From beaded to fabric, here’s where to get the best handcrafted accessories in Canada
By Lynette George
From beaded earrings to jade rings, small businesses all across Canada are creating stunning handmade jewellery (Lynette George/CanCulture)
Ivy and Lua
Ivy and Lua is a Toronto-based handmade jewelry business that specializes in polymer clay earrings as well as stunning pearl and chain creations. Shefali Kalra started crafting these mini masterpieces as an outlet for her creativity in 2020. It’s only been a couple of years since she decided to start selling her creations, and her work is only getting better! A youth worker by day, you can find Kalra online or at various local markets, selling her pieces and spreading joy with her art!
JShine Design
A tribute to the land and all of its many offerings, JShine Design focuses on using natural elements to create wearable art. The small business focuses on jewelry made from home-tanned hides, vintage beads, shells, porcupine quills and more. Owned by Cree artist, Jessica Sanderson Barry, the company is located in Edmonton and ships all across Canada and internationally. Head to their website to learn more!
Velanidi
Toronto-based artist Dina Baxevanakis has cracked the code on fun statement earrings at her small business, Velanidi. Specializing in hyperrealistic food earrings (yes, food earrings), the shop is most popular for its “produce bag” collection. Using recyclable mesh bags to create miniature accessory versions of it, Baxevanakis handcrafts polymer clay food items to put into it, giving customers a perfect “fresh from the farmers market” look. It’s playful and more importantly, a great conversation starter!
This Ilk
Founded by Tamara Bavdek in 2008, This Ilk is a Montreal-based business pushing the definition of what jewelry can truly be. Unlike most jewelry brands, This Ilk chooses to use vintage fabrics to create wearable art, giving a second life to materials that would have otherwise been discarded. Promoting sustainable fashion without compromising on quality or style, Bavdek’s vision is profound. If you’re searching for an eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion accessories, take a look at This Ilk’s website!
Haley Made
If you’re searching for a bright pop of colour to liven up your look, Haley Made is the right fit for you! With designs featuring iridescent pearls, pretty charms, beads and gold accents, the small business’ jewelry has a soft, delicate and hyper-feminine look. The owner, Haley Crespo, discovered jewelry making when she was hospitalized due to Lupus. Now, she has turned her passion into a business, creating everything from hair clips to phone charms, with the hope of spreading joy. Find Crespo on Instagram to learn more.
Bead n Butter
Bead n Butter is a growing small business based in Winnipeg that specializes in beaded earrings and necklaces, intricately made for everyone. Metis artist, Jessie Pruden, founded the company a few years ago after being enraptured by the art form. This year, if you’re looking to support a queer, disabled, Indigenous entrepreneur, or if you’re just looking for some mind-blowing beaded jewelry, check out Bead n Butter!
Running Fox Beads
Skye Paul’s Running Fox Beads is a force to be reckoned with in the world of handmade jewelry. A member of the English River First Nation, Paul works with traditional jewelry-making techniques, while still allowing room for innovation and modernization. The result — a set of perfectly beaded Cheeto earrings and a detailed blueberry bolo tie. Based in Toronto, check out Paul’s work online or at Kensington Market’s Wildflower Goods.
Jade House
Having been in the field for three generations, Jade House sells beautiful jade jewelry on their online shop and via social media. Made with Grade A Burmese jade, the Toronto-based small business sells everything from earrings to necklaces, carving each piece with precision. If you’re looking for some stunning jewelry that’s going to get you the best compliments, check out Jade House on Instagram.