• Quality You Can Count On
  Let’s be real—nobody wants something that’s going to fall apart after one use. That’s why handmade is the way to go. When artisans create, they key in on quality. They take the time to choose high-quality materials and truly care about every stitch, pour, or detail involved with their products. From a hand-poured candle to a sewn ditty bag, you can be assured it is made to last.

  Now, going back to materials, this handmade stuff is made quite frankly from the good stuff: natural, sustainable, and eco-friendly. So that artisanal soap sitting in your bathroom? It’s probably got organic ingredients that are good both for your skin and the planet. Win-win.

• Support Small Business (and Feel Good Doing It!)
  Every time you buy Handmade, you’re supporting a real person—someone who’s passionate about their craft. Unlike buying from big-box stores where profits go who-knows-where, shopping Handmade means your dollars go directly to the maker. And that’s a pretty nice feeling.

  Small businesses, just like those on Etsy, exist on their ingenuity and your very own support. So when you choose handmade, you are growing these businesses and keeping the craft alive. That results in a positive impact to the local economies where artisans and makers live. And that is shopping with a purpose!

• Choices That Are Good to the Earth, Ethics
  Let’s talk ethics for a second. All of us want to be able to make choices we can feel good about, and that’s really where handmade shines. Mass production almost always means less-than-ideal labor practices, but handmade items are generally crafted by people who love what they do and work in conditions that are both fair and ethical.
  And you know what? It’s a lot of times better for Mother Earth as well. Artisans tend to work with local materials and create in small batches, meaning less waste and a smaller carbon footprint. So when you light that handmade soy candle, know it is a more sustainable choice.

• Stories and Connections
  Handmade has stories behind it. When you lift up a hand-sewn bowl cozy or a sassy T-shirt, with every purchase, you’re not getting a product, but someone’s story in small measure. That is not something you get much from mass-produced goods.

  Many of them like to share what wares inspire them, which definitely adds another layer of meaning to what you buy. Whether a rustic wall art piece inspired by nature or a funny kitchen towel meant to brighten up a face, that little personal touch just makes them special.

Wrapping It Up

Well, why handmade? Easy: You get uniqueness, top-quality items, support for small businesses that are making ethical choices, and that which holds stories to warm your heart. At Cheerdocious, we’re beyond elated to present a handcrafted treasure trove of talented U.S.-based artisans. Whether treating yourself or looking for the perfect gift, there’s a little magic in choosing handmade.

Next time you browse, take a second to think about what your choice of handmade over mass-produced might do. Then, you’ll be able to take something special home—like you!