Letterpress Imprintables for the Holidays

Armato Design and Press is offering a number of different cards customized with either letterpress or digital printing. Above is a letterpress flat card. This card is personalized with your choice of color, font and message beautifully letterpress printed on 100% cotton paper and includes white envelopes and self-adhesive photo corners. 50 cards are $95.

The rest of the cards shown can be imprinted digitally or in letterpress. Bulk cards (30 or more) sell for my wholesale price of $2 a piece. Letterpress personalization is an extra $85, digital personalization in black ink is an extra $20. If you have questions please feel free to contact Amy at amy{at}armatodesign.com or check out my Etsy shop.

Giveaway, Pistachio Press Calendar

Hello friends!  I wanted to stop by to let you know that I'm hosting a calendar giveaway on my blog.  One winner will receive the full 12-month calendar and a second winner will receive the tear-away calendar.  Both are letterpress printed and the imagery is inspired by vintage china patterns. To enter, please leave a comment on my blog telling us all what you your favorite part of fall is (mine is that I have an excuse to make and eat soup!). The contest will end on Monday, November 9th at midnight (EST) and I'll announce the winner on Tuesday, November 10th.

website: pistachiopress.com
blog: whichonesareweeds.blogspot.com
poppytalk table: gallery 112
shop online: pistachiopress.etsy.com
flickr: flickr.com/photos/pistachiopress

new fivetrees embroidery

busy finishing new embroidery pieces. i can't get enough of caterpillars--brightly colored or monochromatic, so those are cropping up everywhere in my work of late.

In fact, my "hey there!" caterpillar (pictured below) is the first embroidery piece to make its way to poppytalkhandmade. The rest will slowly but surely appear on the fivetrees shop.

Trick-or-Treatzone!

We're super-excited to share work from our Halloween-inspired show currently at The Curiosity Shoppe, entitled Trick-or-Treatzone. The show features ghost paintings on vintage postcards, classic monster silhouettes on science textbook pages, and haunting phrases printed on patterned paper – and our opening party last Friday included holiday-appropriate details like "spooky brew" and candy corn of course!

The show is up through November 22nd, but in case you can't make it in person, we're making the show multiples available at our table. We hope you'll check out our fall makeover and we wish you a very Happy Halloween!

Tiny Treasures...

By Mai Mckemy The Sparrow's Nest


There is something magical about holding a tiny wonder in the palm of your hand. We are fascinated by details captured in miniature scale. Even our electronic devices reflect that fascination, as they shrink in size year after year. Who can deny the awe of holding a small purring kitten, or a teacup-sized puppy in one hand? Why do we grasp a baby's fingers, and tickle its tiny, perfect toes? What is it about the miniature that draws us in, and beckons us to investigate further? What inspired the dedication of control that was executed to assemble such a microcosmic feat?



I've begun to explore this fascination in a series of tiny woodland-themed "terrarium" necklaces, each encompassing its own enchanting details. I have been filled with utter joy in replicating such enthralling details, and seek to represent creatures and plant life in charming dioramas. I have one design for sale currently, and am working on additional designs to introduce soon.

I wish to delight those who wear one of my tiny little microcosms in a glass vial, strung on a delicate sterling silver chain. I hope to bring back some of that child-like wonder we all had, when the world was new and bright and there was yet much to discover. (And I've got a secret: there is always something beautiful left to discover still!)


Blessings, Mai McKemy http://4thesparrowsnest.etsy.com

The Simple Secret Necklace (By Corrieberry Pie)

Inspired by simpler times...

Simple Secret Necklace
Corrieberry Pie on Etsy
Corrieberry Pie Blog
Corrieberry Pie on Poppytalk

Gifts for the tough people on your list

Armato Design and Press offers a line of letterpress personalized stationery and mini calling cards which are perfect for the loved ones on your list, especially those who seem to have everything. Here are just a few of the designs offered. You get to pick which design is perfect for your special someone and then choose color and font to go with it. All of these designs are listed in at my Poppytalk table, others are available from my Etsy shop. And, as always, I am happy to talk to you about letterpress printing your custom design or coming up with a design just for you.

Giveaway / New Sycamore Club Print at Sycamore Street Press

If you are familiar with Sycamore Street Press, then you'll know that we collaborate with a different artist each month to bring you a limited edition letterpress print. We print one edition of 100 prints and that's it. We will never reprint them. They're available for individual purchase, or at a discount as part of a subscription. We call this project the Sycamore Club. Click here to see all the prints we've made for it so far.


This month's rodeo themed artwork is by the talented graphic designer, Jamie Tallerico. I love the subdued retro colors, and I can totally picture this print in a little boy's room, a home with vintage 50's inspired decor, a rustic cabin, etc.... Click here to find out more about the artist and the print, or to see more photos.

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment on my blog. I'll choose a winner at random next Monday, November 2nd.

Thanks!
Eva

blog: evajorgensen.blogspot.com
website: sycamorestreetpress.com
shop: shop.sycamorestreetpress.com
twitter: twitter.com/sycamorestpress
flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/sycamorestreet
facebook

O Bella Earthwear - nature inspired jewelry

by Betsy of O Bella



O Bella officially launched it's nature inspired jewelry line [earth wear] on this months Indie Love Market.

These pieces are based on the idea of creating beautiful, natural art to wear out of items found in the earth. Each necklace is given a name reminiscent of a unique location or object in nature. My heart is in the mountains, and when I wear these necklaces, I carry around the mountain mindset no matter where I am... even in Flatlander Florida. It's a chance to take a piece of nature and use in it everyday life. I hope it reminds you of the essence, beauty, and wonder of the mountains and nature.




Each stone was collected by me from the lakes of northern Idaho [following state and park guidelines of course!], paired with complementing or contrasting beads made from natural materials [african recycled glass beads, stoneware, horn, wood, ceramic], hung on hemp, and secured with hand-forged raw bronze clasps.





I'm thrilled to participate in this months market alongside incredible handmade artists. Feel free to browse through my table for other necklaces and handmade items [including natural soaps and knits] or stop by my etsy shop!

~ Betsy

Etsy: www.obellanaturals.etsy.com
Poppytalk: www.poppytalkhandmade.com/gallery119
Blog: www.obellanaturals.blogspot.com

Hello Handmade launches winter wares!

Well, hello there! Betsy and I have been waiting all year for this season to roll around again, and now it is finally time to unfurl our spread of winter wares!

Our etsy shop re-opens its figurative doors today! First up are the 2010 Laureled Tea Towel, and our Tannenbaum Specimen Chart. Then, at the end of November some downloadable items, such as an advent calendar, bunting, and ornament with follow. We hope you're as excited as we are about our winter wares!

We're both really excited about today. Each time we have launched something new has been exciting, but after having finally had the opportunity to work side by side this summer the feeling is unmatchable! What a joy to have such a wonderful, kind, talented, and hilarious partner!

Cheers, everyone!

xoxo, Shanna

mothers and daughters - the connection series by mary's granddaughter

My new series "connection" explores the different stages in the relationship between mother and daughter. As my own daughter grows and prepares for college I've become intimately aware of how quickly time passes.

connection no. 2

connection no. 3


connection no. 1

All the pieces in this series are embroidered on antique homespun linen and framed in vintage metal embroidery hoops. The little antique arms were excavated from the grounds of an old doll factory in Thuringia, Germany.

All the best,
Cindy (mary's granddaghter)

visit me at:
Poppytalk
my shop

Tea Party Necklace (By Corrieberry Pie)

This charming little necklace is quite nostalgic and quirky in the best way possible.
(And so very Alice In Wonderland-esque. Come quickly March!)

www.corrieberrypie.etsy.com
www.corrieberrypie.blogspot.com
Corrieberry Pie on Poppytalk

check out my new 2010 calendars

by Stephanie Levy



"swedish retro"



"caribbean kitchen"



"designer chairs"



"schoener wohnen"

I'm excited to announce that I've created a series of hand-drawn calendars for 2010! I have six different images to choose from; you can see my entire series in my shop and here at the Poppytalk Handmade Market this month.

These calendars are just right for brightening up your favorite spot, your kitchen, your workspace, or anywhere you'd like all of 2010's dates at a glance.

Each calendar is printed with non-fading, archival inks on velvety matte paper, which makes your favorite image suitable for framing in 2011!

Thanks for looking and here's to a great 2010!

Visit my shop
Visit my Poppytalk gallery

Give the eco-gift of furoshiki this holiday season

According to the Clean Air Council, an additional five million tons of waste is generated during the holidays in the United States, four million tons of which is wrapping paper and shopping bags. As a mother of two young daughters, I am very concerned with this news and am hoping you will consider using the centuries-old Japanese tradition of furoshiki to wrap your gifts this year – it’s easy, elegant and eco-friendly!


History of the Furoshiki

For centuries, Japanese citizens have used square pieces of cloth called "furoshikis” for a myriad of practical and ornamental applications – nearly everything from transporting goods to decorating gifts. Historians believe furoshikis gained popularity during the Edo Period (1603-1868) when public bath houses became fashionable. Japanese citizens would carry their clothes and personal belongings inside a wrapped furoshiki and then use it as a bath mat. This is how the furoshiki got its name: “furo” meaning “bath” and “shiki” meaning “to spread”. The furoshiki played an important role in the development of Japan’s sustainable society during Edo times and emerged as a highly celebrated custom for wrapping gifts.

Furoshiki Artistry

When I first discovered the art of furoshiki, I was awestruck by its elegance and how, when effortlessly tied and knotted any furoshiki can transform a great gift into an exceptional keepsake. I learned that in Japan much about the gift-giving experience centers on the presentation. Great care and joy go into selecting just the right furoshiki fabric and the best wrap technique to honor each gift-giving occasion. With so many colors, patterns, and fabric choices available, furoshikis afford gift-givers the ability to add a personal touch.


Give the Eco-Gift of Furoshiki this Holiday Season

Whether you brave the crowds or cozy up to your computer for your shopping this holiday season, I encourage you to choose an eco-friendly gift wrap option like furoshiki to green your gift-giving. Furoshikis can be easily tied to create a stunning package begging to be untied! Encourage gift recipients to “wrap it forward" as an eco-bonus.

Cheers and Happy Holidays,
Mandy

News from Dolan Geiman

After a little hiatus from Poppytalk Handmade, we're thrilled to be back and hope everyone enjoys our shop in the current Indie Love market. We have a couple news items to report:

This weekend, Dolan is participating in an art show & fundraiser in Nashville, TN called artclectic. Show information is available at artclectic.org. The artist line-up is incredible, featuring many of our friends and favorite artists from the art fair circuit. Don't miss it!

Next, check out some of our favorite new releases:

Fall Foliage BOX PRINT reproduction: view item >>
DG MINIS Band Practice Collection Trumpet and Drums: view item >>
Finally, we're counting down to 400 sales in our Etsy shop with a special drawing. All buyers between now and 400 sales will be entered to win this DG MINI Set. The current sales counts is 393 so join in on the fun with a pre-holiday purchase!
website: http://dolangeiman.com
Etsy shop: http://dolangeiman.etsy.com
blog: http://dolangeiman.blogspot.com
Poppytalk Handmade: http://poppytalkhandmade.com/gallery88

Super Dooper Mugs and Bowls

By McCheek's Mayhem

Fresh out of the kiln, and I'm happy to say, my new ceramic work is now finished and in my shop , after lots of tempermental glaze issues, and sighing on my part.

The Bird Nerd thing came about from my pal Carlos, named me thus, a while ago, after I admitted to standing at the kitchen window with a pair of binoculars, checking on my little feathered friends.

I use alot of vintage decals on my work, as well as some that my screen printer husband helped me to print. They are all fired on, and won't come off, but I do recommend care in washing, by hand preferably, to keep the colours bright

Thanks to Super Dooper Poppytalk

from Carole at McCheek's Mayhem

2010 calendars :: satsuma press

2010 calendars, all wrapped up in glassine, sealed with japanese tape, ready for you. Labor intensive, all around, but oh-so-pretty. Pick up yours right here or here.

Sundry Necklace (By: Corrieberry Pie)

sun•dry (sən-drē )
of various kinds; severalThe Sundry Necklace is my favorite design as of late. It is so versatile (and comfortable!) and gives you that rad layered look without all the tangles.
Made from a mix of (mostly vintage) metal chains, these have been grouped together and secured to a soft turquoise woven ribbon tie.
You can seriously wear this with ANYTHING. ;)

www.corrieberrypie.etsy.com
www.corrieberrypie.blogspot.com
Corrieberry Pie on Poppytalk

new typography cards from a. favorite design!

just a quick note to announce the release of our new letterpress typography cards!
we're excited to be back at poppytalk handmade, thanks jan & earl.
and what better time to release a new line?

if you don't know, i'm a type zealot... officially in fact, it says so on my business card. my type obsession has been the inspiration behind many of my creations; these cards being one of them.

the typography series includes six iconic fonts. playing on words & meaning while creating visual interest with typography. perfect for any font savant, designer or typoholic.

check out the complete series at out poppytalk handmade table or our shop

DIY Cocktail Party

Join the Vancouver Craft Mafia this Saturday (October 17th) Fall DIY cocktail party kick off!

When: Saturday, October 17th at 7.30pm onwards

Where: A private residence (you will be emailed directions when you rsvp via vancouvercraftmafia(at)gmail(dot)com)

What to bring: A recipe for your favourite cocktail and any special ingredients you might need to make it (including the alcohol).

What is provided: Mixers, blenders, basic ingredients such as a selection of juice and soda, garnishes (salt, olives, mint, etc) and small cups for serving. There will also be yummy food and good music.

Cost: A small donation of $2 to help cover the cost of supplies

How it works:The idea is that each guest will make up a batch of their chosen cocktail (enough for 10 dixie cup-ish size servings) and then share it with other guests. Which means that everybody gets to taste all of the yummy concotions! Of course, you can make either alcoholic or non-alcoholic and if you choose alcoholic you can just take the remainder of your alcohol home with you at the end of the night! As this is at a private residence, the guest list has been capped to 30 spaces, so please RSVP if you wish to attend.

There's still plenty of room if you're keen to come, just flick us an email and we'll send you directions! Hope to see you there!
xo