Upcoming Events

WHAT: Feria Urbana
WHEN: Thursday, December 3; 6-10pm
WHERE: The New Parish, 579 18th St., Oakland, CA

WHAT: Surface Holiday Sale
WHEN: Thursday, December 3; 10am-8pm
WHERE: Surface Artist Cooperative, 201 Elmwood St., State College, PA

WHAT: Handmade Days - DIY Night
WHEN: Thursday, December 3; 7:30-10pm
WHERE: Faire Gallery Cafe, 1351 E. Olive Way, Seattle, WA

WHAT: Holiday Fair Greenville
WHEN: Thursday, December 3 through Saturday, December 5
WHERE: Carolina First Center, One Exposition Dr., Greenville, SC

WHAT: One of a Kind Show Chicago
WHEN: Thursday, December 3 through Sunday, December 6
WHERE: The Merchandise Mart, 8th Floor, Chicago, IL

WHAT: Blue Genie Art Bazaar
WHEN: Thursday, December 3 through Thursday, December 24
WHERE: Monarch Events Center, 6406 North IH-35, Ste. 3100, Austin, TX

WHAT: Lov-able & Hug-able Plush Show
WHEN: Thursday, December 3 through Saturday, January 9, 2010
WHERE: Gallery Hanahou, 611 Broadway, Ste. 730, NYC

WHAT: Sewing Circle:Modern Expressions of Needle & Thread
WHEN: Thursday, December 3 through Sunday, January 31, 2010
WHERE: Hello Bluebird, 609 Penn Ave., West Reading, PA
ETC: Opening reception Thursday, December 3, 5-8pm featuring light refreshments, holiday shopping, and a jewelry trunk show.

WHAT: THE DiXie ChiCKeN-JuNK GypSY HoNkyToNk HoLidAYS RoAdSHOW
WHEN: Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5
WHERE: Coyote Parking Lot behind Daisy Dukes, 202 Church St., College Station, TX

WHAT: No Coast Craft-O-Rama
WHEN: Friday, December 4; 3-8pm and Saturday, December 5, 9am-5pm
WHERE: Midtown Global Market, 920 Lake St. E, Minneapolis, MN

WHAT: Holiday Crafts at Morristown
WHEN: Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6
WHERE: Morristown Armory, 430 Western Avenue, Morris County, NJ
ETC: Admission is $7 (cash only); Children's admission & parking are free.

WHAT: Christmas in the Country
WHEN: Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6
WHERE: Cedar Creek Winery, N70 W6340 Bridge Rd., Cedarburg, Wisconsin

WHAT: Big Ass Indie Art & Craft Show
WHEN: Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6
WHERE: Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12th St., St. Louis, MO

WHAT: Craftland
WHEN: Friday, December 4 through Thursday, December 31
WHERE: 235 Westminster St., Providence, RI

WHAT: Charm City Craft Mafia Holiday Heap
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 10am-5pm
WHERE: Saint John’s Church, 2640 St. Paul St., Baltimore, MD

WHAT: First Annual North Portland Holiday Festival
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 12-8pm
WHERE: Icon Tattoo, 813 N. Russell St., Portland, OR
ETC: p:ear is hosting a series of fundraising events Wednesday, December 2 through Sunday, December 13.

WHAT: I Made It! for the Holidays
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 12-5pm
WHERE: Union Project, 801 North Negley Ave., Pittsburgh, PA

WHAT: Gifts and Garters
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 6pm-Midnight
WHERE: Excuses Cafe, 3025 Main, Dallas, TX

WHAT: Indie Chic @ 10th Street
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 10am-5pm
WHERE: ASU Art Museum, Phoenix, AZ

WHAT: Holiday Handmade Cavalcade
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 11am-8pm
WHERE: Openhouse Gallery, 201 Mulberry St., New York, NY

WHAT: The Philadelphia Independent Craft Market
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 12-7pm
WHERE: 2424 Studios, 2424 East York St., Philadelphia, PA

WHAT: indiemade craft market
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 10am-5pm
WHERE: Starlite Ballroom, 1221 S. Front St., Allentown, PA
ETC: Admission $3. Children 12 & under free.

WHAT: the dallas flea
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 9am-4pm
WHERE: South Side on Lamar, Dallas, TX
ETC: Admission $5

WHAT: Green Saturday
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 12-10pm
WHERE: Cinema Paradiso, 503 SE 6th St., Ft. Lauderdale, FL

WHAT: H@ndmade Cambridge
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 11am-5pm
WHERE: The Cambridge Guildhall, Market Square, Cambridge CB2 3QJ

WHAT: Flint Handmade Holiday Craft Crawl
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 10am-4pm
WHERE: 444 S. Saginaw St., Flint, MI
ETC: $1 Admission.

WHAT: Holiday Shop 'n Stroll
WHEN: Saturday, December 5; 10am-3pm
WHERE: Downtown Silver Spring, MD

WHAT: Renegade Holiday Fair Chicago
WHEN: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6; 11am-7pm
WHERE: Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk St., Chicago, IL

WHAT: Art Market
WHEN: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6; 11am-5pm
WHERE: 918 Bathurst, 918 Bathurst St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada

WHAT: Craft Riot!
WHEN: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6
WHERE: Wines.com Headquarters, 5005 Commercial Park Dr., Ste. 103, Austin, TX
ETC: $3 admission, drink included. Kids 12 & under free.

WHAT: Critter Sale
WHEN: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6; 9:30am-4:30pm
WHERE: Brandywine River Museum, U.S. Route 1, Chadds Ford, PA

WHAT: Athens Indie Craftstravaganzaa Holiday Market
WHEN: Saturday, December 5 & Sunday, December 6
WHERE: Parking lot on the corner of Clayton and Pulaski Streets, next door to Agora, downtown Athens, GA

WHAT: Shiwasu Handmade Show & Sale
WHEN: Saturday, December 5 through Saturday, December 19
WHERE: Japanese Canadian National Museum Gallery, Burnaby, BC

WHAT: Got Craft?
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 11am-5pm
WHERE: Royal Canadian Legion, 2205 Commercial Dr., Vancouver
ETC: Admission is $2. Kids under 10 are free.

WHAT: Bazaar Bizarre Boston
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 12-7pm
WHERE: BCA Cyclorama, 539 Tremont St., Boston, MA
ETC: Admission $1

WHAT: Formal Holiday Artisans Fair
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 11am-6pm
WHERE: The Chelsea Ballroom, 1510 SE 9th, Portland, OR

WHAT: BUST Holiday Craftacular
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 10am-7:30pm
WHERE: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street, NYC

WHAT: Holiday Hit List
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; Noon-6pm
WHERE: NTC Promenade in Liberty Station, San Diego, CA

WHAT: Red Rabbit Arts & Crafts Holiday Market
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 9:30am-3:30pm
WHERE: Descanso Gardens, Van Kamp Hall, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge, CA

WHAT: Craftmas Bizarre
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 12-5pm
WHERE: The Fake Gallery, 4319 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA
ETC: $2 admission. Free with flyer. Free wassail & waffle bar!

WHAT: The Big Crafty
WHEN: Sunday, December 6; 12-6pm
WHERE: Pack Place, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, NC

PrintArtKids

PrintArtKids enables you to share and preserve your children's artwork by utilizing them in printing functional products. Your kid's holiday drawings are ideal for creating unique holiday cards and matching return address labels that are sure to delight recipients. Family and friends deserve special presents and the custom notebooks fit the bill. The photo note cards and notepads are also an ideal way to share family and school photos.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: PrintArtKids is giving away a $25 gift certificate. To enter the contest, simply visit PrintArtKids and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite product(s). Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Thursday, December 3.

Holiday Shopping & Black Friday Deals

Megan Leone Designs - Every item 25% off Thanksgiving Day, November 26 through Tuesday, December 1.

Fierce Hugs - 35% off with the code BLACK35 Friday, November 27 through Monday, November 30.

Lion Brand Yarn - Free shipping on orders over $40, from now until December 31, in the U.S. & Canada. Just enter the code freeship at check-out.

shades of violet - 20% off your entire order on Black Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29. Enter code blackfriday to receive the discount.

fin+roe - 20% off your entire order on Black Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29. Enter code blackfriday to receive the discount.

Paper Cloud - All products 20% off through Tuesday, December 15.

BEST - From December 1st through December 14th, several BEST members will be donating money from the sale of the their handmade items to the Maryland Food Bank.

Totally Rad - This Friday, from midnight to midnight Pacific Standard Time, all three of Totally Rad's products will be on sale, at once-per-year prices. It's a 24-hour window of opportunity to scoop up some of the best Photoshop tools available for enhancing your images and making your life easier.

Photojojo – Free shipping on orders over $50 until Monday, November 30.

Chronicle Books - Get 35% off all books with free shipping to boot! Use the promo code FRIENDS at checkout from now until Friday, December 4.

The Junk Gypsy Company – Receive a free tote and flat rate $3 shipping all week (ground US orders only). Ends December 1 at midnight. Enter promo code TURKEY for free tote on all orders over $50 while supplies last. If they run out of totes, you will receive a free mug.

Booby Trap - 50% off all items and free shipping with coupon code negro09 through Sunday, November 29.

High Altitude Weavers - Free shipping within the United States through December 31.

Sublime Stitching - $1 Shipping Sale (US orders only) through Monday, November 30.

warpeDesign - All products 10% off Friday, November 27, through Monday, November 30.

Caroline Creates - Free shipping Friday, November 27, through Monday, November 30.

Tiny Bazaar - 30% off everything Friday, November 27, through Monday, November 30.

Kitschy Digitals {Goods} - 30% off everything Friday, November 27, through Monday, November 30.

Hambly Studios
- 30% off and free shipping on US orders (not valid on calendars) Friday, November 27, with code BLACKFRIDAY.

Sacred Charms - 40% off entire stock through Sunday, November 29.

Georgie Designs
- Free shipping on all orders with coupon code BLACKFRIDAYFREE. In addition, buy 3 items and get 1 FREE (of equal or lesser value). Specify what free item you would like in the "Special Requests" section at checkout. (Make sure it is of equal or lesser value than your lowest priced item!) Free gift wrapping available, too.

Lolafalk - 15% off all bags Friday, November 27, through Monday, November 30. Markdowns have already been taken.

Pink Chalk Fabrics
- 20% off patterns. All Moda Fabrics $5.99 a yard. All Christmas fabrics $6.99 a yard. Free US shipping on orders over $50. Free Holy Snowballs Quilt Pattern with every order! Shop on Friday, November 27, and receive a coupon for 20% off a future order. Sale ends at Midnight, Monday, November 30.

Dee-Zigns Jewelry & Accessories - 33% off everything with coupon code black33 through Monday, November 30. Free shipping and free gift wrapping.

Spotted Dog Jewelry Designs
- 20% off with coupon code GUNMETALFRIDAY Friday, November 27, through Monday, November 30.

Heidi's Handmades - 20% off all items (discount will be refunded via PayPal. Offer good Friday, November 27.

Fresh Snapped Photos - From Friday, November 27th to Monday, November 30th, anyone that orders a fine-art print from Fresh Snapped Photos will get a 2nd print of equal or lesser value absolutely FREE!

Etsy Dallas members have posted deals on their blog.

Clutter City Market Christmas Spectacular

WHAT: Clutter City Market Christmas Spectacular
WHEN: Saturday, November 28; 10am-4pm
WHERE: Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedicts Street, Norwich NR2 4PG
ETC: Free Admission

It’s nearly Christmastime and Santa's Elves have gotten crafty! Come down for a twinkly, festive market with stalls, live music, warm, spicy cider and take-out food. A unique Christmas shopping experience with over 30 stall holders, live music, festive visuals, face painting and hula hooping all under one roof! The market will feature unique items including clothes, jewelery, badges, sewn items, paper goods, prints, paintings, comics, vintage accessories and more. Don't miss the charity Christmas Lucky Dip at the entrance and live music from Follow Your Heart + The Middle Ones and Sam James Hill with DJs (wiQwar). Check out the Clutter City website for more info on vendors, music and future events.

Mahar Drygoods Holiday Gift Guide

To aide you in your holiday shopping, Mahar Drygoods has compiled a holiday gift guide. You will find Festive Decor, Personalized Gifts, and DIY kits and patterns. Also helpful are the four sections with gifts sorted according to price, making it easier to shop within your budget. The majority of the handmade items fall into the reasonable $20-$49 price range. Also, if you are in the Los Angeles area don't miss Mahar Drygoods' ornament workshop on Friday evening, December 4th from 7 to 10 p.m. at Home Ec in the Silverlake neighborhood. Attendees are in for some crafty fun creating not just Sugarplum Fairies, but yetis and reindeer and elves and polar bears - your choices are as big as your imagination! They'll look great on your holiday tree or make thoughtful keepsake gifts. To learn more and to register (adults only please), please visit HomeEcShop.com.

Funky Five: Thanksgiving

Upcoming Events


WHAT: Christmas at the Mill
WHEN: Thursday, November 26; 5-9pm
WHERE: Islington Mill Studios, James Street, Salford, Lancashire UK

WHAT: One of a Kind Show Christmas Show and Sale
WHEN: Thursday, November 26 through Sunday, December 6
WHERE: Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes' Blvd., Toronto ON M6K 3C3 Canada

WHAT: Market Day
WHEN: Friday, November 27; 8am-6pm
WHERE: Market Building, 118 SE 4th St., Des Moines, IA

WHAT: Larchmere Holiday Stroll & Bazaar Bizarre East
WHEN: Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28; 10am-8pm
WHERE: Larchmere Boulevard, Cleveland, OH

WHAT: Second Storie Indie Market
WHEN: Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28
WHERE: The Visual Studies Workshop Auditorium, 31 Prince Street, Rochester, NY 14607
ETC: Watch Handmade Nation Friday, November 27. Panel discussion begins at 7pm and the movie will begin at 8pm, with a short intermission for snacks just prior to the show time. A second screening will be held December 4th at 8pm - no discussion prior to movie.

WHAT: Indie Banditas Bazaar
WHEN: Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28
WHERE: Woodward Middle School, 9125 Sportsman Club Rd NE, Bainbridge Isle, WA

WHAT: Rock N Roll Craft Show 6
WHEN: Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29
WHERE: Third Degree Glass Factory, 5200 Delmar, St. Louis, MO

WHAT: The Foundrie
WHEN: Friday, November 27 through Thursday, December 31
WHERE: Chesterfield Mall, St. Louis, MO

WHAT: Handm@de Oxford
WHEN: Sunday, November 29; 11am-5pm
WHERE: Oxford Town Hall, Oxford, Cambridge UK

WHAT: Portland Arts Bazaar
WHEN: Sunday, November 29; 11am-6pm
WHERE: Pioneer Courthouse Square, 701 SW 6th Ave., Portland, OR

WHAT: I Heart Indie Holidays
WHEN: Sunday, November 29; 11am-6pm
WHERE: Lake Street Bar & Nightclub, 15 Lake St., Kirkland, WA

WHAT: Secret Society Holiday Sale
WHEN: Sunday, November 29; 11am-5pm
WHERE: Secret Society Ballroom, 116 NE Russell St., Portland, OR

Excellent Creations

Megan Nichols of Excellent Creations decided to use her craftiness for a good cause after her son was born with a heart defect that required open heart surgery when he was just 3 days old. She now donates 10% of the proceeds from all sales to The Children's Heart Foundation for the research of congenital heart defects. Megan's designs range from sweet and demure to funky and wild. I love the fun 80s-inspired polymer bead and tulle necklace, as well as the red irridescent necklace featuring a leopard print pendant. Do some charitable shopping & pick out something nice for yourself or a loved one today!

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Megan is giving away a black & orange beaded chunky funky beaded necklace. To enter, visit Excellent Creations and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends Friday, November 27.

Objet de Carte

Robert Brownstein is the creator of a very fresh, fun, and colorful line of greeting cards and artwork. Objet de Carte showcases Robert's unique designs appropriate for a variety of occasions, including the holiday season. These contemporary styles are unique and memorable, ensuring your greetings will not get lost in the shuffle. In addition to the holiday Sudoku designs, there is an entire Sudoku-style collection. I have girlfriends that will without a doubt love the shoe and handbag Sudoku cards. There is also a great selection of mini gift cards that can be used for any occasion. Of course, Robert is also available to create custom designs, monograms, or logos to help commemorate your special event.

Lady Grace

Lady Grace is a Texas-based shop featuring way cool funky fan pulls. These decorative pieces will instantly add some interest and flair to your space. Glass Beauty is a beautiful fan pull made using a gorgeous lamp work lavender and blue piece. If you're looking to add a bit of good luck to your space, take notice of the Brass Turtle pull. And, for those in need of some peace, especially this time of year, check out the Peace fan pull that features a vintage brass peace sign accented by various beads.

Lorena Barrezueta

Lorena Barrezueta is a talented artist that designs unmatched jewelry and dishware. Her gourmet collection reintroduces disposable tin foil containers as high-end, porcelain pieces. The pieces within the Classic line are white and hand-gilded around the rims with 22k gold. I love the Fresh line featuring brightly colored pieces. The Lush line showcases pieces that are beautifully colored and are also available with the gilded rim. In addition to the unique dishware designs, Lorena also creates manual communication pendants available in white and black porcelain. Also available are fun, graphic bangles.

Funky Five: Twilight


In honor of this week's release of The Twilight Saga: New Moon, here are a few vampire and werewolf-inspired designs that are sure to delight all you Twilighters!

1. Twilight Girl Bottle Cap Necklace by Whirly Squirrel

2. Twilight Book Bag Dangle by Sassy to Classy

3. Decorative box of Twilight gift cards by Twilight Temptations

4. Twilight on Pink Converse by Art According 2 Nanette

5. Unisex Eco-heather Pop Culture Icons Tee by Coup

Jewelry by NaLa

NaLa features a variety of beautiful jewelry designs. I love the sparkling pear-shaped olivine Swarovski crystal briolettes that are hand-wrapped in luminous sterling silver wire. One really unique design is the Victorian Gothic Part II piece, a striking & mysterious necklace. The Autumn Leaves earrings are the perfect accessories for the fall season. And I'm always looking for unusual pieces to spice up my wardrobe and the Bronze Beauty Necklace definitely fits the bill. Links of various shapes and sizes combine to make this unique antique bronze chain that showcases a beautiful antique bronze pendant with a peridot-colored butterfly on flowers dotted with multicolored stones. A cluster of amber and cream freshwater pearls, ivory pearls and antique bronze glass heart are the finishing touch to this fanciful design.

Black Dog Publishing

Black Dog Publishing is currently offering a generous 40% discount on a selection of their established and forthcoming titles focusing on the world of fashion and craft. From explorations of the personalities, events and movements that make up the fascinating history of fashion to design theory to the impact of the environment, sustainability and ethics within the industry, the books featured cover all aspects of fashion practice. The selection also includes titles that delve into the more specialist fields of fashion and design, from textiles to jewelery, and from paper to ceramic design. Black Dog continues to profile the work of the most innovative artists and designers from exciting, emerging talents to established figures. Black Dog has also released eclectic craft books for the new millennium of craftsters, a testament to a trend that is only getting bigger. Email Jessica Atkins at jess@blackdogonline.com with your order and Funky Finds in the subject line to receive the 40% discount that is valid through December 31.

The Thumb Cinema

The Thumb Cinema features fun illustrations created by Fernanda Frick. Her flipbooks, such as Christmas Bunny, are entertaining little books that turn into an animated message when flipped through quickly. Also available are two books titled Fruit War and Bouncing Vegetables. You can also purchase Fernanda's illustrations like Fat Cats and Tanuki-san, the Judo Racoon. See more of Fernanda's drawings and her process on her blog titled Animation in Progress. Also, receive Free Shipping when you mention Funky Finds in the note to seller at checkout. Amount will be refunded via PayPal.

A Little Character

A Little Character features whimsical and fun characters created by Tracey Truly. In addition to selling unique pieces on Etsy, Tracey is currently hosting a drawing for one of her handmade, up-cycled Victorian-inspired stockings on her Facebook Fanpage. The drawing ends Friday, November 20, at 6pm Pacific time.

Upcoming Events


WHAT: University of Virginia Artisan's Bazaar
WHEN: Thursday, November 19 through Saturday, November 21
WHERE: Newcomb Hall Ballroom, Charlottesville, VA

WHAT: MMoCA Holiday Art Fair
WHEN: Friday, November 20 through Sunday, November 22
WHERE: Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, 227 State St., Madison WI

WHAT: Downtown Holiday Artisans Fair
WHEN: Friday, November 20; 10am-6pm
WHERE: World Trade Center Plaza, 121 SW Salmon St., Portland, OR

WHAT: Handmade Christmas Market
WHEN: Friday, November 20 through Saturday, November 21
WHERE: Yarralumla Woolshed, Canberra ACT

WHAT: 30th Annual Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts
WHEN: Friday, November 20 through Thursday, December 24
WHERE: Squalicum Corporate Park, Bellingham, WA

WHAT: Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 1-7pm
WHERE: Sons of Hermann Hall, Dallas, TX

WHAT: Detroit Urban Craft Fair
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 10am-7pm
WHERE: Majestic Theater, Detroit, MI

WHAT: Bloomington Handmade Market
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 10am-4pm
WHERE: John Waldron Arts Center, Bloomington, IN

WHAT: Petaluma Vintage Holiday Boutique
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 9am-3pm
WHERE: Open Door Church at 5th & B streets, Historic Downtown Petaluma, CA

WHAT: DC Craft Mafia presents Holiday Heist
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 12-6pm
WHERE: The Soundry, 316 Dominion Road, Vienna, VA

WHAT: Crafty Supermarket
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 12-6pm
WHERE: The Northside Tavern, Cincinnati, OH

WHAT: Craft Saturday
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 12-6pm
WHERE: 4th Street Theatre, 216 4th Street, Des Moines, IA

WHAT: Cut the Craft
WHEN: Saturday, November 21 through Sunday, November 22
WHERE: 376 Shurs Lane, Manayunk, PA

WHAT: Marshall Handmade Market
WHEN: Saturday, November 21; 10am-5pm
WHERE: Marshall High Studios, Marshall, NC

WHAT: CraftWestport
WHEN: Saturday, November 21 through Sunday, November 22
WHERE: Staples High School, Westport, CT

WHAT: I Made It! Junior
WHEN: Sunday, November 22; 12-4pm
WHERE: Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, 10 Children’s Way, Allegheny Square, Pittsburgh, PA

WHAT: Meet Your Maker
WHEN: Sunday, November 22; 11am-5pm
WHERE: Fenario Gallery, Eugene, OR

WHAT: Crafty Mavericks Handmade Holidays
WHEN: Sunday, November 22; 10am-4pm
WHERE: Bayside Grange, Arcata, CA

WHAT: GLAM (Gainesville Local Art Mart)
WHEN: Sunday, November 22; 2-6pm
WHERE: Thelma Boltin Center, 516 NE 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL

WHAT: Cincy PinkFest
WHEN: Sunday, November 22; 10am-4pm
WHERE: Receptions Eastgate, 4450 Eastgate Blvd., Cincinnati, OH

Couture Invito

Couture Invito features a wide range of products to satisfy all of your invitation and stationery needs. Perfect for the fast-approaching holiday season are a variety of customizable holiday photo cards. You will have fun choosing your greeting, color scheme and font ensuring your cards portray your family's style & personality. If you're looking for special gifts, check out the personalized stationery section that is filled with beautiful designs. I love the funky teen doodle stationery! Couture Invito also sells lovely custom photo jewelry created by Planetjill. And what could be more personalized than photo-lined envelopes?

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Amanda Ann! Couture Invito is giving away one custom photo notepad. To enter, visit Couture Invito & leave a comment on this post noting one of your favorite products or designs. Please include your email address so we can contact the winner. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Friday, November 20.

DIY Life

DIY Life is a helpful website that highlights the best in "do-it-yourself" projects. You'll find all types of projects from hobbies and crafts to home improvement and tech. There's an article detailing 7 Fall-Inspired Crafts, as well as an article that tells how to keep bananas fresh. Thanksgiving hosts and hostesses are sure to enjoy the Countdown to Thanksgiving tips, too. And pet owners don't want to miss the sister site Paw Nation for lots of pet information, including a how-to regarding the trimming of your cat's claws. Now THAT'S a true DIY project!

Lucha Workshop

Lucha Workshop showcases funky, graphic clothing & accessories created by Christy and Ronnie. Located in Miami, FL, the duo has been selling their printed t-shirts and handmade bags since 2005. Their new line of handbags feature designs from their t-shirts. The bags are hand-dyed, screen printed and sewn in their small home studio. The XL Standard Bag in pink features interesting woven detail made of cotton fabric. I also like the aqua messenger bag covered with various images of tools. Be sure to check out the graphic tees, too. Undies in Love is a must-see!

Ileana's Designs

Ileana Bonilla has loved making things since she was a child sewing clothes for her Barbie dolls. She has since moved on to designing jewelry, which she has done for over ten years. Ileana's Designs features stylish accessories, many made using crystals and glass. My mom loves red and I can see her enjoying the You're Blushing earrings. I love the affordable Lacy Medallion earrings, as well as the Classic Necklace in pink. Ileana also creates gorgeous bookmarks and key chains that make great gifts - for yourself or a loved one. Receive a 15% discount through December 31 (excluding shipping) when you mention Funky Finds in the notes to seller section at checkout.

Vintage Indie Holiday Market

Gabreial Wyatt of Vintage Indie has put together a lovely online holiday market that is sure to come in handy this holiday season. This year's online market features a wide array of small business owners to fulfill all of your shopping needs. Whether you are looking for vintage, handmade, special gifts for him or for her, you will know that you're supporting a small business owner each step of the way. Supporting small business is what Vintage Indie & Funky Finds strives to do. It's important to help keep family businesses afloat & help them succeed in the current land of "big box" retailers. This year vendors have included an "about the shop owner" section written from the heart. Also, each vendor has graciously provided shoppers with exclusive offers and discounts, including free gifts with purchase, free shipping, discount codes and more.

Funky Five: Stay Warm

Designer Call - All By Hand

The Shops at Liberty Place is a retail complex located in the heart of the Center City business district in Philadelphia. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I've yet to visit this shopping area; however, that may change with the opening of All By Hand. Owned & operated by Abby Flanigan and Julianna Lose, All By Hand is a fine art and craft consignment store. Located in the Liberty One building, the store is opening November 15 and they are looking for more artists' work to showcase. Currently the store is only going to be open for the holiday season, with the possibility of an extended lease after December. If you'd like to sell your work at All By Hand, send images of your work to Julianna Lose at juliannalose@gmail.com.

East Lake Pet Orphanage Pet Fair 2009

East Lake Pet Orphanage is hosting their Eighth Annual Pet Fair this Sunday, November 15. The event, to be held from 11am-3pm at East Lake Veterinary Hospital in Dallas, Texas, is the largest inter-species adoption & pet educational gathering in the city! You will have the chance to get acquainted with a wide variety of rescue groups, as well as community and corporate sponsors sharing their dedication to the virtue of animal wellness and welfare. This year's Pet Fair goes green with recycling services by Recycling Revolution. For more information visit the website or call 214-349-3576.

Come join in the fair activities, including:
· Fun for all, including smooch the pooch, puppet shows, face painting & more
· Yummy food & bounce house
· Girl Band Lovie performing as Josie and the Pussycats
· Silent auction and raffles for everyone
· Golfing instruction and activities for all by GOLFTec
· Micro-chipping, pet food label readings, pet wellness tips & assessments
· Supportive cast of amazing vendors and pet foundations

East Lake Pet Orphanage, 10101 E Northwest Hwy., Dallas, TX 75238

Upcoming Events


WHAT: The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show
WHEN: Wednesday, November 11 through Sunday, November 15
WHERE: Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA

WHAT: Sugarloaf Crafts Festival
WHEN: Friday, November 13 through Sunday, November 15
WHERE: Connecticut Expo Center, Hartford, Connecticut

WHAT: Twist
WHEN: Friday, November 13 through Saturday, November 14
WHERE: Northampton Center for the Arts, 17 New South St., Northampton, MA

WHAT: Chicago Craft Social
WHEN: Friday, November 13; 7-10pm
WHERE: Evanston Vineyard Church, 2495 Howard St., Evanston, IL

WHAT: From Scratch
WHEN: Saturday, November 14; 10am-5pm
WHERE: 1183 Grange Rd., Allentown, PA

WHAT: Bedford Gallery Craft Fair
WHEN: Saturday, November 14; 12-5pm
WHERE: Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, CA

WHAT: PA Guild Fine Craft Fair
WHEN: Saturday, November 14 through Sunday, November 15
WHERE: Manheim Township High School, Lancaster, PA

WHAT: Creative Finds
WHEN: Saturday, November 14 through Sunday, November 15
WHERE: Historical Sullivan Hall, 6306 152nd St., Surrey, BC

WHAT: 13th Annual Holiday Craft & Gift Faire
WHEN: Saturday, November 14 through Sunday, November 15
WHERE: 1590 Berryessa Rd., San Jose, CA

WHAT: East Austin Studio Tour
WHEN: Saturday, November 14 through Sunday, November 15 and Saturday, November 21 through Sunday, November 22
WHERE: Austin, TX

WHAT: Cliff Fest
WHEN: Sunday, November 15; 11am-6pm
WHERE: 419 N Bishop Ave., Dallas, TX

WHAT: Art + Craft Fair
WHEN: Sunday, November 15; 11am-4pm
WHERE: 2421 SE Orange St., Portland, OR

Tip Junkie's 12 Days of Christmas

To help promote & feature some of the amazing women who have joined Tip Junkie's Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon, Laurie Turk is hosting 12 Days of Christmas, um I mean Junkie! Starting November 9, two giveaways will be run each day through the 20th. The giveaways will last only 24 hours and two winners will be picked each morning. The purpose of these giveaways is to spotlight products created by women in hopes that you’ll find something you love and then buy or barter for it. Also, it's a great way for you to win items that you will use at home or give as a gift saving you some cash. Other upcoming events on Tip Junkie include the Christmas Card Challenge beginning on November 17th (3 winners) and a Christmas Tree Contest that kicks off on December 8th (also 3 winners). Head over to Tip Junkie and check out these fabulous Mom-preneur products and enter to win some fabulous prizes.

Camp Smartypants

Rachel Beyer is a Portland, Oregon-based designer, artist and crafter. Camp Smartypants features all of her one-of-a-kind handmade items that are inspired by summer camp adventures. According to Rachel, the goal of her designs is to invoke feelings of freedom, friendship, and innocence. She refined her talented & learned other skills, such as beading, tie-dye, and how to sell delicious cookies, while attending summer camp and joining Girl Scouts. The result is a collection of fun accessories, cards and gift items. I love the autumn tree pouch that is hand-embroidered & tie-dyed. If you're looking to add a splash of color to your ensemble, you'll definitely want to snag a versatile recycled tie-dye braid. Camp Smartypants also offers greeting cards featuring original illustrations for a variety of occasions, including the hippy holiday design.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Rachel Beyer of Camp Smartypants is giving away a friendship bracelet set and a tie-dye braid. To enter, visit Camp Smartypants' Etsy shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Saturday, November 14. Please include your email address.

The Altered Muse - Big Sale!

Pam Grayson of The Altered Muse recently made a big announcement: The Altered Muse is going "on the road". Pam has been very busy due to estate liquidations and large antique venues as of late. This has had a significant impact on her retail location; therefore, she has decided to take things on the road. In the future, everywhere Pam goes for a show, The Altered Muse goes with her. All of her mixed media, ephemera, assemblage and altered supplies will be sold on location & she will continue to host workshops at various locations. Until December 1, Pam will be having a massive sale at her store, including some displays and furniture. Angela Burks will also be teaching soldering workshops on November 14 and 21. All workshop information, along with some photos, are posted on The Altered Muse blog. Reserve your spot now as they are quickly filling up. The Altered Muse's physical location is at 4318 West Vickery Blvd. in Fort Worth, Texas.

*See Pam's blog graphics? I created those & will be happy to do the same for you! Pricing can be found on our Right On Graphics website.

Antisparkle

If you're looking for accessories that will convey your funky, fun-loving spirit to everyone you meet, check out Antisparkle. The twisted pretzel earrings are perfect for your next outing to the local fair. And the happy-faced Neapolitan Ice Cream necklace is sure to garner a smile or two when worn. Antisparkle features a variety of fun felt goods, including the pink Skull Coin Pouch and the Love Struck clutch. Don't miss the Orange Mushroom earrings & the cupcake thief tee.

Dream by Day

Octavia Clark is the creative force behind Dream by Day, a shop featuring unique photographs & dècor. The fire-polished glass beaded ornaments are beautiful & perfect for the fast-approaching holiday season. Octavia's photography subjects range from haunting to whimsical. You will also find eye-catching accessories, such as the Eclectic Autumn Necklace. See Octavia's blog for sale announcements, new listings and sneak peeks.

TP Design Sale

Tomorrow TP Design is kicking off a Buy One, Get One 50% off sale (discount applies to lowest priced item) which will run through Sunday, November 8. This is a great opportunity to stock up on unique holiday gifts. I love all the products TP Design offers, including the Love & Faith vinyl record necklace and the Norburt Urban Nesting necklace. You can also purchase unique works of art like the Fall Pumpkins art block. And, Funky Finds readers will receive a free gift with every purchase when you include "FFreader" in the notes to seller at checkout.

I Made It! Market - Intern Opportunity

Handmade in PA announced that Carrie Nardini, the brains behind Pittsburgh’s I Made It! Market, is looking for an intern interested in gaining experience with all aspects of running an indie craft market for the remainder of 2009, as well as for the Spring 2010 term. I Made It! Market partners with non-profit, arts and community organizations to raise awareness and funds for organizations working to improve our communities AND provides opportunities for local artists and makers to introduce their work in diverse neighborhoods. The market has been crafting it up since May of 2007 and will be busy in 2010. Their goal is to provide opportunities and resources for artists and makers and really dig creating connections. Are you interested in crafts? Have you developed Social Media savvy? Do you like to meet new people and promote small businesses? Then we may be the right internship opportunity for you. In return, the market will work with your college or university to give you class credit. I Made It! Market is based in Pittsburgh, PA.

Duties can include but will not be limited to:
o Copy Writing for ads, web, blogs, press releases and more
o Research into creating new partnerships on the non-profit, community and arts organization front
o Business Development for small businesses
o Event Coordination (including day-of activities like set up, break down, registration)
o Fundraising
o Graphic Design and Illustration experience appreciated

IMI Organizer, Carrie Nardini, who has more than ten years of professional marketing experience including managing University of Pittsburgh interns, will manage this individual. She can provide testimonials and access to at least three interns who she has supervised in the past five years.

Look for two I Made It! Market events in Pittsburgh coming up soon: I Made It! Jr., Sunday, November 22, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, 12 – 4 pm and I Made It! For the Holidays, Saturday, December 5, Union Project, 12 – 5 pm

Find IMI on: Facebook, Twitter, and the IMI Blog

humbleraelord

Kesha of humbleraelord recently sent me a couple of cute magnets that brightened my day. These functional pieces are made using recycled materials, including fabric, envelopes and old phone book pages. Talk about a clever & useful way to recycle! The Laughing Trio will help to hold your lists, reminders & photos in place on your fridge or filing cabinet. All of the magnets are hand-sewn & feature funny hand-painted faces. Kesha also creates note cards with her watercolor and ink drawings on them. Receive FREE SHIPPING on all magnets when you mention "FunkyFinds" in the notes to seller section at checkout.

DM Exclusives - Giveaway

DM Exclusives features stylish & unique accessories created by Diana McDermott. The fall collection is filled with rich shades of brown, lush purples, golden yellows and metallics. The Copper wire-formed Autumn Leaves earrings sparkle with Swarovski crystals and Czech fire-polished beads. The Coffee Bean earrings are beautiful & look like a million bucks, but cost a mere $17 USD. Diana also offers a variety of necklaces, including Feathered Friends that showcases a mint green ceramic pendant. Sweet Tooth is another favorite of mine. You'll also find many great bracelets to choose from and shipping is FREE on all orders.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats Spamgirl!: Diana is giving away a pair of Rose Petal earrings. To enter, visit DM Exclusives and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Sunday, November 8.

Upcoming Events


WHAT: Candystore Collective Presents Prairie Underground Trunk Show & Party
WHEN: Tuesday, November 3; 6-8:30pm
WHERE: 3153 16th St., San Francisco, CA
ETC: Raffle offering Prairie Underground best sellers as prizes. Everything in the store will be 15% off during the event, as well as yummy fall-inspired cocktails.

WHAT: Buffalo Indie Market
WHEN: Thursday, November 5; 6-10pm
WHERE: Pearl Street Grill & Brewery, 76 Pearl St., Buffalo, NY

WHAT: Adelaide Craft & Quilt Fair
WHEN: Thursday, November 5 through Sunday, November 8
WHERE: Goyder Pavilion, Adelaide Event & Exhibition Centre at the Adelaide Showground, Wayville, South Australia

WHAT: Sugarloaf Craft Festival
WHEN: Friday, November 6 through Sunday, November 8
WHERE: Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks, PA
ETC: Under 12 & Parking Free

WHAT: The Girlie Show
WHEN: Friday, November 6, 8pm-Midnight; Saturday, November 7, Noon-5pm
WHERE: Farmers Public Market, 311 S. Klein, Oklahoma City, OK

WHAT: Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe
WHEN: Friday, November 6 through Sunday, November 29; 5-9pm Daily
WHERE: Room Service, Cleveland, OH

WHAT: Contemporary Crafts Market
WHEN: Friday, November 6 through Sunday, November 8
WHERE: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, Santa Monica, CA

WHAT: Over & Under Opening
WHEN: Friday, November 6 - Show runs until December 6
WHERE: Yard Dog Art Gallery, Austin, TX

WHAT: Art Studio Tour
WHEN: Saturday, November 7, 10am-5pm; Sunday, November 8, 12-5pm
WHERE: Pennsylvania (Map here)

WHAT: Oddmall
WHEN: Saturday, November 7; 10am-6pm
WHERE: Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 240 East Hines Hills Rd., Hudson, OH

WHAT: For The Love Of It
WHEN: Saturday, November 7; 6:30-9pm
WHERE: Redeem, 1734 14th St. NW, Washington, DC

WHAT: 2009 Local Bounty Barter Fair
WHEN: Saturday, November 7; 11am-7pm
WHERE: Elizabeth Anna’s Old World Garden, 2825 8th Ave., Fort Worth, TX

WHAT: Hip Happening Autumn Fair
WHEN: Saturday, November 7; 11am-6pm
WHERE: Sellwood Masonic Lodge, 7126 SE Milwaukie Ave., Portland, OR

WHAT: Pinpricks & Papercuts
WHEN: Saturday, November 7; 9am-12am
WHERE: Hilton Garden Inn at Raritan Center, 50 Raritan Center Parkway, Edison, New Jersey

WHAT: Indie Mart
WHEN: Sunday, November 8; Noon-6pm
WHERE: Thee Parkside, 1600 17th St., San Francisco, CA