The Support Santa Fe Gift Guide series features treasures from local shops, makers, and organizations. We’re covering books, lifestyle, food + drink, and philanthropy. Presenting: the Handmade Edition.
When on the hunt for one-of-a-kind gifts in Santa Fe, the bountiful world of handmade goods will surely fill any gaps on your list. While it is nigh impossible to include all of the premier craftspeople working and being showcased in this part of New Mexico, this list hopes to at least steer you in the right direction, introduce you to some new shops and makers, and provide some inspiration. With holiday markets, pop-ups, and fairs on hold this year, it goes without saying that makers and creators could use a bit of extra support. Luckily for all of us, Santa Fe has no shortage of beautiful, fun, and distinctive options for everyone on your list, including yourself.
The Support Santa Fe Gift Guide: Handmade Edition
Chonky Animals
Gifting a real-life pet as a gift is too complicated in most instances, in which case a ceramic animal by Iohan Figueroa will absolutely do the trick. It is decidedly impossible not to love these full-figured friends, who require neither training nor snacks. Figueroa’s creatures span the gamut of the animal kingdom, from kangaroo to platypus to a rather affable T-Rex. Take your pick, and good luck choosing just one.
Available at Hecho a Mano, 830 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501. 505-916-1341.
A Custom Hat by Ramblin’ Rose
For the very lucky friend who deserves their very own forever hat. Sam Toney of Ramblin Rose is the go-to gal for impeccable custom hats. Her singular craftsmanship is a sight to behold. Every detail from color, to fabric, to the custom message printed inside the hat is up to you, (or your friend, if you haven’t already decided to gift this to yourself instead). Her handmade, custom orders are currently closed, but gift cards are available for future hats.
Available at Ramblin’ Rose, ramblinrosehatco@gmail.com.
A Planter that Smiles
Is it easier to keep a plant alive if its container is smiling? Don’t ask me, but do consider this jolly planter for the friend who could use a cheer-up. Cielo Handcrafted carries a number of similarly happy planters by Oaxaca-based artist Cara de Planta, including a small but round pig planter. Trying to avoid making this a full-blown animal gift guide, so I’ll refrain from including the photo.
Available at Cielo Handcrafted, 836 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501. 575-551-8390.
Sterling Silver Tufa Cast Bracelet
Honoring the cycles of nature, this cuff from Ohkay Owingeh-based artist Steve Wikviya LaRance (Hopi-Assiniboine) is made using one of the oldest Native American jewelry-making techniques. Perfect for the friend who wants a style all to themselves, as the nature of the tufa casting process makes for one of a kind pieces.
Available at Denipah-LaRance Fine Art, dlfineart@aol.com.
Coasters + More by Christine Hernandez
A nice place to sit for all those drinks you’ve been having. These woven coasters could equally provide a lovely resting place for jewelry, a piece of rose quartz, a word of the day card, you name it. Christine, aka Lil Weavy, has apprenticed with master weaver Irvin Trujillo and also weaves a variety of tapestries and apparel. Her apparel featuring her riff on the Allsups logo, which she recreated as All Sad, is also a rather apt gift for the moment.
Available at Club All Sad.
Hand-beaded Baby Yoda Earrings
Just when you thought there was no hope in the world, here comes Baby Yoda, in intricately beaded form! Co-creators Bazille Owens (Ho-Chunk) and Darby Raymond-Overstreet (Diné/Navajo) infuse their works with equal servings of skill and humor, resulting in beautiful and charming pieces for Baby Yoda and R2D2 lovers alike. If shopping for someone with a more traditional (read: non-Star Wars) style of jewelry, their shop has myriad styles, all abundant in excellent craftsmanship.
Available at Just Beaded Things, justbeadedthings@gmail.com.
Thrown Flower Cup
Tiny cups that went swimming in a pool of pink glaze. Santa Fe-based Barro by Lucrecia crafts rather adorable vessels for your espresso or whatever small beverage you fancy. While some of us require far more real estate for our caffeinated drinks, these handmade cups are perhaps best suited for the more restrained types.
Available at Folklore, 370 Garcia St, Santa Fe, NM 87501. 925-408-2907.
Chris Casey Ceramics
For something merry and bright, consider the colorful bowls, vases, and cups by Albuquerque artist Chris Casey. Rich hues mix with exquisite carved details to make some highly irresistible ceramics. We won’t judge you if you end up keeping them for yourself.
Available at Hecho a Mano, 830 Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501. 505-916-1341.
Knitted Oxidized Silver Bracelet
Don’t call me cute. This knitted bracelet made out of oxidized silver is equal parts show stopper and hero of low maintenance beauty, thanks to its magnetic clasp. Made by Santa Fe-based artist Ewa Jankowska. Snap it on and off you go: pizazz, and a little edge, on high.
Available at Patina Gallery, 131 W Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501. 505-986-3432.
