Julie in Arizona called Sara in Ohio, and then Sara called me in Israel.
“Julie wants to buy Hanukkah gifts from Israeli businesses, crafters, and creators. She wants to buy Israeli. She wants to support Israel. Would you make a list for her of Israeli sellers that will ship to the US?”
Julie is a genius. I put out some feelers and now have a list, which I am sharing with you.
A list of Israeli businesses that sell to the US
- Local shopping: This website has a broad, varied, and large selection of gift possibilities that includes cosmetics, fashion, ceramics, Judaica, jewelry, and educational items for all ages. Easy to navigate, local-shopping.org speaks your language.
- Etsy Israel: Hone your shopping to specific categories (although local-shopping.org has a link to Israeli Etsy sellers, it does not include all the sellers that are available directly through Etsy). Itiel Schnitzer’s beautiful wood and epoxy hanukkiot, challah boards, and more can be found at ETLwoodesign, only through Etsy. etsy.com/il-en/
- The Creative Adult: Ruth Lenk makes beautiful quilted works of art. Contact her via Facebook: facebook.com/sew.many.options or Instagram @creative.adult or email her at rklenk@yahoo.com to request a catalogue.
- Hebrew Calligraphy: Izzy Pludwinski is a master Hebrew calligrapher living in Jerusalem. His work is a treasure to behold and have in any home. Original work, prints, and books are available at impwriter.com; his books can also be ordered from Amazon.
- Quirky, fun, stylish: Barbara Shaw always comes through with original items for Hanukkah and Jewish pride, such as clocks, tote bags, mugs, and aprons. barbarashawgifts.com
- Shevi B: Glass: Shevi B works colorful magic in glass, producing Judaica, as well as practical items. shevibcreations.com
- Joanne Ginsberg: Ceramics: Joanne’s creative ceramics are fun, elegant, and bring joy. See her work on Instagram @herodianclaystudio
- Muscat Jewelry: If you are specifically on the lookout for jewelry, Muscat Jewelry is recommended by a trusted friend who always looks sharp. Muscatjewelry.com takes you to the online shop.
- Jordana Klein: Objects d’art: A diverse line of colorful and playful objects d’art you will want to explore is available at jordanaklein.com
- 4U Gifts: A lovely option for anyone who wants to give a gift to children whose families were forced to evacuate their homes is through 4U Gifts, located at 41 Hebron Road, Jerusalem. Go to 4Ugifts.co.il/store/chanukah-toy-drive and donate some toys to help bring light to children affected by the war.
- AKAL Fashion: Fashionistas, pay close attention now. AKAL is inspired by Michal Mangisto’s Ethiopian roots, with her clothes incorporating embroidery, hand detailing, and natural raw materials. This both integrates the Ethiopian community’s talents and provides employment and opportunity. Check out akalonline.com
Hanukkah is not far away, so get your gifts going!