Value of hand-made gifts

At Skill Tree, we believe growth happens when creativity, play, and community come together. Handmade gifts are a perfect example of that spirit - they’re not just objects, but carriers of meaning, care, and connection.

Handmade means heartfelt

Research shows that gifts can serve as a powerful form of emotional support - sometimes even more effective than words. A recent study found that receiving a small material gift can improve emotional recovery more than conversation alone, because gifts are seen as a personal sacrifice and a deeply receiver-focused gesture [1].

When something is handmade, that meaning deepens. People perceive handmade products as being infused with love, care, and authenticity - what researchers call “the handmade effect” [2].

Colourful glass pieces arranged for a creative glass fusing project.

Uniqueness you can’t buy off the shelf

No two handmade gifts are the same. Each carries the maker’s creativity, time, and intention. This uniqueness transforms a gift into a story - whether it’s a fused glass pendant, a hand-sewn pouch, or a carefully painted card. That story becomes a lasting memory for the person receiving it.

A sustainable & community choice

Handmade gifts are often more sustainable than mass-produced ones. They’re usually crafted in smaller batches, with less waste and often with locally sourced materials. Choosing handmade also supports artisans and small businesses, strengthening community bonds and local economies [3].

When someone creates a handmade piece, they’re not just exchanging goods - they’re supporting growth, connection, and the sharing of skills.

Imperfectly perfect

Of course, handmade doesn’t mean flawless. Sometimes a stitch is uneven, or a glaze turns out unexpectedly. But it’s often those “imperfections” that make a handmade gift more personal, more human, and more deeply valued.

More than a gift, it’s a connection

A handmade gift is ultimately a bridge - it connects giver and receiver in a way that says, “I see you. I value you. I took the time to create something just for you.”

At Skill Tree, we celebrate that kind of creativity and community spirit. Whether you craft something yourself in one of our workshops, or discover a unique handmade piece in our space, you’re not just giving an item - you’re giving meaning.

---

GROW YOUR OWN WAY. Next time you’re looking for the perfect gift, consider making, or choosing, something handmade. It might just be the most memorable gift the person ever receives.

---

References

[1] Flynn, F. J., & Adams, G. S. (2009). Money can’t buy love: Asymmetric beliefs about gift price and feelings of appreciation. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 45(2), 404–409.

[2] Veblen, J., et al. (2025). Perceptions of love and care in handmade vs. machine-made products: The handmade effect. Journal of Consumer Psychology. Retrieved from Phys.org

[3] JP Local First. (2023). Support local artisans: The benefits of choosing handmade products. Retrieved from jplocalfirst.org