Funky Finds

Upcoming Events

2009-07-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Meet Your Maker
July 3rd, 5-8 pm
The Broadway Winebar - 200 W. Broadway - Eugene, Oregon
Meet Your Maker is an indie craft show bringing Eugene the best of local handmade goods in the support of the Buy Local movement. There will be wine tasting, a raffle, and the event is held alongside the First Friday Artwalk! Open to all ages and free admission.

Chalkboard China will be debuting "Chalk it for the Cure" at the upcoming Dallas Home & Gift Market, June 24th – 30th at the Dallas Market Center. "Chalk It For the Cure" launch parties will be held in the John R Walker Showroom, World Trade Center #209. All buyers are invited to participate in "Chalk It For the Cure," by signing their name in chalk on one of Chalkboard China's new Pink Ribbon Cylinder vases, signifying their support for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and breast cancer awareness. Donations collected in the vases at the Home & Gift market will be a great start to the many dollars that Chalkboard China plans to raise. Part of the proceeds from every PINK RIBBON vase sold will go to the foundation.

About Chalkboard China: Express yourself again and again on our sleek, slate canvas. Chalkboard China is a product line founded in 2008 by Candace Neff Randolph and the creative design team at Cooper & Brinkley's. Personalize every occasion on our tabletop and home accessory pieces, finished with a tasteful black slate.

4th of July Crafts

2009-07-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

With the 4th of July on the horizon, it's time to get busy creating some great holiday crafts and decorations. Better Homes & Gardens has some great resources you are sure to love!

4th of July Crafts for kids and adults, including how to make fun flags for your home and yard.

Decorating ideas with red, white and blue color schemes for just about everything in your home.

Happy Independence Day, America!

Able Mable

2009-06-30T00:01:00.000-05:00

Leann Jurmu is a pro at finding the unusual and making it into something functional. Her talents are displayed at Able Mable, a shop full of functional, yet funky, home items. I love the bright, patterned light switch covers that will add pizazz to any room. Leann also creates lovely baby blankets available in a variety of color combos. The black, white & red blankie is fantastic! I especially love the unique signs & frames. Have Your Cake & Eat It Too would be a terrific addition to our kitchen. Of course, Dieting is Wishful Thinking could follow that one up nicely!

*GIVEAWAY: Leann is giving away one set of her funky coasters! Simply visit the Able Mable shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item to be entered. Please leave your email address so I can contact the winner. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Sunday, July 5.

Whooga

2009-06-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

Whooga features a variety of sheepskin boots that utilize a very special grading of extremely thick and plush leathers which provide increased warmth. What I find most interesting is that the world's warmest boots are also the world's coolest. Whooga boots are even more effective at circulating cooler air during warmer days due to the natural properties of the thicker fleece they utilize. The site stocks the typical tall boots, as well as classic short and mini boots. There's also an elegance pair that is similar to the tall boot, but has increased durability and arch support for your feet. The weave boots may be my favorite design, especially the pink weave boots. And for those who really want to stand out from the crowd, check out the metallic boots! Whooga has generously offered a $30 discount to Funky Finds readers. Simply enter the code FUNKYFINDS in the promotional code box at time of check out.

Stephanie Levy

2009-06-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

Stephanie Levy is an American artist currently living in Munich, Germany. She is now selling limited-edition archival prints and fine art card sets featuring her artwork in her Etsy shop. All of Stephanie's prints and cards are printed with professional pigment inks on high-quality archival papers, ensuring that the colors will remain fresh for a lifetime. The card sets make wonderful gifts, as well as home decor when framed. I especially love the watercolor stripes set. Stephanie's brightly colored prints, such as White Sangria, are sure to liven up your home. Interior 08 is another print I'd love to have. Peek inside her studio, visit Europe, and be the first to know about shop updates and giveaways on Stephanie's blog.

Humorous Hounds

2009-06-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

Humorous Hounds showcases quirky doggie tees created by Loylee Philips. All of the shirts are limited-edition and never mass produced - the perfect thing for dogs (and owners) with a sense of humor. Our Yellow Labrador Bradley could proudly sport the tee declaring that he is a shedder. I Don't Wear Pants is an honest & humorous statement for any pooch. And, if you have a male dog, you definitely can understand the Team Red Rocket and Funny, I Have That Same Shade of Lipstick designs! A portion of all proceeds are donated to Operation Kindness, North Texas' oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter, so lighten up & give someone a good laugh today.

Dot Dot Stitch

2009-06-25T13:00:00.000-05:00

Dot Dot Stitch is Dotty Raleigh's new Etsy shop featuring her hand and machine embroidered items. Although this is a new shop, Dotty has been selling online for quite some time under the name Dottyral. The embroidered wrist cuffs are unique accessories that are available in a variety of colors & designs. I love the pink cherries cuff, as well as the linen hedgehog cuff. And the purple daisy cuff is one that will add flair to any ensemble. Dotty also creates ribbon embroidered pendants that will add a romantic touch to your wardrobe. And, if you're looking for a fun housewarming gift, check out the embroidered tea towels and aprons.

Jessica Stewart

2009-06-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

Jessica Stewart creates one of a kind jewelry that is meticulously handcrafted from top-quality materials including the highest quality stones and metals. She creates gorgeous rings, such as the Hypnotiq Martini piece, that incorporate various gemstones, in this case a Peruvian Blue Opal paired with a luxurious Freshwater Pearl. The Toffee Apple Tini is a magnificent ring featuring a deep translucent chocolate color Andalusite from Brazil paired with a faceted deep pink Tourmaline. Sterling silver wire is wrapped around this stunning color combination. This California-based artist also creates unique earrings, such as the Irish Grasshopper pair. As you can see, Jessica designs & creates wearable art that will make any woman feel beautiful.

Candylights by Jorabeel's

2009-06-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Candylights by Jorabeel's features dipped bulbs and light strands created by Roxie Morrow. These decorative bulbs are perfect for adding a bit of light to your home year-round or to add a festive touch to any special occasion. The sugar-coated bulbs are covered in glitter to appear as though they are coated with sugar. Yummy! I love the holiday themed sets, including the 4th of July light strand American shoppers are sure to love. The 5 watt and 7 watt bulbs have been hand-dipped in tinted silicone and are delectable! Roxie even has a kids section featuring custom color combos that boys & girls alike will love. Visit the Jorabeel's blog for more information.

*GIVEAWAY: Enter for your chance to win two sets of light strands (winner's color choice)! Simply visit Candylights by Jorabeel's and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite product. Please include your email address so I can contact the winner. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Monday, June 29.

Honey Bee Gallery

2009-06-23T13:00:00.000-05:00

Honey Bee Gallery offers a well-organized and diverse selection of original, child-oriented art. Founder Joanna Hakimi is dedicated to offering the finest artwork for babies and children, none of which is mass produced or widely available. As a family therapist, Joanna works entirely with new moms and their babies & believes that art has a positive impact on an infant and child's growth and development. The artist list features many talented artists, some of which have been previously featured on Funky Finds. Caroline Blum's flower paintings, landscapes and portraits are bright and whimsical. Amy F. of 3 Lambs Design creates bright pop art perfect for any child's space. Dolan Geiman and Marnie Vollenhals are also favorites of mine. If you are unfamiliar with the artists listed on the site, you may prefer to search by style or theme. Under the instruments and music section you'll find the Monkey with Accordion piece that I love. All of the talented artists are available for commissioned work, as well.

Wearable Arf

2009-06-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

Virgie Fisher and Rachele Fisher are a mother-daughter team who share a love of dogs and fabric art. Virgie is a quilt designer and teacher whose wearable art designs have appeared often in the Bernina Fashion show. Rachele’s custom dog clothing has been featured in many luxury pet magazines. The Oklahoma-based authors have a new book out called Wearable Arf featuring 16 fabulous fashions for your darling dog. The book allows you to show off your favorite pup’s personal style with these adorably adorned outfits. Use fanciful embellishments to transform one basic vest pattern into 16 over-the-top costumes for both males and females. Eight projects include outfits for prince and princess, Hawaiian, Mexican, formal themes, cowpokes, grruffiti artists, and astromutts. The book includes full-sized templates for the basic vest pattern in sizes from XS to XL. These pieces are fun to make and even more fun to show off. See lots of great photos on the Wearable Arf Flickr photostream. What are you waiting for? Purchase this book & start creating canine couture with pooch personality!

This Week's Events

2009-06-22T13:00:00.001-05:00

The San Luis Valley Folk Arts and Fiber Festival kicks off its third year on June 23, in Monte Vista, with an exhibit of fiber artists whose work spans the globe. The SLV Fest is a celebration of the handmade and traditional arts. The opening reception for the exhibit is 5:30-7:30 PM, June 26th at the Monte Vista Information Center in historic downtown Monte Vista. The festival begins Friday, July 10 with a day of workshops in Marsh Park and an evening launch party at the Monte Vista Information Center from 6-8PM. Saturday and Sunday convene with two full days of vendors, food, music, demonstrations, exhibits and contests—including wool spinning races. Admission is free.

Paper Cowgirl, an altered art retreat, will be held in Waxahachie, Texas, June 26 & 27. The event will feature local/Texas artists & will include two days of classes, as well as vendor night on the 26th that is open to the public.

On Saturday, June 27 (Rain date: June 28) the City of Attleboro will celebrate its first annual Expo for the Senses in the center of Attleboro’s downtown district. Area artists, crafters, jewelry merchants, restaurants, caterers, performers, musicians and others will fill the streets from 12 – 6pm for this colorful, family-friendly festival. The event is open to the public – admission and parking are free. The Expo will feature over 40 artists, artisans and community members participating in the Attleboro Arts Museum’s annual Craft Fair and Art Sale. This Museum tradition offers original, hand-made creations, showcases area talent, and supports regional culture.

The Poster List

2009-06-22T05:00:00.002-05:00

The Poster List has two great specials you will want to take advantage of during the month of June. First up, they are offering a special FRAME IT! option. For just $25.99, you get a 12"x18" poster of your choice and a 12"x18" wooden frame of your choice in white, black or teak brown. Secondly, they are having a TWO for $20 special that has been extended until June 30. You can purchase two 12"x18" posters for $20. Now that is a steal!

Susan Najarian

2009-06-19T12:48:00.001-05:00

Susan Najarian is a talented artist that creates encaustic paintings. According to her bio, encaustic is from the ancient Greek word that means to heat. Susan uses digitally-manipulated photographs as her base, then transfers the image to a wood frame covered in encaustic wax. The paintings are created using many thin layers of wax that attract & refract light altering the appearance to produce the cloud like feeling of the medium. I love Pink Bike, a piece that highlights a cute retro bicycle with a basket of blue and green flowers. P.S. Love You is another wonderful painting that features a beautiful pink and orange sky with flecks of gold leaf. And White Dahlia is one that I would love to have hanging in my space!

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Enter to win an original encaustic painting titled Early Bird. Visit Susan's Etsy shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite piece. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Tuesday, June 23.

Jitni

2009-06-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Jitni features San Francisco-based designer Cynthia Ostroff's trendy, yet affordable, jewelry and scarves. What began as Bella Accessories in 2004 is now transitioning into Jitni with expanded product offerings. The company's jewelry line features items made of nonallergenic metals, hand-dyed Italian beads, and Swarovski crystals. The Raspberry Multi-Chain Necklace is a beautiful design that incorporates various beads & crystals. I also like the bold Red Resin Circles necklace, as well as the Amethyst quartz drops. Jitni's jewelry line also includes many unique bracelets and earring sets. Another trademark of this business is the luxurious collection of scarves made from cashmere, silk, and fine knits. The Light Mistal design is my favorite!

Artfulpups

2009-06-17T13:00:00.000-05:00

It's no secret that I am an extreme dog lover that loves spoiling my pooches rotten. That's why I love Artfulpups featuring Dorothy Bauer Dog Jewelry. This shop has everything you need to spoil a pup from adorable, fluffy bedding to unique & humorous toys. How funny is the plush sneaker toy? Artfulpups also has lots of great collars & leashes to choose from, such as Pup de Soleil & cool tattoo designs. And those of us that are blessed with tiny portable dogs will flip over the fantastic carriers. The Welcome Home design is fabulous! If you're looking for a gift for a pet owner you know, be sure to check out the grooming & gifts section for wonderful frames, dishes and more.

Bohemian Vintage

2009-06-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

I love vintage finds, but don't always have time to scour garage sales and flea markets. Bohemian Vintage is an online shop full of funky vintage items ranging from accessories to home dècor. The Bohemian Indian bowl is the perfect home accessory to catch your keys or other little bits. I also love the retro coffee carafe, as well as the vintage poker set. I instantly envision my husband & I sitting around the home together like the perfect 1950s couple! Bohemian Vintage also has very interesting & detailed pieces like the Moroccan Pitcher that has a unique leather handle. And for all those budding writers out there, what better way to get your creative juices flowing than to begin the old fashioned way - on a vintage Royal typewriter? At $25, I'd say it's hard to pass up!

Pile of Craft

2009-06-16T13:00:00.000-05:00

Charm City Mafia Presents: Pile of Craft 2009

Saturday, June 20th, 2009 - 10am - 5pm
@ Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 (Inside St John’s Church)

Shop handmade and have fun at this year’s Pile of Craft, a DIY art and craft show. There will be over 50 amazing, local, crafty vendors showing off their astounding apparel, jewelry, accessories, ceramics, paper goods, fine art and so much more! Drinks and snacks will be available from Red Emma’s.

Staving Crafter

2009-06-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Staving Crafter is a wonderful source for finding the latest opportunities for artists, crafters, designers, and makers. The site lists design competitions that have various prizes, such as a lifetime supply of Moleskine notebooks. You'll also find listings for events, as well as links to sites that are great resources for the business aspect of crafting. Check back often for updates.

Father Knows Best

2009-06-15T13:00:00.000-05:00

Father's Day is Sunday, June 21, and we all know men can be hard to shop for. Below are a few unique gift ideas for you to peruse.

1. The BUST Boobtique has lots of unique gifts for men ranging from knitting & crochet books to tallboy koozies.

2. Cupcake Tree Designs' hand-carved tie stamp is the perfect tool to create funky Father's Day cards for all the men in your life.

3. The Brick Kiln is a wonderful source for customizable pottery. Let Dad know that he's your hero with a personalized dish.

4. Dads are sure to appreciate a custom designed keychain created by Kelly of KMW0014.

5. Show Dad that you know he's a class act with a beautiful, or should I say handsome, pair of customized cuff links from Tiny Tokens Designs.

6. Baby K'tan currently has their Camouflage Carriers marked down 25%. These make a wonderful first Father's Day gift! Offer expires June 30.

SimaG Jewelry

2009-06-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

SimaG Jewelry specializes in personalized jewelry in both English & Hebrew. Sima Gilady hand-stamps her metals and letters creating a piece you will treasure forever. The rimmed disc necklace makes a thoughtful personalized gift for just about anyone. And why not share your favorite quote hand-stamped on a silver necklace with your loved ones? The Will You Marry Me ring has to be the most unique approach I've seen to proposing! Sima generously created a gold disc necklace for me with my initial & I love it. I have received many compliments when wearing it & can tell you that these pieces are very eye-catching & well-made. See what's happening behind the scenes at the SimaG Jewelry blog.

*GIVEAWAY: Enter to win a 14/20 KARAT GOLD FILLED disc with CZ Necklace that has YOUR name - YOUR word - YOUR letter on it. Simply visit SimaG Jewelry and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Thursday June 18. Please leave your email address so I may contact the winner.

Locher's

2009-06-12T13:00:00.000-05:00

Locher's is a small potty-mouthed women's label out of an atelier in beautiful Paris. This company creates sweet embroidered romantic tops featuring a variety of gentle shapes with wispy embellishments in dusty pastel shades like decadent French desserts. However, their clothing is anything but sweet and naïve. The embroidery is of the most delicate little florals and sweet birds that may remind you of the needlepoint designs your grandmother used to detail pillows and such, but are contradicted only by discreetly placed playful phrases using very naughty potty-mouthed words. In addition to the tops, the line also includes a new vintage vixen series of handmade silver-chain necklaces carrying pendants adorned with tiny pastries, porcelain flowers, satin and lace bows, & more. Of course, the pendants don't shy away from naughty statements either offering the right touch of intrigue and danger. Locher's is currently running a Spring Fever special with tops marked down to $49USD. They also have a Menage a Trois special - buy any 3 items and get 1 necklace of your choice for free.

All Things Ribbon

2009-06-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Mother daughter duo Jen and Amanda strive to create the highest quality hair bows & accessories. All Things Ribbon is full of beautiful handmade headbands, hair bows, and much more. Their latest offerings are gorgeous dresses for little girls. Your little girl is a princess, so why not dress her like one on special occasions? The flower stacks are also fun designs that are attached to a lined alligator clip so they can easily be clipped onto crocheted headbands. The Patriotic designs are perfect for Independence Day that is right around the corner. And for the littlest girls, there are adorable mini hair bows. All Things Ribbon is an excellent place to find all things girly girl!

Keep Calm Gallery

2009-06-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

We all know and love the whole Keep Calm & Carry On mantra, but the Keep Calm Gallery now has more more to offer. The online gallery was established in January 2007 by Lucas Lepola and Hayley Thwaites. The creative duo's latest design, 'You are the cream in my coffee,' is available in white on brown recycled paper and black on white textured Somerset printmaking paper. The gallery is full of eye-catching posters that have been hand screen printed. Also available are cards and card packs that could easily be framed to suit your needs and taste. The postcard multipack is a wonderful collection of various designs, including Keep Calm & Carry On. Be sure to check out all the talent artists that have contributed designs to the Keep Calm Gallery.

Got Craft? Bite Sized!

2009-06-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

If you are in the Vancouver area, you do not want to miss the Got Craft? event taking place Sunday, June 14. Got Craft? Bite Sized! puts a modern twist on the conventional craft fair. The Bite Sized! event will be held on the second Sunday of each month from June to November featuring a dozen rotating local and handmade vendors. Check out the Got Craft? blog for more information.

What: Got Craft? Bite Sized!

When: Sunday, June 14th - 11:00am to 4:00pm

Where: Little Mountain Gallery @ 195 East 26th Avenue (at Main Street), Vancouver