Made in Michigan: 10 Designers & Makers for Hand Crafted Gifts
In case you missed it, mass-produced, ubiquitous gifts are completely passé nowadays. Hand crafted, small-batch, sustainable and reclaimed are the new ideals. So, steer away from the superstore aisles or gift card kiosks and give an intentional and memorable gift that’ll be treasured for years to come. This gift guide isn’t simply a checklist of things to click on and buy - it’s an invitation to get to know the people who passionately make their products by hand. Put some wonder and whimsy back into the holiday season with these 10 shops who hand craft their beautiful goods right here in Michigan.
McClary Bros.
Drinking Vinegars, more commonly referred to as "Shrubs," are a Colonial-era drink mixer that are seeing a resurgence. McClary Bros. vinegars are hand-crafted in small- and micro-batches to showcase the fresh flavors of the season. The result is a refreshing, exciting mixer that’s perfect in a cocktail or shrub soda. Their Detroit Fig Leaf, Michigan Beet & Carrot, and Michigan Saskatoon are Ciseal’s favorites.
Electric Pink Crafts
We partnered with Julia of Electric Pink Crafts at the Renegade Craft Show in Detroit this year, and could not have been more impressed. Electric Pink creates pillows, rugs, blankets, and table runners in deeply hued, vibrant colors and patterns. Check them out if you’re looking for a unique, expertly hand crafted textile.
Detroit Denim
Detroit Denim jeans are like no other. They use US-sourced selvedge denim to create jeans that are of impeccable quality. Each pair is made entirely by hand out of the finest quality components. Their shop also includes aprons, totes, and belts, so you’re sure to find the perfect gift.
Mutual Adoration
All of Mutual Adoration’s goods are handmade using reclaimed wood from Detroit. Their picture frames, mirrors, trays and coasters all contain a bit of Detroit history. They’re the perfect gift for the discerning Detroiter on your list.
Abigail Murray Studio
Abigail Murray creates simple, utilitarian forms with complex surfaces of found and created textures. She explores ideas of pattern, layering and light referencing the repetition and precision of technology while delighting in the subtle imperfections of the entirely handmade. Her clean and modern bowls, cups, and vases will no doubt become those special pieces that put a smile on your face every time you use them.
Smithshop
Smithshop is known for it’s functional and ornamental metalwork—from fine goldsmithing to architectural ironwork. Everything they make is handmade in Detroit by a team of internationally recognized metalsmiths. Their shop includes everything from gorgeous bottle openers to elegant jewelry and supremely useful spatulas.
Woodward Throwbacks
Woodward Throwbacks creates all of their products out of materials that are gathered from illegal dumping sites around the city of Detroit. They keep the materials as organic as possible by simply sanding the splinters and keeping its natural form. The beauty is in the imperfection. Ciseal’s tip: the dogs in your life will adore their dog bowls!
Made Floral
Made Floral’s flower arrangements are spellbindingly gorgeous. There’s both variety and restraint in each bouquet which makes you just want to stare at them into infinity. Each of Martha's arrangements are hand crafted and natural, with the full intention of someone or something special.
LeadHead Glass
LeadHead Glass specializes in handcrafted terrariums made from reclaimed glass from deconstructed homes in Detroit. Their terrariums are modeled after 19th Century Wardien Cases which were originally used to transport exotic plants around the world. They’re the perfect environment to raise a mini garden in.
Ciseal
At Ciseal, each one of our products starts out as thin, flexible pieces of wood. After applying glue to each of these layers, we press them to shape in a mold. What comes out of the molds are modern, clean-lined products with the inherent warmth of wood. Our shop includes home decor and desk top products, table lamps and furniture that’ll add a little mid century modern vibe to your life.
Nicole Hodsdon
Author