shout-out to a friend who is about as far away from the Canton Arts District as you can get–New Zealand!
I met jewelry and doll artist Whiskr online through Twitter, and I have become a great fan of her work. You can find unique dolls and jewelry at her online Etsy and Art Fire shops.
Whiskr currently is offering free shipping on all her doll pins and other delights!
Hurry though. December 7th is her cut-off date for international posting to ensure delivery by Christmas.
Do you know of some interesting places to shop online for unique handmade gifts? I am always looking for new places to explore! Please leave any ideas and suggestions that you may have in the comments.
I have my own online shopping options, too. Please peruse the galleries on this site for original paintings and prints, and check out my Cafe Press and Zazzle stores too!
Happy Cyber Monday shopping!
Life is and Adventure!
BZTAT
Disclaimer: BZTAT receives no compensation for endorsements. She does have artwork available for purchase at Second April Galerie.