In a world of fast factory fashion and cookie cutter design it's a relief that there's still a craving for the singular, the extraordinary and the outstanding. In short, goods that are in fact uncommon. I'm delighted to introduce you to this month's Kind Sponsor - UncommonGoods - a refreshingly unique online marketplace established in 1999 with its headquarters based in New York City.
When I first came across UncommonGoods I was immediately impressed by their passion for showcasing original designs and handcrafted gifts that were deliberately created in harmony with animals, people and planet. Here's a quick snapshot of how this commitment to kindness is being incorporated into everything thing they do:
- People: Their lowest-paid seasonal worker earns 50% above minimum wage and employees are offered health, wellness, and counseling services as well as onsite childcare
- Animals: None of their products contain leather or fur
- Planet: They highlight items that are made from recycled or upcycled materials and they give to charities that are protecting vital ecosystems such as forests
Here are my 9 (an uncommon number) favourite handmade and recycled picks from their current selection:
1. Typewriter Key Necklace - What a great gift idea! Each necklace is handmade in the USA and Mexico from authentic typewriter keys from the 1920s to 1940s. This super fun upcycled piece is from UncommonGood's exclusive range of personalized jewellery, click here for more options.
2. Succulent Living Wall Planter Kit - Surely nature is the most beautiful artist of all? I'm loving this stunning reclaimed wood display by Heather Auchter, which can be placed both horizontally or vertically depending on your aesthetic needs.
4. Kantha Patchwork Belt - Tired of boring belts? Then these beauties might be just what you're looking for! Handmade by fair trade artisans in India, each belt is made of five different recycled quilts sewn together using traditional Kantha stitching.
5. Baseball Bat Bottle Openers - Last year I visited the U.S. for the first time and this included taking in a Red Sox game in Boston. I had an absolute ball (see what I did there?). These funky bottle openers are handmade from genuine Major League game-day bats and each one comes with a story detailing its unique history!
6. Fern Frond Earrings - Inspired by the laurel wreaths strewn throughout Greek imagery, artist Katie Lime has captured the essence of both nature's beauty and humanity's skill with metal in her handmade earrings. You can find more stunning handmade gifts for women here.
7. Fantastic Anti-Plastic Beach Toys - Playtime at the seaside is simply more fun with eco-friendly toys like this bucket and shovel set made from a special biodegradable material.
8. Spiro Stemless Wine Glass Set - Artist duo Carrie and Patrick Frost create gorgeous and distinctive pieces handcrafted using recycled materials. I think these glasses are so lovely and it's brilliant that each of your guests will have their own pattern to enjoy :)
9. Personalized Family Art - This is such an adorable idea! Talented mother and daughter team Mary and Shelly Klein create special family portraits using sustainable materials such as hemp, organic stretched flax and cotton.
You can find even more surprising personalized gift options here!
The belt, the watch and the wall planter appeal to me, but I think (being not very good with plants) I might have to skip the planter!
ReplyDeleteGreat choices Agy! :D Plus I think succulents are pretty hard ;-)
DeleteKB x