I began my business years ago by selling handmade, hand-stenciled items through Christmas craft fairs. I can assure you that I never made a dime on my rabbit dolls and wooden animals, but the fact that people in my neighborhood were willing to buy my own personal creations was fulfilling and encouraged me to keep moving forward.

Creative types are now able to take their “craft” to a whole new level (and worldwide audience) through online sales and exposure. Online shops that showcase handcrafted wares are springing up all over, with Etsy being the biggest and bestest. You can easily tag your favorite items and sellers, as I have done below.

For some truly unique and one-of-a-kind gifts, skip the corporate mall and consider supporting these and other artistic entrepreneurs as you go down your shopping list. It’s almost as good as making it yourself! Shown left to right, top to bottom: Sushipot, t8designs, Urbanknit, PoPko, flickaalice, AshtonJewels, ArtOfAndrewDaniel, niceclutter, kellyrae