Giving with Intent: Top 5 Locally Made SF Gifts for 2012
The holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and giving. One of the most exciting holiday traditions is, indeed, gift giving.
This year, I’ve decided to give gifts with intention. I want to give with one dominant guideline in mind: to give items produced sustainably, made right here in San Francisco.
I am wildly fascinated by the growing local San Francisco-manufactured clothing movement and decided to dig deep and research a few local brands that I felt carried functional, stylish, and affordable gifts.
In my quest, I came across so many incredible pieces that are well made, built to last, and handmade. They are also unique, having character and flair. In my experience with gift receiving, I’ve found that these types of gifts are often the ones I appreciate the most. The gifts that hit closest to my heart are those that are produced in smaller batches, not by big brands – and carry a handmade touch. Do you agree that many of your friends and family might feel the same way?
Here, I outline the top 5 local, sustainable goods that I found in my exploration of the San Francisco artisan textile scene. These really are gifts you can feel good about giving! Buying these unique goods supports independent, local, sustainable manufacturers, helping them do what they love and continue to create beautiful work for us to enjoy.
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Here is my pick of top 5 pieces, each under $100:
They are all as simple and practical as they are stylish, and available at local boutiques and/or online! Happy gift-giving…
1. San Francisco Tote by Joshu + Vela: $38.00
- Made from USA grown organic canvas
- Durable canvas bottom
- 10” strap drop
Available at www.joshuvela.com and Voyager: 365 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA, among other local boutiques.
2. Men’s Full Zip Hoodie by American Giant: $79
This hoodie is solidly built and a classic – one you wear again, again and again. American Giant hoodies have recently been written up by Slate Magazine and praised for their quality, functionality and form.
- Available in Black, Navy and Brown
- Top quality American heavyweight cotton (not a blend; zero polyester)
- Price includes Shipping and Free Returns
(Only) available online at www.american-giant.com
3. Stolen Sunday Infinity Scarf: $45.00 – $55.00
Featured scarf: san francisco.infinity ($55)
I love these infinity scarves because they’re elegant and simply designed, with emphasis on the quality of fabric and the chosen color and/or pattern. They carry an artistic touch and can brighten up any outfit.
- Made of exclusively American knit fabrics
- Variety of colors and fun patterns
- Medium to heavy weight
Available at www.stolensunday.com and for a list of local retailers: http://www.stolensunday.com/pages/retailers
4. Hand Printed Tees by Culk Ink: $24.00
Featured Tee: Men’s Anchor SFCA
Culk Ink creates clean, minimalist, yet eye-catching designs. My friend Sam Culkins, the one man show behind Culk Ink, silkscreens his tees in his garage in the city. He builds his designs on very simple motifs and each print has a clear focal point, whether it is an anchor, seal, or beautiful SF, CA text.
- Hand printed screen
- Super soft: 60% cotton, 40% polyester (with the exception of women’s heather grey T: 90% cotton, 10% polyester)
- Designed and printed in San Francisco by Sam Culkin
Available at www.culkink.com
Receive a free tote for all orders placed in December!
5. Origins Socks by Benny Gold: $10.00
Great stocking stuffers! The pattern is vivid but well balanced with solid color, and the socks are cozy and durable.
- Available in Black, Navy and Red
- 100% cotton
- Hidden paper airplane icon in design
Available at Benny Gold’s flagship store: 3169 16th Street, San Francisco, CA and http://shop.bennygold.com/
Happy Holidays!
