1. The Töastie Eco gift guide.
Laura works with artisan producers in India to bring you the most spectacular selection of bags and dhurries (hand woven cotton rugs), alongside bone inlaid trays and keepsake boxes in striking colours. I have lusted after their black and white hexagon tray forever.
"The hundreds of women dhurrie weavers have empowered themselves with their craft and they have been able to raise the living standards of their families in addition to gaining economic independence. Going further within the remote rural areas and creating bonds in these villages gives them the opportunity to not only weave the dhurries, but to weave their own futures."
* Sleepy Doe *
We have had a love affair with Sleepy Doe from the day they launched. The beautiful hand-drawn prints in a sophisticated colour palette, on the softest cotton make these such a dream for kids and grown ups alike. I can guarantee you need a pair of their 'Women's Leggings' in your life.
"All methods of manufacturing are sustainable and ethical, reflecting the standards of the whole brand. No harmful dyes are used in the printing method and all products are printed on OXTEX or GOTS certified organic cotton, ecologically sourced. Currently products are designed and manufactured in the U.K and Spain, supporting independent factories and businesses."
* Smalls Merino *"Bunny Hop loves things that are made locally, preferably from organic materials, and using sustainable methods that respect the environment and the people who make them, too."
* The Reset Project *
"My thinking is that if people go home happy, relaxed and revitalised, not only will they reap the numerous benefits of yoga but it'll also have a knock-on effect on their families and friends and so on. I have a pretty bold aim of changing the lives of as many people as possible, all through the power of yoga."
🙌
Roll of recycled brown paper
Garden twine or ribbon
* This is also really calming and relaxing art therapy *
3. Create your own Christmas tree ornaments.
The wonderful @clairefyfecooks star of Masterchef 2020 and constant purveyor of happiness on and off the plate, has shared her Salt Baked Gingerbread Christmas Tree Decorations:
500g plain flour
2 tbsp all spice
Mix all ingredients together, then knead and roll quickly or the dough will go solid!
Bake at 150 degrees for 2 hours, then let them rest for an hour. They should be hard as rock and ready to hang from the highest branches.
* These look good enough to eat ... but don't! Save them in a tin and bring them out every year to make your tree look and smell delicious *