TIS the season to be supporting Scottish businesses! Of course, here at The National it’s always that season, but Christmas is the perfect time to share the love and spread the word with lovely homegrown gifts.
Our Maker of the Month Molly Cave didn’t let a global pandemic get in the way of launching her online shop, and her exquisite fabric foliage creations are the perfect present for the plant-lover in your life, especially if they aren’t blessed with green fingers. Her sumptuous holly and ivy wreath (below, £40) and quilted holly stocking deserve instant family heirloom status, her cheese plant earrings are bang on trend and her mini pot plants will last forever without needing watered once.
Those those who prefer their botanicals in liquid form, Isle of Harris gin combines nine of them in a blend that promises “maritime pleasures” and is available as a gift set with two highball glasses (one shouldn’t judge a gin by its bottle, but it is a very bonny bottle). Other treats for the tastebuds include a macaroon cube from Threepwood Fayre, a Beith-based family business that uses traditional Scottish recipes, and a gift box of Grace Chocolates, made by a social enterprise providing opportunities for women affected by the criminal justice system.
If it’s stocking fillers you’re after, check out the fantastic hand-painted wooden Yes badges by Dundee-based Braw Illustrations and mini ceramics bothies by Glenshee Pottery, available in a wide range of colours to match every mantelpiece.
Also small and perfectly formed are teardrop stud earrings by Paisley-based jeweller Lisa Crockard, made using the ancient Korean technique of keum boo, and BU jewellery’s Sterling silver Wee Harris, a delightful Heilan’ coo available as either a pendant or a brooch.
For the young and young at heart, illustrator Rosemary Cunningham has brought to life The Nicht Afore Christmas, with the traditional tale translated into Scots by Irene McFarlane. Glasgow’s Tenement House provided the inspiration for the family home where the action takes place.
With outdoor socialising still the order of the day, a very special someone could be treated to a luxurious Bakka Fair Isle scarf made from superfine merino wool. If snuggling on the sofa is preferable, the Scottish Textiles Showcase has a vibrant throw inspired by heather and thistles, woven with wool spun at New Lanark Mill in Lanarkshire.
Last but by no means least, help keep a loved one’s facial fuzz in tip top condition with a ‘Beardie’ gift set from Purdie’s of Argyll, or liven up a pal’s wall with a stunning geometric map of Scotland from the Glasgow-based, self-isolating husband and wife team Lasaris. Happy shopping!
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