Green Christmas: 10 Awesome Gifts that Don't Take Up Any Room Under the Tree

Oh who doesn't love the look of a Christmas tree just bursting with gifts underneath? It feels good to see that symbol of abundance and that physical manifestation of love on Christmas morning. I know I really love a good Gift Mountain. I do. Not facetious at all, it makes me so happy to give gifts.

That being said, how many of the gifts you received last year can you name? And how many gifts get returned or never quite find use in the course of the year? Probably at least a few! We give so many gifts this time of year, but if you are looking to get the most for the biggest deal, you are doing harm. Americans have so much stuff, and we are creating tons of waste. 85 million tons of textile waste. Plastic that is overrunning the ocean. Encouraging inequality and the mistreatment of other. If Jesus came to save the world, why are we celebrating him by destroying it?

I would never knock gift-giving as a practice, but I do think there are lots of gifts we could be giving that don't take up more room in our homes and under our tree. Giving gifts that don't take up space can sometimes be the best ones, and they can help us take care of what we already have rather than adding to piles that can become hard to manage. These gifts might not fill up the tree space as much, but I think they are gifts that your loved ones will be so much more likely to remember.

What non-material gifts are you giving this year? I am excited to be buying our niece piano lessons with a few books. All of our siblings are getting experiences instead of stuff. It's a trend I am excited about, even if we don't have the big gift-opening moment on Christmas morning. That's two minutes. I want to get gift that make memories that will last.


So here are my best ideas- what are you getting this year that you don't have to wrap

1. Netflix Subscriptions- Rather than buying someone a stack of movies this Christmas, what about getting them the fancy dvd level membership to Netflix? Even pay for their streaming for them! It is a little steep, maybe their whole gift for the year, but it creates a lot less waste to borrow than to own!

2. Quality Time- Rather than getting a family or couple more stuff, look up an event calendar for their town and think about if you could get them tickets to a cool activity they would enjoy. For example (and sorry, Shell, I didn't go for it and I should have), I saw tickets for sale to go see/ ride on Thomas the Tank Engine that would have been so fun for my sweet cousin's toddlers and their whole family. If you can fund a new experience or a family memory, that can make a great gift!

For the Bub's birthday, we bought him one gift. One. Instead, we took him to see Daniel Tiger Live as a family, and he was so into it! My goal is to manage birthdays this way forever- one gift, one experience, and one party. I love the memory of going there with him, and it won't add to the collection of toys we seem to always be fighting back.

If you don't have kids to shop for, this still works. Try concert tickets or season tickets to something. Give a gift card for a trip you know they are saving for.

3. Handy Help- Taking a page from Luke on Gilmore Girls, you could give "coupons" for help getting something checked off a loved one's to do list. Not handy yourself? You could try buying your loved one a few hours of handyman or cleaning person time. I have given this gift, and not to toot my own horn (toot toot), but I think it is basically the best gift ever. Let's face it, adulthood is the worst, and it gets so old to have a neverending to do list for your home. Blech.

You can get a loved one a little help fixing that vent or ceiling, or hanging that molding, or building that closet organization, or whatever other nonsense just never quite gets done because it sounds horrible and people are super busy. One of the greenest things we can do is take care of what we have so we don't need to buy a new one, so this might be the ticket for someone you care about.

4. Food- Take someone a lasagna or pot pie or something they can stick in their freezer, not under the tree. Much like house repairs, cooking can be a real pain in the bumper this time of year. It can really help someone out. If you aren't sure what to make, but you want to give more practical gifts, you could also stock a pantry or buy them all (recycled) paper goods (I love this idea- a year's worth of paper towels sounds so lame, but it is kind of awesome actually).

5. Date Night- A gift card for a night out is not exactly new territory, but it's a classic for a reason. People love to eat out, and this gives them a good reason to go do it!

6. A Museum Membership- If your giftee lives near a museum (or zoo? or theater? science center?), a membership could be a great gift! It basically gives them a constant reason to go visit, and members at many museums have access to activities and events they may not otherwise. Perfect for an art lover, animal lover, or just someone who loves to learn. Also great for stay at home parents, as most of these places have weekday activities that cater to small children and their adults.

7. Donating to a Charity in their Honor- For that person who really does have everything, and they really don't want any more stuff. You can find charities that give ornaments or calendars in return for a donation if you want to give them a little token, but I think this would be so cool. If we all put 100 dollars of our Christmas shopping money directly into charities, we could make a huge difference in the world!

This one feels even more relevant than it did a year ago. We need to support organizations fighting for our environment and for human rights. You could also support efforts to help in Syria or even "adopt" a refugee family in their honor. So many options here, so think about what matters most to them.

8. A Visit from a Cleaning Service- Do you know someone with small children? Stop! Do not buy them another baby thing,

Get them a few visits from a cleaning service. You will be their favorite person forever.

This could probably work for all sorts of people, but parents of babies will love you the most, and that's the point of Christmas, right?

Check with them first; no reason to offend anyone. If you don't have much money, but you have some serious cleaning skills, this is a gift that could cost you 0 dollars.

9. Lessons- The Boy and I talk about getting cooking and dancing lessons all the time, but we have never gone for it. If you know someone has debated it, this might be the perfect way to help the person you love finally take the leap. Swimming lessons might be cool for kids too. The community college near us has a super interesting catalog of night classes, so be sure to check out what is near you too!

10. Massages- I think massages are a little awkward, but not everyone is as wimpy as me. A massage might really make their day. We did this for my brother and sister in law last year as a kind of date? Wow, that sounds awkward to me, but you go ahead and go for it, because we aren't all pasty blogging dorks.

What non-material gifts have you bought for someone?

Some of these are a little steep- I am a big supporter of going in with others to buy gifts! If we all focus on quality and not quantity, I think we can shift our paradigm on Christmas and consumption, focusing more on what really matters and less on stuff! Who can't get behind that?

If you are looking for more shopping inspiration, check out my Giant List of Shopping Lists!

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60 Green Stocking Stuffers for Adults

Stockings are treated like a footnote for Christmas, but an awesome stocking can be a highlight of the holiday! Especially if we are cutting down on our gifting (buy less, have more adventures), stockings will actually make up a good chunk of our shopping.

Kids gifts can be great, and you can find their stocking stuffer list here, but often, we adults get the bum end of the deal, because Santa is on to our misbehavior or something, but I think we can turn up the fun (and usefulness!) of the stockings.Even better, we can do this by making gifts or buying Eco-Friendly Used, Recycled, or Made in America gifts! 

We can fall into the idea that we don't have many good options, but we have tons! I listed 50 here, so you can pick a handful you like to replace something else you would have put in a stocking. Also, these are up early, because Etsy doesn't come with prime shipping, so things move slowly. You want to order some of this fun stuff soon! 

The Inner Child

from Bean Works Crochet

1. Cacti (USA)- Because if you haven't got one of Akron's famous crocheted cacti, you are missing out. Seriously though, these are so cute! Who doesn't want a Christmas cactus?

2. Cards (USA)- These playing cards are made in America, and nothing says holiday cheer like a good game of rummy or solitaire.

3. Puzzles (GU, USA)- You could get puzzles at basically any level and then put them in the stocking broken up (maybe not great for those 1000 piece puzzles).This is one you can definitely find in consignment stores Springbok Puzzles is one of the oldest puzzle companies in the US! Tavern Puzzles makes the cool metal puzzles you have to jimmy with to get things apart.

from Wild Rabbits Burrow

4. Stuffed Toy (USA)- Oh, you are too mature to want stuffed animals? It must really suck to be you! Maturity be damned, you can buy all sorts of cute little someones to stuff into a stocking. What adult doesn't need this Christmas cactus from Wild Rabbits Burrow in their life? Oh, most of us? Well, you might still find a perfect and adorable gift in this store (they have great pillows too) or another Etsy store like The Yawning Yak or The Huggable Hoots.

from Oanabefort

5. Temporary Tattoos (USA)- This must be on trend, because you can find any style of temporary tattoo. Is it mature to wear these? Absolutely not, so it makes for a fun Christmas day! Who doesn't want a Christmas face tattoo?  One year, I got a henna set for Christmas, and it was super fun until it exploded on my poor cousin Paige's hand. You can do it better than I did. Tattly Temporary Tattoos make some of my favorites like these nautical ones and the vegetables (finally fulfilling my eggplant tattoo dreams). I also love this anemone tattoo from Oanabefort. These hand tattoos look super fun as well.

Treat Yo Loved Ones

6. Backscratcher (USA)- You know you're a grown-up when your back hurts. A back scratcher can stick right in a stocking, and you can even get one shaped like a moose! Merry Christmas indeed!

from Juxtapositions SC

7. Bottle Opener (USA)- Simple addition that people sometimes need? I got The Boy a pirate one a year ago, and it has gotten a lot of use (yes, parenthood has led to way more beer drinking in this house, but only because we have had lots of people over). You could buy a set on Teals Prarie and give everybody matching ones. Juxtapositionsc sells every type of bottle opener you would ever want to buy, but I like the wall mounted ones best (because who doesn't want a little cast iron on Christmas?).

from Restrung Jewelry

8. Bracelets (R, FT)- My dad usually gives a piece or two of really fun jewelry, and I love these bright and colorful bracelets made from recycled flip flops. You could split the group between stockings too. I got a set of these, and they are actually prettier in person. Super cute and great for the environment! I am currently obsessed with recycled guitar string bracelets, especially these beauties from Restrung Jewelry (you can try Fox Designs Jewelry, Robin and Leigh, or Recycled Hope as well). Want more recycled options? Try R3SK8 Products, that makes mod jewelry out of old skateboards. You can even get a bike chain bracelet!

from sleepy mountain

9. Fun Jewelry (USA)- It's very important to understand that no stocking jewelry should be fancy or expensive. Fun. Playful. My dad usually puts some jewelry in my stocking every year, and some of it is very cute and some is a little more silly, but (as far as I know), stocking jewelry does not cause an arm and a leg. Lucky for all of us, Etsy sellers are the geniuses of fun jewelry, so you are bound to find something perfectly awesome for your loved ones. Sleepy Mountain sells the best studs I have ever seen- Ron Swanson, Tobias Funke, paper planes (see how that works on two levels?). If Santa is reading this, I would basically love anything from this store (someone loves Parks and Rec as much as I do).

If you want to be classy (booo), you could also get a bracelet with an initial on it. You can also buy minimalist jewelry like these earrings from Madera Lane. Art Altered brings the dorky at an epic level. You could get bangle bracelets made of recycled champagne bottles- so fancy! Obsessories also sells hilarious stud earrings (you can even get custom ones of your dog) . Do you see there is an endless supply of options here? You can find the perfect piece of kooky jewelry this year.

10. Hair Ties (USA)- Pumpkin Bowtique has lots of choices of hair ties, in any color you can think of. I love these ribbon ones, which are adorable and come in lots of patterns. It's a nice alternative to the elastic ones with the little metal piece.

11. iPad Case (USA)- Maybe a little big for a stocking, but you could potentially roll it around the top to pile things higher, like my dad does with magazines (seems a little symbolic, right? Replacing magazines with an iPad cover?) 8th Day Encore has lots of pretty combinations of fabric, and I would probably pick them for that. Wooden 45 sells covers and pouches out of Michigan. These Mario and Luigi ones make me smile, though I don't know how a crocheted case works long term. If you are a sewer, and you just want to make a good one yourself, you can get the instant download PDF here for 4 dollars.

from Off Chutes

12.  Luggage Tags (R, USA)- RSVP Handcrafted makes some of the best leather goods on Etsy, and their luggage tags can be personalized and probably used forever. My favorites are these recycled parachute tags from Off Chutes- I like when they are bright and eye catching, because it helps when you are at Baggage Claim. A good luggage tag can be a lifesaver, and it is just the sort of small detail that can freshen up an older piece of luggage.

13, Nail Polish (USA)- There are lots of great beauty articles out there about eco-friendly and vegan nail polishes. I love Essie polish (in most drug stores and Target), which doesn't have the nasty chemicals and is made in the US, but as far as I know isn't vegan. Ginger and Liz is vegan, and their polish is 12 dollars a pop. Butter and Priti NYC are made in the US 5-free, and they go for 15 dollars a bottle (these aren't cheap, but isn't it better to have 1 healthy nail polish you use all the time than 3 much less responsible ones you use once in a blue moon?). Suncoat and Earthly Delights are both non-toxic/ vegan as well, and they are more at the Essie price.

You could also get someone a cute set of nail stickers (I guess? I do not get nail stickers, and it seems like a lot of waste for nearly no fun), like this set from Southern Country Nails.

14. Phone Covers (EF, C)- It may be mighty challenging to buy a cell phone made in America, but finding a case made in the US is easy as pie (and it can make that phone last so much longer).

 Pela makes phone covers out of bioplastic (mostly for iphones), which is hard and durable, but also biodegradable. You can find recycled wood phone covers too! Neo makes bamboo cases. I love that so many options exist, because you give this eco-friendly gift that fits the style of the person you are gifting it to! If you are into cutesiness, Happy Kosmos has Kawaii covers like this red panda. This one is insane, and I love it. If the people you love exercise, they might love these arm band cases from speedzster, which are perfect for runs.

I have done some research on the phone cover as well. You can check my favorite stores here.

15. Pocket Mirrors (USA)-  I think these pocket mirrors from Boy Girl Party would make a great stocking stuffer, because it could easily stay in a purse for emergency moments. The Boy got me the dinosaur one last year, and it totally reflects things. And they are only 6 bucks and made in the US! Win! Glorious Weirdo makes all sorts of mirrors, but my favorite might be these Ghostbuster ones. Modern Girl Blitz makes a badass feminist mirror.

from The Little Soap Store

16. Soap (EF, USA)- I am now fully convinced that everyone should buy their soaps locally. You can find MULTIPLE options to buy soap from in your area, not to mention your country! So why do we keep buying soap wrapped in tons of packaging that has traveled such a long way? You can also find about a million hilarious and fun soap options to put in a stocking. I love these doughnut soaps from The Little Soap Store. How cute is that! Also awesome, this trout on a rope soap from Dope on a Rope Soap (less keen on the marajuana soap, because pot smells awful, but embrace the stinkiness if that's you). These lump of coal soaps are cheeky and fun too. Or, if you are nervous about buying something you like, I would recommend a small set of leftovers/ samples, like Lippincott Soap Co sells. What a good idea, and your loved one could test soaps and find the ones they like best.  Everyone, buy some fun soap for stocking stuffers this year- another EASY and fun switch!

from Pact

17. Socks (USA, R)- Only fun socks, because just regular socks is just not a treat at all. Solmate Socks makes adorable mismatched socks in bright, fun colors. We bought them for the Bub, and they have stood up to lots of wear. We also love Pact socks for men and women, which are fair trade. Woolrich sells made in America socks too!

18. Underwear (FT or USA)- You stop believing in Santa, you get underwear for Christmas. This is adulthood, and it is kind of the worst. On the other hand, you can get super cute and soft underwear from Pact in both men's and women's! Blue Canoe makes some of my favorites too. Commando sells underwear and pasties, so if you are the first person to put pasties in a stocking, I salute you.

19. Make Up Pads (USA, EF)- These reusable make up pads will help cut down the big pile of garbage made by make up usually. Plus, they look like little crocheted frisbees to throw around.

Kitchen Stuff

20. BBQ Rubs or Spices (USA)- Giving new spice rubs to experiment with might be the perfect gift for a foodie or barbeque lover. Gusto sells cute little 4 packs of hot wing rubs for 9 bucks, among their pretty wide variety of barbeque spice rubs.

from Kline Honey Bee Farm

21. Honeys and Jams (USA, EF)- My mom brings us jam from her garden sometimes when she visits, and other than one jar, we  have eaten through them all. I feel like this could be the perfect Christmas treat! And you could introduce someone to a new favorite! I love these Kline Honey Bee Farm packs, which has 6 different tasters, so people can find their favorites. Boondock Enterprises sells small jars of a wide variety of jam so they will fit in a stocking.

22. Salt and Pepper (USA)- Ok, we all wish I meant the kind that came with Spinderella, but this is pretty great too. Get some kind of cool salt (we have pink finishing salt) or peppercorns to put in the shakers all year long. Lots of use and fun idea. If you live by a spices store, some cool spices would make a great gift too.

from Comfortably Lovely

23. Magnets (USA)- You can find TONS of magnets on Etsy, and they make for a fun addition to any stocking. These Pantone magnets from Comfortably Lovely look like so much fun. Think of all the color combinations you could make instead of cooking!  I literally love this Recall Knope? DON'T! magnet.

24. Measuring Cups and Spoons (R, USA)- They don't all fit under the 15 dollar cutoff, but these cups from Preserve and spoons from Architec do. They might come in handy if the ones in your kitchen are worn down past usefulness.

25. Popcorn (USA)- If you don't go the route of the giant popcorn tins, you could get gourmet (??) popcorn kernels and fun original popcorn toppings from Dell Cove Spices. In general, I think I would be incredulous about something like this, but they have great reviews and it sounds pretty delicious. It would also be a fun bottom level for a stocking if you love someone with no sweet tooth.

26. Sink Brush (USA)- Nothing says a good time like a sink brush. Still, you need them, and this one looks great.

from amazon

27. Spatulas (USA)- These Fletcher's Mill Spatulas come in pretty colors. I like having a few in different sizes, so I can scrape out different vessels and so forth. Because no one should make the tragic mistake of wasting cookie batter.

28. Spoons and Turners (EF)- Stuff one of those into a stocking instead of one of those Hershey Kiss tubes? I know ours look a little rough, and you can't cook with those candy tubes.My beloved Epicurean makes awesome spoons and turners- we love them in this house.  These ones, from Architec, are made of bamboo, and they come in pretty colors.   Lipper International sells bamboo sets as well.

from Amitea Organics

29. Teas and Coffees- Ok, I don't drink hot liquids (why do they all taste like dirty water?), so I am not an expert on these, but you can find all kinds of cool tea and coffee sets. They might make a really great treat for Christmas. Amitea Organics sells sets of multiple teas that looks pretty and festive. Apropos Roasters sells similar packs of coffee, and they seem to be pretty beloved. Why? I don't know. People are crazy and love hot water dirt.

30. Whisk (USA)- Last year, Santa brought both the Boy and I whisks in our stockings, because our whisk (a hand me down from my mom) fell apart. Both of those whisks, one from Target's basic line and one by Giada have both fallen apart already. It's not like we cook that much. We just bought junk. Even a stocking can be an opportunity to gift things that are needed with all of the fun stuff. If you also want to throw in a whisk, you have some great options that are made in the US by Best Manufacturers. We have a Best Manufacturers one now, and you can tell it is well made to last (even against our toddler's mixa mixa mixa). Never going back to Giada's crap.

from Amazon

31. Reusable Straws (EF, USA)- Simple straws like these Hummingbird glass ones can keep so many plastic straws out of landfills. Maybe not for everyone, but if you have a straw-lover in your life, these would be perfect in a bag or office. They have metal ones too if the glass makes you nervous. Super simple, and a genius way to eliminate so much wastefulness! Plus, it comes with its own cleaning brush- so cute!

32. Sponges and Washclothes (EF)- If you have skills, you can make washclothes on your own, if not, eco-friendly reusable sponges and washclothes make a practical gift. If you get cute ones like these from The Country Oak, The Green Haven, or Unsponge,  it may even make for a not-totally-miserable gift.

33. Cloth Napkins (EF, R, USA)- I love cloth napkins. I see why they came out of vogue, but it really is nothing to throw them in with the laundry. If you happen to shop for someone who cares about the environment or just wants a classy table, cloth napkins from Little Blue Nest, Clear Sky Home, Dot and Army, JAQS Studio, or Oh Little Rabbit would look adorable on a table and in a stocking.

34. Lemon Covers (USA)- Who knew a lemon cover was even a thing? Not sure everyone can use it, but it's worth a try if you (or the chef you are shopping for) are up for a citrus-related adventure.

Let's Get Creative

35. Colored Pencils (R)- Coloring for adults is all the rage, for good reason- it's fun! If you want to color, you can use these recycled colored pencils, which are so cool. They are made of recycled newspaper instead of bringing down more trees.

36. Markers (US, R)- Crayola makes markers here in the US, and you can even send them back to be recycled once they dry out.  Sharpies are still made in the US too!

from Obvious State

37. Little Notebooks (USA, R)- Is there anything with more possibility than a fresh new notebook? My beloved Decomposition Books are go to's all year long, made from recycled paper and soy ink in the US. I love them, and they fit perfectly in my bag. If you need something with almost excessive cool, Field Notes has notebook sets as well. Field Notes are so trendy at this point they may be heading to uncool? But they are way better than Moleskine, and they will bend just enough to fit in a stocking.

My new special occasion favorites are from Obvious State, who make modernist notebooks and posters with literary figures and quotes on them. Awesome.  I love these little ones that would make perfect stocking stuffers. This robot one from Happy Dappy Bits looks like a winner.

from My Posh Desiigns

38. Washi Tape (USA)- I feel like I would have loved these as a kid, and its another gift you could use to spruce up anything! All the sets at Pretty Tape are adorable. My Posh Designs also does a wide variety of adorable washi tape.

Practicals and Usefuls

39. Candles (EF, USA)- We used to impulse buy candles at Target, but they are filled with nasty chemicals, and they are meant to fill your house with them! Blech. Now, I can see a ton of other options as long as I am willing to poke around. You can make small ones yourself for an awesome gift, or you can buy all kinds of American- made and environmentally-responsible ones! Right now, we are burning a Our Own Candle Company candle (maybe too big for a stocking?) and an Eco candle, and they both smell amazing.

from Etta Arlene

I am currently really excited about Etta Arlene candles, which are made in Pittsburgh- yay Western PA! They have lots of hilarious and awesome scents, including Boss Bitch, Unicorn Tears, and Treat Yo Self (and if you buy 2, you get 20% off). Also, one of the listed materials is love. Mark this as one of my new favorite stores! Moss and Oak sells soy candles in scents you don't always see, and they have really great reviews, so this could be a homerun.

40. Car Escape Tool (USA)- Ok, maybe practical is the wrong word, but if you are trapped in a car, this keychain sure would be useful. If Leeza Gibbons was Santa Clause, this would be in everyone's stocking. Because holiday cheer means kidnapping preparedness.

41. Hats and Scarves (USA, R)- We just bought the Bub Gypsy and Lolo mittens, and we loved them so much, we bought him a second pair! They are made of recycled material and they are just so cute. They also sell gloves, hats, and scarves for adults, and though a lot of them are just out of that 15 dollar limit, but check out the sale section! Almost everything from there works. I also really like these slouchy beanies from Lot 415. I also have a whole post on warm, cozy pieces on Etsy, but the options are endless, so poke around.

from Crave by CRV

42. Key Chain (USA)- Not the most original idea, but you can find some gorgeous and fun options. I love these tassel charms, which are very on trend this year. Perfect if you want to be Hip Santa.

43. Nail Clippers (USA)- My mother-in-law puts nail clippers in everyone's stockings every year. Genius. Because nail clippers go missing all the time. I don't know where her son takes them. But they disappear. So replenishing the supply helps and these ones are made in America.

44. Pencils (R, EF, USA)- Did you know about Sprout Pencils? I didn't! They are pencils you can plant in the ground to grow herbs after you are finished with them! How freaking cool is that!?!? Totally biodegradable and genuinely doing good. I just love this. I love that someone thought of this. What a wonderful world. If you get these, tell me how you like them!

You can also get regular pencils out of recycled newspaper, so absolutely no trees came down for these pencils. I hate pencils, but if someone in your life doesn't, these are an awesome option.

from amazon

45. Pens (USA, R)- Pens work perfectly, and these pens (made from recycled plastic bottles) are the bomb. I have some, and they really write well (I am super picky about this). A dozen cost 11 dollars. Never buy fresh plastic pens again! That's nonsense! If you want to spice up your new all-recycled pens, try this 3-D printed pen holder!

46. Pocket Monkey (USA)- It works as a multitool and as a cute little monkey! Ok, I may not totally understand why someone would want this, but the tool fits in a wallet, so it would fit in a stocking!

47. Toothbrushes (USA, R, EF)- Ok, this whole Practical subcategory isn't exactly festive, but Christmas might work as a perfect transition from those sad fresh plastic toothbrushes that your loved ones may still use! Boo hiss! Instead, you could get biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes (lots of choices!) or Preserve recycled toothbrushes (we use these and they work exactly the same- no teeth have fallen out). So again, probably don't do an all-toothbrush stocking, but one never hurt anyone! If you want to buy less, buying some practical gifts makes a lot of sense.

48. Tweezers (USA)- The same basic principle as nail clippers- they disappear, and Christmas stockings can help replenish your tweezer supply. Plus, you can find them made in the US!

49. Produce Bags (USA, EF)- I think these little produce bags could be stuffed into a stocking and used all year long (instead of those impossible to open plastic ones. Not the perfect gift for everyone, but maybe your person would love it. These ones are my favorite since they are also made in the US. You can also find nice sets on Etsy, including from one of my favorite stores Oh Little Rabbit.

50. Bottle Beans (USA)- These awesome little sponges are perfect for cleaning out your reusable water bottle (because it can be tough to reach that one spot...). What a cool idea!

Odds and Ends

from Caramels for Karson

51. Caramels (USA, EF)- These caramels are made by a grandma to raise money for her grandsons with heart defects, so this is candy you can feel good about buying. They also have 849 5 star reviews, so if you don't have a huge soft spot for kids with heart issues, you may just like the caramels. I love this one. What a beautiful world we live in that she does this for them.

52. Hot Sauce or other Sauces (USA)- The Boy got a spice blend set one year which really led to lots of fun experiments. You could get something as simple as hot sauce or look around and find something from nearby. There are some neat American brands online- Stonewall sauces (like this garlic rosemary citrus sauce) or Tom Douglas sauces (like Tamarind Barbeque), but you can always find something near you too.

53. Christmas Ornaments (USA)- It would be kind of a cool tradition to put an ornament in their stocking each year that has to do with their year, then they can hang it on the tree. If you are looking to gift for a lot of people, I like this snowflake set from Nestled Pine Works. I love this little hedgehog one, but you can find so many Made in the USA ornaments on Etsy.

from Flytrap

54. Date Ideas (USA)- Flytrap sells fun date ideas and other card sets to put in a significant other's stockings. My favorite are the "Bad Parking Notes" which you can leave on bad parkers' cars. Perfect for the Curmudgeon behind the wheel in your life.

55. Golf Balls (R)- Did you know you can buy recycled golf balls? I didn't! It makes perfect sense though. This makes for the perfect stocking stuffer for somebody!

56. Guitar Strap (R, USA)- These guitar straps are made out of recycled seatbelts. Until this moment, I never thought about how many seatbelts never get a second life as a musical accessory. Truly tragic. Perfect for the guitar player.

57. Lighters (USA)- Smokers always seem to be looking for their lighters. Zippo's are made in the US!

from amazon

58. Sandwich Bags (USA, EF)- Planetwise sells reusable sandwich bags that could be used as a pouch, or they can perfectly set someone up for bringing their lunch to work! Sack Savers has cute ones too.

59. Seeds (EF)- It may not be time to plant now, but that day is just around the corner. Plants and trees provide individuals shade, food, and (for some people) peace and simplicity. Those packets are the perfect size to stuff in a stocking, and they have the potential to do something really positive for everyone. You could also do wildflower seed bombs and have adventures speading wildflowers.

60. A Small Donation (EF)- The Boy and I were talking last night about what we wanted for Christmas, and mostly he feels like he has everything he needs. If you are shopping for someone tough like that too, why not put in double the candy and put that gift money toward a donation? Think about donating to something that helps the environment, because this is going to be a rough four years!


Alright, did you make it? I hope you found an idea in all of this you can put to use (I think I am buying 4 or 5 for The Boy's stocking, and a bunch of Seattle Chocolates and calling it a day). If you want to look at the list for kids again, check here.

If you are feeling inspired and want to do even more Green Shopping (Eco-friendly, recycled, used, or Made in the USA), check out the Big List of Shopping Lists!

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Green Christmas- An Impossible Shopping List

I had The Boy send me another Christmas list for this year. He is a tough one, because really doesn't want much of anything. If he feels like we need it, he has probably already bought it. But maybe you also have an impossible to shop for person in your life?

 It's tough when you are trying to be eco-friendly, because you don't want to buy wasteful gifts, but it is also probably a bad idea to get your partner nothing for Christmas (unless you guys have worked that out between yourselves, of course). So here are my best responses to his requests, and hopefully it helps you with the impossible person you have on your list!

from Topos Designs

Hooded Rain Jacket

 I hate hoods, but having multiple umbrellas destroyed by the wind, I am coming to understand why people don't use them in Seattle. 

Here are a couple I have found some pretty awesome rain jackets. Also, super expensive. I am not sure whether to go this route, but if i do, this is all he is getting. Plus, I imagine this would get daily use for many years, so maybe it is worth doing something more substantial.

Freeman Rain Jackets- If you are going to buy a rain jacket, maybe do it from a company in Seattle. We know rain. This jacket was made by a couple who couldn't find a jacket they liked, so they made their own. Freeman jackets are basic in a good way. Again, ridiculously expensive, but completely made in Seattle. You can read more about them here.

Topos Designs- I love the style of these two-toned mountain jackets from Topos. The Boy got a backpack from them that is tough without being too outdoorsy and practical without being gigantic. This Colorado-based company is a gem. Again, not cheap, but it would last a long time.

Patagonia- This company is beloved by environmentalists (even bourgeois ones like me) because  environmental responsibility is at the center of their mission as a company. You can track their supply chain, and even though it is all over the world, you can see exactly how their labor is treated. This year, they even donated all of their Black Friday profits (some 10 million dollars, not chump change) to grassroot environmentalist groups. Plus, they make great coats and fleeces.

Columbia also makes an eco-friendly rain jacket out of recycled water bottles. I am pretty excited about their ideas, so be sure to check them out.

Jeans

 I am down to 2 pairs that I actually like that fit. 

He has started shopping for these on his own (see?!? I told you. He makes it so hard because he just does it himself!) and the two he has found that he likes (he told me not to say "really likes." They haven't earned it yet) are from Gustin and Flint and Tinder.

The Boy is on to something; jeans are one of those things that actually have a ton of made in America options. They are expensive, so you need to have a smaller wardrobe of jeans to make it work. Maybe only 3 pairs would do the trick. Gustin and Flint and Tinder both specialize in lower price premium denim (between 80 and 100 dollars a pair), but you still aren't going to buy a pile of them as gifts.

Ok, more options for jeans, because plenty exist:

Levi's have some, but not a lot, so make sure before you buy. Naked and Famous (another "entry level" option, made in Canada), Earnest Sewn, Imogene and Willie, J Brand, Mission Workshop, AG Jeans, Jean Shop, LC King, Rogue Territory, Roundhouse Jeans (super affordable), Rag and Bone,  Raleigh Denim Workshop, Rising Sun Manufacturing Co, Self Edge, Tellason, The Stronghold, and Baldwin Denim.

I'm telling you, blue jeans and  craft beers are crazy easy to find made in the USA. Check out the links. Even if they are expensive, get one pair of great jeans and wear them all the time, and they will last you longer than three pairs of junky jeans.

from American Giant

Zip up Hooded Sweatshirt

American Giant. Not the cheapest, but they are made in the USA, super soft, and they LAST. I bought The Boy sweatpants from them last year, and they still get tons of use. American Giant is worth checking out.

American Apparel. Like American Giant in that it is made sweatshop free in the US. Just comes with a lot more sexism and the constant threat of leaving.

If you want something with more style, check some of the jean companies from above. There are plenty of hoodies out there, I just think simpler is better.

Oyster Shucker Kit

 Dexter Russell does make two oyster knives. There is a difference between them, but I can't tell what it is. I found one cut resistant glove as well. Still goes to show you can get the randomest things made in America.

Silicone-tipped Kitchen Tongs 

I worry that I'm poisoning us using the metal tongs on nonstick.

Dang it, Husband, you bested me (but thanks for trying not to poison us). I can't find any silicone-tipped tongs made anywhere nearby. Edlund makes a set of tongs in the US, but they don't have the silicone tip. Check your local Goodwill? This is good advice no matter what kitchen gadget you are on the lookout for. Goodwill has all the kitchen stuff.

Navy Gingham Shirt

 I've been trying to replace one of my favorite shirts that bit the dust last year. I think it was from American Eagle? I went through a serious gingham phase starting about 4 years ago with that shirt. Frank and Oak make my favorite (the Branford gingham) that I own in at least 3 colors, but their navy is super-almost-black dark, so I never kept it, and all of their stuff is definitely not made in the US

Ok, this one is so tricky, because it is so specific. My favorite options are from the New England Shirt Company, but I don't think any are the exact print he wants.

  Gitman Bros has some options that look perfect, but they are 200 dollars, which seems like way too much for a shirt to me. I really like the choices from Individualized Shirts, though it does look like the fabric comes from all over the place.

Baldwin and Filson has blue plaid shirts, but nothing gingham. Rambler's Way has great shirts as well, but nothing gingham.

from The Up North Market

A New Scarf

 I haven't actually figured out scarves as an adult man, but the one I do own was attached by moths

 I should say, as his wife, this man is not getting a scarf. At least not from me. His neck has never been that cold, and I feel like the only guy that can pull of a scarf is my dad. But I can show you where to look in case you know a man who can rock one.

You could make a scarf. Yes, you. Crocheting and knitting are relatively easy skills to learn if you don't know already, and you can get something with more meaning that costs WAY less money.

I found a couple of scarves that are crazy expensive, though I imagine a man only buys so many scarves in his life, so maybe that isn't a big deal? I honestly can't imagine buying an Alexander Olch scarf for 270 dollars. Seriously, I cannot imagine how you justify that purchase. Steven Alan makes scarves as well.

Really, if you want to buy a man a scarf without breaking the bank, Etsy is the place to look (you knew I was going to say it, but it's true!) Autumn Moon Threads has a great looking one that is pretty reasonable. I mostly don't love infinity scarves, but these ones from the Up North Market look pretty stylish and like they would actually keep you warm.  If you want to get a crazy expensive one, Fitch Studio Weavers have gorgeous and masculine scarves.

You can also find TONS of vintage scarves. Just stay out of the Target or Walmart section. You can do better for this one.

from Vintage Kitchen Tools

Potato Ricer

For Perfect Gnocchi.

Etsy (or Ebay). You can find TONS of potato ricers on Etsy and Ebay. Not all are in usable condition, but plenty are. Start looking used, because these can last long beyond one owner and used is always an eco-friendly choice!

I looked all over the place for a made in America ricer option, but it seems like they are all made in elsewhere now. But that is ok. Get one used.

Pokemon Sun

Gotta Catch'em All.

I guess this one is unavoidable. Especially in this house. Sadly, if you want a game this new, buying it used isn't really an option.

A Few More Ideas... 

Date Night- If you are like us, a date night is a pretty precious thing. Why not hire a babysitter for one night a month that you can count on? Or, get a bunch of gift certificates to different restaurants you want to try? Season tickets for the theater to guarantee a bunch of nights out? An activity-based gift might be perfect for someone who seems to have everything they want.

Spices or Cookbooks- We love a good cooking challenge in our house. We spend a lot of our nights in the kitchen, so opportunities to try something new is always good. We love Cooks' Illustrated and America's Best Test Kitchen best, and you can find all sorts of cool Made in America spice rubs, mixes, and sauces at places like Sur La Table or Williams Sonoma.

A Music or Movie Service- If you know someone impossible, get them money for Netflix or Amazon Prime so that they can spend their money another way. It's a simple gift, but it might be a great one.

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