Blogs.

Shop Independent in Leeds during Lockdown

12th January 2021

Shopping might be continuing to be a little different through 2021 with so many stores closed for in-person buying. However with more and more shops in Leeds increasing their online presence, there has never been a better time to shop independent.

Our Handmade Collective, an Aladdin’s Cave of gift shopping from a whole host of artists, designers and crafters, have recently brought their product range online. With a vast array of gifts to suit all occasions, be sure to check them out.

Our Handmade Collective

Showcasing local independent artists, Fabrication have something for everyone. A social enterprise supporting micro craft and fashion businesses, they are now offering handcrafted, unique designs for delivery or click & collect.

With a cute and quirky range of gifts, vinyl, clothes and more with new and vintage items all the way from Japan, Giant Kitten can help you find some unique items.

Giant Kitten, Leeds Corn Exchange - pic from Giant Kitten Facebook

Twice Fired’s online store offers handmade art, jewellery and homeware all crafted from glass. As well as their own unique pieces, you can get creative yourself with a range of make-at-home glassware kits.

Birds Tea Light Green - Twice Fired

Something for the music lovers – Jumbo Records, long-regarded as one of the north’s key music shops, have been serving Leeds since 1971. Their doors may be closed for now but their online store is open, with new titles added every day.

Crash Records on the Headrow are another firm favourite of the Leeds music scene. With a huge range of CDs and vinyl, they are offering a click and collect service during the day Monday-Saturday for all your music needs.

Crash Records Leeds

For the bookworms, The Little Bookshop have a diverse online offer suitable for all. While they specialise in children’s books, the team can order any book and send it anywhere in the country for you.

If it’s graphic novels you’re after then OK Comics is the place for you. Here you’ll find every type of comic and graphic novel from classic backdated comics to great independent books.

OK Comics, best books of the year

For those green-fingered friends The Plant Point is a cornucopia of indoor foliage. From hanging plants to terrariums, the self-proclaimed jungle in the heart of the city are offering free delivery within 10 miles of their stores, as well as courier delivery and click and collect.

One for the little ones: Armadillo Toys in Chapel Allerton stocks a huge range of children’s toys games and gifts for all ages from jigsaws to craft kits. You can even find that perfect family game for entertaining all ages during lockdown!

Looking for a present for someone and not sure what to buy? A gift card is always a great choice. The new OPEN Gift Card can be used at a range of local independents. Or, why not gift an experience? Leeds Cookery School and Leeds Food Tours have gift vouchers available on their websites. For food lovers, Leeds Indie Food have a range of merch available.

This is just a start, you can explore more incredible independent stores on the Leeds Indie Directory. Or find more ways you can Enjoy Leeds at Home here.