While many of my Hebridean small business friends do have social media and their own websites, some of them use Etsy to sell you their stunning handmade wares. I thought I’d share a few of them here to give you some Christmas ideas. I’m always amazed by the level of talent available on our Hebrides islands. I hope this guide will help you support our local businesses and maybe you’ll discover some small business you didn’t know we had here.
My top 8 Christmas gift ideas from the Hebrides on Etsy
Lewisian Nice Harris Tweed Decor and Hair Accessories
Rainbows, hearts and Harris Tweed – the perfect combo
You can’t go wrong with rainbows, hearts or Harris Tweed and Sarah’s heart garlands always catch my eye. What a fabulous gift for someone who has everything, especially good taste.
Sollas Books – beautifully bound in Harris Tweed
Perfectly bound notebooks – in every way
I had the pleasure of visiting Corinna’s workshop in North Uist while on a family holiday some years ago. Seeing the whole hand-binding process was fascinating and the quality of her work will leave you speechless. And you can never have too many notebooks!
Coll Pottery – and so much more
Not just pots!
Coll Pottery used to be just that when I first came to Lewis but since Alan took over it is so much more.
You can’t go wrong with a new piece of jewellery for a gift and with each of these unique glass pendants your gift is going to stand out from the crowd.
Designs on Benbecula – inspired by our beautiful beaches
Jewellery befitting of our landscape
Handmade and unique from biwa pearls and silver…and adjustable too so it will fit anyone.
This stunning choker from Deborah from Designs on Benbecula is a gift to wow both when given and every time it’s worn.
Loch Sealg Designs, handmade for you
Made to order and worth it
Katie has several designs to choose from her own fashion collection and this green agate caught my eye (perhaps because I married an Irishman).
Hallmarked and handmade and if you’re not a green person then Katie will happily do the same design in your gem of choice.https://tidd.ly/3tciTra
EJay Design – when you’re not sure which island
Have them all!
You might not be able to have the whole world in your hands but you can hold the entire Scottish Hebrides in your hands with this gorgeous teatowel from Ejay Designs.
Eilidh does the most amazing watercolour illustrations of our islands and further afield. If teatowels aren’t your thing then check out her maps, they have gold highlights!
The Herring Girl Posters
Memories of Stornoway
If the whole Hebrides is too much, or you have fond memories of somewhere in particular then take a look at Lauren’s vintage posters.
This one of Stornoway with the famous Lews Castle is a favourite of mine with many a Sunday afternoon family walk taken round its grounds.
Hair Accessories for everyone
Strikingly Stunning
I can vouch for Catherine Anne’s hair accessories as my girls have been wearing these for years.
At Mamayana you’ll also find Mother and Daughter sets which would be a lovely idea at this Christmas time of sharing.
I struggled to choose which one to share but then this black and gold hair bow stood out.
Our Scottish Hebrides are filled to the herring gills with talent and I’ve only shown a handful of Christmas ideas from Etsy here . I’d love to know what you choose please let me know in the comments below.
Looking for something last minute – you might want to check out Etsy’s top recommendations for last minute gifts