16 Christmas Presents That Won't Fund Large Corporations

How much are large corporations going to make from you this Christmas? How much will you give to Amazon, Tesco, eBay and Apple gifts? Instead, how about supporting small businesses and individual craftsmen? The best thing you can do to skip the corps is to pop along to you nearest town and scan its fringes for independent craft shops and galleries. However, if you prefer to shop online, here are some products you can buy straight from the artist, in Britain and Ireland. (Note: we support PayPal, a large business, because it provides a secure way for small businesses to manage transactions.)

Chocolate Dipped Orange from Trenance Chocolate

trenancechocolate.co.uk / Via trenancechocolate.co.uk

Trenance is a small chocolatier based on the Lizard in Cornwall. You can watch them hand-make luxury chocolates in their small factory, indulge yourself in their coffee shop or order goodies by post.

Natural Specimen Baubles from Moth Pockets

Facebook: mothpockets / Via Moth Pockets

All Moth Pockets' treasures are handmade by Joseph and Natalie. These baubles add a lovely touch of nature to any Christmas feature. You can catch Moth Pockets at one of their craft fairs or order direct by emailing them.

1950’s Style Christmas Dress from Silly Old Sea Dog

Silly Old Sea Dog / Via sillyoldseadog.com

Silly Old Sea Dog is a tiny business offering truly delicious vintage-style dresses. It was set up by a college student on a fashion course in 2012. The cream version of the 'All I Want for Christmas' dress is from last year's Christmas range but an excellent example of the many unique and fab items that can be bought directly from Silly Old Sea Dog. They have a new Christmas range out this year.

Metal Sculptures by DeshcaDesigns

deshcadesigns.com / Via DeshcaDesigns

DeshcaDesigns is the work of one man with a passion for metal sculpting. The pieces are suitable for either the home or garden and include orchids, daffodils, tulips and many other creations inspired by nature.

3 Daft Monkeys Back Catalogue

3 Daft Monkeys / Via 3daftmonkeys.co.uk

3 Daft Monkeys are a self-managed alternative folk band based in the West Country.

Their latest album 'Of Stones and Bones' is available to buy through the music giants, but you can buy 3 Daft Monkeys' older albums on CD direct from their website.

Answer Me This Podcast Christmas Album

static.squarespace.com / Via answermethisstore.com

Answer Me This is a comedy podcast that has gone from strength to strength since its debut in January 2007. Outrageously funny it combines the talents of Helen Zaltzman, Olly Mann and Martin the Sound Man. Their Christmas album is 59 minutes of brand new material and can be purchased as a digital download direct from their website.

Original Artwork By What Have I done now

What have i done now / Via Facebook: whathaveidonenow

There is a street artist feel to work by the Exeter-based artist working under the name 'What have i done now'. He excels at political commentary as well as selling hand painted musical heroes on vintage scores & vinyl. If you're interested in cutting out Etsy, contact this artist through his Facebook page.

My Granny Writes Erotica Signed Paperback

Rosen Trevithick / Via rosentrevithick.co.uk

Rosen Trevithick is a Cornish, independently-published author who writes in two very different genres - cheeky, humorous fiction for adults and smelly troll books for children. You can order signed copies direct from Rosen.

Charm Bracelet made by Chell's Charms

Chell's Charms / Via Facebook: Chells-Charms

Chell runs her own business in jewellery making. Above is an example of her adorable creations. If you don't spy the perfect gift on her Facebook page, you can contact Chell and enquire about custom colours, patterns and sizes. You can buy direct from the Chell by sending a PM to her Facebook page.

Signed Copies of Fake Kate and Bang - Memoirs of a Relationship Assassin

David Wailing / Via davidwailing.com

David Wailing is a big name on the eBook scene but you can also buy signed copies of both of his paperback novels, direct from the source. His books are independently published.

Family Tree from Eva's Leaves

Eva's Leaves / Via Facebook: EvasLeaves

Each family tree made by Eva's Leaves is made to order using your own choice of colours, background and, of course, family names. Eva's Leaves takes orders by email.

Watches From Love Shakespeare Design by Ria

Love Shakespeare Design by Ria / Via Facebook: LoveShakespeareDesign

This Irish watch was loving crafted by Ria Shakespeare from Thurles in County Tipperary. A wide range of beautiful watches and other jewellery are available.

April Maze Albums on CD

The April Maze / Via theaprilmazemusic.com!store/cwt7

The April Maze are a folk duo that became an international success in 2012, receiving rave reviews in Mojo and other top music publications. They're actively chosen to be independent of large record labels. Their CDs make terrific presents and can be purchased from their website.

Mulled Cider by Haywood Farm

Haywood Farm Cider / Via Facebook: HaywoodFarmCider

Haywood Farm is a small business run by a father and son who converted part of their ‘honey house’ barn into a shop. They sell cider and honey from their own bees. You can either visit their shop in St Mabyn or order products by post.

Safe Haven Paintings by Philip Grey

Philip Grey / Via philipgray.com

Philip Grey is an Irish artist and explorer who paints a variety of collections including 'Fire and Ice', 'Altitude' and 'Nature's Glory'. One of his most stunning ranges is his collection called 'Safe Haven', which depicts the lights of boats in harbour. You can either email Philip directly or support a local gallery such as the Driftwood Gallery, which has display rooms in Falmouth, Padstow and Ilfracombe. Originals and prints available.

Original Pencil Drawings and Prints by Esther Quin

fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net / Via Facebook: profile.php

Esther is selling prints from her original donkey pencil drawing. They are size A3, with matt and glossy 'poster' styles available. They can come framed or as they are. The original is available too. Esther also does commissions. So, if you would like a drawing or painting of your beloved pet or even person, contact [e-mail]