For shoppers still searching for that perfect gift, we have compiled a list of New England businesses that make products right here in the Northeast.
From ocean-tumbled sea glass jewelry and hand-poured chic soy candles to classic flannels and seafaring-inspired wind bells, take a look below to see if a locally produced item beckons.
For gifts inspired by and utilizing the marine environment, check out Saltwater Studio out of Newport, Rhode Island. Using seaweed and organic materials sourced from North Atlantic coastal waters, Mary Chatowsky Jameson crafts art, ceramics, jewelry and cards inspired by Victorian seaweed pressings. Their original botanical pressings would add a unique splash of color to any wall, all while celebrating the local environment. Find them online at: saltwaterstudionewport.com.
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Orla Soy Candles are clean-burning, chemical-free and hand-poured in southern Rhode Island. For those who yearn for summer in the winter months, check out their Del’s Lemonade scented candles, available in both original and watermelon. Find them online at: orlasoycandle.com.
Family-owned and led by a husband and wife team, the Vermont Flannel Company opened in 1991 and in the decades since has become well known for its handcrafted flannel products, from pants and shirt to blankets and dog jackets. Find them online at: vermontflannel.com.
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Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine offers a wide selection of items made by Maine artisans in both their storefront locations (in Portland and Bath) and on their online marketplace. There are so many New England-made products for sale on their website; check out their Lobster Rope Baskets, which would make for a useful and colorful gift. Find them online at: lisamariesmadeinmaine.com.
For 180 years, Johnson Woolen Mills has crafted wool clothing out of Vermont, a tradition that remains with the company in its fourth generation of family ownership. The company offers a wide variety of products, which are available at large retailers and small country stores nationwide, in addition to their flagship shop in Johnson and online. Find them online at: johnsonwoolenmills.com.
In the same vein, Maine Rope Mats, an offshoot of Waldoboro rope manufacturer Custom Cordage, offers mats that are a utilitarian, stylish and environmentally friendly addition to any home. The business was born out of a desire to create more local jobs and use discarded fishing rope after the federal government banned use of floating lines due to the danger to northern right whale populations. In addition to their signature mats, the company offers baskets, keychains, dog leashes and more. Find them online at: www.maineropemats.com.
Out of New Hampshire, Sea Stones creates barware and home items highlighting stone and granite, from serving trays and coasters to clocks, photo frames and wine glasses. The Bathtime Essentials Wine Holder would be perfect for the friend who loves to relax with a glass of white or red while soaking in a bubble bath. Find them online at: sea-stones.com.
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Designed and handcrafted in Round Pound, Maine, North Country Wind Bells make a resounding addition to any garden. Each bell is named after the geographical region that inspired the sound. Following years working as a lobsterman, founder Jim May was inspired to craft his own bells to recreate the sound of bell buoys he found so reassuring to hear on the water. After recording the sounds from where he hauled his traps, he carefully and methodically worked steel to match the tones. Head to the company’s online store at www.northcountrywindbells.com to hear each bell’s distinct chime.
Located in Kittery, Maine, Nubble Light Candle makes hand-crafted, vegan candles inspired by the region with names like “Steven King’s Study”, “New England Leaf Peeper” and “Fresh Maine Whoopie Pie.” They also offer a monthly candle club for a gift that keeps giving year round. Find them online at: nubblelightcandle.com.
Lita Sea Glass Jewelry offers a wide selection of necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more made with genuine, ocean-tumbled sea glass. Owner and artist Carla Garro began working with sea glass when a customer brought her sea glass collected by her grandmother during summers on Martha’s Vineyard, hoping to have pieces made as gifts for family members. So happy with the result, the customer gave Garro the remainder of the sea glass collection – leading to the company as it exists today. Find them online at: www.litaseaglassjewelry.com.