How to Get Handmade - (as well as giving it)

Deciding to buy handmade for others is easy, but how do you get others to buy handmade for you? Friends and family may not place the same value on buying handmade, not know where to shop, or not feel confident about what to get you. Good news, it's easy to try and fix this!
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I can't promise it'll change what you get, but you'll at least know you gave it a go.

Ask and explain.

Step one is to ask, and be open about it. It may seem selfish to say "buy me this stuff" but you may find that done with tact it actually helps people decide what to get you. Mention things like "I love it when people buy me handmade things, whatever they are, however small. I know the money has supported someone working hard at what they love, not a big tax dodging company." That isn't demanding, and helps people see some advantages of buying handmade that they can easily agree with.

Provide easy ways to buy.

Step two, we like it easy, so where can people get these handmade things without a load of extra effort?

​A big way we shop is online. If you use Etsy, then make lists of favourites, and make a special one with a name like "2015 Christmas Wants!" (see my examples here). Amazon has a function where you can add a button to your web browser, then add items from almost ANY online store to your wish list. (find it here.) Make a wish list there from your top indie makers, etsy, folksy...

My Amazon wishlist, with items from small businesses and independent makers

Tell folks "I know I'm not always say to buy for, so I've made a list in one easy to stop and browse place." Then share, share, share!
 
If there are shops you like, or craft events coming up, share details with friends and family, especially those who prefer to shop in person. Stress the benefits to the buyer for them going out of their way for your gift; "it may be off the high street, but there's a great cafe, and you'll like the art" or  "I'm not fussy, I love everything knitted in there, and the staff will help find something in your budget."

Be their native guide.

Take the bull by the horns, and head out shopping together. (Be willing to shop on their terms as well, visit the high street chains too if they want, look at a variety of places.) Don't force the issue, but suggest that as you're going to a craft event, or popping into town, do they want to come? 

Give incentives "I'm not sure what to get you, will you come help me get ideas?" "We can catch up over a cuppa away from the crowds" and be honest " I'd like a handmade gift, but know it can be hard to choose." Show them that handmade comes in a range of prices, and you really do get what you pay for - it's worth it.  

These three steps may not get you a pile of lovely handmade gifts, but it may change a couple of presents you get, or even help people find unexpected items for other recipients. If nothing else, as you open your big box of cheap chocs and put your new novelty slippers on, you can say that you tried!​