Chicago artist and designer Kat Silverstein decided to make gifts for her family out of some of her paintings and illustrations. But she didn’t want the artwork to just hang on a wall; she wanted it to be practical. So she started hand-painting cups, spoons, and other kitchenware to give as presents. After enough people told her they wanted to buy the gifts she was making, Silverstein started up an Etsy store called 7 Doors Studio. Most of the illustrations are of animals (Silverstein has degrees in painting and environmental education, so the natural world is one of her favorite places to find inspiration). She paints ceramic spoon sets, platters, measuring cups, plates, mugs, and cups—all of which are perfect stocking stuffers or hostess gifts.