For all the little ones in your life, we’ve come up with a fabulous list of fun, handmade gifts for the season. From stocking stuffers to special surprises, you’re sure to find something to delight them this winter. As always, all of the gifts mentioned are made by hand by local artisans and creatives. With the current regulations preventing us from stopping into the artisans’ studios these days, we recommend clicking over to their online shops or contacting them directly if you have questions or want to know more about purchasing your gifts. Happy gifting!
We can’t get enough of these adorable handmade dolls by Valentina Cavaciocchi, the crafter behind Ohnini. We challenge you not to be tickled by their fabulously fun outfits, hair dos and poses. Valentina makes all the dolls and doll clothes by hand using natural dyes and fabrics, so they are super safe and cozy for your little loves. Follow @ohnini.it on Instagram for the latest dolls and styles. For information on how to get your favorite doll in time for the holidays, contact Valentina through Instagram.
For toys and keepsakes that will be treasured for years to come, look no further than Jane Harman Creations. Each wooden figure or object is handcrafted with care right here in Florence using reclaimed wood and a variety of finishing techniques to make each one unique. We love her delightful flipping acrobat toys for the kiddos who like to keep their hands busy. We’re also tempted by the selection of adorable animal figurines that will fit into any playroom menagerie or add a fun accent on bookshelves or bedside tables. Prices for animals start at €15, acrobats are €38. If current conditions allow, stop by Jane’s workshop in Via Bartolini 1r to choose your favorite, or contact her to arrange shipping or pick up.
For the wee ones in your life, we recommend the lovingly made childrenswear by Ang Un Bebé. Designed and made by Agnese Fazolo in her cozy atelier in vai de’ Macci, Ang Un Bebé has styles for infants and children in top-quality fabrics, from soft velvet to cozy flannel to breathable cotton. You can’t help but fall in love with the with charming prints and gentle color palettes. For prices and the latest designs, visit her online shop and follow on Instagram.
For little storytellers and future writers, Studio Wick has a fantastic selection of handmade books, diaries and matching pencil holders with kid-friendly covers featuring stories we all love, from Peter Pan to The Wizard of Oz to The Little Prince and more. These books come in a range of sizes for all sorts of writing or doodling. For taking notes and staying organized, there are options with lined, colored pages, and for more free form expression, there are options with blank pages ready to be filled up with new ideas. Prices range from just €4 for the mini books up to to €23 for the larger diaries. For a special touch, Studio Wick will personalize your book with initials, a name, or a phrase for €3 euro. To see more work by Studio Wick or to order your favorite books, click here.
If you haven’t visited the co-working artist studio Campucc10, add it to your post lockdown plans. In addition to the busy studios, you’ll also find a selection of handmade artisan treasures, including these delightfully fun illustrations by Simone Spellucci. We love a gift that both the young and the not-so-young will appreciate. Prints are available in limited editions, signed by the artist. Prices start at €25. Shop on line here.
The best gifts are the ones that allow us to spend time together, sharing a laugh, and making memories–all the better if there are sweets involved! These adorable festive cookie and gingerbread house decorating kits by Jackie Pollis will kick off the holiday season on a sweet note for the whole family. With a selection of different designs to choose from, you could never go wrong with cookies, right? And, Jackie also bakes pies and other seasonal treats! Contact Jackie here or by email at jackie@jackiedoesitaly.com to reserve your decorating kit or holidays sweets today!
We hope you find the perfect gift for to brighten up your little ones’ days this season! Happy holidays!
Stay tuned over the coming weeks for more gift ideas from local designers and small business owners for all the special people in your life. As always, shop small, shop local.
To learn more about the artists mentioned above and discover other top quality craftsmanship in Florence, download the new Creative People in Florence App! Free to download from the App Store or Google Play, the App offers access to a selection of local artisans and designers. You can use it to map the route to their workshop or you can browse their online profiles and shop online.

2 Comments