Shop Independent: Show some love to designers and makers this Valentine’s Day

Love it or loathe it, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. If you're a 'lover' then you'll appreciate our top creative picks for your nearest and dearest come 14 February. And for 'loathers', why not take the opportunity to support independent designers and makers (and the Just a Card movement too)? Everybody wins.

Written By: Laura Connelly

7 February 2018

XOXO by LJB Studio

Manchester-based LJB Studio has added this beauty to its growing collection of greetings cards. Perfect for paper lovers everywhere, and created by founder Laura Boast, the design includes foil by Foilco and recycled paper stock made from coffee cups by G . F Smith.

Priced at £4 | [Buy the card](http://www.ljb.bigcartel.com/product/xoxo-valentines-card) — Priced at £4 | Buy the card

You Remind Me Of A Babe by Grizzly Paper Craft

Labyrinth fans, rejoice! You have been catered for this Valentine's Day. In a beautifully hand-illustrated design, the UK-based brand specialises in greetings cards that feature pop culture references. Other favourites include '99.8% Match' inspired by Black Mirror's Hang The DJ episode, and 'Who Said Romance Is Dead' accompanying a flesh-eating zombie.

Priced at £2.75 | [Buy the card](https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/586429599/labyrinth-valentines-card-you-remind-me?ref=shop_home_active_22) — Priced at £2.75 | Buy the card

I Do by Little Birds Talk

This card by Little Birds Talk covers many bases. Is your beau a bird fancier? An Abba fan? Are you recently engaged? If you've selected at least one from the list, then this is the card for you. Boasting a bright and colourful design by Laura Hawkins, your chosen recipient will be sure to sing your praises.

Priced at £2.50 | [Buy the card](https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/507688255/funny-wedding-card-anniversary-card-i-do?ref=shop_home_active_3) — Priced at £2.50 | Buy the card

I’m Into You Like Cats Are Into Boxes by Kerris Ganeson

If your eyes met over a YouTube cat video then what better way to say 'I love you' than with this delightful design by Kerris Ganeson? If cats aren't your thing, then some of Kerris' other drawings may tickle your fancy – ghosts, dinosaurs and manatees all feature.

Priced at £2.75 | [Buy the card](https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/489974276/im-into-you-like-cats-are-into-boxes?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=valentines%20card&ref=sr_gallery-1-30) — Priced at £2.75 | Buy the card

I've Only Got Eyes For Theroux by Studio Boketto

Perhaps one more suited to your best friend than boy or girlfriend, this quirky card by Studio Boketto features a cute illustration and even a fun emoji. Other designs in the collection include Eleven from Stranger Things, cats and gyoza.

Priced at £2.55 | [Buy the card](https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/585896565/funny-valentines-cardfunny-valentine?ref=listing-shop-header-3) — Priced at £2.55 | Buy the card

You're Cuter Than A Bee's Bum by Snowdon

Taken from a hand-painted watercolour design in soft blacks and honey coloured yellows, the design of this card is frame-worthy. If you know anyone with a bum as cute as a bees then firstly, lucky you, and secondly, this is your chance to let them know.

Priced at £3.49 | [Buy the card](https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/462173925/cute-bee-card-valentines-card-valentine?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=valentines%20card&ref=sr_gallery-3-21) — Priced at £3.49 | Buy the card

You're A Stunner by Freckle and Specs

Cast your mind back to the early 2000s when "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and The Rock were the kings of the WWE. For fans of nostalgic sporting entertainment, it doesn't get much better than this greetings card from Freckle and Specs. And that's the bottom line.

Priced at £2.75 | [Buy the card](https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/515465460/stone-cold-steve-austin-card-love-card?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=valentines%20card&ref=sr_gallery-4-25) — Priced at £2.75 | Buy the card

You Are My Absolute Favourite by Katy Pillinger Designs

Sometimes all-out romance is your best bet, and this illustrated card by Katy Pillinger Designs is sure to win you brownie points with your loved one. The drawing is taken from an original gouache, pencil and ink illustration before being digitally finished. What a lovely way to show you care.