Finding the perfect gift’s often a tough task — and finding one that’s also eco-friendly and locally crafted by hand’s a really tall order. But if, like me, you like to procrastinate by browsing through all the cool handmade stuff available at Etsy.com! Here’s how you can use the site to make eco-shopping easier.

First, check out the Eco Etsy Street Team’s wares.** This group of crafters are all eco-committed people who’ve banded together to encourage themselves and others to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Eco Etsy members make everything from upcycled denim purses to gorgeous earrings made of seaglass.**

While Eco Etsy’s homepage showcases many of the eco-crafters’ items, search for “teamecoetsy”** at Etsy.com to get a full list of the goods for sale. Right now, more than 600 handmade eco items are competing for the would-be green consumer.

Overwhelmed by the huge variety of handmade stuff vying for your attention? Try visiting cosa verde,** a site that puts together a curated collection of handmade items — some from Eco Etsy crafters — for shoppers with limited time or patience. You can find beautiful natural soaps,** a multi functional plum organic twill bag** (right), or an intricately handknit organic cowl / neck warmer.**

If browsing through the handcrafted eco-goods has inspired you to try your hand at making your own stuff, Eco Etsy also has a blog** that both promotes the members’ products and encourages others to craft green! Here’s an eco-tutorial on how to make your own stenciled T-shirts,** for example. Follow the blog for more crafty fun and green lifestyle tips.

Photo by infusion / Etsy**

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