Etsy Finds: Art for your home

I have just discovered Etsy , the online indie artist/craftster community dedicated to showcasing hand-made works that users can admire and buy directly from. I spent hours pouring over their housewares, toys, and illustrative art sections. A win-win situation I think and since most of these folks are working small scale, alot of care and attention are dedicated to the pieces, most are very affordable! Thumbs up to that. Plus, it was pretty addictive being able to bookmark my favorites and see lists of favorite items other artists made on Etsy.

So, for most young people, like myself, who find themselves living on their own and wanting something to brighten their rental digs but are on a budget, here's a place where you can buy affordable pieces of original art (or prints). Here's a few that I'd like to brighten up my room (saving myself the paint job for my first real place).


Doughnut Girl Print , by theblackapple, $13


Little Enid Print by theblackapple, $13 (sold out)


Japanese Monsters Print , by themonstergallery, $3.80


Mutant Fawn Print , by themonstergallery, $3.80


Moulin Rouge Fashion Print, by aussiepatches, $12


Vintage Deer by aussiepatches, $90


Secretary Drama Print, by menta, $15

Say hello to Moo

Want to distinguish yourself from the masses? Try Moo, the upstart web 2.0 company that prints mini business cards customized by your photographs..individually. How incredible is that? 100 cards, 100 different ways to show your artwork. Use it to showcase your portfolio, make new acquaintances, send invitations, trade'em with someone else. Brilliant. The Moo folks have a Flickr group that folks have uploaded photos of their cards (so far over 5,000) to be seen and admired at Moo Minicards, click and get inspired.
The cards measure about 2.75 inches wide and 1 inch tall. Order 100 cards for $19.99 plus $4.99 shipping.
Love it, love it, love it. PS: Just found out San Francisco Chronicle wrote about the Moo company and founder, read more here

Marimekko in Miami

I've always liked Marimekko and its timeless designs. Marimekko is a personal design choice that says to people: I am bright! Poppy! Fun + Modern!
It stays fresh and timeless and is a perfect fit for where I live.
Which is why I'm looking forward to visiting Marimekko's second concept store in Miami: Marimekko Miami on South Beach. It will be a welcomed addition to the Miami design decor scene as Miami has tons of posh Euro decor shops (pricey, mainly aimed at interior decorators) but Marimekko will, at least, offer its fabrics so I can buy'em and do my own DIY projects (hello, stapler gun!).


Here's a trio of eye candy:


Appelsiini line, designed by Maija Isola and Kristina Isola
If this isn't an ode to my home state! I see this pattern for a girl who isn't afraid of being exuberant and punchy. I love this fabric pattern, it's perfect for the summer, has a bit of sunny cheer, and I like the slight irregularity of the print design, gives it that organic feel to it. It just makes me want to do a cha-cha around my kitchen (preferably with the apron on and lovely pitcher, below, in hand).





Next up:



Neilikka line, designed by Fujiwo Ishimoto
Now this pattern design is for a person who's a bit more demure and pretty. "Vintage chic" comes to mind. A little saccharine but I think this has an updated retro appeal that I could pass on to my fellow (grand) daughter, years away. I love the teacups (in both hues, bright and dark) and the table cloths. I am seeing garden parties and Sunday brunches here.






Something a bit more understated/evening-like.



Aukusti line, original design by Erja Hirvi
This pattern is for those who like a slightly more minimal graphic (by Marimekko standards). The turquoise and dark brown combination is very "now." and could work for both sexes. "Dinner party with friends" vibe. If I feel a bit wacky to say, "Metropolitan" meets "Folksy" graphics?


Stay posted when I post up a boutique review of Marimekko Miami. And, if you can't hit up Marimekko Miami, you can always browse Marimekko online. Photos courtesy of Marimekko Miami, Marimekko

Happy (Pre) Father's Day!

Dads get no respect. This year, tell your dad he's really King of the House with this excellent, gilded trophy. When he opens up the box, you can start a sing-and-dance with "For he's a jolly good fellow, for he's a jolly good fellooooooowwww...that nobody can't deny!" What a self-esteem booster! At least, I think so.
Perfect for his office or home. Fred Flare, $12



This shirt is just a great gift for the man in your life, whether it be your significant other, bachelor brother, or dad (if he's got a healthy sense of humor!). The look on the male model is priceless. Fred Flare, $24.

Father's Day falls on June 17th.