At Grasshopper Goods, we’re passionate about sharing stories of artists, makers, and dreamers—and for all your gift-giving endeavors, we’d like to spotlight five of our (many!) favorite makers from the Midwest, so you can shop small and surprise your loved ones near and far with something totally unique and so very them.

The Midwest Girl®

Started in Wisconsin by two sisters born 12 years apart, The Midwest Girl® shop is a must for t-shirts, sweatshirts, jewelry, and more that are perfect for proclaiming your love of the Midwest. The founders grew up learning to honor tradition and their roots, and you’ll find this in their products. Their best seller, and our's as well, would have to the one of the many Midwesty tee or sweatshirts, which allows you to show off your midwest pride anywhere you go.

Ruff House Print Shop

Since 2009, Ruff House Print Shop has been creating the letterpress-style stationery of our dreams, with original artwork created delicately by hand in the form of planners, greeting cards, and calendars, along with pencils, enamel pins, and more. This shop based in Lawrence, Kansas, is woman-owned-and-operated, and similar to Grasshopper Goods, it was created when the founder chased her dream after seeing the signs in a 1915 antique letterpress. We recommend this mug to start the day on a bright note, a mini notebook for your friend who always has wanderlust, and this roller skate enamel pin for the lover of everything funky. 

Luminous Rose

Now more than ever, self-care is crucial. So get your loved one a gift that will leave them feeling pampered and loved, whether they live near or far. Woman-owned Luminous Rose provides natural, affordable products that are environmentally healthy—meaning in turn, they’re good for you, too. With a Wisconsin upbringing, Luminous Rose's creator, Maria, is an expert in herbalism, crystal healing, and organic skin care. Send your loved one off into a blissful night’s sleep with the Dreamy Sleep Balm, or opt for the Feel Good Muscle Balm to soothe and relax tired, sore, and aching muscles, and the Moon Ritual Bath Soak to immerse into the healing energy of taking time to slow down

Token Jewelry

Based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Token Jewelry is one of our absolute favorite shops for classic, beautiful jewelry. Each piece is handmade from start to finish in their Wisconsin studio. They believe that your jewelry should feel amazing when you wear it and it should stand the test of time. While you can’t go wrong with any of their lovely pieces, we recommend the delicate Unity Necklace, the simple Labradorite Orb Necklace, and this fun Rainbow Necklace.   

stitch M

Located in the Chicago area, stitch M is one of our go-to for clever, handmade decor. Handcrafted by Marie and Mary, two sister-in-laws, each piece is unique and by hand. Since 2011, these two have been putting people in "stitches" with their punny and brilliant pieces. We've even worked with them to create some custom works for the shop. Our favorites would have to be any of the little birds, the custom Lil Kayaks for our beloved Madison lakes, and this fowl-mouthed bird.

At the end of the day, it’s all about who you’re with and how you show them you care. We hope this year, you can spread love and joy in a time that needs it most.

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