The internet has introduced several annoying things–duckface comes to mind –but one of its blessings is the ability to purchase quality handmade or vintage goods from around the world. Etsy is the leader there, growing over its first decade into a global online marketplace for creative sellers and artisans, with more than 32 million items for sale. Several artisans from Newfoundland and Labrador sell vintage and handmade items in their own Etsy shops.
You’ll be able to check out the wares of some of the province’s best Etsy sellers in person on September 26, when the Anna Templeton Centre hosts the St. John’s edition of the Etsy: Made In Canada pop-up market. Etsy’s first event in the province is hosted by Alison Butler of The Petite Cadeau, a blog about “slow gifting” via handmade treasures and experiences.
If you’ve got some slow gifting of your own to do between now and September–or feel like you could use some new treats for yourself– then check out these five Etsy shops based in Newfoundland and Labrador.
If you’re a fan of Lush’s handmade soaps and cosmetics, this local Etsy shop selling delicious-smelling soaps and other bath products made in small batches with old-fashioned methods will be a hit with you. Check out products like Shagg Off, a natural insect repellent and bite treatment, Extreme Cream with lanolin and hemp, and of course their soaps – like Strawberry Rhubarb.
Etsy is full of mid-century modern houseware finds–but the shipping can be a killer. Fortunately there’s NewfoundFinds, which offers a great variety of vintage home and kitchen items. If the particular piece you’re coveting is currently out of your budget, NewfoundFinds also offers a convenient layaway program, and local delivery is an option on the Avalon.
If you’re a fan of semi-precious stones, you’ll want to hit up Trinity Rocks, which has a selection of jewellery in its Etsy shop made of Labradorite and other stones. The Trinity East shop, which also has a bricks-and-mortar location, sells a wide variety of earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, along with hand-hooked coasters and tumbled gemstones.
If it’s classic Newfoundland and Labrador imagery you’re looking for, go no further than Brindy Linens’ block printed images on tea towels. The options include iconic images like mummers, trigger mitts, and humpback whales, making them a great souvenir or the perfect gift from home for your favourite mainlander.
These tiny clay cuties are the perfect gift for the little person in your life, or anybody who appreciates whimsy and very small things. Made entirely by hand, seller Melissa’s little guys are also available on business-card holders and cupcake toppers. We’re partial to the micro octopus, ourselves.
My precious niece makes sweet tea towels with her designs handcrafted with stamps . I live in Ontario, so I do not get to see her sweet face in person. Renée sends me her beautiful towels for Christmas gifts. I treasure them and display them in my kitchen. This way I think of her everyday. ? Thank you Renée from Brindey Linens ?
Thank you so much for mentioning Trinity Rocks in your ETSY feature.
Trinity Rocks in Trinity East has new hours – 9 – 6 Daily.
Would love to see you! Check it out.
Fresh items added on a regular basis.
Have a great summer everyone!