Weekend Events

weekend-events

WHAT: Indie Wed
WHEN: Saturday, January 30; 11am-5pm
WHERE: Showroom at the Ravenswood Event Center, 4025 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL

WHAT: Le Garage Sale
WHEN: Saturday, January 30 and Sunday, January 31; Noon-5pm
WHERE: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX

WHAT: Sunday, Crafty Sunday
WHEN: Sunday, January 31; Noon-5pm
WHERE: Queen Bee's Art & Culture Center, 3925 Ohio St., San Diego, CA

Squid Ink Kollective

According to their bio, Squid Ink Kollective is all about creativity, art and having a good time with it. Now, who can argue with that? I have known the creative force behind this fun company, Brian Maclaskey & Lynnea Edwards, for a couple of years now and can tell you first-hand that their products are high-quality and unique. I would say Squid Ink's most notable designs are the various Narwhals. You can purchase tees featuring Narwhals on segways, Vespas, or in happy pods. Regardless of which design you choose, you will definitely be sporting an original, eye-catching piece. And an added bonus is the fact that all of Squid Ink's products are printed using water-based inks which are long-lasting and safer than plastisol-based inks which contain harmful carcinogens. Visit Squid Ink Kollective in person at the 2nd Annual Funky Finds Spring Fling on March 13!

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congrats whoopsiedaisiesgal: Squid Ink Kollective is giving away one Narwhal Named GOB tee. To enter the giveaway, visit Squid Ink's shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite design. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Monday, February 1.

Velvet Morning

Velvet Morning features unique mixed media collage work created by Tenika Morrison. Captive Heart is the perfect piece to display this Valentine's Day. I love Silver Lining, a print of an original that was comprised of 10 layers of different mediums resulting in a lovely collage look. Many of the pieces showcase classic women, such as Audrey Hepburn and Ballad Of Miss Kate. Tenika also has shops that feature her collage work and photography.

Midnight Snack

Dallas-based Midnight Snack has some adorable Valentine's Day items that you do not want to miss. The plush conversation hearts make a fun gift for your loved one this year. If you want a sweet treat without the calories, treat yourself to a plush chocolate-dipped strawberry. Yum! The triple hearts necklace is a great accessory to wear during this season of love, as well as year-round. Also in stock are a couple of heart bubble rings that make great gifts. Shop for Midnight Snack products in person at the upcoming Funky Finds Spring Fling on March 13!

The Shops @ Funky Finds Spotlight

Shops @ Funky Finds Products

Have you been shopping for funky handmade goods at The Shops @ Funky Finds lately? If not, you need to scoot on over there asap! We have had lots of new shops open up this year. Here's a few for you to peruse:

1. Grubby Mittz Art Co. - Funky accessories and children's wear created by Stacey Zimmerman. Visit Stacey in person at the upcoming Funky Finds Spring Fling!

2. Paiges Bowtique - Adorable children's headwear and accessories hand-crafted by Jennifer McDaniel.

3. lizziebees - Accessories for you and your furry friend.

4. Limi Boutique - Unique, one-of-a-kind fashion items.

5. Suh-Nays' Blissful Treasures - My sister's new Shop featuring funky embellished photo frames.

6. Me Too Lord - A variety of items ranging from home decor to bath & body products.

7. Hearts & Home - Modest and historical clothing. See these unique items in person at the upcoming Funky Finds Spring Fling!

8. Sunday Afternoon Housewife - Eye-catching Scrabble tile pendants, also a vendor at the upcoming Funky Finds Spring Fling!

Evil Kitty

Evil Kitty features unique clothing designed by Lidia Wachowska. A preview of the Spring 2010 line was recently posted on the website & it is made up of many appealing pieces. The Off-Shoulder Black Top is perfect for a night on the town, as is the beautiful Zipper Bustier Babydoll Dress. I also like the 50s-inspired "Mad Men" Dress that is available in two versions. Evil Kitty also offers a variety of skirts and tops that will make you say Me-Ow!

*GIVEAWAY - Closed - Congratulations Heather!: Evil Kitty is giving away a hoody in the winner's color choice. To enter, visit the Evil Kitty website & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite piece. Please leave an email address so I can contact the winner. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Tuesday, January 26.

Upcoming Event in Fort Lauderdale, FL

WHAT: The Auteur Explosion XIII "Lucky Thirteen"
WHEN: Saturday, January 23, 9:00pm
WHERE: Cinema Paradiso, 503 SE 6th St., Fort Lauderdale, FL

Every month, the Auteur Explosion represents a full showcase of live bands, art exhibits, and live performances inside the theater before the short films (by local filmmakers) roll.

General admission is only $5 to attend. There is no cost to artists featuring their work and new talent interested in becoming part of the event should contact Dawn Dubriel at info@redawn.tv.

The January line-up is sponsored by Funktional Interiors, Poken Girl, Lost Legacy Systems Martial Arts, and will be hosted by Matt Zigan and includes:
• Bands: The Band with No Name 9:00 - 9:20, My Amends 9:45 - 10:15, Dear Dad Yours Truly: 10:30-11:00
• Art Exhibits by: Nick Lopes, Jennifer Taboada, Samantha Leah Shiff, Katie Sottak, Rudy Mage, & Luana Steffen
• Inside the theater at 11:15pm, special performance arts with Modernesque Burlesque, Comedy Crew "Skitsations" & new skit by Acting Troupe "Visual Aces."
• At the stroke of midnight, the flicker of the films crackle and short films and featurettes by Gerald Owens' The Key, Music Video Get Help for My Amends produced by John Garguilo & Andrew Colton, 1000 Pounds of Thrust new video by Steven Jacobs, and digitally re-mastered final cut of The Tell Tale Heart by J. Vinazza.

Local filmmaker and video producer, Dawn Dubriel and partner J. Vinazza – also a local filmmaker and animator, created Auteur Explosion on December 12, 2008. At midnight, 12/12, Jon proposed to Dawn and one year later on 12/12/noon, they were married on the same steps of the Church turned Cinema - a fine spot for a true partnership.

Cinema Paradiso is conveniently located in downtown Fort Lauderdale. It’s hip & trendy, yet offers an old-world charm suiting the senses of the art community. The charming 200+ seat theatre with outside patio also has the capacity to contain the constant influx of new and local talent at the monthly Auteur Explosion. Plus, it offers concessions, a full bar, and the best popcorn in town!

Will You Be My Valentine?

Valentine's Day Finds

1. Valentine Necklace by Sunday Afternoon Housewife

2. Hand-dipped Chocolate Treats by RhodaRose

3. The Valentine Toddler Tote by All Decked Out Boutique

4. Valentine's Day Magnets by Kate Grenier

5. Love Birds Card by Caroline Creates

6. Valentine's Day fashions for your little sweetheart by Miss Sugar Pops - Enter code: valentine to receive 20% off your total order.

7. DIY: Felt fortune cookies tutorial from Martha Stewart

8. Handmade Love Birds Buttons by Tessa Ann

9. XOXO Sweet Words Cut Outs by Elle's Studio

10. Red Chocolate Heart Candy by Calabasas Candy Co.

11. Heart Strings Pillow by quiltish

12. Vintage Style Chenille Valentine's Day Ornaments by Old World Primitives

13. Gold Charms at Paula's Kit Club

14. Needle Felted Love Bird by The Felt Menagerie

15. Recipe Card by Me Too Lord

16. Valentine Mini Album Kit by goshery

17. DIY Valentine’s Day Craft Ideas on Tip Junkie

18. Hello Lucky! Tarzan Monkey Greeting Card at Luxe Paperie

19. eco coffee sleeve by she sews lovely

20. Zipper Heart Ornament by Bogate Designs

2010 Handmade Olympics

The RikRak Studio recently announced the 2010 Handmade Olympics! Now's your chance to show the world your own creative creations or send some hand-making love out to other crafters that inspire you in the hand-making world! Plus, there are over $2,000 worth of amazing handmade & vintage prizes! Here's how it will work:

* There are 8 fun handmade Olympic events, each based on a tenant of my the RikRak blog!

* For each event, you can nominate ONE of your own fabulous creations, shops, blogs, etc. (please read rules for each event) + nominate ONE of your favorites from another shop, site, blog, etc.

* By nominating yourself + others, you will automatically be entered in the randomly chosen FAN prize pack drawing (the first of many prizes!) - a $50 shopping spree in the rikrak shop!

* Once nominations close, the judges will take a look at the amazing nominations in each category. The judges will announce a short-list for each category of their 10 favorite nominations!

* Once the short-lists are announced, EVERYONE will get a chance to VOTE on their very favorites!

* The top-3 vote-getting WINNERS in each category, as determined by you, the readers, will be awarded a prize!

.................

So, here's what you need to do:

1. Nominate + spread the word between January 11-31.

2. The FAN PRIZE will be randomly selected from the total nominations on February 1.

3. The judges' TOP 10 shortlists will be announced February 8.

4. VOTING will then begin on each top 10 event list February 8-17.

5. The top 3 vote-getters in each event will be announced on February 18 & awarded their Gold, Silver & Bronze prize packs.

.................

The events are: (just click on the links to enter each one!)

{Event 1} :: our favorite handmade goodie with an innovative design

{Event 2} :: our favorite handmade goodie for kids

{Event 3} :: our favorite handmade eco friendly goodie

{Event 4} :: our favorite handmade item that inspires loveliness + wellness (in our homes, for ourselves, etc.)

{Event 5} :: our favorite handmade personality/group forwarding kindness thru hand-making

{Event 6} :: our favorite thrifty-forward, sustainable-minded blog, shop or site

{Event 7} :: our favorite FUN-FILLED handmade OR vintage goodie

{Event 8} :: our favorite hand-making focused blog

.................

Find out more about the prizes & all the rules on the RikRak blog.

PennyDog Jewellery

PennyDog Jewellery features a variety of affordable, costume jewelery hand-crafted from resin by Kerry Wilkinson. There are tons of cool necklaces to choose from, including the lovely Abalone shell & starfish and adorable Caffe Espresso coffee necklaces. PennyDog also offers lots of funky rings and earrings that will add interest to your wardrobe. Knitters are sure to love the various knitting needles Kerry creates. And, if you're in need of some accessories to spruce up your living space, check out the housewares.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Enter now to win a coaster set of your choice. Simply visit PennyDog Jewellery and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Wednesday, January 20.

Pin Show Open Model Calls

Models are needed for the upcoming Pin Show to be held in Dallas, Texas, on February 25. The open model calls will be held Sunday, January 17 and Saturday, February 6.

Models must be available on Thursday, February 25 beginning at 3pm through the end of the event (approximately 11pm). This is a volunteer opportunity, images will be provided by the photographers at the event within four weeks of the event.

Pin Show facts: 1,200 - 1,500 people in attendance; 30+ designers; Professional Photographers, Hair & Make-up Artists, and Stylists

Runway Criteria: Females, 5'8 +, Sizes 0-4

This year's event also features one plus-size line & six plus-size models are needed: Females, 5'8" +, Size: 10-12, Bust 39"-40", Waist 31"-32", Hips 38"-39"

Live Event Models: Females, 5'6"+, Sizes 0-4

This year's event does not feature any children's or men's clothing lines. All forms will be filled out on site. Just be ready to show your walk!

Model Call Location - 2201 Pittman St., Dallas, TX 75208

There is a parking lot & street parking. The venue is located next to Jack's Back Yard at Commerce and Pittman, right before Commerce turns into Fort Worth Avenue.

Handmade Nation Screenings

2010 is starting out with a bang! If you have yet to see the indie craft documentary Handmade Nation, you may be able to catch it this weekend. Filmmaker, author, independent curator and creative director Faythe Levine is taking her film to the road and will be in several different cities over the course of four days, with more stops in February and March. I read on Facebook that one of Faythe's goals in '10 is to be home more, but it doesn't look like that's happening just yet! You can read my review of Handmade Nation, which we screened in August, here.

January 15, 6pm & 8pm: Providence, RI
Presented by CRAFTLAND
Tickets are $8 and include popcorn and one beverage. There are only 40 seats available for each screening. Buy your tickets online now or stop into Craftland. Directors Q&A after screening.

January 16, doors 7pm, film 7:30pm: Portland, ME
Presented by Eli Phant; Screening at SPACE GALLERY
$7 non-memebers, $5 members; Directors Q&A after screening.

January 17, 3:00pm: Belfast, ME
Screening at Waterfall Arts
Tickets $5; Directors Q&A after screening.

January 18, Doors 6:30, Screening 7pm: Boston, MA
Presented by Video Underground & ML4U
Screening at 4th Wall Project, 132 Brookline Ave.
Tickets $7; Directors Q&A after screening.

Vling

Do you remember what form music came in before mp3s, cds, tapes, and even 8-tracks? Vinyl records! Since few people have record players these days, James DesRochers is using vinyl to create rockin' accessories. Vling features jewelry that gives old school vinyl a new school vibe. I love the limited-edition Cameo necklace made from layered color vinyl records. The owl necklace & earrings are adorable, as is the ltd. edition red bow set. I also love the gorgeous butterfly necklace. And why not give a shout out to Rock while sporting some vinyl with the Rock earring & necklace set? Receive 25% OFF your order with coupon code FUNKYFINDS.

Red Delicious

Emma Roscoe, artist and owner of Red Delicious, creates bags that look good and work even better. The Red Delicious Annual Winter Warmer Sale is currently in effect through Sunday, January 31. Selected bags are 40% off as long as supplies last. This is a great opportunity to pick up a stylish damask clutch or a unique & colorful Chopstick handbag. Emma also creates messenger bags available in a variety of sizes. The Mini Messenger is perfect for toting essentials while the Large Messenger allows you to carry lots of stuff with ease and comfort. If you miss this sale, remember to visit Red Delicious Bags on Etsy, Emma's online outlet store. There you'll find the best deals on discontinued styles every day. Check out the Red Delicious blog for announcements and other pertinent information.

Joanna Cheung Illustrations

Joanna Cheung is a London-based artist and illustrator whose passion for art is evident in all her beautiful creations. Joanna offers several accessories featuring her work, including badges, mirrors, and tote bags she hand-screen prints. As a dog lover, I adore the dog gift tags. My favorite items are the lovely cards, especially the Two Birds. See Joanna's blog for updates and other information.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Joanna Cheung is giving away two postcards, two greetings cards and a bird pocket mirror to one lucky winner. To enter, visit Joanna's website and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Thursday, January 14.

Bagnesia

If you're anything like me, you know what it's like to suffer from reusable bag amnesia. It strikes at the most inopportune times, like when you're standing at the register realizing your reusable bags are still in the car or at home. Thankfully Pam Eatrides and Caprice Ericson of Bagnesia have created a solution. The Reusable Bag Reminder Kit comes with simple, effective products to help you remember your reusable bags every time you shop. It even comes with a high-quality, stylish, washable bag that rolls up smaller than a cell phone. More than just another reusable bag, it has everything you need to easily remember your reusable bags every time you shop. Recently, the product line was expanded to include a set of Reusable Produce Bags to eliminate those annoying little throwaway plastic produce bags you get at the store. You can weigh, wash and store your produce all in one convenient bag. Conquer your reusable bag amnesia today!

Fabrications

Fabrications is an East London-based independent gallery, shop and studio dedicated to all aspects of contemporary textiles and design, with a particular interest in recycling and eco-friendly design. Founder Barley Massey’s portfolio demonstrates her wide range of commissions and client base ranging from individual items for the home to corporate commissions. If you're interested in commissioning Massey, her existing designs can be tailored to suit your specifications. She also offers a bespoke made-to-order service featuring new concepts. The Fabrications site also has a recycled products section featuring a variety of functional products, such as a shopper bag and tube cushions, that were created by re-purposing various items. If you are in the East London area, be sure to check out the Court of Love Valentine's Show for unique love tokens available for purchase.

Heidi & Seek

Hayley Lau is the designer behind the ethical clothing line Heidi & Seek. She creates each piece herself in sweatshop-free conditions and the fabrics used are 100% reclaimed making them eco-friendly. Like many of you, Hayley is passionate about ethical living, but she loves looking cute, too. Heidi & Seek pieces are a little unusual, colorful, and interesting, but very wearable. I like the reconstructed MIA tee in grey that has a nice splash of orange around the neckline. The blue & brown Oh Bow tee is casual with a touch of cute. And my favorite piece is the colorful mustard and turquoise ethical MIA tee. Due to the nature of reclaimed materials, each piece is different and new pieces are regularly listed.

Lush Boutique

Lush Boutique features timeless, chic and fresh jewelry designs created by Jenni Stoddard. Her brightly colored accessory designs are sure to add a splash of happy to your ensemble. There's a variety of sparkly rings available that showcase a faceted oval encased in a sterling silver ring. The Blue Topaz and the Pink Topaz Starburst rings are beautiful. The Gold Wire Ball Jewelry Set, made of intricate hand-spun gold tone wire balls, is especially unique. My Mom is a big fan of Turquoise jewelry & Lush Boutique has a great selection, such as the Bahama and Lushie necklaces. And, if you prefer a smaller dose of Turquoise, check out the lovely Silver Feather Turquoise Drop earrings.

The Sassy Crafter

Kim Taylor, aka The Sassy Crafter, enjoys giving old items a fresh, new life. Her unique items are created using a variety of recycled and upcycled materials, such as eggbeaters. I have to say that I have not ever come across an eggbeater clock in my several years of funky finding! I love the orange recycled sweater handbag that is made from a 100% wool sweater. If you'd like to add a bit of Mardi Gras flair to your home, why not snag yourself an upcycled bead night light? I also dig the clocks Kim has created by repurposing souvenier trays.

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Kim is offering a souvenir clock to one lucky winner. To enter, browse The Sassy Crafter's shop and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item. Kim has MANY states available and the winner can choose a specific state. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Friday, January 8.