Talented artists and crafters of Connecticut turn out unique gifts

Nature’s Art Village is a unique shopping destination. With six retail shops and The PAST Antiques Marketplace, named Yankee Magazine’s “Best Antiques Stop” in 2014, there is something for everyone on your list. Highlights include one-of-a-kind gemstone jewelry in the Artistic Jewelry Shop, a selection of over 5,000,000 beads in The Absolute Bead Shop and museum-quality fossils in the Ancient Fossil Shop. Fun and educational toys, puzzles, crafts and science kits await in the Ageless Toy shop, earthly treasures are showcased in the A to Z Mineral Shop and stunning glass and giftware await in the Artful Gift Shop. The shopping adventure continues next door at The PAST Antiques Marketplace, a collection of over 90 vendors selling antiques, collectibles and crafts on two handicap accessible floors.

A century and more of generous philanthropy and focus on people and cultures through 35 centuries and five continents is here on display at the Slater Museum Gift Shop, on the campus of Norwich Free Academy in Norwich, CT. This magnificent Museum houses not only fine art treasures, but a unique gift shop as well. Custom order fine art prints and reproductions of artwork from the collection on satin heavyweight paper, fine art paper, and medium weight textured fine art canvas with framing and matting if desired. Browse the work of Connecticut artisans, fair trade crafts, and art-inspired items. You’ll also find jewelry, fine pewter-ware, books, original artwork, CDs, soaps, candles, puzzles, scarves, bags and other accessories. Open year round, Tuesday through Sunday. Closed holidays.

There’s a surprise in every shop as you stroll the seaside streets of Stonington Borough. Interested in antiques? Art? Meander through fascinating galleries and antiques shops with items from Roman coins to vintage furniture and paintings. At the Velvet Mill, each studio features something unique from local artists and artisans. How about clothing and jewelry? Stonington’s stores feature chic shoes, handprinted fabrics, cutting-edge fashion and hand-crafted jewelry from sterling silver to pieces with coastal flair. Home decor, fabrics, gifts and collectibles can also be found. And if you’re looking to score some fresh produce, a jar of honey, fresh-baked bread or homemade crafts, check out Saturday’s Farmers Market, one of the borough’s favorite shopping traditions.