July 30, 2007
Knit Pick
 Scan your heart out in the aisles of Babies "R" Us, but no gift on your electronic registry will compare to the tiny sweater that your grandmother knit for your mom, who later buttoned it onto you.
If your family lacks the crafty gene, you can still introduce this sort of heirloom into your new family (or bring one to your best friend's baby shower). The secret is NannyGram, where you can order gorgeous layette (sweaters, hats, booties) that doesn't come from a factory belt in China but from traditional knitting needles, hand-looms, and crochet hooks in New England. Each item is made to last for generations, rather than just a few months. And while grandmas notoriously choose itchy yarns, NannyGram uses the softest fibers, like cashmere and merino wool.
Founded by two sisters who were handed down abundant crafty genes by their mom ("Nanny"), the site will ship your order within 48 hours, making it quite a bit speedier than the old-fashioned method. They do this by contracting work out to fellow indie knitters, which also helps keep the handmade tradition going. The gift sets come beautifully wrapped with a personalized card to save you even more time.
Another bonus: You'll feel slightly smug, rather than inadequate, next time you sit next to one of those knitting types.
Available online at nannygram.com.
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