Funky Finds

Julia Bristow Jewelry

2009-07-10T13:00:00.000-04:00

Julia Bristow Jewelry features hand-crafted, nature-inspired pieces that are unique & elegant. All jewelry pieces are hand-wired or woven and meticulously pieced together by designer Julia Bristow. Her offerings include a variety of beautiful necklaces, such as the flower necklace that is made with a special Gumamela shell flower pendant, yellow jasper beads, glass beads and gold plated findings. The blue & white vintage-style necklace is another lovely design. One of my favorites is the Hippie blue cool beaded necklace that incorporates wood beads, gemstone beads, & other elements. Julia also offers a variety of bracelets, little girl jewelry, and more. Perhaps the most intriguing items she creates are the beaded guitar straps. These intricate pieces are stunning works of wearable art. Visit Julia's blog for updates, including upcoming events & specials.

ManHandled

2009-07-10T05:00:00.001-04:00

ManHandled is run by a super cool couple, Emily & Matt Adams. I first met Emily when she was teaching a scrapbooking class I took at the Arlington Scrapbooking convention years ago. She is high energy & so creative. I was thrilled when Emily & her husband Matt started ManHandled, as well as The Bookie. The duo's latest offering are 1" buttons that can be worn in a whole new way - as earrings! There are pairs of earrings that will suit everyone from anime-niacs to proud Texans to crafty b*tches. Not only do they have over 40 sets listed on their site, you can also request your own set based on any combination of all the button designs on the site. Of course, ManHandled also offers the standard 1" pinback buttons in a variety of styles & combos. These are perfect for adding flair to your tote bag or sending to friends. And Twilight fans will love the cool buttons & earrings showcasing images from the books, as well as phrases from the stories. If you're in the Dallas area, visit ManHandled at the White Rock Local Market between 9am & noon this Saturday, July 11th.

Mention Funky Finds at checkout & receive FREE domestic shipping through July 19th! Also, sign up to receive all of Emily & Matt's indie brand newsletters to receive special discount information & announcements.

LyLou Design

2009-07-09T13:00:00.001-04:00

Fun, funky, and thoroughly functional, LyLou Design bags are the must have accessory for the modern woman. These bags are suitable for everyone, including a mom on the go, a career woman on the rise, or simply the girl-next-door. Bags like Pink Floral are constructed of the finest, most durable fabrics in patterns ranging from country chic to retro mod and everything in between. Designer Lynn Louise Larson personally selects top-quality vintage and new upholstery fabrics with a keen eye for innovative color combinations, unique pattern, and exquisite texture, as displayed by the Golden Age bag. The Royal Blue design (pictured) is another favorite of mine. If you're looking for a bag that is hand-crafted with a passion for beauty, form, function, and durability, LyLou Designs is the place for you. Receive 20% off your order with coupon code FF2009. Good through July 2010.

Austin Fashion Week

2009-07-09T06:00:00.001-04:00

Next week marks Austin Fashion Week, a week-long series of fashion events hosted by participating boutiques and salons. Between July 13 and 19, many Austin designers will be displaying their work in gallery formats within various boutiques and salons. This is a great opportunity to discover new, up-and-coming labels coming from Central Texas. Also, be sure you check out each participants’ work and VOTE for your favorites to win Austin Fashion Awards. And, of course, you don’t want to forget to SHOP! Buy a Passport to Fashion to receive 10% off all of your purchases and get a chance to win a $5,000 SHOPPING SPREE every time you visit a new boutique or salon!

Also, on Thursday, July 16, from 8:00-11:00pm, Austin Handmade will be celebrating the Grand Re-opening of its new store location at 2009 S. First St. The party will offer special in-store discounts, along with giveaways from participating sponsors such as the TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls, select Austin based artists and a membership for a free year of classes provided by The WonderCraft. Party guests will be able try out the new Austin Handmade Do-It-Yourself Room using simple kits created by Austin artists with instructions and basic supplies available for purchase at the event. Continue with the on-site DIY fun with make n' take projects provided Austin's newest creative craft-force, The WonderCraft. There will also be entertainment provided by local band Lost Werks and DJ Beef Eigler "Hot Britches" of High Society. Enjoy drinks from Austin's favorite, Sweet Leaf Tea and Treaty Oak Platinum Rum. Rum truly made in the spirit of Texas. Texas's first & only distillery that both brews and distills locally, using only Texas ingredients.

Visit the Austin Handmade online store to find an array of Austin's talent with a wide diversity of art including screen printing, book binding, candle making, fabric art, graphic design and more, including detailed information on upcoming featured monthly artist events and the bi-weekly local Handmade Market.

Pequitobun

2009-07-08T13:00:00.001-04:00

Pequitobun is so popular that their accessories have been featured on the popular show Gossip Girl, most recently on the season finale. Taylor Momsen, who plays Jenny Humphrey, rocked the Crown Jewels necklace in the episode titled The Goodbye. Obviously the wardrobe editors really like Pequitobun's designs & it's easy to see why. The website has recently been stocked with new items, including various pairs of Victorian rocker earrings. The Summer 2009 collection is full of glamorous & exotic designs, such as the unique rock by stitch necklace. Are you a fan of Pequitobun on Facebook? Fans receive special promo codes, announcements of specials, and more.

Artists & Fleas

2009-07-08T06:00:00.002-04:00

Artists & Fleas creates weekly markets featuring emerging artists, designers, vintage collectors, and handmade crafters. Established in 2003 in Williamsburg Brooklyn, Artists & Fleas has created unique destinations for the community of artisans, collectors and cool-hunters to come together in a dynamic, vital retail setting where buyers and sellers can meet from around the world. The current markets include the Indoor Artists & Designer Market, The Vintage Market, and the Market in McCarren (May 2009).

Established in 2003, the Indoor Artist & Designer Market is a place where emerging and independent artists, designers, collectors and makers of everything handmade can showcase their wares. New vendors are always welcome so be sure to visit regularly to discover new items. Located at 129 N 6th St. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 12-8pm.

The Vintage Market, located next door to the current Artists & Fleas Indoor Market, is open Saturdays and Sundays from 12-8pm. You will find collections of furniture, clothing, housewares and decor, accessories and more.

The A & F Market in McCarren is a weekly outdoor independent artist and designer market in Brooklyn's McCarren Park in partnership with the Open Space Alliance of North Brooklyn. The Market features independent designers of clothing, jewelry, accessories and handmade crafts and includes an array of traditional and non-traditional visual artists. The Market also includes a cafe with organic, locally produced food, highlighting community non-profit partners and provides a variety of entertainment and themed weekend activities. Open Saturdays from 10am-6pm. Located in the North end of McCarren Park, adjacent to the McCarren Field House and near the year-round Saturday Green Market. (photo from Artists & Fleas website)

From Sarah, With Love

2009-07-07T13:20:00.000-04:00

From Sarah, With Love stocks a mix of funky, vintage, feminine and quirky items. Since so many people enjoy receiving picture frames, mirrors and jewelry boxes as gifts, Sarah Oren decided to start a business creating such items in a colorful, exciting way. The Colors Galore Mirror is a unique design featuring decoupaged photographs. The Shady Picture Frame is perfect for displaying your wild summer photos. The various decoupaged wood pieces incorporate pressed flowers, acrylic paint and magazine/photograph clippings. Receive 25% off one item when mentioning Funky Finds in the Notes to Seller at checkout.

Weekend Events

2009-07-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

What: The first ever Renegade Craft Fair in Los Angeles
When: July 11 & 12, 11am - 7pm
Where: California Market Center
Over 200 artists are traveling from all over the country and abroad to participate and sell their handmade goods at Renegade Craft Fair – Los Angeles.

What: The Big Crafty
When: Sunday, July 12, 12-6pm
Where: Pack Place, Asheville, NC
100 indie crafters, music, food & drink - What more does one need?

What: Texas Pottery & Sculpture Guild’s biannual “Sizzling Summer Sale”
When: July 10th, 5-9 PM & July 11th, 10 AM-4 PM
Where: Fort Worth Community Arts Center, 1300 Gendy Street
Participating artists from North Texas featuring functional and decorative artwork. Included in the activities will be a silent auction benefiting TPSG and the Emergency Artists Support League. In addition, on Friday night there will be a special “meet the artists” wine and dessert reception.

Chloe the Hot Dog & Friends

2009-07-06T01:01:00.000-04:00

Jessica DeJohn is a dog lover like myself. Her work is primarily influenced by her Dachshund Chloe, hence the name of her shop, Chloe the Hot Dog & Friends. Jessica's paintings portray adorable pooches & exude love, which I think we could all use a daily dose of. Doxie Love Floating Hearts is a fun original painting featuring two adorable tan dachshunds in love. Dachshund Love is another great love-filled piece. I also like the pieces that incorporate funky retro flowers, such as Retro Flower Doxie with Bird. And Retro Long Doxie is a super bright painting that features retro flowers ON a long Dachshund! Check out the Chloe the Doxie Love blog to see Jessica & Chloe's many adventures.

*GIVEAWAY: Enter to win an 8"x10" print of the painting titled Chloe the Dachsund. Visit Chloe the Hot Dog & Friends and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite piece. Giveaway ends at Midnight EST, Saturday, July 11.

Upcoming Events

2009-07-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

Meet Your Maker
July 3rd, 5-8 pm
The Broadway Winebar - 200 W. Broadway - Eugene, Oregon
Meet Your Maker is an indie craft show bringing Eugene the best of local handmade goods in the support of the Buy Local movement. There will be wine tasting, a raffle, and the event is held alongside the First Friday Artwalk! Open to all ages and free admission.

Chalkboard China will be debuting "Chalk it for the Cure" at the upcoming Dallas Home & Gift Market, June 24th – 30th at the Dallas Market Center. "Chalk It For the Cure" launch parties will be held in the John R Walker Showroom, World Trade Center #209. All buyers are invited to participate in "Chalk It For the Cure," by signing their name in chalk on one of Chalkboard China's new Pink Ribbon Cylinder vases, signifying their support for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and breast cancer awareness. Donations collected in the vases at the Home & Gift market will be a great start to the many dollars that Chalkboard China plans to raise. Part of the proceeds from every PINK RIBBON vase sold will go to the foundation.

About Chalkboard China: Express yourself again and again on our sleek, slate canvas. Chalkboard China is a product line founded in 2008 by Candace Neff Randolph and the creative design team at Cooper & Brinkley's. Personalize every occasion on our tabletop and home accessory pieces, finished with a tasteful black slate.

4th of July Crafts

2009-07-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

With the 4th of July on the horizon, it's time to get busy creating some great holiday crafts and decorations. Better Homes & Gardens has some great resources you are sure to love!

4th of July Crafts for kids and adults, including how to make fun flags for your home and yard.

Decorating ideas with red, white and blue color schemes for just about everything in your home.

Happy Independence Day, America!

Able Mable

2009-06-30T01:01:00.000-04:00

Leann Jurmu is a pro at finding the unusual and making it into something functional. Her talents are displayed at Able Mable, a shop full of functional, yet funky, home items. I love the bright, patterned light switch covers that will add pizazz to any room. Leann also creates lovely baby blankets available in a variety of color combos. The black, white & red blankie is fantastic! I especially love the unique signs & frames. Have Your Cake & Eat It Too would be a terrific addition to our kitchen. Of course, Dieting is Wishful Thinking could follow that one up nicely!

*GIVEAWAY: Leann is giving away one set of her funky coasters! Simply visit the Able Mable shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite item to be entered. Please leave your email address so I can contact the winner. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Sunday, July 5.

Whooga

2009-06-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

Whooga features a variety of sheepskin boots that utilize a very special grading of extremely thick and plush leathers which provide increased warmth. What I find most interesting is that the world's warmest boots are also the world's coolest. Whooga boots are even more effective at circulating cooler air during warmer days due to the natural properties of the thicker fleece they utilize. The site stocks the typical tall boots, as well as classic short and mini boots. There's also an elegance pair that is similar to the tall boot, but has increased durability and arch support for your feet. The weave boots may be my favorite design, especially the pink weave boots. And for those who really want to stand out from the crowd, check out the metallic boots! Whooga has generously offered a $30 discount to Funky Finds readers. Simply enter the code FUNKYFINDS in the promotional code box at time of check out.

Stephanie Levy

2009-06-26T14:00:00.000-04:00

Stephanie Levy is an American artist currently living in Munich, Germany. She is now selling limited-edition archival prints and fine art card sets featuring her artwork in her Etsy shop. All of Stephanie's prints and cards are printed with professional pigment inks on high-quality archival papers, ensuring that the colors will remain fresh for a lifetime. The card sets make wonderful gifts, as well as home decor when framed. I especially love the watercolor stripes set. Stephanie's brightly colored prints, such as White Sangria, are sure to liven up your home. Interior 08 is another print I'd love to have. Peek inside her studio, visit Europe, and be the first to know about shop updates and giveaways on Stephanie's blog.

Humorous Hounds

2009-06-26T06:00:00.000-04:00

Humorous Hounds showcases quirky doggie tees created by Loylee Philips. All of the shirts are limited-edition and never mass produced - the perfect thing for dogs (and owners) with a sense of humor. Our Yellow Labrador Bradley could proudly sport the tee declaring that he is a shedder. I Don't Wear Pants is an honest & humorous statement for any pooch. And, if you have a male dog, you definitely can understand the Team Red Rocket and Funny, I Have That Same Shade of Lipstick designs! A portion of all proceeds are donated to Operation Kindness, North Texas' oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter, so lighten up & give someone a good laugh today.

Dot Dot Stitch

2009-06-25T14:00:00.000-04:00

Dot Dot Stitch is Dotty Raleigh's new Etsy shop featuring her hand and machine embroidered items. Although this is a new shop, Dotty has been selling online for quite some time under the name Dottyral. The embroidered wrist cuffs are unique accessories that are available in a variety of colors & designs. I love the pink cherries cuff, as well as the linen hedgehog cuff. And the purple daisy cuff is one that will add flair to any ensemble. Dotty also creates ribbon embroidered pendants that will add a romantic touch to your wardrobe. And, if you're looking for a fun housewarming gift, check out the embroidered tea towels and aprons.

Jessica Stewart

2009-06-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

Jessica Stewart creates one of a kind jewelry that is meticulously handcrafted from top-quality materials including the highest quality stones and metals. She creates gorgeous rings, such as the Hypnotiq Martini piece, that incorporate various gemstones, in this case a Peruvian Blue Opal paired with a luxurious Freshwater Pearl. The Toffee Apple Tini is a magnificent ring featuring a deep translucent chocolate color Andalusite from Brazil paired with a faceted deep pink Tourmaline. Sterling silver wire is wrapped around this stunning color combination. This California-based artist also creates unique earrings, such as the Irish Grasshopper pair. As you can see, Jessica designs & creates wearable art that will make any woman feel beautiful.

Candylights by Jorabeel's

2009-06-24T01:01:00.000-04:00

Candylights by Jorabeel's features dipped bulbs and light strands created by Roxie Morrow. These decorative bulbs are perfect for adding a bit of light to your home year-round or to add a festive touch to any special occasion. The sugar-coated bulbs are covered in glitter to appear as though they are coated with sugar. Yummy! I love the holiday themed sets, including the 4th of July light strand American shoppers are sure to love. The 5 watt and 7 watt bulbs have been hand-dipped in tinted silicone and are delectable! Roxie even has a kids section featuring custom color combos that boys & girls alike will love. Visit the Jorabeel's blog for more information.

*GIVEAWAY: Enter for your chance to win two sets of light strands (winner's color choice)! Simply visit Candylights by Jorabeel's and leave a comment on this post noting your favorite product. Please include your email address so I can contact the winner. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Monday, June 29.

Honey Bee Gallery

2009-06-23T14:00:00.000-04:00

Honey Bee Gallery offers a well-organized and diverse selection of original, child-oriented art. Founder Joanna Hakimi is dedicated to offering the finest artwork for babies and children, none of which is mass produced or widely available. As a family therapist, Joanna works entirely with new moms and their babies & believes that art has a positive impact on an infant and child's growth and development. The artist list features many talented artists, some of which have been previously featured on Funky Finds. Caroline Blum's flower paintings, landscapes and portraits are bright and whimsical. Amy F. of 3 Lambs Design creates bright pop art perfect for any child's space. Dolan Geiman and Marnie Vollenhals are also favorites of mine. If you are unfamiliar with the artists listed on the site, you may prefer to search by style or theme. Under the instruments and music section you'll find the Monkey with Accordion piece that I love. All of the talented artists are available for commissioned work, as well.

Wearable Arf

2009-06-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

Virgie Fisher and Rachele Fisher are a mother-daughter team who share a love of dogs and fabric art. Virgie is a quilt designer and teacher whose wearable art designs have appeared often in the Bernina Fashion show. Rachele’s custom dog clothing has been featured in many luxury pet magazines. The Oklahoma-based authors have a new book out called Wearable Arf featuring 16 fabulous fashions for your darling dog. The book allows you to show off your favorite pup’s personal style with these adorably adorned outfits. Use fanciful embellishments to transform one basic vest pattern into 16 over-the-top costumes for both males and females. Eight projects include outfits for prince and princess, Hawaiian, Mexican, formal themes, cowpokes, grruffiti artists, and astromutts. The book includes full-sized templates for the basic vest pattern in sizes from XS to XL. These pieces are fun to make and even more fun to show off. See lots of great photos on the Wearable Arf Flickr photostream. What are you waiting for? Purchase this book & start creating canine couture with pooch personality!

This Week's Events

2009-06-22T14:00:00.001-04:00

The San Luis Valley Folk Arts and Fiber Festival kicks off its third year on June 23, in Monte Vista, with an exhibit of fiber artists whose work spans the globe. The SLV Fest is a celebration of the handmade and traditional arts. The opening reception for the exhibit is 5:30-7:30 PM, June 26th at the Monte Vista Information Center in historic downtown Monte Vista. The festival begins Friday, July 10 with a day of workshops in Marsh Park and an evening launch party at the Monte Vista Information Center from 6-8PM. Saturday and Sunday convene with two full days of vendors, food, music, demonstrations, exhibits and contests—including wool spinning races. Admission is free.

Paper Cowgirl, an altered art retreat, will be held in Waxahachie, Texas, June 26 & 27. The event will feature local/Texas artists & will include two days of classes, as well as vendor night on the 26th that is open to the public.

On Saturday, June 27 (Rain date: June 28) the City of Attleboro will celebrate its first annual Expo for the Senses in the center of Attleboro’s downtown district. Area artists, crafters, jewelry merchants, restaurants, caterers, performers, musicians and others will fill the streets from 12 – 6pm for this colorful, family-friendly festival. The event is open to the public – admission and parking are free. The Expo will feature over 40 artists, artisans and community members participating in the Attleboro Arts Museum’s annual Craft Fair and Art Sale. This Museum tradition offers original, hand-made creations, showcases area talent, and supports regional culture.

The Poster List

2009-06-22T06:00:00.002-04:00

The Poster List has two great specials you will want to take advantage of during the month of June. First up, they are offering a special FRAME IT! option. For just $25.99, you get a 12"x18" poster of your choice and a 12"x18" wooden frame of your choice in white, black or teak brown. Secondly, they are having a TWO for $20 special that has been extended until June 30. You can purchase two 12"x18" posters for $20. Now that is a steal!

Susan Najarian

2009-06-19T13:48:00.001-04:00

Susan Najarian is a talented artist that creates encaustic paintings. According to her bio, encaustic is from the ancient Greek word that means to heat. Susan uses digitally-manipulated photographs as her base, then transfers the image to a wood frame covered in encaustic wax. The paintings are created using many thin layers of wax that attract & refract light altering the appearance to produce the cloud like feeling of the medium. I love Pink Bike, a piece that highlights a cute retro bicycle with a basket of blue and green flowers. P.S. Love You is another wonderful painting that features a beautiful pink and orange sky with flecks of gold leaf. And White Dahlia is one that I would love to have hanging in my space!

*GIVEAWAY - Closed: Enter to win an original encaustic painting titled Early Bird. Visit Susan's Etsy shop & leave a comment on this post noting your favorite piece. Giveaway ends at Midnight CST, Tuesday, June 23.

Jitni

2009-06-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Jitni features San Francisco-based designer Cynthia Ostroff's trendy, yet affordable, jewelry and scarves. What began as Bella Accessories in 2004 is now transitioning into Jitni with expanded product offerings. The company's jewelry line features items made of nonallergenic metals, hand-dyed Italian beads, and Swarovski crystals. The Raspberry Multi-Chain Necklace is a beautiful design that incorporates various beads & crystals. I also like the bold Red Resin Circles necklace, as well as the Amethyst quartz drops. Jitni's jewelry line also includes many unique bracelets and earring sets. Another trademark of this business is the luxurious collection of scarves made from cashmere, silk, and fine knits. The Light Mistal design is my favorite!

Artfulpups

2009-06-17T14:00:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I am an extreme dog lover that loves spoiling my pooches rotten. That's why I love Artfulpups featuring Dorothy Bauer Dog Jewelry. This shop has everything you need to spoil a pup from adorable, fluffy bedding to unique & humorous toys. How funny is the plush sneaker toy? Artfulpups also has lots of great collars & leashes to choose from, such as Pup de Soleil & cool tattoo designs. And those of us that are blessed with tiny portable dogs will flip over the fantastic carriers. The Welcome Home design is fabulous! If you're looking for a gift for a pet owner you know, be sure to check out the grooming & gifts section for wonderful frames, dishes and more.