Guest blogger: Etsy’s AmityUK on how to get that handmade feel

In case you aren’t familiar, Etsy.com is an online marketplace where shoppers can buy directly from independent artists, crafters and vintage collectors. It’s also a vibrant, global community of 4 million creative people and the folks who support them.

As part of Etsy’s appreciation for their growing European audience, Amity Roach (a.k.a. AmityUK) was welcomed as the blogger for the UK Edition of Etsy’s blog earlier this year.

As a designer/maker myself and seller on Etsy.com since 2006, my passion for the handmade movement is conspicuous! I’m inspired by the community spirit and vast creativity on the site on a daily basis – without it, I may never have had the inspiration I needed to become an independent designer so early in my career. Etsy is full of stories like mine – artists and designers who have found this stepping stone on the way to ditching their “day job.”

It’s so exciting to be reaching out to the UK community at a time when the enthusiasm is absolutely tangible. The DIY scene is so fresh right now, and it’s a pleasure to share the handmade (and creative-fingers-friendly) picks from both mydeco and Etsy that are guaranteed to give your home the handmade movement edge…

Moodboard of Amity’s top picks; highlights below

Over at Etsy, EstherCoombs’ shop is a sight to behold. I’m a sucker for her upcycled ceramic and glass cake stands, below, which she embellishes by hand with architectural drawings. This ethereal creation simply blows me away. $225 (approx. £147).

And relying on my deliciously comfy chunky knits to keep we warm in the summer evenings ahead, I simply couldn’t resist this Cable Cup from Annette Bugansky Design (below). I’m willing to bet good money on the sensual texture being more than addictive to houseguests. £28.

I really like Farm’s Get Well Soon Vase – a genius gift for an unwell loved one, as it can be decorated by well wishers, just like old school plaster casts. The cheeky asymmetry is also a winner in my books. £100.

I’m also crazy for the industrial feel to the ATELIER Abigail Ahern chair, which has been handcrafted from old oil drums. There’s plenty to have me drooling from this seller actually, be sure to check out the Pop Art Paintings and Persian Hyde Rug. £365.

Finally, why not show your DIY amour this summer with Love Eco’s extraordinary “Make Your Own Table” system, below. I’m totally digging on how versatile these clamps are (you gotta see the rest of the pictures!) and their industrial-chic vibe is right up my alley. Add your own table-top and voilà, instant personalisation. £75.