The Curious Canvas

I have featured The Curious Cake Shoppe, a great source for baby items & gifts, previously. But crafter Tania Cardenas launched a new business several months ago called The Curious Canvas featuring unique works of art. Tania says that these canvases combine her love for graphic design, photography, & textiles into one neat little package. I love that they are so quirky & unique, refreshing for those of us who need a break from things that are so serious! Sew What is the perfect addition to any craft or sewing room. And I can't help but love the swine complete with spectacles (pictured)! In her "spare" time, she also runs DFW Craft Shows, a valuable site for crafters, as well as shoppers, in the DFW area. Visit Tania, who will be showcasing both of her product lines, at the 3rd Annual Funky Finds Spring Fling in March.

Father Knows Best

Father's Day is Sunday, June 21, and we all know men can be hard to shop for. Below are a few unique gift ideas for you to peruse.

1. The BUST Boobtique has lots of unique gifts for men ranging from knitting & crochet books to tallboy koozies.

2. Cupcake Tree Designs' hand-carved tie stamp is the perfect tool to create funky Father's Day cards for all the men in your life.

3. The Brick Kiln is a wonderful source for customizable pottery. Let Dad know that he's your hero with a personalized dish.

4. Dads are sure to appreciate a custom designed keychain created by Kelly of KMW0014.

5. Show Dad that you know he's a class act with a beautiful, or should I say handsome, pair of customized cuff links from Tiny Tokens Designs.

6. Baby K'tan currently has their Camouflage Carriers marked down 25%. These make a wonderful first Father's Day gift! Offer expires June 30.

Spunky Sprout

Spunky Sprout, a site full of wonderful items for children and parents, has a great promotion currently running. Get 30% off plus free ground shipping on orders over $50 on items in the Spunky Picks section. *Discount Code spunkypicks30 (expires February 7)* The six-pack of organic wash cloths makes a great gift for new parents or for your own family. I love the humorous children's tee claiming "I'm kind of a big deal around here," too! I also want the monkey wrapping paper, although I don't think I'd be able to part with it. This section also features great items, such as books, adorable backpacks, and much more. And, of course, you should browse the rest of the site for more funky finds!

Luca Bleu

Luca Bleu has a wonderful selection of handpicked items for moms, babies, and children ranging from clothing to nursery furnishings. This is also a great place to find unique baby shower gifts as each purchase includes stylish packaging and handwritten notes. The toddler girl's clothing section is full of fabulous ensembles, such as the Autumn Street Marine Skirt that is appliquéd with vintage fabric. The Little Doe Tee is another adorable piece that any child will look adorable in. The Diapering section includes many unique products like the Pee-pee teepees & stylish wipes cases. And what little princess doesn't need some bling? The crown bling pacifier clip is too cute!

Peas & Carrots

Peas & Carrots is a great place to find baby goods, as well as items for the modern Mama. It’s hard to believe that Jessica Leman began sewing just two years ago. She creates lovely versatile handbags and the small Zippy pouch. Any nursing mom will appreciate the stylish nursing cover available in your choice of fabric. And I love the snuggly mini quilts perfect for baby shower gifts. The Tag-alongs are another fabulous design Jessica created. Next time you are in need of the perfect gift for an expectant or new mother, check out Peas & Carrots.

BellaSymphony

BellaSymphony is the place to go if you want to spoil your little one with some major cuteness! These one of a kind rockin’ and retro, stylish and hip gifts are THE thing for those little ones that deserve to stand out in the crowd. The tutus are my absolute favorite items. But there's lots of unique items for boys & girls, including customized onesies to stylish changing pads. And I'm sure any wee one would love to have a Mushroom Baby of their own! Don't miss the BellaSymphony blog where you can enter for your chance to win a $50 gift certificate.

Knot Ending

Sara of Knot Ending has been crocheting custom items since 1998. The Paci Blankets she creates are a great way for children to keep up with their beloved pacifiers. Sara also designs crocheted dress up clothes that are WASHABLE! This is great alternative to dress up clothes that are scratchy, itchy & non-washable. The Flower Cup Hat is an adorable accessory. Enter the children's goods giveaway for your chance to win a paci blanket donated by Knot Ending.

Anchovies

Shannon Phillips became fed up with infant clothing featuring phrases such as "my mom is hot" and "I'm a boob man." Shannon's graphic design background helped her develop her own products & led to her opening a baby boutique called Anchovies. The name may throw you at first, but it's fitting for a company where the small things in our lives make the biggest impression. Her apparel designs feature bright, fun graphics that will play up your child's personality & enable them to stand out among a sea of sameness. Anchovies also features handy items such as diaper totes, blankets, and bibs. And I absolutely love the "pickled to perfection" packaging that is available when ordering gifts!