When most people think of supporting handmade works, craft, and artisan shops, they think of women.
Women have long been the #1 supporter of grass roots, small, and local businesses and they’re
always willing to give an artisan a chance. It’s thanks to women that website like Etsy and Folksy are
as successful as they are – and it’s also thank to women that men are now slowly creeping on to a well
established scene to find unique style.
The funny thing about men and craft is that traditionally men have been all about craft! Haberdashers,
tailors, metal smiths, wood workers, carpenters, jewelers, and bakers have had a long history of being
occupied by men, and it’s only been in recent times that guys have taken a backseat in the art world.
The good news is that we’re seeing a resurgence of men selling and buying handmade and one-of-a-kind
items.
Men are selecting handmade because they want to be unique. It’s easy to support big box stores and
cookie cutter looks – but many guys simply aren’t satisfied with looking like every other guy out there.
Supporting handmade artisans is a great way to get amazing personal style, support small business, and
turn heads without a lot of hassle. Men are learning that shopping for handmade, especially online, is
often easier and less traumatizing than a day spent at the mall!
Men have a natural instinct and appreciation for art, craft, and process – and it’s amazing to see their
faces light up when the realize that the tie they wear, the screen printed shirt they love, the face wash
they use, or the journal they write in was made by hand, one at a time, just for them.
If you’re looking for a great gift for any man, take their interests and go to the handmade market in all
its forms. When he sees how much work went in to the piece and understands that it’s a true craft –
he’ll fall in love!
You can find a massive selection of handmade gifts for men of all styles and tastes on www.Etsy.com
and across the web. You can also see the best artisans, shops, products, and themes assembled in to
one place at www.HandmadeMen.com.
The handmade revolution is upon us… and it’s the perfect time to get the men in your life on board!
Here are a few of my favorite simple gift ideas for guys – buy them for the men in your life, or if you’re a
guy – buy them for yourself!
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| All-Natural Men’s Lip Balm – shine free, fragrance free, and easy to carry |
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| Screen Printed T-Shirts – one of a kind designs that will get serious attention |
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| Wrist Wraps & Necklaces – wearable art! |
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| Handmade Men’s Bar Soap – think cedar, sage, and bay rum |
