Scottish Gifts We Love

I’ve been feeling smug this week because I’ve managed to bag a few Christmas pressies already. But today I remembered with a sudden sense of clarity that this is what always happens; I buy a few wee bits and pieces in November and then rest on my laurels until the very last minute when I panic buy lots of expensive and inappropriate things.
Not this year! I’ve spent the morning trawling the internet for inspiration and thought I’d share some of my gorgeous finds with you. I like to support local when I can, so all the gifts here  are Scottish made or designed.
Lucy Donnell is the new knitwear designer on the Scottish scene. Lucy and I were at Glasgow School of Art together and I’ve always admired her pared back, sophisticated style. For me this 100% lambswool scarf is the epitome of understated luxury.  The colours! Just beautiful. And both designed and made here in Scotland. I think Lucy is going to be big so invest now while the going’s good.
This amazing Krukke backpack  is a collaboration between 2 very special Glaswegian businesses -  outdoor lifestyle brand Trakke and  super-cool textile designers Timorous Beasties. Again, this is manufactured completely in the UK and the quality is second to none. I remember buying a Trakke bag at their wee workshop in the Barras when they were just starting out and its just so wonderful to see them flourishing. Everything about this bag is great - so bold and stylish yet designed for hardwearing outdoor use. I can think of a few men in my life who would be pretty chuffed to get this from Santa.
I love these beautiful blue Small Buoy earrings from Skye-based jeweler Heather McDermott. She takes inspiration from the natural landscape and traditional industries of her native island. The result is beautiful, bold and modern. If I had pierced ears I’d be treating myself for sure.
Holly Sharpe is a favourite of ours here in the GK studio. We adore her colourful and whimsical (yet sassy) fashion illustrations and were very excited to see that she has released her first ever calendar in time for Christmas. A very stylish way to keep yourself organised in 2015.
Made from Scotland is a fantastic place to find wonderful things designed or made in Scotland. Check out this tartan iPad cover by Dumore Scotland - adds a bit of tradition to your technology! This would go down well with my Dad (but I’d have to buy him the iPad first).
And a few from us too! Our new ceramics range is going down a storm so I thought I’d include some of the key pieces;
Our cute wee Teacake teabag tidy  (a bit of a mouthful I know...) is a fun and stylish way to keep your worktop teabag free. The Caramel Stripe plate is my absolute favourite product right now and has to be the ultimate pressie for Caramel Wafer lovers. And last but not least our Scottish Breakfast milk jug featuring the Sweetheart Stout pin-up girl.  Adds a bit of glamour to tea-time!
Matching items including small coffee cups, mugs and kitchen textiles are available for all these products.
Teacake Teabag Tidy - £7.50 - SHOP HERE
Caramel Stripe Plate - £14.50 - SHOP HERE
Scottish Breakfast Half-Pint Jug - £14.50 - SHOP HERE
Lucy Donnell Pebble Scarf - £76 - www.lucydonnell.co.uk
Trakke Krukke (Timorous Beasties) Backpack - £300 - www.trakke.co.uk
Heather McDermott Small Buoy Earrings - £45 - www.heathermcdermott.com
 Holly Sharpe A3 Wall Calendar - £15.50 - SHOP HERE
Dunmore Scotland Barclay iPad Cover - £38 - www.madefromscotland.com