15+ Iowa Makers to Buy From Any Day of the Year
If you know me, you know that I love to support small businesses as much as possible and Iowa is blessed with some incredible local artisans. Whether you are shopping for a holiday gift for family members, a stocking stuffer, a birthday present, or just because there are many local shops to choose from. You may find many of these local makers gathered in one spot at vendor fairs such as the Good Makers Market, Vintage & made Fair, or the local farmers market. If you are not able to make it to one of these events you may miss out on supporting these local businesses. I have gathered 20+ Iowa makers to buy from any day of the year right here!
Shopping for holiday gifts? Check out these other guides to buying gifts this season:
- Small Business Saturday
- Holiday Markets + Local Shopping
- Give the Gift of Experience
- Toy and Children’s Stores in Des Moines
Aide Shoppe
If you are looking for something for the littlest member of your life check out Aide Shoppe. Each item is handmade per order, so you know a ton of love and care is going into each item made. They offer the cutest teethers, keychains, and rattles. If you have an older child in your life you will love their Big Kids line which includes sensory necklaces and zipper pulls.
B.E. Happe Designs
Our family is huge fans of B.E. Happe Designs! She offers hand-crafted knit hats. These are the perfect stocking stuffer. We each have one in our family and they are a staple when the colder weather sets in. You will fall in love with all the different styles and colors and will definitely want more than one. I love all the wonderful hats, but I also love the story behind the owner of this shop who travels across America with her family. Every time you purchase a hat proceeds of each sale are used to donate wish list items to various local hospitals, depending on where in the country they are that month. Support local and give back!
Bannor Toys
Move over plastics, and light-up toys and bring on Bannor Toys! Bannor Toys creates Montessori, heirloom wooden toys for little hands. This small business began in the corner of a small basement and today is a popular toy brand. They offer state rattles which is the perfect gift no matter where you live. You can create an entire sensory playroom with all of the amazing educational tools they sell as well. You can also find some of their handmade items in Des Moines Mercantile.
Baybees Nest
Baybees Nest sells the cutest handmade children’s clothing. If you are looking for the perfect outfit for the holiday season, look no further! You will find dresses, scrunchies, headbands, and fun outfits for boys too.
Bozz Prints
Bozz Prints located in West Des Moines may be famously known for its beautiful prints, but they offer so much more. I am personally a big fan of their puzzles which I have gifted to my in-laws and friends. You can find stickers and of course fun t-shirts! You are sure to find the perfect shirt for your loved one that matches your favorite thing and personality. This is the perfect place to purchase something for the entire family.
Callie + Crew
This Iowa business not only offers fun products for humans but pets too! Callie + Crew sells everything from fun shirts, door mats (dog themed of course), pillows, and so much more. For your four-legged friend, you will find bowls, beds, bandanas, collars, and collar charms. Your furry friend deserves some fun gifts too and Callie + Crew has you covered.
Cheers Ink
If you have someone in your life who loves to host events, loves to make fun cocktails, or just needs a coaster, check out Cheers Ink! These unique coasters are made of slate and wine corks and are all created and produced in-house. Each one is beautifully created with unique artwork such as the Des Moines skyline, favorite sports teams, fun sayings, and more. Looking for something a bit more? Check out their gorgeous cheese boards.
Dirt Road Candle Co.
Dirt Road Candle Co. is a favorite in our home and you are more than likely to find their candles and products in many Iowa shops. They do not only offer candles, but they sell sprays, cleaning products, car freshies, and more. These make great stocking stuffers or teacher gifts! I also love all the amazing scents that are available. Each season new scents are released or re-released. Keep your eyes open!
Doe A Deer
Doe A Deer is one of my favorite little shops and it is so hard to not buy all the things! Doe A Deer offers the cutest designed flour sack towels, bowl covers, Swedish dishcloths, magnets, stickers, drinkware, and more recently a fun baby line. You can purchase online or visit their sweet shop in Stuart, Iowa where Doe A Deer items are available and products from other local makers.
Hand Me Down Talents
Hand Me Down Talents is based out of Indianola, Iowa. The owner hand-makes bowl covers, towels, and more with a focus on being eco-friendly.
Hangry Hippos
Hats, tees, stickers, headwear … oh my! Hangry Hippos offers all of these fun items and more. Iowa and woman-owned, I am here for it. I love the Des Moines love and Midwest-focused gear. So many great things to choose from!
Honey Hollow
Honey Hollow sells honey harvested from their own hives and is never cooked. In addition, they sell handmade brooms that are made on their 1800s historical equipment and fun candles made of pure beeswax. Another great option for unique and one-of-a-kind items.
Kismet + Chaco
You will love all the fun and unique gifts Kismet + Chaco creates and sells! You will find fun keychains, iced coffee glass tumblers, stickers, ornaments, and so much more. All of these fun items have fun sayings and personal customization is offered on some items.
The Knotty Nail
Do you have a crafter in your life? Check out The Knotty Nail for DIY kits and signs. They also sell engraved cups for your friend or family member’s favorite beverage. Choose from many already created options or personalized options. I love the children’s artwork option! A great way to capture your child’s favorite doodles to take everywhere with you. If you are in Valley Junction, make sure you stop by the physical store to shop for other fun goodies and take a workshop.
Loop Earring Co.
Loop Earring Co. offers all types and colors of earrings. You can find everything from studs to dangling earrings in many designs and colors. Pick something that will best fit the loved one in your life.
Nixon & Norman
Nixon & Norman creates and sells the cutest fabric and felt toys that inspire Montessori play. You will find colorful macarons, charcuterie board items, breakfast items, and many more. The sweetest and most fun way for imaginary play at home.
Nooches
Discover unique and handmade children’s clothing at Nooches. My favorite? The kids-sized shackets! You can find the Varsity Collection which includes Iowa and Iowa State apparel and the Holiday Collection to celebrate all season long.
Room 1021
Room 1021 is a new find for me and I fell hard for the mission behind this Des Moines-based business. The owner and founder is a public teacher and creates fun items for other teachers and educators such as the Chocolate Milk Club shirts, World’s Best Teacher items, and so much more. They also donate 10% of all profit to local organizations that help our youth. Such a great small business to support. Perfect teacher gifts and supporting our younger generation!
Rosella and Margaret
Rosella and Margaret offer the most fun wood signs, decor, ornaments, and so much more. Looking for a personal and meaningful gift for grandparents? The handwriting signs are a must! Submit your child’s signature and/or handwriting and they will create a sign for you. We have these in our home and they mean the world to us. If you are looking for wrapping supplies snag some cute engraved wood gift tags. So many great options no matter the time of year!
The Side Garage
Shop all things Des Moines at The Side Garage. Snag a fun Des Moines hat or Midwest t-shirt for your Des Moines friend. If you have a bike lover in your life check out the Bike Collection. The Side Garage is always dropping new and fun collections so keep your eyes open on their website. Of course, if you need help with a custom t-shirt reach out to them.
