A Lady’s Holiday: Handcrafted Gifts with 18th-Century Charm

Choosing a gift for the women in your life can feel daunting, especially when you want something thoughtful, beautiful, and useful. Whether she is a historian, a maker, a reader, or simply someone who appreciates well-crafted goods, these five favorites offer charm, practicality, and a touch of 18th-century elegance.

1) Faux Fur Muff – Inspired by the elegant winter accessories worn by women throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries, this soft faux fur muff offers warmth with a touch of historical charm. Lightweight yet cozy, it keeps hands protected from the cold while adding further elegance to winter attire. $50 before sale

2) Natural Dye Kit - Perfect for the hands-on historian, this kit introduces the art of natural dyeing using traditional materials. Each color yields enough pigment for a 100g skein of yarn, making it an inviting introduction to historic textile craft. Pair it with skeins of undyed Bluefaced/Corriedale, Linnen/wool blend, or British Heritage yarn $32 before sale

3) Frail - Handwoven and endlessly useful, the frail was a staple of 18th-century households. Today, it’s equally handy for the market, the garden, or simply storing small treasures. Available in a variety of sizes, the frail makes a lovely presentation when filled with smaller gifts and left under the tree for her to discover. $28 - $60 before sale

4) Wool Short Cloak - Made from dense wool broadcloth, our Red Short Cloak offers both warmth and elegance in a distinctly 18th-century silhouette. The shorter length allows for ease of movement, while the rich red hue and full hood create a timeless, flattering look for winter outings. Finished with sturdy ties and practical construction, it is as functional as it is beautiful — a gift she can enjoy for many seasons to come. Does she prefer a darker hue? The same beautiful construction and quality is available in a navy short cloak. $195 before sale

5) Coffee Trio - For the woman who savors a warm, comforting cup, the Colonial Coffee Trio offers a curated taste of early American brews. This boxed set includes three historically inspired blends, each with its own character and depth — perfect for slow mornings, shared conversations, or an afternoon pick-me-up. You can also pick up single pot samples of the Green Dragon ($6) that are perfect for stuffing stockings.   $48 before sale