CHRISTMAS shopping can be stressful, trying to find the right gift for the right person, but if you take a look around Warwick there are so many great local gift ideas right on the doorstep.

Christmas is the busiest time of year for most businesses and shopping local is a positive boost to the region's economy.

So before you jump online or head out of town to pick up those final Christmas presents, take a look at this list and support a local business.

1: Locally-made produce and food

There are so many talented foodies in the region, producing some amazing and high-quality products.

Jams, sweets, vinegar, cheeses, cold meats, wines, beers - the list is endless and it's all being made right here on the Southern Downs.

Check out the selection of what's on offer at Pickle and Must (next to Belle Vue Cafe), the Visitor Information Centre at the Town Hall, and there's a huge range at Cafe Jacqui's.

If you're happy to go a little further, take a drive south along the highway to Stanthorpe and take your pick of a huge range of options.

2: Local art

Warwick has a plethora of talented artists and most have their work for sale.

Try the Warwick Potters or the Warwick Artist's Group for a start or jump on Facebook and seek out the local talent.

There's Nikki Malone Studio, Stella Violet by Loretta Grayson, the Warwick Art Gallery or even get an awesome cartoon or caricature from Born 2 Draw Creations - and that's just the tip of the iceberg.

There are also a stack of talented photographers in town who can take wonderful family shots, which would make a great gift idea.

3: Craft classes

If you're buying something for someone crafty, why not buy them a seat in a craft class.

They're always running throughout the year - the Warwick Potters, Warwick Artist's Group, Warwick Art Gallery are good places to start or jump online and look around.

Or check out Skye Creative Studio on Facebook.

4: Fitness options

Know someone who needs a little motivation to get fit in the new year?

A gym membership or personal training gift voucher might be a great option.

There are so many options right here in Warwick - plenty of locals have worked hard to bring a wide range of local fitness options for everybody.

Try the local gyms or seek out a personal trainer like Hybrid Strength N Fitness or Gina Noble.

5: Books, books, books

Warwick has two great little book stores, both within 100m of each other.

Missy Bryson's bookshop at 139 Palmerin St has a great boutique range for both kids and adults or head down King St to browse through the mountains of books in Little Shop of Books.

6: Crafty gifts

For something a little bit different, head into places like Canning Town Patchwork or Just Because, both in the CBD for wonderful locally-made gift ideas.

Pottery, quilts, tea towels, tablecloths - there's a electric range of knick-knacks and personal items just perfect for a great Christmas gift.

7: Paddock to plate

Make sure your friends and loved-ones are well-fed this Christmas with a hamper of produce from one of our local butchers or head to the farmer's markets or Warwick fruit shops to pick up the finest in Southern Downs and Granite Belt fruit.

A simple, delicious idea that everyone will appreciate.

8: Clothes/jewellery

There are so many talented small-business owners in Warwick, crafting everything from clothes to children's toys and jewellery.

Jump online and take a look to see what's in the local area, but a good place to start would be Greymare jewellery maker Kathleen Moon from Bird on a Branch Designs or Amanda Jayne for affordable and attractive jewellery ideas.

Or head down to The Summit to see Bridget Bunchy's wonderful children's clothes and divine accessories.

9: Design and home-wares

Two marvellous design experts are both offering their expertise and style in Warwick.

Check out Louise Tait's Studio Style at Westside and Sarah Grant's Lux and Bloss in Palmerin St, for amazing home decor and design options.

10: Tattoos

Tattoos are all the rage these days, why not organise one for your best mate, brother or sister?

A great gift idea for the right person, as they can choose exactly what they want.

Head in to Running on Ink in Fitzroy St and talk to Richard.

11: Pets

Local pet rescue organisations such as Southern Downs Ark and Warwick Animal Welfare are always looking for homes for their rescued animals.

Just make sure the home your gift is going to wants a pet, will look after and keep it.