Sideshow Stamps

Noah and Jennifer design the beautiful & quirky items at Sideshow Stamps. Their designs range from retro to Hawaiian-themed to Western and pop culture. They are currently having a random stamp sale with lots of designs now 15% off. Look for the "on sale now" sign above each sale item. Also, to celebrate the birth of their beautiful baby girl, Sideshow Stamps is now offering an amazing shipping deal. For orders subtotaling between $30.00 - $50.00 the shipping cost is only $1.00! The retro bachelor pad, barware & furniture section showcases Noah & Jennifer's unique style. And the circus, sideshow & concessions designs are anything but ordinary. Check out the tips & samples page for lots of project ideas. And don't forget to enter the May giveaway (multiple times!) for your chance to win a Grab Bag of mounted & unmounted stamps from Sideshow Stamps.

Magistical Memories

Magistical Memories creates laser & die-cut letters, borders, and shapes, as well as the handy die-cut Ribbon Wrap©. They can also produce custom one-of-a-kind products upon request. The chipboard is very versatile & can be altered by painting, stamping, or decoupaging them. Magistical Memories also creates chipboard & Crystle Clear albums available in a variety of styles. Are You Kitting Me are monthly kits that includes exclusive chipboard designs, as well as decorative elements by various manufacturers. The message board is a great place to read up about various topics, as well. Enter the May giveaway for your chance to win a prize pack from Magistical Memories or a scrapbooking kit by Are You Kitting Me.

Scarlet Lime

Christy Tomlinson has worked for several big names in the scrapbooking world including Chatterbox and Making Memories. While teaching scrapbooking classes, Christy realized that what she really enjoyed was putting together the materials needed for the various projects. That's when she decided to start a kit club of her own. The name Scarlet Lime was born out of her love for the color scarlet red and the flavoring in lime in anything & everything. I share her affinity for citrus flavoring! I have been a kit subscriber and can tell you first hand that Christy consistently puts together the most beautiful, classic kits. I was so excited to receive the May kit which was full of brightly colored papers and elements. The perfectly coordinated kits take all the guess work out of putting together scrapbook pages. A unique aspect of Scarlet Lime is that each monthly kit includes an original acrylic stamp that can be used in a wide variety of craft projects. Christy also has a weekly giveaway on the Scarlet Lime blog, so start reading today. Enter the May giveaway for your chance to win a scrapbooking kit from Scarlet Lime!

Sweet Spuds

Sweet Spuds is one of the coolest scrapbooking kit companies I have found. Each month Sweet Spuds consistently puts together a fun collection of unique items as seen in the May kit Eye For Fashion. I love how this kit combines bright, modern prints with vintage images. The Sweet Spuds gallery is full of fabulous projects created by a number of talented artists providing lots of inspiration. I am itching to get my hands on the June kit which features a fantastic gnome playing card and vintage embroidered Girl Scout badges. Fair warning...these fabulous kits always sell out, so act fast! Enter the May giveaway for your chance to win a Sweet Spuds kit of your own.

Magpie Mary

Magpie Mary is a fabulous Etsy shop that focuses on vintage housewares, supplies, and ephemera. Items such as the 1950s Bridge Sheets are the perfect addition to many various craft projects. The vintage rubber stamp holder would be fun in a craft room or office, too. Magpie Mary also has a new line of vintage-inspired rubber stamps available. The Angel rubber stamp is a beautiful image and I love the Victorian boot stamp. Enter the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway for your chance to win a Cigar Box Rubber Stamp from Magpie Mary!

Weekend Kits

Weekend Kits is the perfect place for busy crafters to find various creative project kits across a wide variety of categories. Weekend Kits provides quality products that allow you to explore new project ideas and learn a new craft in a very simple way. The complete project kits allow you to spend more of your free time being creative and productive, not searching for all the supplies needed. The embroidery section includes kits for everyone including beginners. Weekend Kits also stocks project kits by Sublime Stitching, my favorite embroidery design company. Jewelry making has always intimidated me because I have no idea what tools & supplies are needed. Weekend Kits makes trying your hand at jewelry making a snap by selling a variety of project kits that include everything you need. There are many more kits available, including scrapbooking and paint kits. There's also a wonderful variety of project kits for kids. These are perfect for keeping the kiddos occupied during their summer and holiday breaks! Enter the May giveaway for your chance to win a Sublime Stitching Ultimate Embroidery Kit with pattern pack from Weekend Kits! Contest ends ends at midnight CST Saturday, May 31.

Store More Stamps

One of the biggest problems I have encountered with rubber & acrylic stamps is a way to conveniently store them. Little Monkeys recently debuted their easy to use stamp storage system that allows you to store and access the rubber and acrylic stamps you already have, while also giving you the capability to expand your stamp collection in the future. The store more stamps system can be easily personalized by decorating the box, as well as adding more inserts & sleeves as needed. The possibilities are limitless. The cling sheets make it easy to store unmounted and acrylic stamps, too. You could win a $25 gift certificate from Little Monkeys by entering the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway! Enter today!!!

SockMonkey.net

If I've said it once, I've said it a million times...I LOVE MONKEYS! It's my parents' fault for giving me a stuffed monkey, Mr. Chimps, for Christmas when I was a wee one. Anyway, imagine my delight when I discovered SockMonkey.net. This website is the perfect place for crafters & monkey lovers alike. There's tons of sock monkey patterns available, including one for an "I Love My Sock Monkey" scarf and crochet skirt for a sock monkey. You will also find sock monkey books and links to more great sock monkey websites. However, my favorite thing about SockMonkey.net are the DIY kits. These kits include everything you need to make your own handmade Sock Monkey. You can even opt for a pre-sewn kit that requires no sewing machine! I have two of the fabulous kits to giveaway for the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway. Enter today!

Memory Mania

Tammy Murphy is the Owner and General Manager of Memory Mania, a scrapbooking store located in Prairieville, Louisiana. This store sets itself apart by providing a specialized inventory, as well as a motivating and inspiring scrapbook university, MMU. Tammy also organizes weekend retreats, a summer camp for children ages nine and up, kit clubs and more. Another great product Memory Mania has put together are the CHA Scoops. These boxes of goodies come in a variety of sizes and include lots of goodies that debuted at the CHA trade show. Don't forget to enter the May giveaway for your chance to win a Masters Kit donated by Memory Mania! Giveaway ends at midnight CST on May 31.

Angie Delarie Stamps

Angie Delarie designs fun unique stamps that are perfect for tons of crafty projects. Anyone who designs a cheeky monkey stamp is a rock star in my book! I also like the In the Mood stamp that is a funky retro design. And the Spirit girl is adorable. I am a huge fan of Amy Tangerine & she is this month's guest designer. Check out how she incorporated Angie's stamps into her scrapbooking projects. Enter the May Giveaway for your chance to win an acrylic stamp of your choice from Angie Delaire!

Fable Handmade Goods

Fable Handmade Goods is a wonderful place for crafters who love to crochet to find original patterns. Jen, the creative force behind this company, has designed many unique & beautiful patterns that you can download at your leisure. I love the Poison Apple Scarflette that will add a touch of whimsy to any wardrobe. And the bobble bunting would be perfect for any space and can easily be altered & added to if you so desire. There's also a wide variety of free patterns available for download and sewing patterns are in the works. Enter the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway for your chance to win two patterns from Fable Handmade Goods!

SNAP Design

Michelle Kline designs & creates all the unique SNAP Design products. It's apparent from the site's home page that Michelle is very hip & cool. The vinyl shoulder bags are roomy & colorful and are completed with decorative top stitching & complimentary fabric lining. Michelle also creates a similar line of laptop bags & carry-all tote bags. There's also small bags perfect for carrying makeup, loose change, and more. Perhaps my favorite item Michelle creates is the original record book. These one-of-a-kind books are made using vinyl records as the cover and contain blank pages, as well as clear pockets. Enter the May giveaway for your chance to win one of these awesome books. You will also receive a *Free* Date Planner with the purchase of any Record Book when you enter "funky finds" in the "where did you find us?" section at check out!

Harmony Art

Harmony Art was founded by a textile designer who is passionate about pattern & design. This is evident in all the beautiful organic designs such as Moon. I love the foliage inspired Whispering Grass design, as well. All of the vibrant print & solid fabrics coordinate perfectly. You can also preview designs that are currently in the works. Don't forget to enter the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway for your chance to win one yard of your choice of fabric from Harmony Art!

The Paper Pixie

Scrapbooking has been one of my favorite hobbies for many years. In the last year or so, I began ordering monthly kits from various companies. The Paper Pixie puts together well-coordinated kits each month making scrapbooking easier and more fun. A few months ago I purchased the Alice in Wonderland themed kit Of Cabbages and Kings. This was an exciting kit to work with because it contained items you wouldn't find in your typical scrapbooking store. The Paper Pixie gallery showcases work done by many talented scrapbookers using various kits providing unique ideas & project designs. Enter the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway for your chance to win a scrapbooking kit from The Paper Pixie.

Dottyral

Dottyral creates lots of cute items that come in quite handy when crafting. The pincushion rings, now filled with emery, keep your pins and needles at the ready while also keeping them sharp. Wearing a little Emery Pincushion on your finger is convenient and will keeps your pins in perfect shape. Dottyral also creates full-size pin cushions, such as the adorable chocolate cupcake. And the pincushion gift set is the perfect gift for your favorite crafter. Don't miss all the beautiful crocheted appliques Dottyral creates, as well. Enter the May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway for your chance to win a pincushion ring donated by Dottyral!

Cardboard Safari

Cardboard Safari was a big hit in our first giveaway of the year, paper goods & stationery. Since then I have seen this fabulous company mentioned all over the web. Their premium-quality cardboard animal figures are innovative & fun, making them a great addition to any space. While browsing through the product gallery you will see all the creative ways these cardboard pieces can be utilized in various spaces. Enter the May giveaway for your chance to win one of three puzzles from Cardboard Safari!

May Crafts & Hobbies Giveaway

The May Crafts & Hobbies giveaway you’ve all been waiting for has begun! I have 30 fabulous items to giveaway thanks to all the generous business owners who are participating.

Giveaway Guidelines:

Visit each of the businesses listed on the May giveaway page that have donated prizes. Leave a comment ON THIS POST including a link to one of your favorite items. You may enter multiple times by linking to a product by a different company in each comment. Be sure to leave your name AND email address or website link so I can contact the winners.

Winners will be chosen on June 1 using a random number generator & will then be notified by email & announced on Funky Finds.

This month’s contest begins today, May 25, and ends at midnight CST Saturday, May 31. Feel free to spread the word to all your friends so they too will have a chance to win these terrific prizes! Good luck!

Winner - Terri Ventura Jewelry Giveaway

The lucky winner of the beautiful collage earrings created by Terri Ventura is...

African Kelli said...love love love the treasure hunt/play time earrings!

Congratulations girl! And don't forget that our May crafts & hobbies giveaway begins this Sunday, May 25. Check out all the fabulous products that have been generously donated.

Happy Memorial Day weekend!

Cloud9 Design Studio

Cloud9 Design Studio is a great Austin-based Etsy shop featuring a fabulous line of screen printed clothing. This eco-friendly line includes apparel for adults & children, as well as stylish maternity clothing. One of the most popular items is the adorable Angel Wings onesie available in a variety of color combinations. Adults and toddlers can sport their own pair of angel wings, as well. The beautiful Sweet Swallows deep-v neck is perfect for days when you insist comfort & style go hand in hand. And what expectant mommy wouldn't want a Haute Mama maternity tee!? Check out all of Cloud9's unique designs today.

Cotton Candy Corsage

Cotton Candy Corsage is a fabulous place to find unique accessories that can be described as wearable works of art. Pieces such as the French Chiffon and Black Satin Corsage Brooch are fashion accessories that are sure to get you noticed. The pieces in the hair candy collection are definitely not your common adornments. The feather comb fascinators are also eye-catching, matchless items. With every product totally unique, to wear a Cotton Candy Corsage accessory is your secret weapon of style, sure to make you the envy of all.

The Living Room Floor

The Living Room Floor is a great Etsy shop featuring cool tags, cards & other items perfect for various craft projects. The Movie Quote Noteblocks are a fun collection of well-known quotes that can be used a variety of ways. I also like the scalloped tags featuring colorful phrases. Living Room Floor products have also been featured in the May scrapbooking kits put together by Red Velvet Art and Scarlet Lime, one of our May giveaway sponsors.

*REMINDER: The Terri Ventura jewelry giveaway ends at midnight. Enter today!

MEiC+ViLLENEUVE

MEiC+ViLLENEUVE creates cards that turn what is old into something that is once again new. Their new line contains 110 greeting cards and 15 note cards with vintage and victorian themes. You will find beautiful cards perfect for birthdays, Christmas, newborn babies, and much more and they are available with glitter and without. It is apparent that this line of greeting cards is a labor of love and each piece is a little work of art. MEiC+ViLLENEUVE also offers custom invitation & stationery design.

Reborn Glass

Reborn Glass is a small family operation based in Cape Coral, Florida. According to their bio, the focus of the company has been set on ecological awareness which has brought about dramatic changes in the operation of the studio & the artists' lives. It is hard to believe that the captivating pendants, such as the Happy Hour pendant, are created using recycled bottle glass. The colorful Hangover pendant is another fabulous accessory. Each piece is born of the lengthy process of collecting, washing, and preparing the bottles before beginning the creative process. The Bombay Sapphire night light is another wonderful example of their detailed work. Reborn Glass will also create custom pieces using your bottle glass creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake. And each piece is packaged in hand-stamped, recycled gift boxes or hand-stamped cotton draw string bags coupled with original keepsake conservation themed poems making Reborn Glass a truly inspirational company.

*Don't forget to enter the Terri Ventura jewelry giveaway!

Crafters for Critters

I was so saddened to hear the recent announcement that Crafters for Critters will be temporarily closing up shop as of July 1. In order to clear out the store, CFC is offering 75% off everything in stock. Simply type BUYSTUFF in the voucher box of the shopping cart and click "recalculate." This is a great opportunity to do a little early Christmas shopping or to purchase something from yourself. This wonderful organization is going on hiatus in order to rethink and reorganize CFC to help it become a more effective fund raiser. The group has raised & donated over $17,000+ to animal rescue during the last four years and is looking to reopen sometime next year. Their motto, "Shop Independent, Help Animals in Need," is one we should never forget.

Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q Recap

1. Regina of Little Cookie 2. Annie of Houndmade fame 3. Garret Heinrichs Band
4. Jen of Houndmade 5. Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q 6. Make 'n Take
7. Free food & drinks 8. Tefi Designs 9. Randi-Sue of Designing Diva

Joe and I had a blast at the Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q held in Dallas on Sunday, May 18. We love attending these events & having the opportunity to visit with the vendors. It's always fun introducing them to Funky Finds, as well as our online directory OrbisPages & music site ZooTAP. The Beer-B-Q was unique in that it was held at Etsy Dallas member Larry Pile's home. Also, the group provided free hamburgers, hot dogs, veggies, sodas, beer, and more. And despite the fact that there was alcohol available, this was most definitely a fun family event. Lots of families were in attendance with children enjoying the free Make-n-Take booth and live music. Many shoppers also had their furry kids (ie: dogs) with them, as well. We even got to meet Annie, the inspirational pooch behind Houndmade! I was also very happy to meet several new Etsy Dallas members who were participating in their first trunk show with the group. The Leadership Team did a fabulously funky job of organizing & running this event. Below is a run-down of new Etsy Dallas members I had the opportunity to visit with.

The Carpenter Collection features jewelry & crafts designed by Rachel Carpenter (pictured), a native Texan & newlywed. I loved all of Rachel's pieces, especially the unique stone pendants. She is on vacation this week, but check back for a shop update next week.

Alicia Colina-Ashby creates home dècor & accessories by recycling cigar boxes. She had a great set up & display and was enthusiastic all day despite her spot in the blazing sun!

Hannah Miller (pictured) is the busy mother of four who runs not only one business, but two! Honeydew Baby showcases fresh & unique clothing for girls, while E.L.M. Playclothes is geared towards boys. Hannah also makes the cutest hair bows for little girls.

Jen Rose, the artist behind HipHazel, creates cool ceramic dishware featuring images that are made with glaze and then fired to almost 2000 degrees so they are permanent. We thought the smoking hand and fish trophy were hilarious. On June 8, Jen will be teaching a bookbinding course at the Janette Kennedy Gallery at South Side on Lamar in Dallas. If you are interested in attending or would like more information, you can call Jen at 214-544-5577.

Anne Lawrence was seated next to Jen & was also a pleasure to meet. Anne's Etsy shop, Modest Ambition, showcases her beautiful crocheted items. I loved all the colorful button pins, as well as the lovely capelets & shawls. Anne had her hook at the ready & was working the whole time!

Stephanie Longoria (pictured) creates rockin' apparel for everyone in your family. XY Factory is the place to find hip clothing & gift items. I especially loved the humorous El Chiquito Gift Burrito which Stephanie says is the Mexican version of the diaper cake.

Kara Lennox of Memo-Pause is another new Etsy Dallas member I had the chance to visit with. These decorative notepads are the handiest accessory for those of us who tend to be very forgetful. I am one who makes list upon list, but then I spend all my time looking for the lists I made. Memo-Pause is a notepad you wear around your neck, complete with pen, so that you never misplace or forget your list again.

Patricia is the self-proclaimed compulsive knitter and crocheter behind Karma Crochet. Her handmade treats range from handy lip balm holders to beautiful afghans. I also loved the adorable crocheted coaster sets.

I also wanted to mention a charity project of Tamara Peterson's (pictured), the photographer & artist who is TP Design. Tamara has recently released a limited edition print of her painting Rich in God's Love. 50% of the proceeds will go to the Vanessa Whitwell Scholarship Fund that will afford many students and young women the opportunity to attend various camps, retreats and events.

Kate Grenier Designs

Kate Grenier is constantly exploring new ways for art to become useful & for useful objects to become art. She transforms recycled bottle caps into magnets sold as six-packs, singles, duos & trios. The collection features over fifty different six-pack themes & hundreds of single magnets. Kate generously sent me several magnet packs for upcoming giveaways & review and it's easy to see why her work can be found in over 200 galleries & boutiques world wide. I was immediately impressed with the great attention to packaging. The six packs of magnets come in custom printed metal tins & are decoratively labeled. The bliss collection is one that includes many positive words that are sure to inspire each time you see them in passing. These packs make great gifts for new parents, wine lovers, and more. Kate also creates the coolest aluminum clocks that can be customized with pictures of your choice. The clock featuring the Italian proverb finche' c'e vita would make a lovely wedding or anniversary present (hint, hint). Check out all of Kate Grenier's uniquely fabulous designs today!

Terri Ventura - Giveaway

Terri Ventura is a talented artist & designer who recently began selling her wares online. Terri incorporates antique found objects dating from the 1890s to the 1970s. Her mantra “Never throw anything away; you just never know when you’ll need it” is evident in the unique pieces she creates. In addition to Terri's website, Vintage Treasures, you can also purchase her goods at ABC Carpet & Home in New York, NY, and online at Glitter and Grunge. Another exciting facet of Terri's career is the fact that she teaches various classes at Tinsel Trading, a craft store in New York often frequented by Martha Stewart. Learn more about Terri Ventura via her blog Dime Store Daze.

*Giveaway: Enter for your chance to win a pair of Terri Ventura's collage earrings*. Visit her website and leave a comment on this post noting one of your favorite products. Contest ends at midnight on Thursday, May 22nd.
*Earrings created using Terri's original collages, jade beads & Swarovski Crystals on silver plated lever back wires. 1 3/4" dangle

Artworks Jewelry

Artworks Jewelry is an on-line boutique that carries contemporary handcrafted jewelry created by some of today's most talented independent jewelry artists and designers. All the handcrafted accessories are handmade from natural and unique materials including sterling silver, gold vermeil, industrial metals, resin, and more. Many of the works are inspired by the natural world as seen in the clean, simple lines, the natural materials, and the colors, shapes, and textures that the artists use to create their jewelry. The unique 4-bead beaded earrings look to be nature-inspired. You will find pieces that are equally organic and stylish, such as the sideways sterling silver ovals necklace. The sterling silver leaf bracelet is another piece that really appeals to me. Artworks Jewelry also has a great collection of handbags & purses available.

Tanis Alexis

Tanis Alexis Laird is an independent artist who creates affordable limited edition & one of a kind works. And today marks the one year Etsy-versary of the Tanis Alexis shop! Today through the remainder of May, Tanis will be having a sale to celebrate this personal milestone. This includes a special sale section and additional discount/shipping bargains throughout the shop. Bird in the Green is a lovely pen and stamped illustration created on handmade and natural paper. And Wishes Come From Very Small Ideas is absolutely fantastic! Tanis also creates one-of-a-kind neck wraps utilizing various leftover & neglected materials found in her studio. Check out all the unique, eco-friendly items this shop has to offer.

Joan Theodore

Joan Theodore is a full-time working artist living in South Florida. Her Etsy shop TTGART features her fabulous art pendants and earrings created from her original paintings and drawings. I love the abstract blue circles pendant that is made using wood with a decoupaged mini print of one of Joan's original works of art. The abstract white squares pendant is another eye-catching piece. Joan's other Etsy shop, Simply Modern, showcases more art pendants & earrings. See sneak peeks and learn more via Joan's blog, Artful Escapes.

Claire Laraine

Claire Laraine is a new accessory label featuring items created following the mantra of renew and reuse. Claire, who began her line in February, creates each purse from a special remnant of fabric, bead or piece of ribbon she has found. Her goal is to bring new life to these forgotten fabrics & make them beautiful again. The memory pouches are a unique way to keep your memories safe. They can be used to hold small keepsakes & treasures, such as photographs & other trinkets. Claire is also happy to create custom pouches using pieces of your own special fabric upon request. She also designs lovely pyramid purses that combine fun with function. These quirky shaped purses would be a unique addition to any wardrobe.

Altered Wood

Gerard Kelley is a wood-working artist located in Sacramento. Working as a handyman & carpenter most of his life, he says he never thought of himself as an artist. But one look at his beautifully crafted jewelry boxes assure you that he is just that. According to his site, the style of jewelry box that Gerard has been making is called a bandsaw (or band saw) box. He works mostly with hardwoods and then laminates the wood in contrasting shades and colors which creates a different, sometimes dramatic, look. Each jewelry box is hand-cut making it a truly original handcrafted work of art. These are definitely not your run-of-the-mill square or rectangular jewelry boxes. Gerard also creates other beautiful items, including framed wooden artwork and business card holders.

Donovan's

Donovan's is said to be the perfect shop for anyone who is thrilled by a beautiful old paper or anyone who can appreciate the glory of office supplies. I myself am one who hordes little scraps of paper & various office supplies that might possibly one day end up being used in some sort of "project." Perhaps that is why the mailing stickers and map scraps appeal to me. Donovan's also offers hand-covered journals and miniature folders that look to be created using maps & various paper pieces.

Phunk Lab Photo Art

Have you ever dreamed of owning your very own original work of art on canvas? Phunk Lab Photo Art is the ultimate way to capture a moment in time and to achieve that dream. Phunk Lab can create your own personalized work of art using a photograph you supply. Simply upload your photo & choose the style you'd like. Then approve one of the proofs sent by Phunk Lab & your work of art will be on its way. Check out all the available sizes and styles here. This is a unique way to decorate your home, as well as a one-of-a-kind gift for loved ones.

Urban Street Bazaar Recap

Saturday Joe & I attended the Urban Street Bazaar held in a part of Dallas I had never been in called the Bishop Arts District. This historic area is made up of funky shops, cool eateries, and much more. It was so much fun seeing many of the local designers and crafters we've gotten to know in the last year. I was especially excited to see event organizer Julie McCullough Kim's shop & studio Make. The front part of her shop is full of cool goods created by various designers including Megan of Harrilu, who screen printed my Funky Finds tees, and others. The back half of the shop is the studio area where you can take classes & attend workshops to learn a variety of skills ranging from sewing to screen printing.
Although it was our warmest day so far this year, there was a good turn out. We saw lots of families, dogs, and others having a great time strolling through the various vendors' booths. I was excited to see Nerdbomber's goods in person for the first time. The pouches are super cool! Katherine Galligan of K NoteCards is another great designer I was happy to discover. Her cards & stationery are available in a variety of unique styles.
A really cool program I learned about Saturday is the Designing Dreams Young Entrepreneurs Program. This nonprofit artist collective is a place for established & aspiring artists of all ages come together to craft and market unique, handcrafted items ranging from belts to one-of-a-kind hats. Classes are available for both beginners & veterans to learn creative skills or master one already begun. I love seeing young artists & designers being nurtured and encouraged.
One of the cutest booths I visited belonged to Houndmade. Matt & Jennifer work together to create unique pet goods and artwork. The dog collars are especially adorable! It was also great to see the new products created by Stephanie of Tefi Designs. I love the peapod necklaces, as well as the new Fiddleheads collection.
Last, but most definitely not least, we were pleased to catch up with The Dallas Craft Mafia members. I got a chance to catch up with Jacky Sylvie of Texas Tarts and Tara Tonini of Tara to the T fame. Both of these talented chicks are so full of energy & life. Talk about inspiring!
If you are not in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, check out all the artists' and designers' goods online. And if you are, be sure to stay updated via the Funky News for a schedule of upcoming events in the area.

Deadworry

Deadworry has some of the coolest apparel & accessories I've come across on Etsy. I absolutely love the babydoll top featuring a screen printed octopus graphic and it is available in five different colors. The woodland images, including the little deer and little bunny, are also terrific. And the brightly colored Owl Get You tanks are the perfect top for summer. Also, don't miss the Chatterbox tee featuring vintage telephone images. Very cool!

Stuff by Charrow

Stuff by Charrow features the artwork created by a student designer located in Atlanta, Georgia. Flower for blob, a reproduction of a Gouache painting, is a unique & endearing piece. Circus Elephant is another sweet work of art that I love. Charrow also creates beautiful handmade journals. Read more about this artist on her blog, Gellatinous Laser.

Smart Wit Cards

I am a sucker for sarcastic & witty products. Smart Wit Cards sells all sorts of quirky and cool greeting cards that are sure to be a hit with all recipients. The wedding cards are exceptionally funny considering my own upcoming nuptials, especially the ones by Selfish Kitty. I also love the Pollygags Line featuring humorous dog cartoons. And Kitty's Muse produces a line of hip cards that my friends will love, such as Perfect Boyfriend. Next time you want to give someone a good laugh, send them a quirky card from Smart Wit.

BeeGee Bags

Brooke Galardi, owner and designer for BeeGee Bags, creates beautifully handcrafted clutches and handbags. This textile artist based in the Washington, D.C. area, uses carefully selected Japanese or domestic designer fabric on both the inside & outside of each bag. I love the cream colored Birdie in a Clutch piece, as well as the Black Cherry Blossom bag. And the brightly colored Mrs. Robinson clutch is perfect for spring & summer. It is apparent in reading each description & seeing the quality of Brooke's work that each bag is lovingly created. Have a look at all the gorgeous designs available at BeeGee Bags.

Paper Flowers Boutique

In my quest to find wedding favors, I came across Paper Flowers Boutique. The various paper weights caught my attention & seemed like they would be appropriate gifts for many different occasions. Melissa Schoenhardt has created paper weights in a variety of styles ranging from bright & modern to whimsical & vintage. You can even request the graphic style you'd like if you don't see it in her shop. Also available are vintage items, as well as other handmade goods such as the beautiful Sherbert circle quilt.

Out of the Blue Studio & Moonikins

Michelle Dugan is a very talented & very busy artist. I don't know how she finds time to run two Etsy shops while offering her mural services to all of New Jersey. But lucky for us she does! Out of the Blue Studio showcases Michelle's whimsical artwork & décor. She also enjoys creating custom artwork upon request. Moonikins is another Etsy shop where you'll find terrific pendants & other accessories. I absolutely love the pup pendant which can be customized with your pet's image. See Michelle's main website for more information.