Editor’s Picks: 6 Locally Made Stocking Stuffers

Here are some small gift ideas with local ties

Chip Addington

Heather Donohue

A lifelong crafter, Donohue celebrates the holidays and all things vintage by handcrafting whimsical stockings, tree skirts, ornaments, and more. Her custom creations can be found in New York boutiques and homes around the globe, and she is also a revered
instructor. Pink Tulle Christmas Stocking, $150, heatherdonohue.com

Chip Addington

Sota Suds

Local soapmaker Jenny Wilcox says she was looking for an alternative to carrying plastic bottles on her camping adventures, so she created these all-in-one bars that smell amazing and are made with moisturizing plant oils and essential oils to repel bugs. Cedar Clean, $8, sotasuds.com

Chip Addington

Shear Crochet

Isha Caldwell learned her crocheting technique while working in social services with a student with autism. From there, she hasn’t stopped. Since 2012, Caldwell has continued her craft and begun creating heirloom pieces. These cotton face rounds are a reusable alternative to one-time-use rounds. She accepts supply donations to make scarves and hats for the unhoused, too. Cotton Face Rounds, $15 for four, icaldwellbusiness.wixsite.com/shearcrochet

Chip Addington

Tyann Zeal

Tyann Zeal’s work has gone from the kitchen table to the jewelry bench. Her aesthetic is modern in palette and design, using polymer clay and raw brass. Her pieces look good as everyday wear as well as for special occasions. Double Squiggle Earrings, $38, tyannzeal.com

Chip Addington

Kind Lips

Founder Joshua Neumann’s mission is “to inspire kindness all over the world, one set of lips at time.” This 100% natural lip balm is good for the body and the community, as 20% of profits benefit anti-bullying organizations. Various flavors, starting at $4, kindlips.com

Chip Addington

Wiley Wallaby

For some, the holidays mean black licorice. This Perham-based company wraps licorice beans in a candy coating for a fat-free treat without dairy or high-fructose corn syrup. Price varies, available locally, see product locator at wileywallaby.com

Jerrod Sumner is Minnesota Monthly’s aesthetic editor. His work covers all things local in the maker community. He is sought after for his understanding and promotion of the modern, American-made maker movement, and is a contributor on FOX 9 Good Day, sharing stories and goods. Follow him on Instagram @mrjerrodscott.