Too Much time on my hands: Earth Day Thursday- "Green" Gift Guide

I know it is not even Halloween yet, but I am already thinking about Christmas gifts. I hate last minute shopping AND spending all of that money all at once. I would rather accumulate thoughtful and meaningful gifts throughout the year, as I discover them, and then give them out at Christmas time.

Last year, my in-laws bought mosquito nets donated to needy people in all of our names for our Christmas gifts. What a wonderful idea and it felt really good to be doing something for others. I don't "need" anything so sharing with others felt great.

But, I know I still like to give tangible gifts to the people I love, so let's try to be mindful where we put our money this year.

I found some awesome ideas and places to purchase "greener" gifts. Here are few of my faves!

KIDS

Plan Toys Eco Town


This town runs on wind and solar power, uses a gray water system. The town encourages public transport.

Plan Toys offers tons of very cool environmentally friendly toys for baby, preschool, and older kids. They have small items such as recycled wood pull toys and large scale items like wooden horses and shopping carts.

Arterro-Eco Art for Kids

This book making set includes handmade paper, thread, and everything you need to make 4 small books.

Arterro has lots of creative activities that encourage artistic expression at every age, including art dolls, wearable wool crafts, and garden art.

Cate and Levi Puppets

Puppets are all made from old wool sweaters so each animal is unique!

Cate and Levi also offer blankets, pillow pals, mittens, and hats. Every item is made from reclaimed and recycled materials.

Women

Viva Terra Silk Scrap Necklace

This fab site has tons of options for green gifts all around your home. bed & bath, furniture, accessories, you can find something for everyone on your list.

Pigeon Toe Ceramics @ Branch

Lead fee paint and fired in a kiln that only uses renewable energy!

Branch offers lots of products from different vendors. Everything is "green" and Earth Friendly. Again, a great variety of items for kids, and adults alike!

Uncommon Goods- Tote

Upcycled mail bag tote

Uncommon Goods has a quirky vibe and gifts ranging in all price ranges. You will definitely find Uncommon items here! I have ordered a few things from them before and have had great experiences.

Men

Comisky Park Cufflinks

That's right these are made from seats from Comisky Park!

These are also from Uncommon Goods.

Substrata Wood I Pad Case

Substrata offers tons of sustainable wood products, from cutting boards to cabinets.

Men's Body Care Sampler

Portland General Store packs reclaimed cigar cases with their locally and sustainably harvested natural products. After shave, cologne, shampoo-they have it all in cool scents like whiskey and tweed.

DIY'er

Recycled Yarn from Crafty

There are plenty of colors and types to choose from!

Black Apple's Paper Doll Primer

This book has lots of paper craft activities and instructions for making custom paper dolls. Add some recycled paper and craft scissors to create a lovely gift.