With the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to think about filling those stockings with delightful surprises. In Portland, we’re lucky to have a treasure trove of local shops and makers offering unique, thoughtful gifts that will light up the faces of kids of all ages. Here’s a guide to some of the best locally sourced stocking stuffers for the little ones in your life.
1. Wooden Toys from Spielwerk Toys
Located in NE Portland, Spielwerk Toys specializes in sustainably made, high-quality analog toys. Their products are not only durable but also designed with an eye for detail and artistry. Many of their wooden puzzles are designed to challenge children while fostering problem-solving skills, and their figurines encourage imaginative storytelling. Their beautifully crafted wooden puzzles and pocket-sized figurines make perfect stocking stuffers. Bonus: many of their toys are designed to spark creativity and imagination—no batteries required!
2. Sweet Treats from Moonstruck Chocolate Co.
For a decadent stocking stuffer, check out Moonstruck Chocolate Co., a beloved Portland chocolatier known for its artisanal chocolates and whimsical truffle collections. From hot cocoa mixes to holiday-themed chocolate bars, their treats are a surefire way to add sweetness to the season. Many of their treats are thoughtfully packaged, making them ready to gift with no extra wrapping required. You can visit their Portland store to handpick a selection of goodies or conveniently order online to have their confections delivered straight to your door.
3. Locally Made Crayons from Crazy Crayons
Crazy Crayons, available at local shops like MadeHere PDX, are handcrafted from recycled materials and come in an array of fun shapes and colors—think rainbow swirls, stars, and even animal shapes. Perfect for budding artists, these eco-friendly crayons turn coloring into a joyful, planet-friendly activity. Not only are they ideal for creating masterpieces over winter break, but they also introduce kids to the concept of recycling in a hands-on way. These crayons are durable, non-toxic, and packaged with care, making them a thoughtful and sustainable gift option.
4. Books from Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s, a Portland icon, is a goldmine for children’s books. Pick up a beautifully illustrated picture book or a fun chapter book for older kids. Add a holiday-themed story to keep the festive spirit alive. In addition to books, Powell’s is a treasure trove of fun extras to tuck into stockings. Browse their collection of quirky bookmarks, colorful writing utensils, journals, and mini notebooks to encourage kids to write and draw their own stories. You’ll also find playful trinkets and small novelty items—like stickers, button pins, or silly gag gifts—that add a touch of whimsy.
5. Music Memorabilia from Music Millennium
For the music-loving kids in your life, Music Millennium is a hidden gem. While the store specializes in vinyl and music memorabilia, it also carries fun, music-themed stocking stuffer ideas that kids will adore. From kid-friendly CDs of their favorite artists to music-related toys like maracas or tambourines, there’s something here to help foster their love of music. You can also find quirky band-themed stickers, pins, and even music-themed books that can teach them about their favorite genres or artists.
6. Quirky Trinkets from Presents of Mind
If you’re looking for a mix of whimsical and practical, Presents of Mind on Hawthorne is the spot. This quirky store offers a variety of fun and thoughtful gifts that would fit perfectly in a kid’s stocking. You’ll find small toys, creative art supplies, and fun puzzles to entertain little ones. There are also plenty of locally made treats like artisanal chocolates and funky socks that kids will love. Their selection of eco-friendly, handmade goods is ideal for parents looking for sustainable stocking stuffers with a dash of Portland’s signature style.
7. Portland-Themed Stickers from Ruby Press Mercantile
Another great Portland stop for stocking stuffer ideas is Ruby Press. Known for its chic and sustainable offerings, Ruby Press is full of thoughtful gifts that will delight kids of all ages. Consider picking up a cute, locally designed notebook or a set of fun, reusable stickers. Ruby Press also has small, eco-conscious toys and craft kits that are perfect for keeping kids engaged in creative activities.
8. Craft Kits from Collage
Collage, an art supply store with multiple Portland locations, offers mini craft kits perfect for stockings. For kids who love to get crafty, these kits are a wonderful way to introduce them to different art forms. They can try their hand at knitting, make their own friendship bracelets, or create a custom painted rock garden—all in bite-sized kits that fit perfectly into a stocking. Whether it’s a set of origami paper or a small embroidery project, these kits provide hours of entertainment.
9. Handmade Goods from Crafty Wonderland
For those who love handmade and crafty items, Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate Portland destination for stocking stuffers. Known for its vibrant selection of locally crafted goods, Crafty Wonderland features a variety of creative and unique gifts perfect for kids. From colorful hand-sewn felt toys to small art supplies and DIY kits, there’s no shortage of imaginative items that will spark creativity. You can also find adorable stickers, pins, and other fun accessories to delight children.
10. Creative Toys from Cargo
Cargo is a great place to start for kids who love fun and creative toys. The store carries a wide range of locally made goods that are perfect for little ones. Whether it’s a colorful hand-painted wooden toy or a soft, cuddly handmade animal, Cargo’s offerings are unique and crafted with care. Kids will love exploring small, imaginative gifts like art supplies or whimsical accessories. Consider grabbing a set of locally made crayons or a cute, colorful notebook that sparks creativity and keeps little hands busy during the holidays.
Final Thoughts
By shopping locally, you’re not only giving memorable gifts but also supporting Portland’s vibrant community of makers and small businesses. These stocking stuffers are more than just gifts; they’re a little piece of what makes Portland special. Happy holidays and happy gifting!
Emily currently lives in Orange County, California after spending four years in Illinois and half a year teaching in Florence, Italy. She holds a B.A. in English Literature from Knox College and an M.A. in Counseling from the University of San Diego and has taught English to native speakers and ESL students for over three years. When she’s not working as a School Counselor or writing, she enjoys traveling the world, playing instruments, and blogging about Millennial experiences at Long Live the Twenties.