CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
The sun is beating down with all its might, jacaranda trees are showering the streets with purple flowers and weekends are filling up with social engagements – yes, it’s Christmas time once again. To take some of the work out of Christmas shopping, we’ve put together a gift guide of gorgeous products for the green thumb or design aficionado in your life. Use this guide for gift inspiration or to fill your own Christmas wish list.
01. Sayulita Beach Blankets by Dos Ombré
Dos Ombré makes beach blankets that give you plenty of room to spread out without getting too sandy. The Sayulita Beach Blankets are lightly woven using traditional Mexican fabrics, making them easy to pack up and take to the beach (but we think they are perfect for backyard picnics too). As an extra bonus, a portion of profits from the blankets is donated to the Costa Verde International School in Mexico.
02. Pop & Scott Thinking Swing
There is a lot of research that suggests play is beneficial for adults, but perhaps you aren’t ready to pull out your old toy box. The Thinking Swing by Pop & Scott gives you a dedicated place to spend a little time just being in the moment (and it’s also lots of fun). You can choose the colour of the seat and rope to ensure the swing bodes well with that of your outdoor space.
03. Bloom Planter by Made by Tait
For gardeners, a wall is seen as a blank canvas to be covered in plants and The Bloom Planter from Made by Tait is made for just that. A playful design in bright colours as well as neutral tones, this planter will dress up any plain wall. It’s available in large and small – the latter of which is useful for introducing greenery onto a balcony.
04. Byron Bay Hanging Chairs
After a big Christmas lunch, a Byron Bay Hanging Chair is the perfect spot to curl up and relax or take a nap. One of the design trends this year was the return of 1970s design and any free spirit will cherish these statement chairs made from natural rattan. Choose from single chairs and love seats for two.
05. Grafa gardening tools
These artisan copper gardening tools are designed and made in Melbourne by Travis Blandford. Taking inspiration from the Australian naturalist movement, Travis crafts his garden tools from copper as it is beneficial for soil health. From a design point of view, the copper is also beautiful and incredibly durable (although we don’t blame you for not wanting to get the tools dirty).
06. DIY Garden Projects by Little Veggie Patch Co
The Christmas break is the ideal time to roll up your sleeves and get stuck into a DIY project. The latest book from the gardening gurus behind The Little Veggie Patch Co, DIY Garden Projects has 38 projects to try your hand at, including edible green walls, planter boxes, cubby houses and seasonal seed charts. We all have to start somewhere and this book has projects for novices and handyfolks alike.
07. Robert Plumb
Designer Robert Plumb creates the kind of products that make us garden designers a little giddy. Any loved one with an eye for design will cherish something from his range of furniture, pots and garden accessories – especially a stool, side table or outdoor light.
08. Lepaar Gardenlust Hose
Practical and aesthetically pleasing, this is one garden hose you won’t want to hide out of sight. The Lepaar Gardenlust Hose is made from agricultural-grade hose and a recycled rubber core to make it tough and easy to handle. The brass fittings and wall hooks are crafted in Sydney by the same coppersmith that Buckingham Palace often calls upon for custom projects.
09. Jennifer + Smith outdoor cushions
Cushions are a comforting addition to any space, even outdoor areas. Printed and sewn in Sydney, Jennifer + Scott’s vibrant outdoor cushions will add personality to any garden or balcony. The fabrics are water and stain repellent, resistant to UV and treated for anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Our pick is the large Box Floor Cushion that measures in at 60 x 60 x 8 cm.
10. Wire plant stand
The mid-century look is definitely making waves in homewares and garden design. In-keeping with this style, one of the most popular garden accessories this year was the wire plant stand. There are a number of Australian makers creating these, including Wirely – which makes stands that convert to side tables – Mr Kitly and Ivy Muse. If your loved one has a penchant for this style, it’s a pretty safe bet they already have their eye on a piece like these.
11. Living gifts
When purchasing for a person who loves plants, a living gift is always a sure way to melt their heart. This Christmas, gift a plant, potted herb garden, terrarium or kokedama. Try making the gift yourself to make it even more special. Many small shops and florists now host terrarium and kokedama workshops that show you how to make your own. Once you know what you are doing, you’ll be able to make gifts for everyone on your list. We love these kokedama available via Lump Studio.
12. Haws Copper Watering Can
Copper has a timeless quality that any design lover will appreciate. The watering cans by British company Haws are made from pure copper and a brass rose. They only hold one litre of water, making them better suited to the container gardener. These elegant watering cans are designed and made in England but can be purchased in Australia from Ivy Muse.
13. Fast-growing seeds
If the gardener in your life has a benevolent spirit, they’ll probably appreciate a charity donation made on their behalf. Keep the donation sentimental by purchasing fast-growing seeds from World Vision. Helping families grow crops like rice, carrots, peas and potatoes, these little seeds assist with putting food on the tables of those who need it most.