Forget the aircon, buy a blanket
This post follows on from my one of yesterday advocating thrift in Xmas present spending. If you don’t have time to rummage around flea markets in the next 9 days, or find that ideal retro bargain on eBay for under £10 (also euro 10 these days too), you are going to have to go for something new, not borrowed to give this Xmas. But to have those heirloom-like qualities that the lovingly-searched for vintage gift might have, a new gift is less likely to come in at under £/euro 10!
I’ve been scouring the internet for gifts that have emotional worth not monetary value alone. Things which the recipient can cherish for years to come, not instantly forget once the wrapping is off and the glib thank-you said.
So here’s my hot tip for something that might just justify a spend…
My favourite modern heirloom gift idea this year is the humble Welsh blanket! Not any one though; one made by Melin Tregwynt, the DOC of blanket makers operating from a small family-run mill in Pembrokeshire. Melin Tregwynt isn’t into those scratchy car or picnic blankets I remember from my childhood, which doubled up as extra winter bedding (in the days before we had duvets!) and gave off a distinct whiff of moth balls. They do cast a glance at the past though by weaving blankets in hip retro designs (that can now be found in Hip Hotels the world over).
To be alongside such prestigious interiors, Melin Tregwynt blankets don’t come in cheap. But they do check my boxes for rare, personal, heirloom presents. They will last a lifetime or more, be practical and above all they are beautiful. Ideal in my damp, chilly stone house in Malta with no viable heating. Since our electricity bills here are highest in Europe, I can justify an MT blanket as I won’t be blasting the aircon and adding to my carbon footprint. ’Just putting on another layer’ will be a more inviting prospect with my designer throw.
For me, winter is now something to look forward to as blanket season (makes a change from summer as mosquito net season). Cocoa, my fireplace and my Melin Tregwynt spice mulitcheck blanket are all I need for seasonal cheer. Yes, you guessed it, I bought myself an early Xmas present.
Postscript: Melin Tregwynt is a fine example of a local, traditional, family business that’s made it global by realising that a niche of people seek authenticity, originality and quality when purchasing. For a flavour of what owning a Melin Tregwynt is all about, watch here.
