November is upon us and 2016 is fast approaching its climax. With Halloween now over, many giant retailers will focus their mass market messaging on the upcoming festive season. Christmas shopping is an often dreaded affair and as such, bigger stores are rather clever at making it easy for us. One substantial ploy is the gratuitous and unwanted pre-packaged gift set, typically filled with all manner of unnecessary and mundane goods. As consumers we have the power to resist, refrain and refuse to take part. Instead, the real joy in seasonal shopping is found in those small and personal retailers (who are at home in a physical store and online). Such proprietors work hard to build enthusiasm for objects that are well-designed, aesthetic, meticulous and worldly, choosing things that have meaning and a functional value. Artisanal items are typically imbued with an honest approach, a feeling of longevity and a desire to facilitate enjoyment.Craft is a passionate labour of love and one in which quality is integral. When creativity and handcraft unite, we find that good craftsmanship leads to good design. As a result objects mature, thrive and provide long-lasting pleasure over time. Craftsmanship in its purist sense acts to preserve the heritage of making things by hand. With personality, intimacy, integrity and depth, objects that have been shaped by human hands are especially valuable and worthy of investment. Handcrafted items are found in various shapes...