As I searched the internet for interesting holiday stories about what local products could be purchased, I found a website that features arts and crafts sold around the world by individuals- Etsy.

A search on the site for "shops" based in Santee turns up more than 450 items from about nine sellers.

Etsy is described on their website as "a beautiful experiment in restoring community and culture to our commerce."

Painter, carpenter, and photographer, Rob Kalin created the site after he was having trouble selling his wares online- too many e-commerce sites were dedicated to "junk."

With more than 800,000 shops and expected to hit $500 million in sales in 2011, Etsy is really on the rise.

Here's a rundown on the Santee shops I could find, with quotes from their profiles:

ThisanThatBoutique - "This-n-That Boutique offers baby hats, beanies, earflap hats, photo props, cocoons, toddler hats, monkey hats, jester hats, pompom hats, open weave beanies, flapper hats and more.. Hats for all seasons and photo props for all ages. All items are made with 100 percent Acrylic yarns and cotton yarns. Being a mom to 7 kids really keeps me busy but I love every minute and every stitch."

Redesigned Vintage Finds - "...our store is filled with vintage treasures. We love visiting local San Diego rummage sales, estate sales, secondhand stores, yard sales, and swap meets. Since we tend to collect more secondhand items than we can keep on display, we have decided to share."

My Friend Caroline - "A mother of seven who has always loved to do stichtery. Crochet and embroidery are my favorite types to do. Now that my children are grown and starting to have their own kids I have decided to start selling my crafts."

Mosaic Quest - "I fell in love with Glass art while I was still in school, I never had a chance to work with it until very recently. Currently I am working as a mosaic artist in Santee." Find more at MosaicQuest.com.

Rather Bee Quilting Services - "I'm a long arm quilter and I've made LOTS of quilts, as a hobby. Now I'm selling them to make room for more! I also specialize in custom quilts, such as memory quilts made from your child's or loved one's clothing."

Brown by Design - "I love things that sparkle! I have added my designer sandals, and dog collars for that special pooch in your life. I am also offering vintage sewing patterns."

A Creative Cast Ceramics - "Sculptural and design artist working in earthenware clay and glass. My work tends to be whimsical, but functional."

Randoms of a Busy Mom - Handmade jewelry.

Gone Postal - "Custom mailboxes made to order, and so far there isn't or (hasn't been) a limit as to what i can paint so feel free to ask."

If I missed your local Etsy shop, or you know of other arts and crafts in Santee, let us know in the comments.