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Blues Brother Dan Aykroyd signed one of Paul Bush's locally made instruments. Bush boasts that his kits sound far better than his competitors because of the materials he uses: red oak hardwood necks, steel nuts and bridges that will last for decades, he says. Kits start at $99.99 for a three-string. Or just strum away on a ready-made guitar for between $300 and $500. His shop, Uptown Gifts (2675 Louisiana NE), also carries other sundries, such as harmonica mics and amp pickups.

ButtonsAndSocks

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These animal-like dolls have loads of personality. They're fashioned out of soft knitted fabrics and too-cute buttons. Non-allergenic fiberfill means your baby can snuggle one to her heart's content.

Give a girl a tea cozy and her tea will be ... cozy? Teach her to make a tea cozy and all of her friends and family members will have them, too—whether they need them or not. This year, consider giving someone you love the gift of knowledge—or, if you're a fast learner, craft your own presents. Below are a handful of businesses and organizations with a specialty in instruction.

No middleman here—arts fairs mean a direct line from you (the eager shopper) to the local artisan (the happy-to-help entrepreneur). These holiday events bring hundreds of options together under one roof—or tent—and offer New Mexican-made presents with gas-saving convenience. You won’t find this stuff at Kmart.