hu.made

New Mexico-based hu.made creates beautiful hand-made bags and accessories. The Malt Shop handbag is a beautiful bag constructed of recycled robins egg blue twill with contrasting red stitching. The Hot Cold wallet constructed of tough, recycled, teal raw silk would be a great compliment to this bag. I also like the Berry Bud Bag that is lined with a colorful, recycled floral print cotton fabric. And pick yourself up a handy Crumb bag that is perfect for holding cash, cards, coupons, receipts, crumbs, and much more!

Anahata

Anahata is another funky company that participated in the recent Spring Fling. I love the wraps so much that I purchased one for myself a few weeks ago. The wraps are made from silk that is salvaged from discarded Saris from India. Each wrap is reversible and unlike any other wrap. What I love about these comfortable and beautiful pieces is that they are versatile. The possibilities are truly endless as the wraps can be worn so many different ways. You can fashion your wrap to be worn as a skirt, dress, top & more. I also love that it can be worn alone or paired with jeans or leggings for a different look. Another fun aspect is that Anahata hosts wrap parties where you can bring your wrap and learn new ways to work it. I hope to see you at a party soon!

adaptive reUse

Christine Terrell, the creative force behind adaptive reUse, is a cool designer that participated in the Funky Finds Spring Fling. It was great seeing her funky work in person. She re-purposes things some might consider trash, such as steel from printed containers. Christine says she tends to be drawn to bright colors and bold graphics and many of her pieces reflect this. Her Etsy shop is full of funky accessories, such as the beautiful Burgundy Picnic pendant. The bright olive paisley earrings are also a favorite of mine. Men are sure to love the unique cuff links, such as the King Jack and Retro Red Splatt pairs. Christine has come up with an exceptionally funky design in the saucer earrings. Check out the adaptive reUse blog for more information.

The Junk Gypsy Co.

The Junk Gypsy Co. is the product of three rambunctious and determine women, Amie, Janie, and Jolie. Along with their troupe of talented scavengers, the trio travels around to find roadside treasures, decadent decor and exotic goods for your home. They definitely know how to find funky goods! The Junkyard dog tee and necklace are fun designs that I would love to sport. I could also use tons of hand-painted Karma bowls for a variety of uses. The Electric Hodgepodge and wooden hippie necklaces will be the perfect compliment to your new Junk Gypsy wardrobe, as well. And, if you're looking for unique home dècor, don't miss the Tall Tales vintage tapestry pillows and recycled tin words. There's plenty more on the site you will want to buy, so get to it!

To Mom, with love

Ten gift ideas for moms and moms-to-be this Mother's Day (May 10).

1. Do you have a new mommy in your life or a grandma who would love to display the names of her babies on a pendant? Queen Bee Designs by Amanda has plenty of designs to choose from.

2. Got a groovy mama? Show how much you love her with a handmade tile from TileSmile.

3. Treat the rockin' expectant Mother to a funky top from XY Factory.

4. Moms will love a personalized necklace from Designs by Cathy.

5. Hard-working Moms deserve a little TLC. Give her a mix ‘n match soap set from Riffraff Soaps so she can pamper herself a bit.

6. Treat the special woman in your life to a custom"i"zed pendant necklace from iWEAR...do you? Pendants can be custom"i"zed on one side or both sides for no additional charge.

7. Mom will love a hand-blown glass pendant created by Mark Hamilton of Solstice Glass.

8. My Granny planned her road trips according to the blooming time of wildflowers, namely bluebonnets, our state flower. She would have loved the note cards and other hand-painted goods from The Teapot Co-op.

9. Women love handbags, especially ones large enough to hold all their junk, but, while remaining stylish. The Sweet Heart Hobo by Jmacc fits the bill.

10. And for more great maternity wear, check out Mommy Trends. Their humorous tees are stylish, comfortable & funky.

2 Chix

2 Chix was created by two creative chix, Natasha Koudsi and Amy Bright, looking for cool unique gifts. They knew their design ideas were fresher & funkier so they started their own line. The duo offers an entire line of maternity wear that is super-hip, comfy, & affordable. The burnout maternity tunics are made to fit "mamanistas" looking for 9 months of comfort and 40 weeks of sexy. This super hot tee looks great alone or paired over one of our versatile solid skirts or some comfy leggings. I love the humorous tees, such as With Bump Not Plump and You Had Me At Epidural. 2 Chix also offers a variety of knit skirts that can be dressed up or down for various occasions. And soon-to-be Dads need some attention, as well. Check out the Daddy Tees so men can get in on the action, too! Receive 20% off with coupon code FUNKY20 (good through June 30).

Red Plastic Factory

Red Plastic Factory is a fun shop that features quirky acrylic and kistch plastic jewelry that is handmade in the UK. Shutterbugs will love the black and pink acrylic camera necklaces. For the girl who loves diamonds, but can't quite afford them at the moment there's the plastic substitute. And, if you're really looking for some attention, I suggest the rib cage necklaces. Receive 20% off all purchases when you enter coupon code "TOOFUNKY" during checkout. Also, shipping is free for all orders of £30.00 or more.

Little Impressions

Little Impressions provides a way to capture your memories in the form of a unique & beautiful keepsake perfect for anyone. Husband & wife team, Yesenia & Danny, started Little Impressions in 2007. Their products capture the hand and foot prints of your little ones and beloved pets in various forms. You can purchase keepsake plates, frames, ornaments and more. They also create little necklaces that capture your child's fingerprint. This is a great Mother's Day gift idea. Receive $5 off when you mention Funky Finds.

*GIVEAWAY: Enter to win a $35 gift certificate good for a hand or foot impression plate or to use toward any purchase. Visit the Little Impressions site & leave a comment on this post noting which product you'd like to win & whose print you would capture for memory's sake. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Thursday, April 30.

Green Eyed Monster

Ash & Kimmy are two sisters that run an eco-concious green biz called Green Eyed Monster. The duo hosts design competitions for artists focusing on environmental causes. Their Earth Day '09 competition asked designers to focus on water. The winning image has been printed on limited-edition 100% recycled cotton tote bags and the artist was awarded prize money. Green Eyed Monster strives to support the arts community and tackle the "Bring Your Own Bag" movement from a fresh angle while donating a portion of all sales to environmental non-profits. Fancy yourself an artist? Get your pencils in gear and enter the latest competition.

Creative Charlie

Creative Charlie has a new addition to their range of environmentally friendly art & craft products for kids - the make masks kit. The box contains everything you need to make four fun masks, including four recycled cardboard cat-shaped mask templates and three water-based paints that are biodegradable and phalate free, as well as a pot of washable glue which, like the paint, is wheat, gluten and nut oil free ensuring that children with these allergies can play safely. A paintbrush, glue spreader and a pair of scissors is also included. There is recycled sugar paper, feathers, pom-poms, paper shapes, paper straws and a recycled pencil to decorate with, along with elastic thread and an instruction sheet. The make masks kit is an ideal gift for kids, parties, making your own fancy dress or even Halloween, and is available with either right or left-handed scissors, ensuring that all children can interact. All Creative Charlie products have been designed and put together in the UK, using child-friendly materials that are either recycled or can be reused. Creative Charlie was the overall winner of the Practical Pre-School Awards 2008 in the toys and games category. They were also shortlisted for Hidden Art's Most Environmentally Conscious Company Award 2009.

Funky Finds Spring Fling

The event we have been planning since November is finally upon us!

WHO: Funky Finds

WHAT: Funky Finds Spring Fling

The indoor event will showcase the work of over 130 talented artisans providing consumers the opportunity to find hand-crafted one-of-a-kind gifts, unique accessories, fashionable attire, home dècor and more.

WHEN: 10 am-6 pm, Saturday, April 25, 2009

WHERE: Will Rogers Memorial Center, 3409 Burnett-Tandy Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76107

COST: Free

ABOUT THE EVENT: The family and pet-friendly event will feature a raffle benefiting Humane Society of North Texas, Tarrant Area Food Bank, and Aflac Cancer Center. The first 50 people to purchase a $1 raffle ticket will receive "go green" swag bags hand-crafted by the Dallas Craft Mafia full of funky goods. The Humane Society will also be on-hand facilitating pet adoptions. Other exciting happenings include demos and free one-on-one classes with Fiber Therapy of Burleson, free goodies from Yelp, and a shoe drive benefiting Soles4Souls.

The Spring Fling is a terrific way to celebrate Earth Day as many vendors create recycled and upcycled goods. Eco-conscious shoppers will appreciate having over 100 shops in one location eliminating the waste of time and gasoline driving around town. Attend the Funky Finds Spring Fling on April 25 and celebrate handmade goods and independent artisans.

Proud sponsors include Wimberley Enterprises, Inc., Cabbage Rose, Dallas Craft Mafia, Shop Shop Designs, Polka Dot Potato, Sublime Stitching, Craft Gossip and Handmade Parade.

Earth Day Every Day

Many crafters make Earth Day every day by recycling and upcycling products to create new items. You can learn more about Earth Day and going green through the Earth Day Network.

1. 2ReVert creates one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces out of 100% post-consumer recycled skateboards (old, used, broken skateboards). I love the pink teardrop necklace.

2. Dallas-based recycling artists Linda Perry McLemore & Rebecca RedFox create beautiful jewelry using bits of glass. Jazzwraps features recycled glass wrapped with jazz.

3. Rumplesacs is a timeless solution to the ever-needed shopping bag. The bags are available in a variety of fabrics & can be folded in numerous ways to accommodate your needs.

4. Whiner & Diner creates wine crate serving trays, storage boxes & pet feeders that make the most unusual, eco-friendly gifts for those who love wine and/or pets. I especially like the wine crate serving trays & wine crate toy boxes.

5. LaAlicia, a Spring Fling vendor, recycles cigar boxes to create unique purses and clocks.

6. Aloha Bottle Cap Earrings are individually hand-crafted on the North Shore of Oahu with recycled bottle caps. The Hawaiian style pairs will add fun and flair to your ensemble this summer.

7. Baubles, Bangles & Beans is a terrific shop filled with jewelry created using real coffee beans. The designer, Judy, search through fresh bags of organic Fair-Trade coffee beans to find the best matches, then designs the earrings using wire and either wooden, metal, or glass beads.

8. Shopflick has established itself as one of the premiere spots to find unique environmentally conscious labels ranging from The Battalion's Eco-Couture bamboo and organic cotton to EcoSkin’s environmentally sustainable luxury fabrics. Be sure to catch the Earth Day Hall of Style webisode that demystifies what the term “eco-friendly clothing” means.

Bags on the Run

Bags on the Run offers eco-friendly reusable bags for all purposes. Businesses that respect the Earth and the environment will love using these bags as promotional items by refusing plastic bags in favor of eco-friendly reusable bags. What I think is especially cool about the non-woven polypropylene bags is that they themselves can be recycled. The bags are strong and water repellent so they avoid bacteria and odors. They are also available in a variety of colors, including pink. You can rest assured that the bags contain no toxic materials, no odor and will not cause an allergic reaction to human skin. Also, all dyes used are non-harmful and are colorfast. Check out the company's blog for more Go Green info.

BuyGreen.com

BuyGreen.com provides a broad selection of products that meet all eco-friendly needs for both consumers and commercial buyers. The site is full of eco-friendly clothing, green home environmental products and much more. Commercial buyers also have a wide selection of products to choose from ranging from environmentally friendly bags for retailers to recycled paper products. The children's section features organic cotton onesies and shoes, natural and organic personal products, and cool bags made from recycled plastic bottles. I love that the pet section includes toys, bedding, and natural products that help you care for your pet. Of course, the office is another place that we can implement green products including furniture and refillable markers. BuyGreen.com applies their proprietary Green Standards to every product they carry allowing you to understand why a particular product is considered 'Green.' This is a great one-stop shopping spot for eco-friendly goods.

2009 Paws For Charity Art Book

The 2009 Paws For Charity Art Book Project is a collabroation of artists from the US, UK, and Canada working together to raise funds for breast cancer charity. The Art Book Project was created by Sara Harley, one of the original founders of the Paws For Charity group - a group set up in 2006 by Harley and three other businesswomen in Ottawa, Canada. The group's goal in 2006 was to raise funds for breast cancer charity but has since expanded to raise funds for various charities.

Harley invited photographers and artists around the world to submit works featuring dogs and cats with the goal of raising funds for breast cancer charity. One hundred percent of the profits from the sale of these books are donated to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.

Harley says she was overwhelmed by the generosity of people from around the world & received 99 submissions for the first edition of the Paws For Charity Art Book. The artwork printed in this book comes from 19 US states, two Canadian provinces and three locations in the UK. Throughout the year, the stories behind each image will be posted on the Paws for Charity blog.

The 2009 Paws For Charity Art Book can be viewed and purchased online. Photographers and artists willing to contribute images to the 2010 Art Book can find information on the blog.

Additions

Additions offers jewelry that puts a whole new spin on basic supplies found in any hardware store. Valerie William and her daughter create jewelry and accessories for women, as well as men. By recycling and repurposing hardware, the duo creates very unique pieces that will add interest to any wardrobe. The wrapped flower washer earrings will make the perfect gift for any mom this Mother's Day (May 10). And the flowered washer necklace compliments the earrings nicely. I love the nutty flower necklace that is made up of steel nuts, a lock nut, and a round crystal cabochon to form a fun flower pendent. Men are sure to love the washer cuff links and heavy metal key chain. Receive FREE SHIPPING when you mention Funky Finds in the comments section when ordering.

*GIVEAWAY: Enter to win a wrapped washer necklace from Additions Style. Visit Valerie's Etsy Shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Friday, April 24. Please include your email address.

Heyday Fashion

Neesy Pea, aka Denise, creates a variety of goods that can be found at Heyday Fashion. Here you will find fun accessories, such as felt cupcake hair clips and vintage hair pins. I love the fruity cutie Happy Orange tote bag, too. I know that the Matryoshka Russian Nesting Dolls are very popular & many will love the tote bag featuring artwork by Neesy Pea. The extensive kids section includes a variety of bib & burp cloth sets available in lots of different fabrics. But, perhaps the funkiest finds at Heyday Fashion are the Wearables. The cotton Mary Jane style shoes are adorned with fun images like cupcakes and mushrooms! Stop by Neesy Pea's blog for more information.

Souvenier from Lisa Cook

Souvenier from Lisa Cook features vintage collage packs, trims, and papers perfect for a variety of projects. I love the colorful bits that can be found in the Easter Egg Carton embellishment & trim pack. The bits and pieces include everything from feed sack fabric to a lovely dyed mother of pearl buckle. Lisa posted on her blog that in celebration of Stampington's newest publication, Marie, she is offering a special vintage Marie Antoinette pack. You will also find several beautiful sets of German Victorian embossed die cut scraps, such as the pink & red roses. I especially love the brightly colored butterflies.

1 turtle dove

Allison Earle says 1 turtle dove is all about the handmade and slow. Her shop showcases handmade scarves, pillow covers, and currently, even a nightgown. All items are made with organic and/or sustainable materials including organic cottons, linens, and peace silks. Also, all embroidery is done by hand and each piece is made to order. The muga peace silk open rose scarf is made using beautiful golden silk with hand embroidery in dark and medium red looped running stitch. Each one is a little different as Allison draws the rose design on by hand before embroidering. And the Scattered Stars halter top is an attractive piece perfect for spring & summer. Check Allison's blog for updates on special offers and more.

The Shops @ Funky Finds

Have you checked out The Shops @ Funky Finds lately? It has been filling up with lots of wonderful products as of late.

1. Alphabulous offers a variety of goods including Lil Sis or Big Sis fabric letters that can be ironed on any t-shirt or pillow case creating a fantastic gift.

2. Looking for a hostess or housewarming gift? Check out the lovely aprons Cecilia's Bags Plus has to offer.

3. Cut Out And Collect has a fun selection of fabric pouches, my favorite being the Sweet Tarts zip pouch. Purchase these products in person at the Funky Finds Spring Fling on April 25!

4. Project TransAction features limited edition tees, hand screened accessories, and high quality, handmade recycled leather cuffs and belts. I love the red and black Amusement Park Cuff.

5. Robbie Jenkins, another great Spring Fling vendor, creates unique mixed media artwork and jewelry. I Pushed Humpty Dumpty is a seemingly sweet, but sinister, piece.

6. Evilmommy's mantra is recycle, up-cycle, and create. The recycled girls dress that is upcycled to create a spring purse is a perfect example of this.

Of All the Beads

Hazel Brutsché has been creating original handcrafted jewelry for a dozen years. She says her company, Of All the Beads, is all about the stones. After working up a design, the stones guide her decisions ensuring that each piece is either a limited edition or one-of-a-kind. The rust and green necklace & earring set is a perfect example of Hazel's ability to pair unique beads and stones. One of my favorite designs is the bracelet made using red and white potato pearls that are mixed together with white topaz and garnet spacers. Hazel's main focus is custom design and she will work within your budget to create the ideal piece. The design gallery showcases previous one-of-a-kind designs she has created which you can use to inspire your own design ideas.

Dear Kiki

Katie Kaapcke, also known as Kiki, is an artist, writer and comic book maven. Her art is cute, sometimes gory and full of humor and snark, which, according to Katie, is much like herself. It is apparent when looking at her artwork that she is always trying to find the humor in life and I appreciate that. Dear Kiki showcases her original paintings, giclee prints, ACEO cards and stationery. Nerd is the New Black is one of three paintings in Kiki's new nerd series. For some reason, I always find mustaches to be very humorous. Perhaps that is why the Mustache Bandit appeals to me so. And, I especially like the wood paintings, including the Octopus, or Octi. Learn more about Katie's work through her blog.

Cherry Blossoms

Cherry Blossoms features beautiful handmade hair accessories for infants and children created by Kiley Smith. Established in 2006 when her baby girl was born, Kiley sought high-quality unique hair accessories that were both beautiful, functional, and affordable with no success. She began fabricating her own designs with distribution amongst friends and family. Of course, compliments and inquiries from others soon followed, as well as numerous requests for customized work. Designs such as Unexpected Song illustrate why so many people are interested in purchasing Kiley's work. Any little girl will look absolutely adorable in one of the reversible headbands that are available. For girls with longer hair, there are the lovely Era of Elegance hair clips. And the hand-embroidered daisy headband is beautiful. Be sure to enter the giveaway Kiley is having on her blog for your chance to win a set of headbands.

Embroidered Finds

Embroidery is the art or handicraft of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread or yarn.

1. MaryJane Boutique features fun embroidered numbers and letters - a fun decorative piece for any child's room.

2. Dominic In Ohio creates beautiful hand-embroidered cards that are works of art. Treat your Mom with one of these cards this Mother's Day (May 10).

3. Here to There offers adorable embroidered tees. The wiener dog and little birdie are fantastic!

4. Crafters will love the embroidered needle books by Jenn Maruska Design. The bookmarks are terrific, as well.

5. Kainkain is a wonderful source for upscale home decor. The Pink Casablanca Pillow Cover is gorgeous and I love the fun High Heels shoe bag.

6. The Daily Pincushion's designs are more like miniature works of art than pincushions. The Cherry Blossoms are gorgeous.

7. Petalouda is the Greek word for butterfly. It is also the name of a shop featuring lovely embroidered clothing for children. I love the turtle hoodie and the tie tank top.

8. Mary's Granddaughter creates sewn, embroidered, and painted art. I really like the Greta Doll, as well as the embroidered piece Greta Is Not Amused.

Bidnod

Artist Mariah DeMarco recently opened an Etsy shop featuring her lovely new necklace designs. Bidnod is a great place to find a nice gift for a friend or a nice treat for yourself. The pastel polka dot pendants are the perfect accessory for Spring. You can also purchase a pendant featuring a silver-plated number of your choice. And, for those who love nature, there are the buck and hiker designs. More images of Mariah's designs can be viewed on her blog.

Bangerang Bake Shop

Bangerang Bake Shop, home of the "Original Cupcake in a Jar," features fun, delicious treats delivered directly to your door. I can tell you firsthand that these sweet delights are delectable as we had the opportunity to try a Captain Carrot Cake Cupcake and The Chocolate Envy Cupcake. The sweets are delivered in Mason jars that are decorated with colorful labels and ribbons. They also come with specific directions on how to open your cupcake to ensure all the yummy frosting stays in the jar. These products can be stored for up to seven days and frozen for up to ten weeks. You'll see that the selection of cupcake flavors is extensive and it also includes fun gift boxes and Birthday Bash Boxes. This is an affordable way to send a unique and incredibly sweet Birthday gift to a friend or loved one. Don't miss all the tasty treats Bangerang Bake Shop has to offer.

*GIVEAWAY: Want to win a generous $35 gift certificate from Bangerang Bake Shop? Simply visit their website & leave a comment on this post noting the flavor you would most like to try. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Saturday, April 18. Please include your email address.

WordWorks Jewelry

Sarah Blaine is a Santa Fe-based jewelry designer that recently opened a Shop @ Funky Finds. WordWorks Jewelry is stocked with sterling silver accessories that can be hand-stamped with your choice of words, phrase, quote, name, etc. The square stamped cufflinks are the perfect gift that can be personalized for your favorite man. Women will enjoy the four-sided stamped earrings that are matchless. One piece I think is especially uncommon is the sterling silver dog tag. This accessory is great for men, women, and even pets! Check out all of terrific designs WordWorks Jewelry has to offer.

Designs by Elizabeth Ann

Designs by Elizabeth Ann features unique, handmade gift items for your home and every occasion. There is a great selection of frames to choose from showcasing meaningful and inspirational quotes. If you are looking for a memorable wedding gift, browse through the wedding frame section, as well. Co-owners Beth Henry and Lee Jones also offer wine labels that can be personalized for any occasion. Those who collect monograms will especially like the unfinished metal letters that can be painted to your liking. And, if you are looking for a unique housewarming gift, there is a wide selection of coasters that can be personalized with a single initial or a three-letter monogram.

Freshly Blended Press

New York-based designer Nicole Lecht has a love of books and paper goods that is evident when looking at the products in her shop, Freshly Blended Press. I love the heavy-duty journals featuring illustrations by Lara Cameron that are hand-silkscreened on 100% organic fabric. The red and white Gingko journal is beautiful, as are the houses and bicycles. Freshly Blended also offer matchbook style notepads and small vintage wallpaper flip books that are bound with vintage wallpaper and waxed linen thread. Nicole also offers a limited-edition set of gocco prints featuring land birds.

The Funky Bag Lady

The seasons are changing and what better time to treat yourself to a new handbag? The Funky Bag Lady has a wonderful selection of handmade bags and fabric pouches to choose from. The zig zag striped Jane bag is an appealing multi-colored design. For those who love funky owls, don't miss the Maggie bag. Of course, you'll need a matching pouch to hold all your various goodies that you tote around. Also among my favorites are the black, white & yellow Lucy bag and the spring-colored Stella bag. And don't miss the coordinating wallets and key fobs.

One Wish World

One Wish World was founded on a dream of world peace, pure love, one heart. The boutique is filled with unique gifts made with the perfect combination of hand, heart and soul. When items marked with the cherub symbol are sold, such as the One Wish World tees, a portion or all of the profits benefit a certain cause or charity. The children's section is full of fantastic apparel & gift items. The one-of-a-kind upcycled sweaters are unique pieces that are cut from several adult-sized knits, then sewn together and sized just right for your little one. The appliqued One Wish tees are also adorable. The spring quote journals, filled with 80 blank pages, has an inspirational quote neatly printed on each page leaving plenty of artistic space for your own original thoughts and sketches - the perfect gift for any inspired artist or writer. Have fun shopping at this wonderful boutique while doing some good for various causes & charities.

Lazy May

Lately I have thoroughly enjoyed doing embroidery. I find it to be so calming, relaxing & rewarding. Lazy May is a great website featuring quirky and fun embroidery patterns. I love the Bags of Bags set featuring five large funky bag designs. Oo la la is another fun set of patterns with nine pairs of knickers. These would look great on a laundry or make-up bag, the perfect gift for your girl friends. Lazy May also has free downloadable stitching how-to's that are very helpful. And, if you're new to embroidery, don't fret. There's also a page that illustrates how to do several different stitches.

Soapopotamus

Soapopotamus is stocked with the cutest soaps you have ever seen! The pink sugar wafer cookie soaps look good enough to eat. If you really want to entertain your guests, fill a glass with a set of teeth soap & watch for their reaction. Soapopotamus offers lots of other yummy treats, such as pink frosted donuts and pineapple upside down cake. And how delectable do the sweetheart cupcakes look? But don't forget, these are soaps, NOT sweet treats! Purchase Soapopotamus products in person at the Funky Finds Spring Fling on April 25.

AG Ambroult

AG Ambroult offers metal designs that reflect industrial and organic forms, showing that this marriage can be both fashionable and artistic. I love the Copper Jewel Ring that features an over-sized copper dome set within a serrated frame. The 3-D necklace was originally designed for an auction benefiting The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day. Designed to reflect the journey of a cancer patient/survivor, the necklace is made-to-order and HALF the purchase price goes directly to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-day. AG Ambroult also offers metal dog silhouette pendants that I love.

*Giveaway - Closed: Enter to win the Hoop and Orb necklace valued at $58 from AG Ambroult. Visit the AG Ambroult shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Sunday, April 12.

Hippity, Hoppity, Easter's On Its Way

Here are some fun Easter finds for you to enjoy in this time of renewal & rebirth.

1. April's Flowers offers colorful Easter eggs wrapped in dainty and delicate crocheted egg holders.

2. The Little Bitty Bakery has created an adorable Easter play set made of felt. Meet the crafter behind The Little Bitty Bakery at the Funky Finds Spring Fling on April 25!

3. Better Homes and Gardens has posted hundreds of Easter crafts and decorations on their website. There are ideas for decorating Easter baskets, making Easter eggs, decorating your home and celebrating Easter with fun activities.

4. Caroline Creates, another shop participating in the Spring Fling, has several cute Easter cards available.

5. Starless offers the most interesting textured eggs that are made using polymer clay.

6. Cherry Lane Jane is a great place to find spring dècor for your home. The Chick-N-Eggs sweater pillow is adorable.

7. Junkyard Gypsy has the most unique Easter wreath available. This piece is chock-full of vintage wooden and plastic Easter ornaments and flowers.

8. Mykolyna is another talented artist participating in our upcoming event. The artist, Galyna, creates beautiful hand-painted wooden eggs.

9. The sweet Easter pendants from Pepper And Farley make wonderful gifts. I love the vintage imagery used.

Starry-Eyed Studios

Magnets are a fun and affordable way for people to express their interests. Starry-Eyed Studios has a great selection of magnets that are printed from Alesha Davies Fowlie's original illustrations and hand-cut fused glass. Among my favorites are the sock monkeys and ladybugs. My mother would love the music magnet set, as well as the hummingbirds. These individual works of art also make great party favors and can be bought in lots of twenty. Alesha also creates fun tile pendants featuring her artwork. Purchasing a tile pendant with a matching tin is a great gift idea!

Doodle and Hoob

Artist Jill Bogart spends her days with a boy (Doodle), a dog (Hoob), and a new baby (Doodle calls her Purple). In her spare time, she stocks her site, Doodle and Hoob with wonderful illustrations. I've made my love of hedgehogs well-known through the years, and seeing Among the Fiddleheads I know my love has not waned. Jill also has some wonderful illustrations that incorporate sea life, such as Walrus Portrait No. 1 (love the bow!) and Tri-State Trekin'. I also like the images of inanimate objects, including the medicine cabinet and the specimen collection. Learn more about Jill's work through her blog and more of her work can be seen in her online gallery.

Vintage Image Craft

Vintage Image Craft is a comprehensive site full of craft projects that are centered around vintage imagery. The site is packed with free craft ideas and instructions, digital images, tips and techniques, and more. There's also sections that are broken down by holiday and occasion. The Easter section will provide you with several projects, as well as a detailed explanation of the many symbols associated with Easter. I also like that the site includes sections that detail many craft tools and techniques, craft recipes, and artist interviews. All in all, Vintage Image Craft is a great site for crafters of all levels.

Private Treasures

Private Treasures is a great place to find beautiful lingerie and jewelry bags that make wonderful gifts. Patricia Funegra uses exquisite imported silks, shiny crystal beads and soft linings to create pieces that give women a way to take care of their private, intimate and most prized possessions. The Oscar Pair is a luxurious set of bags named after designer Oscar De La Renta. I love the feminine floral print used to create the limited edition Purple Garden lingerie bag. And the Radiant Bride set is the perfect gift for the blushing bride you know & love. Of course, if you're a bit on the wild side, there's something for you as well. Don't miss the fabulous Simply Leopard set!

Lune Vintage

Lune Vintage is a unique shop featuring vintage and upcycled goods. The owner, Jill, also owns a brick & mortar shop in Winnipeg, Canada. Lucky for those of us outside of the area Jill also sells her cool finds online. My favorite pieces are those that have been hand-painted. The Lady Luck suitcase bag is a great vintage piece featuring hand-painted tattoo style four leaf clovers and a sexy Lady Luck banner. I have long wanted a train case and Jill has one available that has been embellished with a Chubby Love Bot. And the Paper Doll Weekender Bag is an affordable, one-of-a-kind accessory. Check out the Lune Vintage blog for pics of the brick & mortar store and receive 20% off your purchase with coupon code LOVELUNE.

L’èlephant Rose

L’èlephant Rose features the women's jewelry and accessory line created by Sherisa Vassel. She says the mission of her line is to provide unique and feminine pieces to women who aren't afraid of their femininity and know that bold has many faces. Based in Brooklyn, NY, Sherisa founded her company earlier this year after leaving the corporate working world. The yellow flower & glass pearl headband is a simple, yet beautiful accessory that is perfect for spring. I also like the Selah children's earrings made with blue seed beads and a clear acrylic bead as the focal point. And, if you can't make it to the beach this summer, bring a piece of the beach to you with the lovely cowry shell & turquoise earrings.

*Giveaway: Win a $25 gift certificate from L’èlephant Rose. To enter, visit Sherisa's shop and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Monday, April 6.