Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Tuesday's Eco Chic Artist or Crafter

We get so "wrapped" up about the perfect gift to buy especially during the holiday months but do we ever stop and think about packaging and how it should be "Eco Chic" as well. Let me introduce you to Stacy from Fluffnfixings and Fluffnflowers.
She uses materials found on construction sites and plastic grocery bags to create gift bags and mailers that are not only sturdy but a unique and creative form of recycling.
She also has another great shop dedicated to plants and seeds called Fluffnflowers. She uses organic principles when creating her product and even has these wonderful 'growing kits' that come with a fun recycled/upcycled container made from used glass.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Holiday Craft Idea


Can I just say WOW.... HOW CUTE ARE THESE!
This is a project I found on Martha Stewart's site the craft is titled Dot Painted China. With the use of a template and Food-safe ceramic paint you can make these beautiful plates. You can find the stencils for this project here.

While I would love to make these for the holidays, time is not on my side so I plan to take the idea of Dot Painting or more like Monogramming and transform old bottles in to dish detergent holders to give away as gifts. A long with the bottles I plan to give some hand towels like above. What gifts do you plan on creating this year? I would love to hear your ideas...comment below.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Tuesday: "Eco Chic Artist and Crafters": Broken China Treasures

Wow....I can't believe it is Tuesday again! With grad school, work, Inspiration turn Design, and just life I have neglected my blog for a whole week! With that apology said I would like to introduce Tuesday's Eco Chic Artist: Broken China Treasures

Broken China Business Card Holder - Blue Swirls

Tanya the artist behind Broken China Treasures transforms old pieces of china, such as plates, cups, and saucers into beautiful pieces of jewelry and trinkets. Tanya finds broken china at garage sales, auctions, antique stores, flea markets and from individuals who are looking for a place to discard their broken treasures.
She creates items such as earrings, pendents, and unique business card holders. She can even design custom orders out of a piece of china you have tragically broke and can't bear to part with. So if during the holiday season you break a dish don't throw it away...send it to Tanya so she can transform your trash into a treasure.

Oriental Rose Broken China Earrings

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Tuesday: "Eco Chic Artist and Crafters" Recycled Ideas

Holly the artist behind Recycled Ideas transforms 100% post-consumer content such as used office paper, junk mail, and used envelopes into reusable paper that serves not only as a beautiful card but also paper that can be planted and grow flowers, herbs, and trees.Lavender Seeds
Holly collects seeds in the fall from plants she grows and embeds them right into the paper.
You may be wondering how you will transform the paper into a plant. Holly explains that all you have to do is wet the paper then cover it with a little bit of soil. Be sure to keep the paper damp, and it grows. So next time you are in need of a card check out Holly's Etsy Shop, Recycled Ideas and give someone more than just a piece of paper.

Monday, November 10, 2008

Ideas for Christmas

It is not too early to start my exploration into holiday crafts for friend and family. Many sites offer great ideas for gifts that are easy on the wallet and add a personal touch. Here is one Idea I am looking into for the holidays A No SEW Jersey Scarf.Find the directions at Altered ClothYou can even use the measurements given and found fabric laying around your house to create a patchwork scarf like the one below from Sew, Mama, Sew who not only created a great example of a patchwork scarf but a great tutorial as well.


Where Have I been?

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

VOTE: Don't Throw that STICKER AWAY

So who today waited in those long lines to VOTE!!! I hope everyone...either today or during early voting. Well a few companies thought that your efforts are well worth it and are giving away freebies just for voting. Don't throw that "I Voted" Sticker away!
Ben and Jerry's: Free Scoop of Ice cream 5pm-8pm
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts: Free Doughnut

Starbucks: Free Cup of Coffee





This is just a sampling and if you want to find more just GOGGLE "Free Election Day Giveaways"

Tuesday: "Eco Chic Artist and Crafters" re:Vision

Marissa and Amanda, the artists behind re:Vision Design, have a unique and creative talent to transform materials that would end up in the landfills into something chic. They create everything from coasters out of plastic bags to bowls out of old records. They are taking on the "go green" movement with style. Be sure to visit their shop on Etsy (a site dedicated to handmade goods) where their recycled and re purposed items are for sale. If you are looking for a fun pair of earrings to wear out for the night or a "green" gift for a friend you will be surely find something in their shop.