TGIF – UK Bartender Championships 18th October 2011 – ‘A whole lotta shakin goin on’

Sustainable Throw Blankets: Eco-Friendly Options for Cozy Living

Introduction:

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, making eco-friendly choices for your home has never been more important. Throw blankets, an essential part of cozy living, are no exception. Choosing sustainable throw blankets allows you to enjoy comfort and style while also being mindful of the environment. This article explores the best eco-friendly options, from organic cotton to recycled fibers, and explains the benefits of incorporating these sustainable materials into your home decor.

1. Organic Cotton Throws: Softness with a Conscience

Organic cotton is a popular choice for sustainable throw blankets, offering both comfort and environmental benefits. Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This makes it a more sustainable option, as it reduces the environmental impact of farming and promotes healthier ecosystems.

Benefits: Organic cotton throw blankets are soft, breathable, and gentle on the skin, making them ideal for year-round use. They are also durable, so you can enjoy their comfort and style for years to come. Additionally, choosing organic cotton supports farmers who use sustainable practices, contributing to a healthier planet.

Styling Tips: Organic cotton throws come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them easy to integrate into any home decor. Opt for neutral tones for a minimalist look, or choose vibrant colors to add a pop of personality to your space.

2. Recycled throw blankets: Comfort with a Lower Carbon Footprint

Recycled fibers are an innovative and eco-friendly option for throw blankets. These blankets are made from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, such as recycled polyester, wool, or cotton. By repurposing these materials, recycled throw blankets help reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Benefits: Recycled throw blankets are not only sustainable but also incredibly versatile. They can be made from a mix of recycled materials, offering the same warmth, softness, and durability as non-recycled options. Additionally, using recycled fibers reduces the demand for virgin materials, lowering the carbon footprint associated with production.

Styling Tips: Recycled throw blankets often have a unique texture and appearance due to the combination of different materials. These blankets can add a rustic or bohemian touch to your home, making them perfect for eclectic or cozy decor styles.

3. Ethically Sourced Wool: Warmth with a Heart

Wool is a natural, renewable resource, and when sourced ethically, it becomes an excellent choice for sustainable throw blankets. Ethically sourced wool comes from farms that prioritize the well-being of their animals, ensuring that sheep are treated humanely and sustainably. This means no harsh shearing practices or overgrazing, which can harm the environment.

Benefits: Wool is known for its exceptional warmth, moisture-wicking properties, and durability. Ethically sourced wool throw blankets provide all these benefits while also supporting responsible farming practices. Wool is also biodegradable, making it a more environmentally friendly option than synthetic fibers.

Styling Tips: Wool throws are available in a range of natural colors and textures, from soft merino wool to chunky, handwoven designs. These blankets are perfect for adding warmth and texture to your living room or bedroom, especially during the colder months.

4. Bamboo and Hemp Throws: Innovative and Sustainable Choices

Bamboo and hemp are two fast-growing, renewable resources that have gained popularity in the world of sustainable textiles. Both materials are naturally resistant to pests, requiring fewer chemicals during cultivation, and they grow quickly, making them highly sustainable.

Bamboo Throws: Bamboo throw blankets are incredibly soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin. Bamboo is also naturally moisture-wicking and thermoregulating, meaning it can keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Hemp Throws: Hemp is one of the most durable natural fibers, known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. Hemp throw blankets are not only long-lasting but also soften with each wash, providing comfort and durability over time.

Styling Tips: Bamboo and hemp throws have a sleek, modern look, making them ideal for contemporary or minimalist decor. Their natural hues and textures add an earthy, organic touch to any room.

5. Handmade and Fair Trade Throws: Supporting Artisans and Communities

Handmade and fair trade throw blankets offer an opportunity to support artisans and communities around the world while also choosing a sustainable product. These throws are often made from natural or recycled materials and are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Benefits: Purchasing handmade and fair trade throw blankets ensures that the artisans who create them are paid fairly and work in safe conditions. It also helps preserve traditional crafts and supports sustainable economic development in artisan communities. Additionally, handmade products often have a unique character and quality that mass-produced items lack.

Styling Tips: Handmade and fair trade throws often feature intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and rich textures, making them statement pieces in any room. Use them to add a touch of global inspiration to your decor, or layer them with other sustainable textiles for a cozy, collected look.

Conclusion:

Sustainable throw blankets offer a way to enjoy the comfort and warmth of these beloved home accessories while making environmentally responsible choices. Whether you opt for organic cotton, recycled fibers, ethically sourced wool, bamboo, hemp, or handmade fair trade options, you can find a throw blanket that aligns with your values and enhances your home’s style. By choosing eco-friendly throw blankets, you contribute to a more sustainable future while creating a cozy, stylish living space.

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I’m a Firestarter, twisted Firestarter…

We recently engraved 100 promotional Dog Tags for The Prodigy

At All Personal Gifts we not only supply products for bands, companies, films, festivals  (e.g. High Voltage) and other promotions, we can also engrave products that you send to us.  For The Prodigy we were sent the Dog Tags to engrave.

If you are looking to promote and would like a unique product engraved, get in touch, you will be surprised at the products we have engraved to produce a truly unique promotional item

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High Voltage – Victoria Park 23rd & 24th July

High Voltage is just a few days away.

At All Personal Gifts we recently completed an order for 50 Stainless Steel Hip Flasks with the High Voltage Logo on it.

We also completed an order 100 Storm Oil Lighters in Polished Chrome.

The Storm Oil Lighter in  Polished Chrome is one of our best selling products.

It is practical and personal and of outstanding high quality. This item is also suitable for engraving for a more personal touch.

Tickets are still on sale and you can view the line up on the High Voltage Festival Website.


High Voltage 2011 – High Voltage 2011 Preview on MUZU.TV

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All Personal Gifts Delight in Sauchie Success

Sauchie Juniors ready for next season

This has been a great year so far for All Personal Gifts and we are always pleased to see our clients enjoying similar success. Take the Sauchie Juniors for instance, as they rounded off their victorious season with a couple of fantastic games against Dalkeith and Beechwood Park. Continue reading

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Sauchie Juniors – 50th Anniversary

Casual Chic: Summer Dresses That Effortlessly Transition from Work to Weekend

For busy women, finding the perfect summer dress that works both in the office and on the weekend can feel like a challenge. You want something stylish yet versatile, professional yet comfortable. The good news is that with the right choices, you can easily transition from work to weekend without missing a beat. Here’s a practical guide to selecting summer dresses that are as adaptable as your schedule.
1. The Shirt Dress: Polished and Practical

Shirt dresses are a quintessential piece for any working professional. Their tailored look makes them perfect for the office, while their casual vibe works well for weekend outings. Look for a shirt dress in lightweight cotton or linen, which will keep you cool during the summer months.

Key Features:

Cut: Opt for a dress with a structured silhouette and a belted waist to create a flattering shape.
Fabric: Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen ensure comfort in both professional and casual settings.
Color: Neutral tones like navy, white, or beige are versatile enough to be dressed up or down.

Styling Tip: For work, pair your shirt dress with loafers and a structured tote. Swap out the loafers for sneakers or sandals and add a crossbody bag for a more relaxed weekend look.
2. The Wrap Dress: Feminine and Flattering

The wrap dress is a timeless style that works beautifully in both the office and social settings. Its adjustable fit flatters various body types, and the wrap design adds a touch of elegance that’s appropriate for professional environments.

Key Features:

Cut: Look for a wrap dress with a modest neckline and knee-length hem to maintain a professional appearance.
Fabric: Jersey or cotton blends offer both comfort and a polished finish.
Color: Bold colors or subtle patterns like stripes or polka dots can add personality while still being work-appropriate.

Styling Tip: Pair your wrap dress with pointed-toe flats and a blazer for the office. On the weekend, ditch the blazer and switch to espadrilles or strappy sandals for a more casual vibe.
3. The A-Line Dress: Classic and Comfortable

A-line dresses are a go-to for their universally flattering shape and easygoing style. This silhouette is fitted at the top and flares out at the bottom, making it both comfortable for a long day at work and stylish for weekend activities.

Key Features:

Cut: Choose a dress that skims your figure without being too tight, ensuring comfort throughout the day.
Fabric: Lightweight fabrics like chambray or soft cotton are perfect for summer.
Color: Solid colors or simple prints like gingham can easily transition from a professional to a casual setting.

Styling Tip: Wear your A-line dress with ballet flats and a cardigan for a polished office look. For the weekend, swap the flats for sandals and add a denim jacket for a laid-back style.
4. The Midi Dress: Sophisticated and Versatile

Midi dresses, which hit mid-calf, strike the perfect balance between professional and casual. They’re long enough to be office-appropriate but also offer a breezy, relaxed feel that’s ideal for the weekend.

Key Features:

Cut: Look for a midi dress with a defined waist to maintain a polished look.
Fabric: Opt for breathable materials like cotton or jersey that move with you.
Color: Soft pastels or classic patterns like stripes work well in both professional and casual settings.

Styling Tip: Pair your midi dress with block heels and a statement necklace for the office. On the weekend, switch to flat sandals and a straw hat for a chic, relaxed outfit.
Conclusion

Finding summer dresses for women that transitions effortlessly from work to the weekend is all about choosing the right cut, fabric, and color. Shirt dresses, wrap dresses, A-line dresses, and midi dresses all offer the versatility and style you need to move seamlessly from a day at the office to a weekend brunch. By selecting pieces that balance professionalism with comfort, you can build a wardrobe that works as hard as you do, while still allowing you to enjoy your off-duty time in style.

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Fire and Rescue seize a photo opportunity from APG

All Personal Gifts is on fire!  We have just supplied 30 photo frames for Strathclyde Fire and Rescue – we trust that the faces which will go in to our frames will do us proud:)  This order was on the recommendation from Strathclyde Police, so we have it on good authority that we’re in the good books… Continue reading

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How do I get my electronic components clearly marked

Ever had the problem where the label on your expensive electronic components comes off and your customer does not know where to come back for the next order, well we have the solution, we engrave them so there is no label to come off and your product is clearly marked with your part number and web address.

Electronic ComponentOne of our long standing customers who keeps coming back to have their components engraved is S+AS Limited who supply a complete range of equipment and engineering services for Satellite communications systems projects. They specialise in the integration of Digital Uplink systems and the related RF and baseband equipment needed for a reliable telecommunication, internet or audio link. Continue reading

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Central FM mark the Occasion for Local Heroes

Local Heroes Awards by Central FM

Central FM have their annual awards coming up, and, for the 3rd year running,  All Personal Gifts are providing the handywork for the trophies to be awarded to these valliant individuals.

The Local Heroes awards recognise unsung heroes from the Forth Valleys in Scotland during a glamorous ceremony at the Airth Castle Hotel and Spa complex. This is the third year of the awards, which bring together local heroes and some musical entertainment. Continue reading

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Engravable Trophies: for real UK sports winners

Find out more about our quality trophies for your event

As Summer swiftly approaches, we at All Personal Gifts are getting busier – why? Sporting events are cropping up on every patch of field in the UK, and sporting events means…winners! (and runners up, of course).

We have a fantastic selection of trophies, cups and plaques to commemorate your sporting champions – all of which can be engraved and delivered in (personal best) time for your event.

And if you’re a school or organisation with lots of little winners, why not have a look at our selection of smaller engravable gifts. A token of the hard work put in, and a reminder that it’s not ALL about the taking part :)

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Focus on Engravable Gifts

Gift Focus Magazine

If you’re looking for gifts on a regular basis for business or pleasure, then why not visit Gift Focus. There you will find a wealth of great tips, articles, news and events for all UK based traders.

This month, Gift Focus has a fantastic competition for £500 of Ashleigh & Burwood stock, information on the British Craft Trade Fair, and let’s not forget the Royal Wedding! We also think you absolutely have to have the best wedding cars possible as it makes such an impact on how you arrive at the wedding.

Why are we telling you about this? – because we’re in it of course! And if you have used us before and are suitably impressed, we invite you to add us to your favourites on their website.

Alternatively, you may wish to browse through our website at All Personal Gifts, and see for yourself the wide range of engravable gifts we have on offer.

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