In the Blog

“Handmade is love.”

December 10th, 2008     by Diandra Oliver     Comments

buyhandmade.org

I know that we’re partially on our way into December and if you’re as good as Martha you’ve already collected those renegade pine cones and dipped them in both glue and glitter. But if not, there’s still time to make or buy handmade for the holidays.

The Buy Handmade campaign started just over a year ago and is based on one simple pledge: “I pledge to buy handmade this holiday season, and request that others do the same for me.” By participating in this pledge the “buyer” (or maker!) makes an important move towards not only protecting the earth from further degradation, but also encourages a reconnection to the physical during these harried holidays.

My number one reason for buying or making handmade all year round, and particularly at the holidays, is that it’s a great way for me to exercise my feminisms. I believe that each time I pick up the needle and thread (or pine cone and glitter) I am making a statement about who I am (feminist-crafter), what I believe in terms of women’s work (that women’s work is complicated and that crafting can actually be a respite from the double-day), and how I choose to operate in the global market (by keeping the $$ in the hands of the makers).

If you need help making for the holidays Craftster is definitely the place to be, and if you’re looking to buy handmade get down to your local clothing and gift stores and craft fairs. If you’re somewhat “isolated” like me (ie. you live in Atlin, BC), there’s still time to buy online at places like Etsy.

Tags: diy

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