There is something special about owning a piece of craft. It creates an emotional connection between us and the maker who has honed their skills and given life to their creative inspiration.

From distinctive jewellery and textiles to one-of-a-kind decorative pieces for the home, here you'll find a few of ideas on how to source the perfect gift.

How to source the perfect gift:

1. Visit a craft fair and meet the local producers who can tell you exactly how your gift is made and the materials they've used to create it - everything from willow, linen, silver, birch, clay to recycled papers and plastics.

2. Contact a maker to source a gift or commission a piece of craft - rings, cufflinks, tea sets, cushions, throws, handbags and accessories. Perhaps a jewellery-making workshop or a pot-throwing course? They also provide gift vouchers.

3. Plan a visit to a craft studio and see how the work is made - fired in a kiln,  turned on a wood lathe, blown by a glass artist or cast by a jeweller - while you're there you can buy a gift directly.

4. Browse gift ideas at a craft gallery or shop. They will welcome you with open arms and are always eager to explain more about the work on display.

5. See an exhibition or craft display - we've listed a few highlights here to help you get started.