tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-323518652024-03-23T11:17:12.934-07:00Design*Sponge Guest Blogdesign*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.comBlogger253125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-64030189050215399432007-04-21T19:46:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:20.236-08:00San Francisco Sources.<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqNsmx_QpI/AAAAAAAACXI/Iy5V1gxVJqs/s1600-h/yada.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqNsmx_QpI/AAAAAAAACXI/Iy5V1gxVJqs/s400/yada.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056009329140777618" border="0" /></a> •timeless treasures•<br /><br /></div>As promised, here are a bunch of my favorite spots around San Francisco that I like to shop and some places I just like to spend timing visiting. Most are boutiques and vintage shops I'd much rather frequent than the giant and dreaded mall-o-generic. Over in my own Pacific Heights neighborhood, I always visit <a href="http://www.timelesstreasuressf.com/"> Timeless Treasures</a> for vintage letters and unique gifts. This place is what I like to call 'Alphabet City' and owner Joan is a wonderful hostess. I also love <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/"> Paper Source</a> when I'm jones-ing for cool stationary, beautiful cards, ribbon and wrapping papers. <a href="http://www.zincdetails.com/"> Zinc Details</a> has super hip accessories for your home and they also continue to rotate local artists' work on their walls, which I always love seeing. It's like shopping in your favorite local art gallery.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL22x_QlI/AAAAAAAACWo/LUON1aqMP2o/s1600-h/paper+store.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 350px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL22x_QlI/AAAAAAAACWo/LUON1aqMP2o/s400/paper+store.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056007306211181138" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL22x_QnI/AAAAAAAACW4/GYCrGmzUFCY/s1600-h/zinc.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 278px; height: 372px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL22x_QnI/AAAAAAAACW4/GYCrGmzUFCY/s400/zinc.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056007306211181170" border="0" /></a> • zinc details•<br /></div><br />Over on Polk Street, from Filbert to Sacramento Streets. there's a batch of lovely new shops popping up, as well as my favorite old standards. <a href="http://sf.ruggedelegance.com/places/333.html"> Swallowtail</a> being one of the latter, carries the most unique vintage furniture and accessories around. If I owned a shop, this would be it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMmx_QjI/AAAAAAAACWY/WkyqwNO94Zo/s1600-h/SWALLOWTAIL.0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMmx_QjI/AAAAAAAACWY/WkyqwNO94Zo/s400/SWALLOWTAIL.0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055998883780313650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirGgmx_Q5I/AAAAAAAACZI/Dr1afkEdSCQ/s1600-h/swallowtail***.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirGgmx_Q5I/AAAAAAAACZI/Dr1afkEdSCQ/s400/swallowtail***.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056071795145130898" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"> •swallowtail•<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.mascaravintage.com/">Mascara Vintage</a>, <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/pNpZSZSVxk0MS_ix8lqwlQ?utm_campaign=local&utm_medium=organic&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;hrid=dWFx1TUrJCxYUkXotviFLA&utm_source=google">Picnic</a> and <a href="http://sanfrancisco.citysearch.com/profile/32840828/san_francisco_ca/belle_cose.html"> Bella Cose</a> all have great vintage clothing and home accessories. They're all small, mom & pop type shops that carry local designers' new work as well as cool flea market finds, which is my favorite kind of business to support.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMWx_QgI/AAAAAAAACWA/9qlqIQXTEUY/s1600-h/MASCARA+SIGN.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMWx_QgI/AAAAAAAACWA/9qlqIQXTEUY/s400/MASCARA+SIGN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055998879485346306" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL22x_QmI/AAAAAAAACWw/4Mj0qmTJYks/s1600-h/picnic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL22x_QmI/AAAAAAAACWw/4Mj0qmTJYks/s400/picnic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056007306211181154" border="0" /></a> •picnic•<br /></div><br />Just over the hill in North Beach (our own <span style="font-style: italic;">Little Italy</span>) is the one of a kind shop <a href="http://sanfrancisco.citysearch.com/profile/917814/san_francisco_ca/aria.html"> Aria</a>. They carry just about everything you never knew you were looking for. Owner Bill Haskell rounds up the coolest, and the oddest of oddities and there's usually some melancholy French music drifting in the air. This is just a wonderful old shop to linger in after a cappuccino at one of the many Italian cafes nearby.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMWx_QfI/AAAAAAAACV4/jDBLLTY93u8/s1600-h/aria.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMWx_QfI/AAAAAAAACV4/jDBLLTY93u8/s400/aria.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055998879485346290" border="0" /></a>•aria•<br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.raedunn.com/"> Rae Dunn's</a> wonderful ceramics can be seen in the ceramic gallery <a href="http://www.verdigrisgallery.com/"> Verdigris</a> that she co-owns and operates, located in San Francisco's infamous Cannery Building. I love her simple and very modern zen looking pottery work.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMmx_QiI/AAAAAAAACWQ/DuESAeypL1M/s1600-h/rae.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqEMmx_QiI/AAAAAAAACWQ/DuESAeypL1M/s400/rae.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055998883780313634" border="0" /></a>•rae dunn•<br /><br /></div>Over in always hopping <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/traveler/guide/sf/neighborhoods/hayesvalley.shtml"> Hayes Valley</a> there's some great little boutique shops I frequent. <a href="http://www.shoplavish.com/"> Lavish</a>, <a href="http://www.flight001.com/store/index.htm?SID"> Flight 001</a>, <a href="http://store.shop-friend-sf.com/"> Friend</a> and <a href="http://www.roseandradish.com/"> Rose and Radish</a> are all really great for gifts, unique art and fun decor finds. For vintage and funky furniture I stop in <a href="http://www.zonalhome.com/"> Zonal</a>, and always <a href="http://www.propellermodern.com/"> Propeller</a> for beautiful modern furniture, lighting and accessories and also because the owners love to feature emerging designers (and they're also really nice!). <a href="http://www.alabastersf.com/"> Alabaster</a> is just plain gorgeous eye candy everywhere you look.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riqrdmx_QwI/AAAAAAAACYA/PUp9aTrbaZE/s1600-h/lavish2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riqrdmx_QwI/AAAAAAAACYA/PUp9aTrbaZE/s400/lavish2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056042056791573250" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqNsmx_QqI/AAAAAAAACXQ/4jwoo8ZWW_8/s1600-h/alabaster.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqNsmx_QqI/AAAAAAAACXQ/4jwoo8ZWW_8/s400/alabaster.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056009329140777634" border="0" /></a>•alabaster•<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL2mx_QkI/AAAAAAAACWg/h7Ru1RW8F0E/s1600-h/friend.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqL2mx_QkI/AAAAAAAACWg/h7Ru1RW8F0E/s400/friend.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056007301916213826" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">•And some must-sees off the beaten path•<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.antiquesbybay.com/"> The Alameda Flea Market</a> • It happens every first Sunday of the Month. It's huge, so wear your comfy shoes, dress in layers and have some of the kettle korn they serve there. It's really good. But, bring your own cup of coffee-to-go. That's just me being truthful - do not wait in the coffee line while many of the treasures to be found pass you by. It's just not up to par with the stuff here waiting to be seen and grabbed. Half of my apartment is furnished from here and there are some really good bargains to be found. I hardly ever miss this flea market and I never wait in the coffee line.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riqrdmx_QxI/AAAAAAAACYI/D_JkUTZHpjU/s1600-h/sign.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riqrdmx_QxI/AAAAAAAACYI/D_JkUTZHpjU/s400/sign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056042056791573266" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqrdWx_QtI/AAAAAAAACXo/kLhq6cFE_M4/s1600-h/alameda.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqrdWx_QtI/AAAAAAAACXo/kLhq6cFE_M4/s400/alameda.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056042052496605906" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqrdWx_QuI/AAAAAAAACXw/s0O34yujWJQ/s1600-h/flea.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqrdWx_QuI/AAAAAAAACXw/s0O34yujWJQ/s400/flea.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056042052496605922" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirCgmx_Q1I/AAAAAAAACYo/R0cWOdHJ09k/s1600-h/DSC01716.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirCgmx_Q1I/AAAAAAAACYo/R0cWOdHJ09k/s400/DSC01716.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056067397098619730" border="0" /></a>• alameda flea market •<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqsDGx_QyI/AAAAAAAACYQ/5XBQiut5_og/s1600-h/trolley.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiqsDGx_QyI/AAAAAAAACYQ/5XBQiut5_og/s400/trolley.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056042701036667682" border="0" /></a>Take one of the old trolleys to the <a href="http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/">The Ferry Building Marketplace</a>. This historical San Francisco landmark built in 1898 was the gateway to every immigrants' and sailors' arrival in San Francisco. It has now been converted into a gourmet's paradise. Wine tasting, amazing <a href="http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/ciao_bella_gelato.php"> Ciao Bella Gelato</a>, fresh fruits and vegetables, a meat market, the <a href="http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/cowgirl_creamery.php"> Cowgirl Creamery</a> for the best cheese on the planet, <a href="http://www.slanteddoor.com/"> The Slanted Door</a> for the best Vietnamese food ever, gorgeous pastries and cupcakes at <a href="http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/miette.php"> Miette</a> and killer fish tacos and tamales at <a href="http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/mijita.php"> Mijita</a>. It also hosts a local Farmer's Market every Saturday and Tuesday afternoon. It's a really fun afternoon of tasting, eating and I find it always inspires me to hunt for the best and freshest ingredients to take home and prepare my own favorite dishes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirCg2x_Q3I/AAAAAAAACY4/mUA7WnVhEbA/s1600-h/port+sign.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirCg2x_Q3I/AAAAAAAACY4/mUA7WnVhEbA/s400/port+sign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056067401393587058" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirCg2x_Q2I/AAAAAAAACYw/FXKFEfbZ2XU/s1600-h/farmermine.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RirCg2x_Q2I/AAAAAAAACYw/FXKFEfbZ2XU/s400/farmermine.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056067401393587042" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riq8S2x_QzI/AAAAAAAACYY/ez97gaTyKJA/s1600-h/ferry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riq8S2x_QzI/AAAAAAAACYY/ez97gaTyKJA/s400/ferry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056060563805651762" border="0" /></a>• san francisco ferry building marketplace •<br /></div><br />Lastly, just take a walk anywhere in San Francisco, as it is a city for walking (it's only 7 miles x 7 miles). Maybe start on Russian Hill for beautiful views of the entire bay from the Golden Gate to Tiburon to Berkeley and beyond. From there stroll on down <a href="http://www.noehill.com/sf/russian/default.asp"> Macondray Lane</a>. This the famous lane in Armistead Maupin's <a href="http://imdb.com/title/tt0106148/"> Tales of the City</a>, one of the original indie films (Parker Posey & Laura Linney are both in it) based on decandent life in 1976 San Francisco. A good one to watch before visiting, for the clothes and hair if nothing else.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riqrdmx_QvI/AAAAAAAACX4/2C_8Lfx_vd0/s1600-h/macondray+lane.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Riqrdmx_QvI/AAAAAAAACX4/2C_8Lfx_vd0/s400/macondray+lane.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056042056791573234" border="0" /></a>• macondray lane •<br /></div><br />It's been so much fun being here. Thanks again Grace for having me and your warm hospitality. I hope you'll all visit San Francisco soon, and if you do I'll hear you had a great time visiting these favorites of mine. And trust me, skip Fisherman's Wharf. You'll be a much better visitor for it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">xo, Victoria<br /><a href="http://sfgirlbybay.blogspot.com/"> sfgirlbybay</a><br /><br /></div>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-27148705095861490372007-04-20T22:00:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:20.584-08:00Almost at the end.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RimYvWx_QYI/AAAAAAAACVA/vRX3LAeQfmA/s1600-h/294833110_84e95e1dc4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RimYvWx_QYI/AAAAAAAACVA/vRX3LAeQfmA/s400/294833110_84e95e1dc4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055739996036612482" border="0" /></a>Since I'm winding down here on my guest posts at <a href="http://www2.blogger.com/your%20link%20here"> Design*Sponge</a>, I thought I'd leave you all with my gratitude for all the lovely comments you posted and a bit of a source list of my favorite San Francisco haunts (in addition to the ones I've previously told you about). I've had a fabulous two weeks here, and wish I had time to post more (damn that 9-5 job!). I am so honored to have been invited by Grace. She really is my design blog hero.<br /><br />I hope y'all will visit San Francisco one day and when you do, stay away from Fisherman's Wharf. Instead visit some of the places I will post for you tomorrow. I think you'll find they have a much better San Francisco vibe than any tourist trap could ever give you. It's a wonderful place to live, and to visit. Should you ever plan a trip here, feel free to write me and let me know what you seek. I'll be glad to help. Look for this post tomorrow. I had every intention of posting tonight, but I need more time to give you the list San Francisco, and you, deserve. <br />xo, Victoria (aka <a href="http://sfgirlbybay.blogspot.com/">sfgirlbybay</a>)design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-78193303919150566282007-04-19T21:51:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:27.646-08:00Behold Art.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihFg2x_QPI/AAAAAAAACT4/Fs85IE9UFTw/s1600-h/evan+quigley.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihFg2x_QPI/AAAAAAAACT4/Fs85IE9UFTw/s400/evan+quigley.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055367012486693106" border="0" /></a>One of my favorite resources for inexpensive, yet wonderful and unique artwork is the online art gallery, <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/"> The Beholder</a>. San Francisco-based curator, creator Suzanne Shade is one of the most soft-spoken, artistic and lovely people you'd ever want to meet. She and I met just about a year ago working on a pro-bono photo exhibit project together and have been fast friends ever since. I completely admire Suzanne's efforts to share the work of various emerging artists on her <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/dyn.php/shop/browse_products.html"> site</a>, her philosophy being to bring artists and collectors together online, outside the traditional gallery system. These are artists seeking to connect with a larger audience; and collectors seeking new artists. A natural connection.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmWx_QII/AAAAAAAACTA/Iu1_5M-Nrjw/s1600-h/AS_06.4030.03_A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmWx_QII/AAAAAAAACTA/Iu1_5M-Nrjw/s400/AS_06.4030.03_A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055364907952717954" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmmx_QJI/AAAAAAAACTI/5WqCdgyGglk/s1600-h/corey.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmmx_QJI/AAAAAAAACTI/5WqCdgyGglk/s400/corey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055364912247685266" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/">The Beholder</a> represents a wide range of reasonable priced mediums including <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/dyn.php/shop/browse_products.html?category=4"> photography</a>, <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/dyn.php/shop/browse_products.html?category=3"> drawings</a> and <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/dyn.php/shop/browse_products.html?category=2"> paintings</a>, for first time collectors and those looking to make additions to their growing collections. If you're feeling trepidatious about putting your foot in the collectors' world, they offer seven day trial periods, a brilliant idea Suzanne had, so you can view the art in your surroundings and see how it feels at home.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihD72x_QMI/AAAAAAAACTg/U36Qr02QmZs/s1600-h/julia+borda.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihD72x_QMI/AAAAAAAACTg/U36Qr02QmZs/s400/julia+borda.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055365277319905474" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihD72x_QNI/AAAAAAAACTo/6mgd9Qo_LXM/s1600-h/katy+horan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihD72x_QNI/AAAAAAAACTo/6mgd9Qo_LXM/s400/katy+horan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055365277319905490" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihD8Gx_QOI/AAAAAAAACTw/JQno3q5QFBc/s1600-h/KO_Fivefingers_A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihD8Gx_QOI/AAAAAAAACTw/JQno3q5QFBc/s400/KO_Fivefingers_A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055365281614872802" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://chdmag.com/">California Home & Design</a> magazine did a lovely write up on <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/"> The Beholder</a> back in November. In the article, I really related to how Suzanne described the intimidating feeling one can get from gallery owners on first-time art buying trips. It's this philosophy that inspired Suzanne to create <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/"> The Beholder</a> online gallery. A place to get your feet wet, learn more about your personal taste in art, and discover some great talent that may have not yet made it to gallery walls. And, all at affordable prices for first time collectors. She provides a fabulous online resource for us newbies to the art buying world.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmmx_QKI/AAAAAAAACTQ/63gsfqbu1wM/s1600-h/ID_dingman_A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmmx_QKI/AAAAAAAACTQ/63gsfqbu1wM/s400/ID_dingman_A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055364912247685282" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmmx_QLI/AAAAAAAACTY/XhANe69vOaI/s1600-h/jennifer+davis.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RihDmmx_QLI/AAAAAAAACTY/XhANe69vOaI/s400/jennifer+davis.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055364912247685298" border="0" /></a><br />To see more of <a href="http://www.beholder-art.com/"> The Beholder's</a> new artists and get occasional updates, sign up for Suzanne's mailing list.design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-79820801913953067102007-04-19T07:38:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:30.567-08:00The Mission.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiduNmx_PlI/AAAAAAAACOo/1x6igXDPOBc/s1600-h/mission+theater.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiduNmx_PlI/AAAAAAAACOo/1x6igXDPOBc/s400/mission+theater.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055130286774238802" border="0" /></a>Like a lot of cities, San Francisco has its <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/traveler/guide/sf/neighborhoods/mission_dolval.shtml"> neighborhoods</a>, each one reflecting its own unique personality. There's quite a lot of diversity from one <a href="http://www.mustseesanfrancisco.com/images/san-francisco-attractions.gif"> neighborhood</a> to the next here, and just after traveling a few blocks, it sometimes feels as though you're visiting another town, which I just love. Some days you just ask yourself what you're in the mood for and go.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid2n2x_PuI/AAAAAAAACPw/VREtPWD2GnA/s1600-h/TACOS.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid2n2x_PuI/AAAAAAAACPw/VREtPWD2GnA/s400/TACOS.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055139533838827234" border="0" /></a><br />If it's a lazy Saturday and you're not quite not up to the whole wash, blow dry, and getting all gussied up bit, you might head south, over to The <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/traveler/guide/sf/neighborhoods/mission.shtml"> Mission</a>, where things are a bit grittier, and it's probably somewhat cool to look like you just rolled out of bed. It's got wonderful old, colorful and vibrant Victorians, funky shops, corner fruits and vegetable grocers and it's full of Latino culture. It's one of my favorite neighborhoods for its food, nightlife and especially thrift shops.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6GWx_PwI/AAAAAAAACQA/qGopkJa1CB8/s1600-h/pink.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6GWx_PwI/AAAAAAAACQA/qGopkJa1CB8/s400/pink.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055143356359720706" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6GWx_PxI/AAAAAAAACQI/9pOu-PM5uy8/s1600-h/sky.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6GWx_PxI/AAAAAAAACQI/9pOu-PM5uy8/s400/sky.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055143356359720722" border="0" /></a>In the Mission I have three favorite stops (four, if you count <a href="http://www.burritoeater.com/restaurant.php?taqueria_id=126"> Taqueria San Francisco</a> for the most excellent and cheap burrito ever). I always hit <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/yYjK-0PF7ffJvLkCTTvWbg"> The Apartment</a>, <a href="http://www.x21modern.com/"> X21 Modern</a> and <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/ahE5tXqNjAEzUdVIGVelsg"> Thriftown</a>. Yes, Thriftown.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiduNWx_PkI/AAAAAAAACOg/PhKwaGAQLTY/s1600-h/graffiti.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiduNWx_PkI/AAAAAAAACOg/PhKwaGAQLTY/s400/graffiti.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055130282479271490" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/yYjK-0PF7ffJvLkCTTvWbg">The Apartment</a>, run by partners Lann Ballard and Lino Beles, is a funky second-hand furniture shop featuring lots of vintage-modern, mid-century pieces at really reasonable prices. The partners are super nice and they just might bargain a bit if you're nice, too. I scored this great end table I found there for a steal. There's lots of wonderful old portrait paintings, vintage postcards, accessories and kitschy finds.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid8w2x_P0I/AAAAAAAACQg/IqdatD0yxt8/s1600-h/apartment.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid8w2x_P0I/AAAAAAAACQg/IqdatD0yxt8/s400/apartment.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055146285527416642" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6Gmx_PzI/AAAAAAAACQY/i0Aqb6szHyY/s1600-h/table.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6Gmx_PzI/AAAAAAAACQY/i0Aqb6szHyY/s400/table.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055143360654688050" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6F2x_PvI/AAAAAAAACP4/I91kQc7eN0A/s1600-h/apt+shop.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6F2x_PvI/AAAAAAAACP4/I91kQc7eN0A/s400/apt+shop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055143347769786098" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RidvzWx_PpI/AAAAAAAACPI/kQLd7Vk-eg8/s1600-h/RED+TILED+COFFEE+TABLE.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RidvzWx_PpI/AAAAAAAACPI/kQLd7Vk-eg8/s400/RED+TILED+COFFEE+TABLE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055132034825928338" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.x21modern.com/"> X21 Modern</a> is just as funky, but a bit pricier, mostly because they carry some really, beautiful collectible vintage-modern furniture. But I head on down to the basement, where piled high amongst a ton of furniture, lamps, dressers and who knows what else, are some real gems. On my last visit to <a href="http://www.x21modern.com/"> X21</a>, they were playing the theme music from Disneyland's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Disneys-Haunted-Mansion-Original-Soundtrack/dp/B0001HDK36"> Haunted Mansion</a> and I was in Heaven. Talk about a flashback - my parents furniture everywhere and then that music! You can also tour their inventory <a href="http://www2.blogger.com/%20http://sultana.1stdibs.com/search.php"> online</a> by category.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6Gmx_PyI/AAAAAAAACQQ/J6N53qufMDI/s1600-h/x21.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rid6Gmx_PyI/AAAAAAAACQQ/J6N53qufMDI/s400/x21.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055143360654688034" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridy72x_PsI/AAAAAAAACPg/gXCYmtdHHHM/s1600-h/x21+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridy72x_PsI/AAAAAAAACPg/gXCYmtdHHHM/s400/x21+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055135479389699778" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridy72x_PtI/AAAAAAAACPo/1ZwClRi89e8/s1600-h/x21+chair.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridy72x_PtI/AAAAAAAACPo/1ZwClRi89e8/s400/x21+chair.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055135479389699794" border="0" /></a><br />Ah, and then there's <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/ahE5tXqNjAEzUdVIGVelsg"> Thriftown</a>. What a gem. Pretty much a down and dirty thrift shop, but hey, you've gotta work for your treasures sometimes. This neighborhood, the corner of Mission and 17th Street, is a tad edgy, unless of course you like hookers and drug dealers with your bargains. But, it is a fun adventure and has two giant floors of everything from vintage clothing, to turntables, to some pretty great furniture finds and home accessories. I saw this vintage modern lounge chair for ten dollars (granted it needed cushions, but for ten dollars, no problem) and got six of these fun chartreuse dishes for a dollar! I'm not going to lie, it kind of smells like moth balls in <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/ahE5tXqNjAEzUdVIGVelsg"> Thriftown</a>, and you're going to need to dig, but trust me, there are some good finds here.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridvzmx_PqI/AAAAAAAACPQ/vnsGsDWBhVA/s1600-h/thrift+town.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridvzmx_PqI/AAAAAAAACPQ/vnsGsDWBhVA/s400/thrift+town.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055132039120895650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RidvzGx_PnI/AAAAAAAACO4/R1fHC0atiR0/s1600-h/green+dishes.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RidvzGx_PnI/AAAAAAAACO4/R1fHC0atiR0/s400/green+dishes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055132030530961010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RidvzGx_PoI/AAAAAAAACPA/ckq2w3JXH9g/s1600-h/chair+10.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RidvzGx_PoI/AAAAAAAACPA/ckq2w3JXH9g/s400/chair+10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055132030530961026" border="0" /></a><br />And over on Valencia Street, one block west of Mission, it's just a cornucopia of vintage, thrift and modern furniture stores (not to mention the clothes and shoe shops). There's <a href="http://www.ae-home.com/"> Architectural Elements</a> for new furnishings and accessories; <a href="http://paxton-gate.com/"> Paxton Gate</a> which carries really cool garden and architectural elements and fragments, like moldings, fretwork pieces, urns and columns; the ultra-hip <a href="http://monument.1stdibs.com/search.php"> Monument</a>, which stocks extremely hard to find pieces of vintage furniture in pristine condition (like these below) and <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/_85o4z6HdO0LOLvSJ-wo8w"> Therapy</a> with both clothing and cool furniture finds and modern kitsch.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridy7mx_PrI/AAAAAAAACPY/m-d5Pal61-U/s1600-h/moument.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Ridy7mx_PrI/AAAAAAAACPY/m-d5Pal61-U/s400/moument.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055135475094732466" border="0" /></a>I hope I've shared the flavor and feeling of The Mission. It's not on most tour guides, but it's not to be missed if you like getting the real feel of a city and its culture.design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-38023330239407580272007-04-18T23:03:00.000-07:002007-04-18T23:05:58.375-07:00Pardon no posts.Blogger is running amok tonight and the photos have gone haywire. I have new posts ready to go, and as soon as Blogger straightens itself out, I'll be back up.design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-86861256125993130552007-04-18T00:05:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:33.742-08:00San Francisco Ceramics.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmfqGXn7I/AAAAAAAACL4/kgnfwpBlUDE/s1600-h/BOWL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmfqGXn7I/AAAAAAAACL4/kgnfwpBlUDE/s400/BOWL.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054629219600408498" border="0" /></a>Ceramics and graphic artist <a href="http://www.dianafayt.com/"> Diana Fayt</a> is one of my favorite San Francisco talents. Moving to San Francisco in the early nineties, like many artists Diana made her way as a server, at <a href="http://www.fireflyrestaurant.com/index.html"> Firefly</a> restaurant (another San Francisco favorite not to be missed) for a decade, while experimenting with her printmaking and ceramics, culminating in the beautiful work she creates today.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqdDb1mdI/AAAAAAAACnw/HjzEfQSjdYE/s1600-h/LITTLE+CUPS.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqdDb1mdI/AAAAAAAACnw/HjzEfQSjdYE/s400/LITTLE+CUPS.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054633572908243410" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqdTb1meI/AAAAAAAACn4/VvSlepYFfEI/s1600-h/VASE.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqdTb1meI/AAAAAAAACn4/VvSlepYFfEI/s400/VASE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054633577203210722" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqdTb1mfI/AAAAAAAACoA/Imyjvgt5PsY/s1600-h/VASE2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqdTb1mfI/AAAAAAAACoA/Imyjvgt5PsY/s400/VASE2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054633577203210738" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWm46GXoBI/AAAAAAAACMo/orjRgnjsYCo/s1600-h/PLATTER.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWm46GXoBI/AAAAAAAACMo/orjRgnjsYCo/s400/PLATTER.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054629653392105490" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.dianafayt.com/">Diana</a> has also been venturing into the world of graphics and illustration on and off for the past few years, most recently creating a gorgeous 2007 calendar printed on Japanese paper, which was featured in the December issue of <a href="http://www.dominomag.com/"> Domino</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWm4qGXoAI/AAAAAAAACMg/Xe4jzdz1BrM/s1600-h/CALENDAR.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWm4qGXoAI/AAAAAAAACMg/Xe4jzdz1BrM/s400/CALENDAR.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054629649097138178" border="0" /></a><br />Each year <a href="http://www.dianafayt.com/ceramics/bowls1.html"> Diana</a> gravitates towards different colors and color combinations, but also stands by her old favorites. This year it seems to be all about green, orange, and red, a much brighter palette than we're used to from Diana, but I quite like it. But then, I like all her work!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqczb1mcI/AAAAAAAACno/9ZrCLCE7E8w/s1600-h/DIANA1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RiWqczb1mcI/AAAAAAAACno/9ZrCLCE7E8w/s400/DIANA1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054633568613276098" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmDKGXn3I/AAAAAAAACLY/kIF3DCpSphQ/s1600-h/GREEN.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmDKGXn3I/AAAAAAAACLY/kIF3DCpSphQ/s400/GREEN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054628729974136690" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmDaGXn5I/AAAAAAAACLo/0WNLAV-q_rg/s1600-h/ORANGE+BOWL3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmDaGXn5I/AAAAAAAACLo/0WNLAV-q_rg/s400/ORANGE+BOWL3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054628734269104018" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmDqGXn6I/AAAAAAAACLw/WalRGH9ArPo/s1600-h/RED+BOWL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmDqGXn6I/AAAAAAAACLw/WalRGH9ArPo/s400/RED+BOWL.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054628738564071330" border="0" /></a>To keep up with <a href="http://www.dianafayt.com/"> Diana's</a> newest work, gallery exhibits and workshops, drop in at her blog, <a href="http://www.oneblackbird.blogspot.com/"> One Black Bird</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmf6GXn8I/AAAAAAAACMA/pEhcayvPrdM/s1600-h/BOWLS2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiWmf6GXn8I/AAAAAAAACMA/pEhcayvPrdM/s400/BOWLS2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054629223895375810" border="0" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-37395156423691585462007-04-17T01:56:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:36.210-08:00Nesting Instinct.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbdqGXnsI/AAAAAAAACKA/ArPd-zggWdM/s1600-h/NEST+SIGN.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbdqGXnsI/AAAAAAAACKA/ArPd-zggWdM/s400/NEST+SIGN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265246891876034" border="0" /></a>Depending on how you look at it, it's either really fantastic, or a dreaded curse to live as close as I do to the <a href="http://www.fillmoreshop.com/"> Fillmore Street Shopping District</a>. There are so many lovely local boutiques on this block that one could presumably shop from dawn to dusk and stop in between for coffee ten times, eat a few meals and never hit the same cafe or shop twice. I kid you not. And one of my very favorite haunts is <a href="http://www.fillmoreshop.com/pages/nest.html"> Nest</a>. Nest is quite like a French Flea Market with a little Moroccan Street Market thrown in for good measure. Lots of fun ethnic looking accessories with loads of unique flair.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRb0aGXnxI/AAAAAAAACKo/tXQI1kQ30gg/s1600-h/nest7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRb0aGXnxI/AAAAAAAACKo/tXQI1kQ30gg/s400/nest7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265637733900050" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRb0qGXnyI/AAAAAAAACKw/I_azE6Eeb94/s1600-h/nest8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRb0qGXnyI/AAAAAAAACKw/I_azE6Eeb94/s400/nest8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265642028867362" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.fillmoreshop.com/pages/nest.html">Nest</a> has the most beautiful vintage furnishings and accessories, gorgeous glassware, soaps and candles, colorful, bohemian and luxurious bedding, pillows and throws of French, Moroccan, Indian, Chinese ethnic styles. If you've got an eclectic eye, you'll love visiting this shop. Although it's not inexpensive, just wandering around you're sure to gain inspiration, and there's always a few lovely things I find I can afford.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRdYaGXnzI/AAAAAAAACK4/qm5xRgM-48s/s1600-h/nest%2Bwindow.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRdYaGXnzI/AAAAAAAACK4/qm5xRgM-48s/s400/nest%2Bwindow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054267355720818482" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRdYaGXn0I/AAAAAAAACLA/_xQmIP13K5c/s1600-h/nest12.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRdYaGXn0I/AAAAAAAACLA/_xQmIP13K5c/s400/nest12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054267355720818498" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRdYqGXn1I/AAAAAAAACLI/yKzmrf4wJzE/s1600-h/nest13.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRdYqGXn1I/AAAAAAAACLI/yKzmrf4wJzE/s400/nest13.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054267360015785810" border="0" /></a>Everything in the shop is unique and very often, handmade. Among flowing caftans and beaded slippers you'll find antique chandeliers and ornate bird cages, lots of kitschy Parisian knickknacks, jewelry, travel books and souvenirs, as well as handmade bags and jewelry. All gathered on buying trips from around the world including Paris, London, the Far East and even our local Alameda Flea Market, where I've have seen the owners leaving with their cart piled high with gorgeous pieces I missed just to catch a few more zzzzz's. <a href="http://www.fillmoreshop.com/pages/nest.html"> Nest</a> is definitely one of those places that's has nothing to do with <span style="font-style: italic;">'need'</span> and everything to do with <span style="font-style: italic;">'want'</span>. Lots of luxuries for those days when you need a little gift to yourself. Go on, you deserve it. Visit <a href="http://www.fillmoreshop.com/pages/nest.html"> Nest</a> at 2300 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, 94115 • 415-292-6199<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbdqGXntI/AAAAAAAACKI/DCjhM_523go/s1600-h/nest1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbdqGXntI/AAAAAAAACKI/DCjhM_523go/s400/nest1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265246891876050" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbd6GXnuI/AAAAAAAACKQ/oVL1KEeDp2E/s1600-h/nest2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbd6GXnuI/AAAAAAAACKQ/oVL1KEeDp2E/s400/nest2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265251186843362" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbeKGXnvI/AAAAAAAACKY/QFAoledUDa0/s1600-h/nest3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbeKGXnvI/AAAAAAAACKY/QFAoledUDa0/s400/nest3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265255481810674" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbeKGXnwI/AAAAAAAACKg/373FNtQWwXg/s1600-h/nest6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiRbeKGXnwI/AAAAAAAACKg/373FNtQWwXg/s400/nest6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5054265255481810690" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://beta.blogger.com/your%20link%20here"></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-51034770123605513212007-04-16T07:30:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:38.305-08:00EmmaRose Papery.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiFttKGXnKI/AAAAAAAACFw/v2dvsR-PC8w/s1600-h/emma2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiFttKGXnKI/AAAAAAAACFw/v2dvsR-PC8w/s400/emma2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053440879459015842" border="0" /></a>I am super proud of my friend Eszter Rabin of <a href="http://emmarosepapery.com/"> EmmaRose Papery</a>. She took a big risk, and chucked the world of advertising (yeah!), bought a couple of old letter presses and started up shop in her basement garage. She has been busy ever since, most recently designing and printing an invitation for San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, and a whole slew of June weddings. She creates a lovely line of custom designed <a href="http://www.emmarosepapery.com/signaturecollection.htm"> wedding</a> invitations, stationery and cards that are uniquely personal, and has just introduced her <a href="http://www.emmarosepapery.com/babyintro.htm"> baby line</a>, which offers really sweet birth announcements, shower invitations and thank you notes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGX8KGXnaI/AAAAAAAACHw/kivix-JrgnQ/s1600-h/emma3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGX8KGXnaI/AAAAAAAACHw/kivix-JrgnQ/s400/emma3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053487316645420450" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGWNqGXnUI/AAAAAAAACHA/F2LgzuSmkxA/s1600-h/collection6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGWNqGXnUI/AAAAAAAACHA/F2LgzuSmkxA/s400/collection6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053485418269875522" border="0" /></a>Eszter is special because she really talks to her clients (she's an amazing and intuitive listener) and is inquisitive about the small details of the momentous events they are planning. She amazes her clients with truly personal and intimate graphic icons, incorporating unique aspects of their lives into her designs.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGXT6GXnYI/AAAAAAAACHg/JE-M0cGLk1Y/s1600-h/emma6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGXT6GXnYI/AAAAAAAACHg/JE-M0cGLk1Y/s400/emma6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053486625155685762" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGPpqGXnTI/AAAAAAAACG4/k-vAqesPVq0/s1600-h/mosaic5841916.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGPpqGXnTI/AAAAAAAACG4/k-vAqesPVq0/s400/mosaic5841916.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053478202724818226" border="0" /></a>Originally from Hungary (I love her accent!) Eszter is a student of art in both Europe and the United States. <a href="http://emmarosepapery.com/"> EmmaRose Papery</a> combines bits of her European culture and modern American simplicity. Eszter currently lives in San Francisco with her husband and their cat, Rose and dog LuLu. Lately, she is often found in the company of her <a href="http://www.emmarosepapery.com/press.htm"> clients</a>, who not surprisingly, have become fast friends with this thoughtful, talented and authentic girl.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGXrqGXnZI/AAAAAAAACHo/99wnYH4pLw0/s1600-h/emma8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGXrqGXnZI/AAAAAAAACHo/99wnYH4pLw0/s400/emma8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053487033177578898" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGWN6GXnVI/AAAAAAAACHI/JMEBH86ymUg/s1600-h/emma7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGWN6GXnVI/AAAAAAAACHI/JMEBH86ymUg/s400/emma7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053485422564842834" border="0" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-23813009496087453242007-04-16T00:16:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:39.361-08:00Week Two: San Francisco Stories.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGjk6GXncI/AAAAAAAACIA/ppOwjJdNVnw/s1600-h/earlystart.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGjk6GXncI/AAAAAAAACIA/ppOwjJdNVnw/s400/earlystart.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053500111352995266" border="0" /></a>I have lived in San Francisco for 13 years now. Lucky 13. I grew up in the burbs of Los Angeles and almost every summer my family would load into the little red bug, at the crack of dawn, for a road trip up north. That's when I first fell in love with this city.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGjlKGXndI/AAAAAAAACII/5hMrV--GksA/s1600-h/sftreat.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGjlKGXndI/AAAAAAAACII/5hMrV--GksA/s400/sftreat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053500115647962578" border="0" /></a>Later, and long grown up, when I decided I wanted a big life change, San Francisco is where I headed. I didn't know anyone here, save for one person who moved to Chicago the week I arrived. She left me with a clock radio and the keys to her now barren apartment, to use until her lease ran out. I improvised by going out and buying two rubber rafts (the cheap, neon colored, blow up kind), duct taped them together, sprang for some cowboy-themed flannel sheets and for the next couple of weeks that was my bed. I couldn't have been happier or felt more at home. San Francisco just <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> the place I'm supposed to be.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGjlaGXnfI/AAAAAAAACIY/8HI-xz1tx6g/s1600-h/294812855_bd82f40445.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGjlaGXnfI/AAAAAAAACIY/8HI-xz1tx6g/s400/294812855_bd82f40445.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053500119942929906" border="0" /></a>13 years later I have met some of the most caring, creative and talented people you'd ever hope to know. They inspire me every day. Some of them are artists, photographers, craftsmen and designers, and many of them are good friends. And I'm going to shamelessly promote them in my posts this week. I promise you it won't be nepotistic, because as you'll see these lovely people are not only friends and acquaintances, but as I said, really talented. And you don't have to be in San Francisco to enjoy their work, as most of it is available or can be appreciated online. I'll also share with you this week some of my favorite shops, bargain-basement haunts and hangouts. I hope it'll make you want to visit.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGk2qGXngI/AAAAAAAACIg/V1STkRtby1U/s1600-h/mosaic646262.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiGk2qGXngI/AAAAAAAACIg/V1STkRtby1U/s400/mosaic646262.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053501515807301122" border="0" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-63435699015809361732007-04-14T00:00:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:39.691-08:00The Art of A Party.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiHAyqGXnhI/AAAAAAAACIo/2x_CXkqu_TE/s1600-h/tom.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiHAyqGXnhI/AAAAAAAACIo/2x_CXkqu_TE/s400/tom.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053532233413402130" border="0" /></a>A few years back I decided I'd host my own birthday party, but I didn't want the focus necessarily to be on my birthday. I just wanted to hang out with good friends, and do something creative and different. I don't even remember how I came up with the idea, but I thought it would be fun to have a <span style="font-style: italic;">Paint Your Own Portrait Party</span>. I went out and got a pile of small <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/categories/canvas/"> canvases</a> and some inexpensive <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/categories/brushes/"> brushes</a> and gathered up all my tubes of <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/zz003/22/"> watercolor paints</a>. I recycled some old jam jars and got them all cleaned up and ready with water for cleansing the brushes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiHAyqGXniI/AAAAAAAACIw/WJPp6okltBM/s1600-h/mosaic2472668.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RiHAyqGXniI/AAAAAAAACIw/WJPp6okltBM/s400/mosaic2472668.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053532233413402146" border="0" /></a>I set up a painting station in my then Sausalito cottage basement (a dining room table with a painter's drop cloth works great and can look pretty art studio-ish). I can tell you that at first, no one would take the first move to start painting. But once everyone had a margarita in them and one brave soul started painting, everyone couldn't wait to grab a brush and channel their inner Van Gogh. Everyone created amazing portraits of themselves, their girlfriends (be careful to add enough cleavage as to not upset your girl, as happened at our party) and even some beloved pets. It was a blast. And everyone ended up with a pretty cool party favor to take home. Except Tom. Sorry, Tom. Yours was too good and I had to keep it (see above, it's good isn't it?). Trust me, it was really fun and an inexpensive way to shake up a party.<a href="http://www2.blogger.com/your%20link%20here"> </a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-21631803976002107022007-04-13T00:03:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:41.654-08:00Etsy Bits of Art.If you don't yet know about <a href="http://www.etsy.com/"> Etsy</a>, it's this wonderful online art gallery of sorts, supporting independent artists of every medium, selling their handmade goods online. There is some amazingly talented artists here and I'm always discovering something new. I'm also always surprised at how inexpensive their work is and have made a lot of great purchases at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/"> Etsy</a>. It's one of my favorite resources for finding beautiful art and fun accessories at great prices. Here's just a few of my favorite artists.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H2KGXm8I/AAAAAAAACEA/J1SY9Y07N1c/s1600-h/creativethursday.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H2KGXm8I/AAAAAAAACEA/J1SY9Y07N1c/s400/creativethursday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052765933938383810" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5714521">Creative Thursday's</a> print of original acrylic painting, <span style="font-style: italic;">Love Birds in Orange Hats</span>. I love the titles of these prints, too.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8ID6GXnAI/AAAAAAAACEg/LCeWzE6HNj0/s1600-h/i+like+your+shoes.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8ID6GXnAI/AAAAAAAACEg/LCeWzE6HNj0/s400/i+like+your+shoes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052766170161585154" border="0" /></a>UK based <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5533527"> Askey</a> creates limited edition prints of her original digital illustrations, and prints them on beautiful linen paper. I adore this print called <span style="font-style: italic;">I Like Your Shoes</span>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H46GXm-I/AAAAAAAACEQ/xwnx5_lU40w/s1600-h/fraumathildaart.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H46GXm-I/AAAAAAAACEQ/xwnx5_lU40w/s400/fraumathildaart.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052765981183024098" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5561287">Frau Mathilda Art</a> from Vienna, Austria's print of original acrylic painting <span style="font-style: italic;">Doglove</span>. I can so relate.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H3aGXm9I/AAAAAAAACEI/7WNLVMXtG64/s1600-h/fifi+lapin.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H3aGXm9I/AAAAAAAACEI/7WNLVMXtG64/s400/fifi+lapin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052765955413220306" border="0" /></a>This piece by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5709971"> Fifi Lapin</a> is entitled <span style="font-style: italic;">no.57 Fifi Wears Alexander McQueen</span>. How great is that?<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8HzKGXm7I/AAAAAAAACD4/bta5k7fIn9I/s1600-h/blackapple.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8HzKGXm7I/AAAAAAAACD4/bta5k7fIn9I/s400/blackapple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052765882398776242" border="0" /></a>I've long been a fan of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5587889"> The Black Apple</a> prints. This sweet one's called <span style="font-style: italic;">Tea Time Print</span>, but check out her other work, there's something kind of haunting about it, and I really love it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H6KGXm_I/AAAAAAAACEY/XnhixfCU904/s1600-h/mosaic3999062.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh8H6KGXm_I/AAAAAAAACEY/XnhixfCU904/s400/mosaic3999062.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052766002657860594" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5393823">One girl</a> in Melbourne, Australia creates these lovely cards from vintage dictionary illustrations, printed on hand dyed fabric and sewn on cream card stock with contrasting cotton thread. So sweet.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/"> Etsy</a> is full of wonderful art. And although you should never buy art just because you can afford it, this site helps you afford what you love.design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-37710448448373463982007-04-12T16:58:00.001-07:002008-12-10T14:01:42.535-08:00The Power of Flowers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh7BwaGXm6I/AAAAAAAACDw/XGvTXZBbQ-E/s1600-h/gerbers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh7BwaGXm6I/AAAAAAAACDw/XGvTXZBbQ-E/s400/gerbers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052688869340191650" border="0" /></a>One of my favorite tricks when I'm looking to brighten up my apartment, is to add some fresh cut flowers around the place. I like to make a habit of heading over to our local <a href="http://www.sfflmart.com/"> San Francisco Flower Mart</a> on Fridays, so I've got bouquets all weekend long, when I'm around to enjoy them and have friends coming by. The flower mart is good, because you can can get great flowers and plants at slightly higher than wholesale prices (unless you have a resale license, in which case you can buy them at wholesale prices!). So check around your city for the closest market. I'm a sunflower or gerber daisy kinda girl - they're such happy flowers and I can usually find a good bunch for under $10. Another one of my favorite spots for flowers is <a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/"> Trader Joe's</a>, a neighborhood market that's popping up all over the country. I believe one just opened in NYC. They have super inexpensive bouquets starting at just $2.99! They also have live orchids and other small house plants, sometimes potted in some very nice containers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67DqGXm2I/AAAAAAAACDQ/9v5sUeNLU7I/s1600-h/sunfowers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67DqGXm2I/AAAAAAAACDQ/9v5sUeNLU7I/s400/sunfowers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052681503471278946" border="0" /></a><br />Whether it's cut flowers, or live plants, both add a fresh look and a bit of color to your home. And live plants (I'm not talking crazy vines everywhere!) obviously last much longer, so they're even less expensive and get you more bang for your buck, so to speak. And growing <a href="http://www.freshherbs.com/hints_and_tips/hints_and_tips_home/hints_and_tips.html"> fresh herbs</a> is the best! Not only do they look great and smell so tranquil, but there's also a really good feeling you get when you trim off a sprig of your own rosemary to toss into your recipe. I don't know why, it's just gratifying and makes me smile. If you've had trouble growing your own perhaps check in with <a href="http://www.yougrowgirl.com/"> You Grow Girl</a> for forums and advice.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67E6GXm3I/AAAAAAAACDY/auA1NQhdSVA/s1600-h/mosaic306248.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67E6GXm3I/AAAAAAAACDY/auA1NQhdSVA/s400/mosaic306248.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052681524946115442" border="0" /></a><br />Succulents are really cool, too (especially if you've got a black thumb and kill every orchid in sight, like I am prone to do). These modern, and yet slightly prehistoric looking species are quite resilient. They can withstand a lot of climate changes and a whole lot of neglect. I plant mine in funky containers - sometimes vintage pottery I've gotten at flea markets or thrift stores, and they look pretty cute (and also make nice hostess gifts). Flowers and plants, nature's little way of brightening your home on a budget.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67GaGXm4I/AAAAAAAACDg/xPHueebFzDE/s1600-h/succulent+tray.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67GaGXm4I/AAAAAAAACDg/xPHueebFzDE/s400/succulent+tray.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052681550715919234" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67HqGXm5I/AAAAAAAACDo/L1FFwX6H444/s1600-h/succulent.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh67HqGXm5I/AAAAAAAACDo/L1FFwX6H444/s400/succulent.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052681572190755730" border="0" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-3931726551649857812007-04-12T00:05:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:42.679-08:00Mix It Up.As I've said, I really like to make my decorating investments in larger pieces of furniture of excellent quality and then add to them with less expensive accessories and accent pieces. I also really like to mix things up and create an eclectic look that reflects my taste and personality. Nothing cookie-cutter, please.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh3PFKGXm1I/AAAAAAAACDI/Wwq9EyOsYJg/s1600-h/mosaic2590707.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rh3PFKGXm1I/AAAAAAAACDI/Wwq9EyOsYJg/s400/mosaic2590707.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052422044496927570" border="0" /></a><br />Thus, this example. A Design Within Reach <a href="http://www.dwr.com/productdetail.cfm?id=0597"> Case Study Day Bed</a>. I've always loved the simple lines of this classic piece and it's a perfect palette to work around. To soften the lines of this sofa, I'd add a fluffy throw like this <span style="font-style: italic;">Tessuto </span>throw by <a href="http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=595&f=3641&viewall=1"> CB2</a> in a pale chartreuse. Some colorful art on the walls could start with this inexpensive <span style="font-style: italic;">Winter</span> Print from <a href="http://www.merchline.com/iso50/productdisplay.463.p.htm"> iso50</a> and then perhaps I might invest in a lovely painting by artist <a href="http://www.camillaengman.com/framepaint.htm"> Camilla Engman</a>. This super cheap <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=27633&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=336&iSubCat=295&iProductID=27633"> Urban Outfitters</a> Floral Flocked lampshade and a bright slipcover made from some <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/inspiration/lifestyle.php?photo=/images/inspiration/lifestyle/lotus_12.jpg"> Amy Butler Fabric</a> create accents that funk up the look a bit and give the room a touch of the ornate to play off the mid-century day bed. Toss in a bit more color to pick up the tones in Camilla's painting and Amy's fabrics with an <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=22181&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=336&iSubCat=297&iProductID=22181"> Urban Outfitters</a> Chenille Shag Rug, at a real big bargain price. A pair of these beautiful <a href="http://www.roomandboard.com/rnb/product.do?method=get&id=037853&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;coll=378366&cat=108"> Room & Board Wegner Stools</a> placed in front of the daybed serve as a unique and nontraditional coffee table. All in all, a mix of a few quality pieces with even more less expensive fun ones create a look that's completely unique. Just the way I like it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=595&f=3641&viewall=1"></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-52797959687364700172007-04-11T23:22:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:43.778-08:00Maybe I Want To Look Cheap or...How to Make Art on the Down Low.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WTDb1lzI/AAAAAAAACig/RN-WvYMctwk/s1600-h/ladventurer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WTDb1lzI/AAAAAAAACig/RN-WvYMctwk/s400/ladventurer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052781823528376114" border="0" /></a>Many of us have the tools we need to make fabulous and very personal art inexpensively right at our own finger tips. I'm talking basic color copiers, people. And, just about everyone has a digital camera, Photoshop, scanners and whatnot these days, and it's a great way to create affordable artwork. On most color copiers you can enlarge an image up to 11" x 17", plenty large enough for framing, and although not perfect reproduction, it can give images a cool, gritty look, like my Italian movie poster above, or my hula-hoop girls below, which I enlarged from a postcard! I've enlarged maps, and they have a pretty cool look, too.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WoTb1l0I/AAAAAAAACio/UBAlcWSCi4I/s1600-h/hula+girls.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WoTb1l0I/AAAAAAAACio/UBAlcWSCi4I/s400/hula+girls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052782188600596290" border="0" /></a>If you work in a creative industry, like I do...you've probably got one of these tools at your disposal. But if, by chance, you work at Dunkin' Donuts and don't have access to the necessary company-provided equipment, simply check out your local <a href="http://www.fedex.com/us/officeprint/storesvcs/photos/enlarge.html?link=4"> Kinko's</a> (just be patient with the humankind who work there). All you need is a photo you love, a picture torn from a magazine, an old band flyer...whatever it is you'd like to see adorning your walls and have a hankering to display. If you've got a digital camera or you can get your image scanned (maybe a friend has a scanner?) at the highest resolution possible (300 DPI is good!), you can save your image on a disk. Then take your disk to your local color copier shop and have them output your image on a large format color printer. They'll turn your favorite image into a poster-sized or oversize photo enlargement. And if you want, they can even mount your poster or laminate it to preserve and protect your photo.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8Wpjb1l1I/AAAAAAAACiw/8SjoOx3mGgE/s1600-h/hives.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8Wpjb1l1I/AAAAAAAACiw/8SjoOx3mGgE/s400/hives.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052782210075432786" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WrDb1l2I/AAAAAAAACi4/FT2XS2hpZ5g/s1600-h/richman.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WrDb1l2I/AAAAAAAACi4/FT2XS2hpZ5g/s400/richman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052782235845236578" border="0" /></a>As I mentioned in a post below, <a href="http://www.ikea.com/"> Ikea</a> has some great, inexpensive frames, like all of these shown (search 'Ribba' frame), with matting and glass already cut for you. Just measure the inside dimensions of your matting - print out your image at those dimensions (plus add at least a 1/4" bleed to your image so the matte covers the edges) and lay the photocopy in the matte and va-voom - you've got art! This is an old photo I enlarged of my brother, our mum and me riding the San Francisco cable cars in the 60's. Check my mod little ensemble and mum's rad shades ala Jackie-O. Nice memories and mementos make great and super affordable art.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WsTb1l3I/AAAAAAAACjA/eY7lArP5YtU/s1600-h/cablecar.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8WsTb1l3I/AAAAAAAACjA/eY7lArP5YtU/s400/cablecar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052782257320073074" border="0" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-33653035542660230632007-04-11T00:03:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:46.562-08:00The Bargain Books - Part One.Okay, so the series of books I'm going share this week aren't really bargain books per se, but rather books that show you how to bargain some good design ideas. The first book I want to share is Amy & David Butler's <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?inkey=18-0811836738-0"> Found Style</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, Vintage Ideas for Modern Living</span>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8ZBDb1l6I/AAAAAAAACjY/MLmq7Gi3fnE/s1600-h/BOOK+COVER.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8ZBDb1l6I/AAAAAAAACjY/MLmq7Gi3fnE/s400/BOOK+COVER.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052784812825614242" border="0" /></a><br />I think there's a lot of good inspiration here and a lot of useful suggestions for 'found stuff'. I quite like this design manifesto - turning something mundane into something unexpected. And I also like the green, recycling aspect of this idea. An old shoe rack turned into sewing kit. A medical table gets a new life as receptacle for bathroom accessories. A vintage dress form serves as a spot to hang and display your favorite bags (I have one of these and love it!).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8cRjb1mDI/AAAAAAAACkg/1UjM0Ynu4Bk/s1600-h/mosaic5220633.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8cRjb1mDI/AAAAAAAACkg/1UjM0Ynu4Bk/s400/mosaic5220633.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052788394828339250" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.artofthemidwest.com/studio/">David</a> and <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/main.php?fl=1"> Amy</a> Butler have exquisite (and really fun) taste and a unique approach to creating spaces that are undeniably stylish. They also do a great job of educating us in flea market savvy, and blending vintage and modern with unexpected panache without being too fussy or cluttered. There's also a sense of humor, or of not taking oneself too seriously here that I like.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8Y_zb1l5I/AAAAAAAACjQ/-f-Hzj42VPs/s1600-h/bedroom.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8Y_zb1l5I/AAAAAAAACjQ/-f-Hzj42VPs/s400/bedroom.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052784791350777746" border="0" /></a> <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/books.php#foundstyle"> Found Style</a> is the perfect guide to creating an eclectic personal style, and with over 200 color photos, there's something here for every taste. Some of it may look a bit <span style="font-style: italic;">shabby chic</span>, but I think if you put your own spin on found objects it'll work for you, no matter what your style.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8a0jb1l_I/AAAAAAAACkA/kAO34nS7Gbg/s1600-h/spread4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8a0jb1l_I/AAAAAAAACkA/kAO34nS7Gbg/s400/spread4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052786797100505074" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8ZCjb1l7I/AAAAAAAACjg/jf6cv1eEt7E/s1600-h/dining+spread.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8ZCjb1l7I/AAAAAAAACjg/jf6cv1eEt7E/s400/dining+spread.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052784838595418034" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8ZDzb1l8I/AAAAAAAACjo/Bv147FLxFs8/s1600-h/spread1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8ZDzb1l8I/AAAAAAAACjo/Bv147FLxFs8/s400/spread1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052784860070254530" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8a3Tb1mBI/AAAAAAAACkQ/YIre_zJMMdU/s1600-h/spread3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8a3Tb1mBI/AAAAAAAACkQ/YIre_zJMMdU/s400/spread3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052786844345145362" border="0" /></a><br />I am a big fan of the found object, as you are probably finding out. Here's a few of my latest finds: a bolt of vintage fabric from the flea market and a pink throw from a shop going out of business (1/2 off!); an old finial used as mantel decor next to some teak candlesticks; a vintage throw pillow; my faithful deer planter used as a mini book holder; vintage photo of a misbehaving child in an ornate, white frame; and some white Gerber Daisy's in my new birch bark vase from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5705919"> Small Stump</a>. Now it's your turn for hunt and seek. Have fun!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8azTb1l-I/AAAAAAAACj4/cgDrv55upvQ/s1600-h/my+mosaic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rh8azTb1l-I/AAAAAAAACj4/cgDrv55upvQ/s400/my+mosaic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5052786775625668578" border="0" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-33572446542730148762007-04-10T08:17:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:48.054-08:00The Idea of Ikea.On with sharing my thoughts on thrifty design. I think a lot of people think of <a href="http://www.ikea.com/"> Ikea</a> as decor for your first apartment right out of college. Or perhaps while you're <span style="font-style: italic;">in</span> college. And <a href="http://www.ikea.com/">Ikea</a> is an excellent resource for those on a tight budget, but originating in Sweden, they're bound to have some great design too, right? I thought I'd share some pieces I've bought there, as well as some new pieces they have that are pretty great and, of course, very affordable. Oh, and I'm going to apologize right off the bat for the lack of direct links - for some reason <a href="http://www.ikea.com/">Ikea's</a> rarely work.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rhgk65vYPBI/AAAAAAAAB8w/Q9tSMuPpdvI/s1600-h/mosaic6087691.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rhgk65vYPBI/AAAAAAAAB8w/Q9tSMuPpdvI/s400/mosaic6087691.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050827576446565394" border="0" /></a>Part of my design philosophy is that I'd rather purchase a really well made and possibly expensive sofa, dining table or any piece of furniture that is the real focal point of a room, and then decorate inexpensively around it. Accessories at <a href="http://www.ikea.com/"> Ikea</a> are a prime example. I bought the little white vases (they're very <a href="http://www.jonathanadler.com/shop/index.php"> Jonathan Adler</a>, no?) and planter for $1.99 each. The frame is their <span style="font-style: italic;">Ribba</span> frame and it comes in lots of great sizes and finishes (birch, white, & metal) and has a pre-cut matte and glass. I think the largest one is about 28" x 39" for only $30.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgcaJvYPAI/AAAAAAAAB8o/sqVBgO4Nspg/s1600-h/saarinen+knock-off.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgcaJvYPAI/AAAAAAAAB8o/sqVBgO4Nspg/s400/saarinen+knock-off.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050818217712827394" border="0" /></a>This is their <span style="font-style: italic;">Docksta</span> Dining Table. I found it surprisingly sturdy and a pretty good <a href="http://www.julesseltzer.com/SeltzerDirect/showroom/saarinen/table/saarinenTable.html"> Saarinen</a> knock-off. I put some vintage <a href="http://www.miesbcn.com/en/foundation.html"> Mies van de Roh</a> Cantilever chairs around mine and I'm quite happy with the look.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgqUJvYPHI/AAAAAAAAB9g/difGDK0Xobg/s1600-h/boxes.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgqUJvYPHI/AAAAAAAAB9g/difGDK0Xobg/s400/boxes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050833507796401266" border="0" /></a>These fun, colorful lacquered <span style="font-style: italic;">Önska</span> round boxes are $4.99 for the whole happy set of 12.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rhgk7JvYPDI/AAAAAAAAB9A/TRVQc1HdiQk/s1600-h/stockholm+table.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/Rhgk7JvYPDI/AAAAAAAAB9A/TRVQc1HdiQk/s400/stockholm+table.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050827580741532722" border="0" /></a>I love this great Mid-Century Danish Modern knock-off <span style="font-style: italic;">Stockholm</span> Coffee Table. It has a functional second tier which is nice for stacking coffee table books and displaying small accessories or stashing the remote (I <span style="font-style: italic;">hate</span> the look of remotes!).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhglOpvYPEI/AAAAAAAAB9I/JErwOjOM2Vg/s1600-h/blanket.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhglOpvYPEI/AAAAAAAAB9I/JErwOjOM2Vg/s400/blanket.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050827915748981826" border="0" /></a>I'm also a huge fan of these $3.99 <span style="font-style: italic;">Polarvide</span> throws. They have this sweet little die-cut pattern and fringe and they're super soft. In person, they look really expensive! I got my mum one at Christmas and she thought it was gorgeous (fooled her, didn't I?).<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgoRJvYPFI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/pI6ZPIzWo_A/s1600-h/mosaic7169140.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgoRJvYPFI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/pI6ZPIzWo_A/s400/mosaic7169140.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050831257233538130" border="0" /></a><br />They've also got a large and well designed selection of chairs. I like all of these and they're all under $50.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgtDpvYPII/AAAAAAAAB9o/HbN0Rg2z2f8/s1600-h/flowercuos.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_M4kLYcJUnH4/RhgtDpvYPII/AAAAAAAAB9o/HbN0Rg2z2f8/s400/flowercuos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050836522863443074" border="0" /></a><br />This set of two sweet <span style="font-style: italic;">Maränge</span> teacups, wooden tray and spoons are $7.99. They look so peaceful and pretty for tea time with a nice brew of jasmine pearls.<br /><br />I hope I've left you with an open mind to the idea of <a href="http://www.ikea.com/"> Ikea</a>. Just remember there's some pretty fun stuff there that will leave you much more in your wallet for the bigger purchases.design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-15440878867134289422007-04-10T08:16:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:49.124-08:00Have No Shame.Here I am, design*sponge guest blogger. It's a such an honor and also, a little hard to comprehend. Some of you might know my blog, <a href="http://sfgirlbybay.blogspot.com/"> sfgirlbybay</a>, and some of you might be like, "who?" I've only been around a little while, since last June, and have long admired Grace, so to be here is, well, slightly intimidating! I plan to focus my first week of posts on what I believe my forte to be - thrifty design. I'm kind of flea market obsessed, I thrill to the sight of yard sale signs and have been known to pick a thing or two off a street corner. I have no shame, and have some pretty cool finds to prove it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9dds4JgI/AAAAAAAACcc/qsAs_BrDZz4/s1600-h/JARS:TRAY:CORAL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9dds4JgI/AAAAAAAACcc/qsAs_BrDZz4/s400/JARS:TRAY:CORAL.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050502714773480962" border="0" /></a>So...to get started, today's post is going to focus on the importance of giving up the idea that having a great place means you've gotta spend a lot. It's just not true, and I have an apartment full of examples. So to encourage the evolution of your purchasing patterns from spendy to saving, I'll show you a few of my many finds. All of the vintage jars above, where I keep my make-up essentials, were just a few dollars. The funky tray, sweet little bird cage and black coral were all under $5, too.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9dts4JhI/AAAAAAAACck/I6DO_fCUREQ/s1600-h/MIRROR.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9dts4JhI/AAAAAAAACck/I6DO_fCUREQ/s400/MIRROR.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050502719068448274" border="0" /></a> The vintage mirror up top was found at an L.A. yard sale for a mere $10. It's super heavy, but I've trekked it everywhere I've lived over the years and finally all the way up to San Francisco. It's prized possession.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9d9s4JiI/AAAAAAAACcs/q6WHvF1yVn4/s1600-h/CHALKBOARD.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9d9s4JiI/AAAAAAAACcs/q6WHvF1yVn4/s400/CHALKBOARD.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050502723363415586" border="0" /></a>This old school house chalkboard was a score. An art director left it behind where I work. He didn't want it, as it's actually 'broken' because it's supposed to be on a stand, but I like it just as it is. And it was free.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9d9s4JjI/AAAAAAAACc0/YDhalSkgSrY/s1600-h/STOOL:PILLOW:WICKER.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9d9s4JjI/AAAAAAAACc0/YDhalSkgSrY/s400/STOOL:PILLOW:WICKER.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050502723363415602" border="0" /></a>This is where the trash picker in me shines. The old wicker chair was on the side of the road in an upscale shopping area. I swerved to the side of the road and threw it in the back seat of my convertible bug, as wealthy mothers with children in strollers stood staring, mouth's agape with incredulity. It doesn't look like much, but I have it now in the bath with fresh, white towels stacked on it and it looks just great. They never would have guessed. I did, however, pay for the little 70's pillow. It was a whole $7 and I love it. It's got a really unique shape. The metal stool, again picked off the street. Covered in dabs of an artist's paint and lots of history.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9eNs4JkI/AAAAAAAACc8/12c3Be7fd5o/s1600-h/BUFFET.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/Rhb9eNs4JkI/AAAAAAAACc8/12c3Be7fd5o/s400/BUFFET.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5050502727658382914" border="0" /></a>I found this beautiful buffet at a yard sale, covered in hideous beige paint. Again, I carted into the back of my bug and took it to my mum's garage where I stripped off all the paint amidst highly toxic fumes, sanded it and polished up the natural wood. And the <span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" >pièce de résistance</span><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;" >?</span> It was just $5!<br /><br />So you'll see, good things can be found. Sometimes there's a wee bit of work involved, but the satisfaction and happiness from these found gems is worth every bit. Shameless, indeed.design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-1350375616475239272007-03-23T13:19:00.000-07:002007-03-23T13:50:01.970-07:00thanks everybody!I just wanted to express my appreciation to Grace for having me these past two weeks, and to all the readers who sent in emails. Also thanks so much to those who contributed articles. It was such a great experience connecting with the D*S audience in this way. I hope the handmade wedding guide has been fun and helpful to read!design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-787702642949005362007-03-23T10:45:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:51.473-08:00more handmade giftsAnd continuing the crafty gifts theme, this afternoon's last post starts off with <a href="http://www.clothes-pin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Karen</a> who wrote in about Judy Lee's bookbinding tutorial for making a photo journal on her blog <a href="http://www.fiveandahalf.net/blog/from-prints-into-journals/" target="_blank">five and a half</a>. Judy's lesson includes loads of pictures and very clear instructions. (So glad to find Judy's great blog!) Karen writes:<br /><br />"Using a photo of the couple, a sentimental place, or something from the wedding theme would be a great handmade gift; if the wedding is small the bride can even make little notebooks as her wedding favors."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgQAXA5SbrI/AAAAAAAAAxA/abPwG1SQkU8/s1600-h/photo+journal.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgQAXA5SbrI/AAAAAAAAAxA/abPwG1SQkU8/s320/photo+journal.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5045157877939072690" /></a><br />And speaking of photos, here is some beautiful collage work by German artist Sandra Muller posted on <a href="http://www.theartofconfusion.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">her blog</a>. Sandra's work has an heirloom feeling, with all of these pretty vintage family photos. She also has an <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5003350" target="_blank">esty shop</a> if you'd like to collect some collage materials for projects or just inspiration.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNJnw5SboI/AAAAAAAAAwo/tP5PHMupNYk/s1600-h/artikel+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNJnw5SboI/AAAAAAAAAwo/tP5PHMupNYk/s320/artikel+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044956955073998466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHIA5SbmI/AAAAAAAAAwY/0x3Ji_CJ5vw/s1600-h/aocetsy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHIA5SbmI/AAAAAAAAAwY/0x3Ji_CJ5vw/s320/aocetsy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044954210589896290" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHIA5SbnI/AAAAAAAAAwg/mnt8_fb6ENw/s1600-h/aocetsy2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHIA5SbnI/AAAAAAAAAwg/mnt8_fb6ENw/s320/aocetsy2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044954210589896306" /></a><br />And Heather Samples sent in some great photos and links. When she got married in her home state of West Virginia last spring, she received loads of handmade gifts from her loved ones. Heather writes:<br /><br />"West Virginia has long been the stateside capital of glassmaking. <a href="http://www.blenkoglass.com" target="_blank">Blenko</a> still handblows their iconic water jug (in continual production since 1938) thirty miles from my hometown. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMuNw5SbeI/AAAAAAAAAvY/hVOEffJjlN4/s1600-h/Pitchers.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMuNw5SbeI/AAAAAAAAAvY/hVOEffJjlN4/s320/Pitchers.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044926821583449570" /></a><br />Although the older generation of quilters is dying out, there are still breathtaking hand-stitched quilts to be had, made on the old stretchers by women who've been doing it all their lives. This one came from a cooperative of elderly home quilters called Cabin Creek Quilts. Cabin Creek announced this month that they can no longer afford to stay in business, but you can find other pieces at <a href="http://www.mountainmade.com" target="_blank">www.mountainmade.com</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMtjw5SbcI/AAAAAAAAAvI/bkse0UO5l54/s1600-h/Quilt.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMtjw5SbcI/AAAAAAAAAvI/bkse0UO5l54/s320/Quilt.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044926100028943810" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.spooners.com" target="_blank">Allegheny Treenware</a> is the best place to find handmade wooden utensils and kitchenwares. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMtjg5SbbI/AAAAAAAAAvA/Ate-OVf5bbg/s1600-h/Spoons.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMtjg5SbbI/AAAAAAAAAvA/Ate-OVf5bbg/s320/Spoons.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044926095733976498" /></a><br />Finally, the bar cutting board was made by woodworker Brenda Good. More of her work (along with that of lots of other West Virginia artisans, including potters, more quilters and glassworkers) can be found at <a href="http://www.tamarackwv.com" target="_blank">www.tamarackwv.com</a>" Thanks for these great resources, Heather!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMtkA5SbdI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/GVN_LzGFK4w/s1600-h/Bar+Board.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMtkA5SbdI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/GVN_LzGFK4w/s320/Bar+Board.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044926104323911122" /></a><br />And finally today, there are so many talented quilters selling their goods on etsy, including a personal favorite <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=45492§ion_id=5003391" target="_blank">Little Quilts</a>. You can check out etsy's entire roster of quilters, which is - happily - expanding on a daily basis. :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHHg5SbjI/AAAAAAAAAwA/dHdiEQ0fpkY/s1600-h/quilts.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHHg5SbjI/AAAAAAAAAwA/dHdiEQ0fpkY/s320/quilts.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044954201999961650" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHHw5SbkI/AAAAAAAAAwI/P-RPupDFvb4/s1600-h/quilts2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHHw5SbkI/AAAAAAAAAwI/P-RPupDFvb4/s320/quilts2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044954206294928962" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHHw5SblI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/tbdEv8xkb2I/s1600-h/quilts3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgNHHw5SblI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/tbdEv8xkb2I/s320/quilts3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044954206294928978" /></a>design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-10226380377468207332007-03-22T20:47:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:55.614-08:00handmade gifts revisitedWow, these two weeks flew by. Today is my last day of blogging for the handmade wedding theme, and we'll be wrapping up with a great day of handmade gift ideas.<br /><br />When Tony Visco and his fiance were planning their wedding, they couldn't find china pattern they liked. So instead they asked artist Yuki Murata of <a href="http://moderngoods.com/moderngoods_art.html" target="_blank">moderngoods</a> to create a special registry of her unique designs for them. This idea allowed them to support an independent artist and get the tableware that suited them perfectly.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMyFg5SbhI/AAAAAAAAAvw/51YeSk3Zhmo/s1600-h/kelp.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMyFg5SbhI/AAAAAAAAAvw/51YeSk3Zhmo/s320/kelp.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044931077896039954" /></a><br />I really admire the work <a href="http://www.jennihopkins.com" target="_blank">Jenni Hopkins</a>, who specializes in painted and embroidered monogram pieces. It's such a perfect wedding gift, but special on any occasion.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMvog5SbgI/AAAAAAAAAvo/9yXxOzmE5l4/s1600-h/Fgallery5_5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMvog5SbgI/AAAAAAAAAvo/9yXxOzmE5l4/s320/Fgallery5_5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044928380656578050" /></a><br />These wooden bowls are produced by designer and craftsman <a href="http://www.esbystudio.com/lien.html" target="_blank">Jim Doan</a>. He handcrafts these original pieces in his Chicago studio and each is individually numbered to remind you they are truly one-of-a-kind.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMpXQ5SbWI/AAAAAAAAAuY/F00ZyXDoLSQ/s1600-h/large_bowl_main.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMpXQ5SbWI/AAAAAAAAAuY/F00ZyXDoLSQ/s320/large_bowl_main.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044921487234067810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMpXQ5SbXI/AAAAAAAAAug/H-70nVSLycA/s1600-h/large_detail.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMpXQ5SbXI/AAAAAAAAAug/H-70nVSLycA/s320/large_detail.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044921487234067826" /></a><br />And how wonderful is this line of customized dinnerware featuring the front door and family name of the bride and groom? Artist <a href="http://www.rustdesigns.com/yourhome.html" target="_blank">Jessica Rust</a> can personalize any item on her site. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMr1A5SbYI/AAAAAAAAAuo/p9aLSxQbTJA/s1600-h/custom+plate+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMr1A5SbYI/AAAAAAAAAuo/p9aLSxQbTJA/s320/custom+plate+3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044924197358431618" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMr1Q5SbZI/AAAAAAAAAuw/ZWboLnvtRro/s1600-h/customplate1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMr1Q5SbZI/AAAAAAAAAuw/ZWboLnvtRro/s320/customplate1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044924201653398930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMr1g5SbaI/AAAAAAAAAu4/jM9OWbc9qvU/s1600-h/customplate2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMr1g5SbaI/AAAAAAAAAu4/jM9OWbc9qvU/s320/customplate2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044924205948366242" /></a><br />Katie Covington of <a href="http://www.ktalis.com" target="_blank">k.talis jewelry</a> submitted these beautiful examples of her custom wedding jewelry, that can be highly personalized:<br /><br />"I use vintage and reclaimed pieces in my line of jewelry that would fit in nicely with a handmade or green wedding. Antique chandelier drops, vintage metal charms and keys are all paired with precious metals. Another idea for wedding jewelry is to make or commission a piece made that incorporates something special to the couple: stones found on the beach, initials of the bride and groom, an important image or motif. To remember family that has passed away I've created jewelry using buttons from a father's Naval uniform. Jewelry is a great to personalize a wedding and keep the people you love close to you during your big day. Almost anything can be made into jewelry with a little DIY know how." <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMgRQ5SbOI/AAAAAAAAAtY/kbqONOAlgN0/s1600-h/jewelry1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMgRQ5SbOI/AAAAAAAAAtY/kbqONOAlgN0/s320/jewelry1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044911488550202594" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMgRg5SbPI/AAAAAAAAAtg/mmGSLUxa1OM/s1600-h/jewelry2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMgRg5SbPI/AAAAAAAAAtg/mmGSLUxa1OM/s320/jewelry2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044911492845169906" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMgRg5SbQI/AAAAAAAAAto/x89nH7RfHYM/s1600-h/jewelry3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMgRg5SbQI/AAAAAAAAAto/x89nH7RfHYM/s320/jewelry3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044911492845169922" /></a><br />Cindy Johnson wrote in about the <a href="http://rwoodstudio.com" target="_blank">R. Wood Ceramics Studio</a>, which features a number of talented artists' work and even has a wedding registry!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMoSg5SbUI/AAAAAAAAAuI/Vofd7IHdCqw/s1600-h/rwood.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMoSg5SbUI/AAAAAAAAAuI/Vofd7IHdCqw/s320/rwood.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044920306118061378" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMoSw5SbVI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/JKWzTDDyPHc/s1600-h/rwood2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMoSw5SbVI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/JKWzTDDyPHc/s320/rwood2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044920310413028690" /></a><br />And another reader recommended <a href="http://www.shackletonthomas.com/Potterybeakers.html" target="_blank">Miranda Thomas Pottery</a> for great prices and exquisite handmade work.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMj3w5SbTI/AAAAAAAAAuA/5JQU2Duf9Pw/s1600-h/Ovalclearrabbitxl.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgMj3w5SbTI/AAAAAAAAAuA/5JQU2Duf9Pw/s320/Ovalclearrabbitxl.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044915448510049586" /></a><br />I'll be posting some quilts later today, but I think these wedding samplers by <a href="http://www.luciesummers.co.uk" target="_blank">Luci Summers</a> are really lovely on a much smaller scale.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgM1aQ5SbiI/AAAAAAAAAv4/AKp5Z1FMr3Y/s1600-h/weddingsamplers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgM1aQ5SbiI/AAAAAAAAAv4/AKp5Z1FMr3Y/s320/weddingsamplers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044934732913208866" /></a><br /><br />More gifts later, of a more crafty variety!design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-75516382530323306592007-03-21T20:53:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:56.765-08:00green weddings finale<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgH9AQ5SbNI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/lrHU5NCsU2w/s1600-h/forest.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgH9AQ5SbNI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/lrHU5NCsU2w/s320/forest.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044591238608743634" /></a><br />Since there were a number of readers who contributed to this topic of environmentally friendly weddings, I wanted to squeeze in one more post. I'm starting with jewelry designer Sally Brock, owner of <a href="http://www.fancyjewels.com/index.php" target="_blank">Fancy</a> in Seattle, who produces a gorgeous variety of reclaimed rings. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3g5SbKI/AAAAAAAAAs4/tTa4s5TOnks/s1600-h/ring1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3g5SbKI/AAAAAAAAAs4/tTa4s5TOnks/s320/ring1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044561401470938274" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Here's Sally:</span><br /><br />"More and more I've been getting orders for custom wedding/engagement rings. I've started collecting some vintage (really ugly 80s honking gemstone rings) removing all the stones, and recycling them for a greener alternative to purchasing new stones. Each ring is custom designed, and made entirely by hand in my Seattle studio. I also work in silver, a more affordable alternative to the usual jewelry stores- as well as gold, platinum and the fancy stuff."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3w5SbLI/AAAAAAAAAtA/R4MD7iuNaJE/s1600-h/ring2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3w5SbLI/AAAAAAAAAtA/R4MD7iuNaJE/s320/ring2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044561405765905586" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3w5SbMI/AAAAAAAAAtI/8xF3b_KI5_k/s1600-h/ring3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3w5SbMI/AAAAAAAAAtI/8xF3b_KI5_k/s320/ring3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044561405765905602" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Lauren Feeney of Philadelphia had this to share:</span><br /><br />"We're having our wedding (April 14th!) at the train station (30th St. <br />in Philadelphia) so that our guests can ride the train instead of <br />driving (eco-friendly and safe!). I'd imagine most cities now have <br />underused train stations that may be willing to rent out space for <br />events. We're also sourcing foods locally when possible, giving out <br />tree seedlings as favors, and having <a href="http://www.carbonplanet.com" target="_blank">Carbon Planet</a> audit and offset the event." <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3Q5SbII/AAAAAAAAAso/JHtX7jLGrjo/s1600-h/30th.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3Q5SbII/AAAAAAAAAso/JHtX7jLGrjo/s320/30th.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044561397175970946" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3g5SbJI/AAAAAAAAAsw/-tOmWF6exeE/s1600-h/30th2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgHh3g5SbJI/AAAAAAAAAsw/-tOmWF6exeE/s320/30th2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044561401470938258" /></a><br />And here are some more readers' tips:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jessica Timpany, now planning her Sonoma wedding, said the following:</span><br /><br />"We opted to use a caterer that specializes in local and organic, <br />sustainably grown food. <a href="http://www.thegirlandthefig.com/cater.html" target="_blank">The Girl and The Fig Caters</a> is a branch of the Girl & <br />The Fig restaurant in Sonoma. John, their chef, knows all the local <br />veggie, meat, cheese people in the Sonoma Valley; and using local food <br />cuts down on carbon emissions. Organic food obviously reduces the <br />pesticides workers are exposed to and that seep into the ground.<br /><br /> Other things we are doing:<br /> <br />- Offsetting our carbon "footprint" with carbonfund.org <br />- Donating to breast cancer research fund in lieu of a gift to our guests.<br />- Using Cranes Lettra 100% cotton paper for invites, not a tree harmed!<br />- Organic, local and sustainably farmed flowers. <br />- Using many living succulents and Tillandsia (living air plants) so that <br /> people can take them home and they can live on!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">And Simone Alpen is doing the following for her Stowe, Vermont wedding:</span><br /><br />- making our own stationery with recycled content and Gocco<br />- trying to find a letterpress outfit that will print on recycled content paper <br />- find salon near the wedding site that uses eco-friendly products (i.e. Aveda)<br />- we made the decision not to register for any gifts. It was hard (esp. for some<br /> of the traditionalists in our midst!). But we decided that it didn't make sense <br /> for us (we're in our 30's, live in a small Cambridge, MA apartment with limited <br /> space for china settings!). So, for those that are still dying to send along <br /> something--we'll register at a carbon off-setting site (i.e. climatecare.org)<br />- make our own centerpieces from seasonal and local materials<br />- when setting our dinner menu we're going to push for a meal that includes as <br /> many local, organic items as possible. <br /><br />Simone also recommended these resources:<br /><br /><a href="http://portovert.com" target="_blank">portovert.com</a><br /><a href="http://idealbite.com" target="_blank">idealbite.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.treehugger.com" target="_blank">treehugger.com</a><br /><br />Thanks so much for these wonderful contributions!design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-4110310542555221522007-03-21T09:41:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:57.272-08:00green weddings - week two<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgFd2A5SbHI/AAAAAAAAAsg/zOZjKlxP1xA/s1600-h/windfarm.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgFd2A5SbHI/AAAAAAAAAsg/zOZjKlxP1xA/s320/windfarm.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044416240166268018" /></a><br />This afternoon we're following up on last week's topic of environmentally responsible weddings. <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/authors/index.php?author=kara" target="_blank">Kara</a> over at <a href="http://www.treehugger.com" target="_blank">Treehugger</a> has contributed a great article, full of useful tips and resources. Treehugger is a fantastic blog on all things "green", so check back with them regularly for environmental news and info well beyond the topic we're covering here today. I'll be back this afternoon with a few more readers' ideas. But now I give you Kara:<br /><br />"We are seeing 'green weddings' becoming more and more popular as each year passes. Even the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/11/fashion/11green.html?ex=1174622400&en=ed11026999c4f9ad&ei=5070<br />" target="_blank">New York Times reported</a> that couples are taking a new look at traditional weddings and seeing green. And with that comes many more options and tips to help eco-friendly couples reduce their carbon footprint on the big day. <br /><br />This past January, we saw the launch of <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/12/portovert_magaz_1.php" target="_blank">Portovert Magazine</a>, the only magazine dedicated to eco-chic ideas for engagement parties, bridal showers and weddings. It’s the paperless equivalent to Elegant Bride, Martha Stewart Weddings and InStyle Weddings. In February, Portovert launched the first <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/02/portovert_magaz_2.php" target="_blank">U.S. wedding carbon calculator</a> in partnership with Native Energy. By visiting the Native Energy’s website, visitors can easily calculate the carbon emissions produced by the principal wedding-related carbon sources: guest travel, lodging, and venue power and heat. For as little as $12 per ton of carbon offsets, brides and grooms can make a quick, easy investment in renewable energy by choosing one of three options: helping build new wind power projects, new family farm methane energy projects, or a combination of both<br /><br />When it comes to planning a wedding, we like <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2004/12/nice_day_for_a.php" target="_blank">Organic Weddings</a>, <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/08/ethical_weddings.php" target="_blank">Ethical Weddings</a> and <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/04/plan_your_green_1.php" target="_blank">Green Elegance Weddings</a>. These three websites offer tips for couples looking to throw an eco-friendly wedding. Organic Weddings offers advice on catering, organic wine and beer, ceremony atmosphere notions and even music suggestions. And with the average wedding costing $25,000 today, Green Elegance Weddings makes it easier for couples to find the resources they need to direct more of their dollars towards green products and services. <br /><br />We’ve written about some of the details on TreeHugger as well, including ethically made wedding dresses like <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/03/wholly_jos_ethi_1.php" target="_blank">Wholly Jo’s</a> or, if you’re looking for a more sexy style, <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/11/faernyns_grove.php" target="_blank">Faernyn’s Grove</a>. And since you’ll only be wearing the dress once, you can try a <br /><a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2004/10/paper_wedding_d.php" target="_blank">paper dress</a> although it may be a bit far-fetched. Forego the confetti and rice and use <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/03/more_for_your_g_1.php" target="_blank">flower petals</a> as a beautiful yet sustainable alternative. And check out <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2004/12/greenkarat_recy.php" target="_blank">GreenKarat</a> for ethical wedding rings. They offer a voluntary carbon offset tax, which allows you to buy credits toward neutralizing carbon emissions associated with the energy usage of mining and making jewelry. Look for invitations that are tree-free or recycled like the ones from <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/01/invite_site_han.php" target="_blank">Invite Site</a> and when registering, look for an online store that offers eco-friendly options. <br /><br />Lastly, instead of giving wedding favors consider making a donation to one of your favorite causes. With so much time and money spent and many of your closest family and friends joining you for your special day it’s a great time to make it count. After all, they have to listen to you on your day, right?"design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-88451422405322566202007-03-20T19:18:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:57.787-08:00article update<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RgCWNVfAt2I/AAAAAAAACMg/NIBQcRzrOQc/s1600-h/TINYTREASURE.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_EkxQiDsvJOM/RgCWNVfAt2I/AAAAAAAACMg/NIBQcRzrOQc/s400/TINYTREASURE.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044196738504636258" /></a><br /><br />And a quick note to mention, check back to yesterday morning's <a href="http://www.growflowers.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">grow your own flowers article</a> to see added photos!design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-44457558101492087502007-03-20T19:16:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:01:59.256-08:00flowers finaleThis morning we're finishing up flowers and decorations with lots of additions. Let's get right into it with this great submission from Kat from outside Philadelphia: <br /><br />"My husband and I had a handmade, Italian garden theme with pop flourishes of a lemon, coral and magenta palette. It was a really strong combination of colors, so we were sure to combine them everywhere. A friend did the flowers - roses and<br />snapdragons from Costco; lanterns and ribbon hung in the garden."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB4Dg5SajI/AAAAAAAAAoA/_TgGKQFdcN8/s1600-h/colors2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB4Dg5SajI/AAAAAAAAAoA/_TgGKQFdcN8/s320/colors2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044163584420112946" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB4Dg5SaiI/AAAAAAAAAn4/303XAufSOI8/s1600-h/colors1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB4Dg5SaiI/AAAAAAAAAn4/303XAufSOI8/s320/colors1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044163584420112930" /></a><br /><a href="http://cathyswraps.com/" target="_blank">Cathy Skraba</a> creates these flower arrangement containers specifically designed to hang from chairs. Great idea, and a nice looking touch:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5mw5SalI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/4Mx7qUfo08Y/s1600-h/cathys_wrap_on_chair.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5mw5SalI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/4Mx7qUfo08Y/s320/cathys_wrap_on_chair.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044165289522129490" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5nA5SapI/AAAAAAAAAow/laEHOfeXhRo/s1600-h/IMG_1040_EditFR_chair.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5nA5SapI/AAAAAAAAAow/laEHOfeXhRo/s320/IMG_1040_EditFR_chair.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044165293817096850" /></a><br />Speaking of flower arrangements for the aisle - Andrea Katz of Bend, Oregon had this gorgeous idea:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgCEVQ5SauI/AAAAAAAAApY/-EyaDdldsjE/s1600-h/flowerchair.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgCEVQ5SauI/AAAAAAAAApY/-EyaDdldsjE/s320/flowerchair.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044177083502324450" /></a><br />Laura Brunow Miner of Lawrence, Kansas hand-picked her lily bouquets and has some great tips for resources:<br /><br />"I spent a week completely immersed in the concept: visiting florists, buying inexpensive flowers to experiment with arrangements, and scouring the internet. <br />In the end I decided upon the simple and modern Calla Lily for the bouquets. I chose four stems of stargazer lilies in a bell jar at each table for the table arrangements. The flowers came from <a href="http://www.growersbox.com/" target="_blank">growersbox.com</a> and <a href="http://www.pacificcallas.com" target="_blank">pacificcallas.com</a>. The bell jars were very inexpensive and purchased at a grocery store."<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgByKg5SafI/AAAAAAAAAng/3NTIv8nUXBw/s1600-h/cala1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgByKg5SafI/AAAAAAAAAng/3NTIv8nUXBw/s320/cala1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044157107609430514" /></a><br />Here is another beautiful homemade chuppah design sumitted by Robin Busch-Wheaton of Berkley, CA:<br /><br />"My husband, Elliot, and I made our simple but bright chuppah using a piece of fabric from a thrift store and different lengths and widths of red and orange ribbons."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgCB6w5SatI/AAAAAAAAApQ/RGHd6d8JQwY/s1600-h/chuppah.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgCB6w5SatI/AAAAAAAAApQ/RGHd6d8JQwY/s320/chuppah.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044174429212535506" /></a><br />Sarah Drake of Chicago was on a budget when she assembled her flower arrangements. So simple and elegant:<br /><br />"We spent about $200 at the farmers market and about $100 on vintage <br />medicine bottles for the reception centerpieces."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5nA5SaoI/AAAAAAAAAoo/dKghjtXsXNE/s1600-h/foutain.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5nA5SaoI/AAAAAAAAAoo/dKghjtXsXNE/s320/foutain.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044165293817096834" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5mw5SamI/AAAAAAAAAoY/tFJb-FPr93I/s1600-h/flower2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgB5mw5SamI/AAAAAAAAAoY/tFJb-FPr93I/s320/flower2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044165289522129506" /></a><br /><br />And finally a subtle and classic look from Trisha of <a href="http://blackwhitebliss.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">black white bliss</a> who simply had petals sprinkled down the aisle. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgCGcQ5SavI/AAAAAAAAApg/VW_P2-hlLDM/s1600-h/petals.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgCGcQ5SavI/AAAAAAAAApg/VW_P2-hlLDM/s320/petals.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044179402784664306" /></a><br />Thanks again to all the readers who wrote in. We'll move on to eco-friendly wedding ideas this afternoon, so check back later!design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32351865.post-42519230855600223042007-03-20T14:33:00.000-07:002008-12-10T14:02:01.568-08:00not for the weak-at-heart<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJVQ5SaYI/AAAAAAAAAmo/48dDcJBhDfM/s1600-h/RMchuppah2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJVQ5SaYI/AAAAAAAAAmo/48dDcJBhDfM/s320/RMchuppah2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044112212316285314" /></a><br />Here are a few larger-scale projects if you want to get really ambitious with your crafting. The first is another great idea from <a href="http://www.readymademag.com/" target="_blank">ReadyMade Magazine</a>, a homemade chuppah made of birch tree trunks and flowers. They were even kind enough to create a special link for <a href="http://www.readymademag.com/chuppah/" target="_blank">easy-to-follow directions</a>. My thanks to the folks RM!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJVQ5SaZI/AAAAAAAAAmw/OpGt-sBfXn8/s1600-h/RMchuppah.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJVQ5SaZI/AAAAAAAAAmw/OpGt-sBfXn8/s320/RMchuppah.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044112212316285330" /></a><br />Carol Barclay of Rochester, NY sent in these great photos of her daughter's backyard summer wedding, featuring a tree branch arch and driveway stencils. They did a few heavy-duty projects for decorations, and their efforts really paid off: <br /><br />"The ceremony was under a handmade sycamore arch in the back and the <br />dinner was under a fluttery tent in the front, so I wanted to make <br />the path between the areas into a special walkway. I stenciled silver scrolls the whole length of the driveway! It took over 6 hours on my knees... and we had a gathering of neighbors out checking out what I was up to."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJUg5SaVI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/dNNsx50BWho/s1600-h/arch2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJUg5SaVI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/dNNsx50BWho/s320/arch2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044112199431383378" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJUw5SaWI/AAAAAAAAAmY/3p8XKoW-nlo/s1600-h/arch3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJUw5SaWI/AAAAAAAAAmY/3p8XKoW-nlo/s320/arch3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044112203726350690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJVA5SaXI/AAAAAAAAAmg/DCPRhZYqqIY/s1600-h/arch4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBJVA5SaXI/AAAAAAAAAmg/DCPRhZYqqIY/s320/arch4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044112208021318002" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBMyw5SadI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/saRruXztaJ0/s1600-h/stencil1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBMyw5SadI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/saRruXztaJ0/s320/stencil1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044116017657309650" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBMzA5SaeI/AAAAAAAAAnY/8JSbwcZKMiM/s1600-h/stencil2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBMzA5SaeI/AAAAAAAAAnY/8JSbwcZKMiM/s320/stencil2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044116021952276962" /></a><br />Katy Verga of Arizona had loads of great handmade things in her wedding. I particularly liked the way they tackled the issue of baking hot weather at her backyard wedding. It's tough to pull off a weather solution that is functional AND elegant:<br /><br />"Because our wedding was on a May afternoon in steaming Arizona, & we were inviting our guests to sit out beneath the near scorching sun, we knew we would need to provide some sort of shade. My creative mom came up with the idea of long stretches of sheer white fabric. We hung the strips from our roof & lengthened them to a string of wire hung throughout the trees. They worked! Lots of shade & a nice soft ambience that made the whole afternoon feel more intimate. Tiny bells hanging in the trees made for soft song when the breeze would catch them."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBLzg5SaaI/AAAAAAAAAm4/1nMB7sVSN6s/s1600-h/shade.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBLzg5SaaI/AAAAAAAAAm4/1nMB7sVSN6s/s320/shade.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044114931030583714" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBLzw5SabI/AAAAAAAAAnA/RDHZrx0nIQo/s1600-h/shade2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBLzw5SabI/AAAAAAAAAnA/RDHZrx0nIQo/s320/shade2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044114935325551026" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBL0A5SacI/AAAAAAAAAnI/anIjzxpCiIk/s1600-h/bells.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0FhitUUlClE/RgBL0A5SacI/AAAAAAAAAnI/anIjzxpCiIk/s320/bells.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044114939620518338" /></a><br /><br />Thanks so much for the submissions. More flowers and decorations coming tomorrow morning...design*spongehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01716646535910946876noreply@blogger.com0