I’m usually not on the lookout for guys handmade things…not sure why…but I discovered David’s Hat Factory, and think that the hats, made by David {above, left}, are great. It’s not everyday that I find an indie-knitter dude! Just ordered the grey hat in the middle for my son…think he’ll like it!

I have learned, in the 9+ years of living in the ice-freeing-cold-midwest, that winter accessories are a MUST! When there are sub-zero temps outside, going without a hat, gloves, scarf AND earmuffs means that I will, no doubt, be frozen and grumpy!

I LOVE the neckwarmer I bought from ForEvaMore {above, right}. Learned about her cute knit items from the fabulous Handmade in PA blog. It’s just as cozy and cute as it looks. Love her little “poufik” pillows too…

Fingerless gloves, armwarmers {or whatever you’d like to call them!} have become a necessity for me. My art studio is in the basement, and for some reason, it’s just plain colder down here! I always have a pair on hand to wear in the studio, and as the weather gets a bit warmer, I’ll wear them out and about.

I have two new favorite glove makers. The first, Overcast, is based in Christchurch, New Zealand. All of her armwarmers {above} are made from 100% merino wool, are super cozy, and go with anything! I really love these. She also offers a lighter weight style for spring.

Next are fingerless gloves by Tinker and Po. Based in Chicago, her gloves are made from repurposed sweaters and are embellished with sweet little buttons. My 12 year old daughter swiped my pair right away…I think they might officially be hers now! Also, 10% of all sales are donated to autism research in their son, Declan’s, name.

“Elyse C. Bec Designs and SuperCute! support fair-trade, talented artisans, schooled in the ancient traditions, from around the world, most of whom count on this as their source for supporting their families. Our knitters, mostly single mothers,are literally knitting their way out of poverty through the help of our contracts to produce my designs.”

The problem with selling our wares at craft shows, is that it usually takes ALL of my willpower to not spend more than we sell. Last year at the Jingle, Mingle, Shop show in Chicago, I spotted Mayu Hand-Knit Alpaca scarves and wraps. I instantly fell in love with the colors, and the softness of the fabric. After I bought one, it became my favorite scarf of the season (I can totally relate to Linus…his blanket must have been made from alpaca).

Mayu owner, Kate Robertson personally works with the women in Peru who make her items…so when you buy a Mayu scarf, you help employ independent business women in Peru as well. It’s a win-win if you ask me!

Labels: accessories