This one’s a little different.
Because we’re so close to Christmas, I’m going to focus on two things in this post: gifts that can get there in time, and gifts we can give ourselves as self-care during this stressful time. I think they’re both really important, and I want to make sure that while you give everyone a smile during the season, that you don’t drain yourself in the process!
Don’t panic! The holidays are meant for joy and love. And fiber arts. And self-love, too!
This is seriously the most flexible subscription ever. You can get a single set, doubles, ombre/gradient, or pops of color! As a gift, I would set it up then cancel after however many months I wanted to give. Space Cadet has wonderful yarn with outstanding colors – any knitter, crocheter, or weaver would love this gift!
My favorite source for learning about fiber arts and challenging myself! The photos are stunning, there are always interesting projects to go along with each issue’s topic, and the articles are written by some of the best and most thoughtful fiber artists out there. This makes an amazing gift, either in print or digital editions!
Give a Gift Subscription to PLY
A binder-sized printable that can be printed out again and again, this is a great way for a beloved fiber artist to keep track of all their details – from fiber type, how it was spun, dyeing notes, stash inventory, and so much more.
I might buy this for someone and include with it a nice binder and a couple of sets of these printed out on really nice paper and ready to go. Add a fancy pen for a perfect last-minute set!
Printable Spinner’s Journal from KimberlyOuimet
Another great printable gift! Printed on sturdy cardstock, these would be amazing as gifts, or attached to the fibery gifts you are giving for ALL the details!
Check out her shop for some other great printable for last minute gifts, as well!
Printable Tags from elisadallomo
Don’t forget GIFT CERTIFICATES! Many small businesses offer them these days [I do right here], and they’re a great way to give the opportunity for a shopping spree.
If you’re interested in shopping with me – thank you if you are! – then check out my Art Yarn Party and Fiber Party clubs. They are fun and a great way to shake up your gift recipient’s spinning or other fiber art.
Now, about that self-care.
The last week before Christmas is always really stressful for most people. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in all the details that make the holiday bright for others and then forget that we can’t pour from an empty cup.
This means that you’ve got to take time to recharge, my friend. It doesn’t have to be much – a nice bath/shower and some cream for that dry winter skin. A delicious tea and the 20 minutes to drink it while you do nothing. Some time with your journal to take note of the reasons for the season. A nice project for you to keep.
Here’s some quick links for things you might explore for self-care from now until the end of the year… and beyond.
DIY Aromatherapy Shower Sprays
Cranberry Coconut Salt Scrub DIY
Meditative Crocheting with an Expanding Spiral
Paleo Cranberry Walnut Scones [make these for YOU]
YearCompass is a free booklet to help you plan the year ahead.
Lastly, I have some interesting reading for folks who run a small business or who are interested in how small businesses do what they do. Beth Maiden talks at length about Slow Commerce, and how slowing down both the volume and how she approaches her business feels more fulfilling to her these days.
Where retailers race to the bottom-est of rock-bottom prices… I’ll keep setting my prices based on a simple, fair formula: That everyone (me, my assistant, the folks who create the goods I sell) is getting paid properly.
This is a plea for a movement towards slow commerce.
Slow commerce is the antithesis of antithesis of mainstream online reatail culture. The deliberate antithesis of Amazon culture.
And it’s bloody beautiful.
Give it a read, will you? It really sums up how I feel about selling, consumerism, mindfulness, and connection.
http://bethmaiden.com/the-garden/slow-commerce/
If I don’t post before then, I wish you the happiest holiday possible, whatever holiday you celebrate. <3
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