If you are searching for a truly meaningful gift to give to someone special, you have probably realised that It’s increasingly difficult to find an item that is beautiful, affordable, and unique. When every supermarket and ecommerce store has a homeware section full of glitzy eye-catching objects, it’s easy to throw something in your basket and hope for the best.

However, we know in our hearts that these mass-produced items are not made to last, and do not represent much thought and effort on our part towards the recipient of the gift. 

This is why we treasure handcrafted items: there is an intrinsic value in an object that has been crafted with human hands rather than a machine, from the effort and skill that has gone into making it, to the quality of the materials and unique designs. 

By buying a gift from a native craftsman rather than a faceless mass-market retailer, we know we are supporting the local community and economy. One such traditional item is the Welsh lovespoon. Here’s a closer look at what makes them such a special and unique gift.

Preserving Welsh heritage

Lovespoons play a part in the rich cultural heritage of Wales, with examples dating from the 17th century on display at the St Fagans National Museum in Cardiff. The exact history of the spoons is unclear, but they are first believed to have been created by hopeful young men as a love token for a lady who had won their heart. 

The carver naturally poured a lot of care and passion into the creation of the decorative spoon, on which they pinned their romantic hopes and dreams. It is said that if the lady’s father was impressed by the quality of the craftsmanship, he would agree to give her hand in marriage! 

A bridge between the past and present

These traditions of old were certainly very different times to today, yet the charm and romantic sentiment of the spoons survives in the symbolism of the motifs and the beautiful materials such as walnut, sycamore or limewood. They still remain popular gifts for St Dwynwen’s Day, Valentine’s Day, and wedding or anniversary presents.

The spoons provide a unique link to our past, and they have been revived by a new generation of craftspeople with the introduction of symbols that represent Welsh identity, such as dragons, daffodils and Celtic knotwork. 

When we buy a lovespoon, we are not only buying a beautiful and high quality item; we are also investing in a piece of cultural heritage and supporting local artisans and the local economy. Every purchase also helps to keep this rich tradition alive for generations to come, and is sure to find a special place in the heart of your recipient.