January 20, 2010

Here’s a post for all you artists, designers and creators – I got word from the folks at Vancouver’s One of a Kind Show that the early bird deadline for their December 2010 show is quickly approaching… If you book by Feb. 3rd – you’ll save $75 off your booth fee. If you’re not able to make the February deadline, you’ve got until April 30th to reserve your booth. This is one of “the” events of the Christmas season for buyers and sellers – every year it features a wonderful array of very talented artisans. For more details visit: One of a Kind Vancouver or email: vancouver@oneofakindshow.com

Category: Events | 2 Comments »
Tags: early bird deadline, one of a kind show, ooak vancouver, Vancouver

January 19, 2010

Here at Handmade Evolution it’s important to us to feature local artists and events when we can (from the 3 cities where we have writers – Portland, Toronto, and Vancouver) as well as creators who go that extra mile to create goods that are eco-friendly. I was very pleased this last week when a friend recommended the work of talented Vancouver local, Laura Bucci, to me. Her work is playful yet functional, eco-friendly, and available on Etsy as well as at many stores throughout the Lower Mainland and in the US too. For more on Laura, visit her website here.

~Posted by: Amy

Category: Indie Fashion, Vancouver | 2 Comments »
Tags: accessories, Eco Friendly, handmade, laura bucci, Vancouver

January 19, 2010

Perhaps I am writing this post and looking for these items as much for myself as for anyone who finds themselves reading it and is needing a bit of r&r too! I know with recent world events many have sprung to action to do what they can to help – and we all know selfless mothers and friends, folks who work or volunteer tirelessly for non-profits, those in the health care profession, and others whose work keeps them at the office late every day. Yet as we seek to live our best lives and to do good we’ve got to make sure to find a balance every day that we can – to rest and recharge. I love the soothing colors of the products in Dulcet’s shop – she offers bath items, paper goods, art work and much more here – just the type of items that help encourage me to get some R&R.

~Posted by: Amy

Category: Lifestyle | Comments Off
Tags: dulcet, r&r

January 18, 2010

Many wonderful metalsmiths have set up shop on Etsy, and I find myself drawn to their shops time and again. While Etsy has lots of talented jewelry designers – I am fascinated by the process the jewelry created by metalsmiths entails. Each of these pendants, earrings and rings are made by hand by the artist “from scratch” so to speak – and each one has it’s own intricacies and unique details. Each artist has their own process for working with the metal making each design even more special. Make sure to visit these shops to learn more about each artist and their process.

1). Colleen Baran
2). Es Designs
3). Plum and Sage

~Posted by: Amy

Category: Handmade Jewellery, Indie Fashion | Comments Off
Tags: Handmade Jewellery, metalsmiths

January 18, 2010

Big thanks to everyone who participated in our contest this last week – we were pleased to receive so many comments from you! Congrats to the winner, Shell Reinhart – we’ll be emailing you to get your address so we can send you the Alyssa Ettinger lantern that you’ve won.

Category: Home Decor | Comments Off
Tags: Home Decor

January 15, 2010

Too soon? I couldn’t help myself – so many great Valentine’s finds are turning up on Etsy every day. As well, for those of us in Canada, we’ve got to order our gifts and cards from Etsy soon if we’re ordering items from the States – as the shipping time can be a bit lengthy. We promise not to bombard you, but we’ll be back with more fun Valentine’s finds soon…

1). Provincijalka
2). abby trys again
3). your wishcake
4). Lucky Troll
5). Just Work

~Posted by: Amy

Category: Home Decor | 3 Comments »
Tags: valentines

January 14, 2010

Etsy For Haiti

I noticed this afternoon on Twitter that a lot of Etsy shops have begun to donate partial proceeds from their shops to benefit Haiti Earthquake relief. As per recent news reports the situation in Haiti is dire at best. I am encouraged by these artisans who have chosen to take part and to do what they can to help.

Here’s a list of some of the shops I have noticed that are offering a discount (several are pictured above) – please see their shop home page for details of how your shopping will benefit Haiti.

1). SF Girl by Bay
2). Tina Crespo
3). Enhabiten
4). Bliss in a Teacup
5). Atlantic Treefox
6). Field Trip (my Etsy shop)

On Twitter you can find a list of shops giving to Haiti by searching #etsy4haiti

Indiefixx is holding an auction that you can take part in here

CNN gives a comprehensive list of charities taking part in Haiti relief: Click here

I truly believe that if we are each able to give even a small amount – a difference will be made. Whether it be $5 or $500 your donation matters. Give what you can and spread the word!

~Posted by: Amy

Category: Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
Tags: etsy for haiti, haiti relief

January 14, 2010

I had the opportunity to attend the opening of the exciting new exhibit at the Museum of Vancouver, Art of Craft, last night and I’m excited to give you a preview of the show!

Art of Craft showcases 173 spectacular fine craft works in three parts:

Unity & Diversity: Selected Works – 75 pieces from across Canada recently on display at the 2009 Cheongju International Craft Biennale in the Republic of Korea.

By Hand/BC and Yukon – 51 pieces from Canada’s West Coast with a focus on the artists’ creative processes and studio environments.

Craft from the Republic of Korea – 47 pieces demonstrating the excellence of traditional and contemporary crafts.

The exhibition is an amazing representation of the creativity and skill of these artisans. I know from time to time over the years there has been some question if craft is indeed an “art”, but after seeing this exhibition you cannot deny that craft is a vital and legitimate art form.

Of the many talented artists from Canada and Korea, a few really stood out for me – Marina Dempster’s work blew me away, I love the intricacy of her work and the unexpected form and mixture of materials. Malcolm Zander’s Heart Series, spectacular wooden art – his pieces are so delicate and beautiful. Aaron Lowe’s Horizon, Alex Anagnostou’s Seeding Clouds, and Jane Kanyon’s Crevice were also at the top of my list.

I urge you to head to the MOV to take a look at these pieces and check out the other artists as well. The Art of Craft is on now through April 11th.

~Posted by: Christine

Category: Events, art | 2 Comments »
Tags: art of craft, mov, museum of vancouver, Vancouver

January 14, 2010

Indie I Do is a different kind of wedding show. A joint production between Vancouver B.C. based lotus events, and Blue Olive Photography, this fantastic event is in it’s 2nd year. If you’re planning a traditional wedding with a twist or a totally different wedding event, this is the one wedding show you’ll want to attend.

Indie I Do brings together over 30 different local vendors. You’ll find Pretty Lulu Bridal with their gorgeous clutches, Something Green showing off trendy and eco-friendly wedding cards, April Cakes yummy and beautiful creations with flavours like Mocha Buttercream, Chocolate Ganache and Caramel Walnut, and many more.

Offering unique products and services, you’re bound to find that special item to make your wedding unforgettable. In an industry dominated by commercial products, Indie I Do offers an innovative opportunity to totally customize your wedding to your personality. We’re excited to be giving away 1 free pass (good for two people) so you can attend this must-see event! For your chance to win please email: info@handmadeevolution.com and let us know why you’re interested in attending – the winner will be selected by a random draw.

Saturday, January 23rd, 2010
11am – 5pm
Heritage Hall
3102 Main Street
Vancouver British Columbia

~Posted by: Christine

Category: Events, Uncategorized, Vancouver | Comments Off
Tags: indie i do, vancouver wedding show