December 23, 2009
Truly unique, Sabrina Baissas creates delicate jewellery and homewares using a rare technique of medieval kiln-fired glass enameling, where enamels are hand-painted onto glass then fired at 1300 degrees in a kiln. Sabrina discovered this technique in Paris, while learning traditional stained-glass methods. Looking at her creations, it’s amazing to think about her choice of materials, that the jewellery is created using discarded picture frame glass and her dishes are made with old windows. These materials are not easily recyclable, so often end up in landfills. Inspired by nature, Fox and Clover is both sustainable and beautiful.

~ Posted by: Christine
Category: Handmade Jewellery |
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Tags: Fox and Clover, Handmade Jewellery, Sabrina Baissas, sustainable
December 22, 2009

Spring 2010 Runway Inspiration – Part 2
I can undoubtedly say that floral patterns are back. Anna Sui beautifully captures 60’s flower power with a fresh take on a look that never gets old. A peacock feather headband by sweetgrassmill is the perfect way to take this outfit from day to night. Just add a pair of heels and you’re set.
Photo courtesy of style.com
Posted by: Christine
Category: Handmade Jewellery, Indie Fashion |
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Tags: etsy, spring 2010 runway
December 22, 2009

Ribbon Star Ornaments
I’m liking this Christmas Tree Ornament tutorial found in the December issue of Martha Stewart. It’s simple to do, and can be completed with either excess wrapping paper, ribbon or any type of paper you’ve got around the house. I don’t know if you’re big on themed trees – ie. focussing on one, two or three colors – but this is an easy and inexpensive way to help get that special look and to incorporate your own handmade ornaments.
Posted by: Amy
Category: Home Decor |
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Tags: christmas tree ornament, diy
December 21, 2009

It might not feel like it, but Spring 2010 is just around the corner. There’s no need to wait until the retail stores switch over their stock from winter to spring, everything you need is on Etsy right now. I’ve picked out some of my favorite runway looks from the Spring 2010 shows and accessorized them with items from talented Etsy designers. We’ll be revealing a new look for the next five days, so make sure you stop by each day to check out the latest trend.
Part 1: Tie Dye is back! Wait, don’t run away… for Spring 2010 it’s being done in an understated manner with calming tones. No summer camp projects or rainbow colours here. This statement necklace from Cookoorikoo’s shop goes perfectly with the silk shift dress from Ports 1961 ready-to-wear collection.
Photo courtesy of style.com
Posted by: Christine
Category: Handmade Jewellery, Indie Fashion |
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Tags: etsy trends, Indie Fashion, spring 2010 runway
December 21, 2009

The last couple of years I’ve been – well – a bit lazy when it comes to wrapping Christmas gifts…. Most gifts from me found under the tree have been in gift bags. How quick is it to put a gift in a gift bag, artfully add some tissue paper – and voila! But I was totally inspired by the gift wrapping ideas in this month’s Real Simple magazine – perhaps it’s time to turn over a new leaf? A nicely wrapped gift is so much more fun to open. I like the idea of adding one unique object to finish the wrapping off – could even be just a simple item from around the home that was otherwise going to be thrown out, or an image from the front of a card. Better yet, if it’s a small box – how about using Christmas-y advertisements from magazines you’ve already read? Eco-friendly and inexpensive.
Posted by: Amy L.
Category: Lifestyle |
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Tags: christmas wrapping
December 18, 2009
The W2 Community Media Arts Centre in Vancouver’s DTES will be open by spring 2010, and I can’t wait to check out some of their daily activities and workshops. It will be located in the Woodward’s redevelopment area and the Centre should be a great addition to the area’s revitalization. They’ll have a wide range of art and community service organizations with a focus on cross-cultural sharing, and artistic and social outcomes. You can read more about their objectives in this article, and if you’re excited about the Centre you can stay up to date on the latest news via their facebook page.
~Posted by: Amy
Category: Lifestyle, Vancouver |
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Tags: art, Vancouver, W2, w2 community media arts center
December 17, 2009
Quebec based Eva is an art director, graphic designer and illustrator who creates charming pieces out of her Montreal design studio. Often, the same print will come in either English or French, c’est magnifique! French country blues with a modern appeal, her magnets are so much better than that real estate agent one you’ve got on your fridge right now. And this print would make the perfect accent next to my kitchen chalkboard. A ‘cuisine fantastique’ indeed.

~Posted by: Christine
Category: Home Decor |
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Tags: art, eva juliet, magnet
December 16, 2009
Vancouver based designer, Heather Mandin, uses reworked antiques to create her wonderful jewelry line parts by heather. With bold colors and great shapes, each of her pieces makes a unique statement. This is the perfect time to check out her work as she is opening her studio to the public on December 19th and 20th from 12-8pm (#214 – 119 West Pender St., Vancouver). Stop by to see brand new designs, hair accessories, and the fabulous Couture 09 collection all at sale prices.

~Posted by: Amy
Category: Events, Handmade Jewellery, Vancouver |
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Tags: Handmade Jewellery, heather mandin, parts by heather, Vancouver
December 15, 2009
Featuring vintage clothing with a range of great colors and patterns, Miss Modish’s etsy shop is a wonderful find. The clothing she stocks would add flair to anyone’s wardrobe, and I’m particularly liking the outerwear. Those coats could only make my winter shopping trips more fun. As a fellow Portlander, I wonder if Miss Modish is preparing for our winter weather in great vintage finds of her own?

~Posted by: Lisa
Category: Indie Fashion, Portland |
2 Comments »
Tags: Indie Fashion, Miss Modish, Portland, vintage