Talented artists and crafters of Connecticut turn out unique gifts

The gift selection at The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village is, in a word, gigantic. Art glass and other home decor items can be found at the Artful Gift Shop, and all sorts of toys and games (including everything dino, of course) are on the Ageless Toy Shop’s shelves. The Absolute Bead Shop is the largest beading supplies shop in New England, and jewelry is one-of-a-kind at the Artistic Jewelry Shop. Seeking something really unique? Check out the A to Z Mineral Shop for crystals and minerals or the Ancient Fossil Shop for fossils from every corner of the globe. And don’t forget the PAST Antiques Marketplace, with an ever-changing inventory of antiques, collectibles and crafts on two floors.

When you visit scenic Stonington Borough, make sure you save some time for shopping. A variety of eclectic shops, boutiques and galleries offer everything from handbags and kids’ toys to table linens, local wines and beer and vintage furniture. Whether you’re looking for that special something to remind you of your trip, like jewelry with coastal flair, or something special like fabrics designed on-site and printed locally or handcrafted pottery, you’re sure to find something strolling the shops of Stonington. And you’ll want to check out the Velvet Mill, a creative community of artists and entrepreneurs selling unique crafts, artwork, artisanal baked goods, books, bikes and, in the late fall and winter, all the products of the bustling winter farmers’ market.