The best mugs for gift-giving

Okay, so we sometimes make fun of mugs as gifts around here. But only because when most people think of mug gifts, they think of some awful "world's greatest____" thing in comic sans that was nabbed off the bargain shelf at the last minute.

The truth is, a gorgeous mug can be a fabulous hostess gift, especially if you fill it with a bag of gourmet hot cocoa, a special loose leaf tea, or a huge bouquet of candy canes.

Here, just a few mugs that I think can make the gift really special.

 

Japan's Kinto makes beautiful mugs, but they're hard to track down in the US. I love this porcelain Kinto couture cup that looks like a cozy, cable knit sweater. ($18 at our affiliate Amazon)



Circa Ceramics mugs are definitely not your grandma's teacups. We even included her zombie mug in our holiday gift guide this year. Find kitchy and clever designs from from vintage Leicas and Vespas, to kewpie dolls, skulls, and knitting needles.  ($20-32 from Circa Ceramics - and save 15% with code COOLMOMSSHOPHERE)



The entirely handmade mugs from YogaGoat are so special, they made our editor's picks of the year last year. The artist is adding more to her shop this week, and if there's anything special you have in mind, just convo the seller through Etsy and she'll let you know if she's got it in stock. ($40 and up)


As far as personalized mugs go, the ones at Red Envelope look pretty sweet. Only red is still available right now, which is perfect for the season.  ($19.95 at Red Envelope but order quickly!)


The fantastic mug is just that--so perfect for a best friend. Each one is hand drawn by Claudette Tinsley of Etsy's Ink Bandit and ship from the UK. ($24 at InkBandit)


I love all the handmade ceramics from Brooklyn's Perch Design and the stacking mugs are no exception. They're sweet in sets or by themselves. I'd add a tea strainer or a box of fancy oolong to go with it. ($10 each at Perch Design)

Of course photo mugs never cease to make relatives happy. This one from Shutterfly can be found in our holiday gift guide "for the best Dad ever," but we bet the best Mom, Aunt, and Grandparents would love it too. Plus?  The price is great. ($13.99+ but now 20% off until 12/15)


West Elm has introduced a noble effort this year with their charity mugs - each design sends 50% of the profits to support a different non-profit, from the ASPCA to St Jude's Children's Hospital. They're all sweet but my favorite might be the cow mug to support Heifer International. ($10 at West Elm with free shipping)

-Liz

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