The lights are lit. The cookies are made. The stockings are hung by the chimney with care. But the base of the Christmas tree is looking a little bare. Haven’t quite found that holiday inspiration? Don’t worry, we found it for you – locally.

Shopping local is trendy, but it’s possible to take personalized gift buying a step further to buy items made locally, as well. Talented artists able to capture the eye of store owners can strike a deal to sell their crafts at the store, offering the artist more exposure, the store unique merchandise to bring in customers, and shoppers easy access to handmade items that reflect a bit of home.

We’ve compiled a few ideas for gifts made and sold in McHenry County, but many more can be found by venturing into area shops and asking to see ideas for locally made one-of-a-kind gifts.

Out of the Box

71 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

[ www.outoftheboxstore.com ]

For the giftee that requires some out-of-the-box thinking, why not just go to the store with that very name?

Out of the Box offers jewelry made by local artists. Nancy Graham of Crystal Lake creates big, unique pieces (far right) that are a sure way to make a statement and that no one else will have. Stacy Shelley of Crystal Lake uses sterling silver and natural stones to create a simpler and dainty look (top right). Pieces from both designers range from $20 to $120.

Jenny Griffith of Crystal Lake has all-natural, hand-crafted scented soaps (bottom right) from her company, Honestly Inspired Artisan Soap, for sale in the store for $7.95.

“Her scents are all different and unique, and I’ve been very impressed by the soaps, but also by how much customers like them,” said owner Mary Batson, who began carrying the soaps this fall. “She has a big following.”

While not locally made, the store also carries Becoming Jewelry of Maine. Its handmade sterling silver necklaces are custom made for the shop to feature the latitude and longitude of Crystal Lake to ensure those who can’t make it home for the holidays always find their way back.

Savour Gallery and Wine Boutique

302 S. Main St., Algonquin

[ www.savourgallery.com ]

For the art lover, Savour Gallery & Wine Boutique in downtown Algonquin offers one-of-a-kind pieces by local and international artists. The staff also is able to make custom baskets including items from the shop, such as honey, chocolate, hand-turned wood bowls, wine and more. Men might enjoy one of their custom gift baskets, which include cigars and cognac.

Black Orchid Boutique 

1226 N. Green St., McHenry

Find them on Facebook at Black Orchid Boutique

Who doesn’t love a fun new outfit or accessory? Black Orchid Boutique offers both and then some, including some items that aren’t so pretty. Pick up an ugly Christmas sweater (bottom left) made by local artist Violet Reese of Wonder Lake, formerly of McHenry, starting at $25. If you can’t find one hideous enough on the rack, never fear – she takes custom orders, as well. Reese also makes boot cuffs out of recycled sweaters for $14 and sports headbands for $10.

“We have so many beautiful things by local artists,” Owner Carol Chrisman said. “They are just so talented, and their items are great quality and make awesome gifts.”

Dress up your outerwear with gloves (right) made from recycled sweaters by Mary Schneider of Crystal Lake for $36.95 a pair. Top off your look with one of her reversible or flannel infinity scarves ranging from $18 to $20.

If décor is what you’re looking for, Black Orchid offers custom displays by Ashley Jakiela of McHenry made from recycled antique windows (bottom middle). The pieces range from $45 to $75, and custom messaging and designs are available. And T’s Toffee by Theresa Milz (bottom right) is available for those with a sweet tooth.

Elated Boutique

805 E. Main St., Huntley

[ www.elatedboutique.com ]

In its first Christmas season, Elated Boutique in Huntley is full of fun gifts for all.

“Our repeat customers come back for the variety,” Co-Owner Amy Gasner said. “Everything is unique. You won’t see the same thing twice.”

Elated boutique offers home décor, clothes, jewelry and purses, as well as a baby section, for all budgets. For the holiday lovers, they have a variety of candles in holiday-inspired scents, Christmas trees made of bells for $17.95 and select ornaments.

Wickham Interiors Inc.

67 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

[ www.wickhaminteriors.com ]

If your mantle or dinner table needs it, Wickham Interiors in Crystal Lake has it.

Browse their two-story shop filled with dishes, serving pieces, table clothes, candlesticks and decorations. Pick up a customized ornament (right) by local artist Mary Ann Johnson of Crystal Lake for $18. Johnson’s work also includes family snowman plaques, cookies for Santa plates and lighted wine bottles and glasses. Additional items and contact information is available at maryannjohnson.com. Gifts range from $2 to $30.

Wickham Interiors also offers Nancy Neill Designs featuring Crystal Lake Girl necklaces, bracelets and earrings ranging from $15 to $30.

“I’m very particular,” Owner Lynne Wickham said. “I like pretty things and fun things. We specialize in beautiful, quality things for all price ranges.”

Furniture by Jason

3314 Pearl St., McHenry

[ www.furniturebyjason.com ]

Furniture by Jason in downtown McHenry has a multitude of options to satisfy the decorating enthusiast. Artisan woodworker Jason Rodrigue creates custom wall art (starting at $36) and cutting boards (starting at $20), and he can print personal photos on wood (starting at $15).

Looking for more of a statement piece? Shelving units start at $65, dining tables at $700 and end tables at $110, just to name a few of his creations. Custom pieces and delivery are available.