Rare Bird Finds

Silver Guitar Pick Necklace

This is my last pick of the day, and I know I said earlier that we'd all seen silver picks, but I liked this one made into a necklace. The writing is straighter and more readable than most of the ones I've seen, and they seem to be able to find a considerable amount on it. Also, this is a line from my favorite Phil Ochs song. Get one with your love's favorite lyric on it, maybe your song. Or get your best friend's favorite saying. Maybe a short line from a book for mom. Comes with either a chain or cord, your choice. 56.00 at Under Her Charm.

Circuit board pick

This nifty little pick is made out of an old circuit board. For those of you who are into both gadgets and guitars. They have a few different colors at the shop, if red isn't your thing. 8.00 at The Blue Kraken.

My Favorite Robot

New dads and baby boys often get the short end of the stick. Sure, everyone loves cute fluffly bunnies and whatnot but sometimes a guy needs…a robot. And these playful bibs are just the answer to baby shower ennui. Tuck a few in a diaper pail or manly diaper bag and dads get a nice surprise too. $8.00 at Space Oddities on etsy.

Ice Cream Pint Sleeve

 

I like my ice cream!  And, I'm one of those people who eats right out of the carton. But it's so cold on my wittle finners....that's why I've found the Ice Cream Pint Sleeve.  Not only will it keep your wittle finners from getting cold, it will keep your ice cream colder longer.  It even has a built in magnet so you can hang it on the freezer door.  $7.95 at Vat19.

Bag'O'Books

Don't want to pick up yet another toy for your next baby shower, kid party, just-because gift or party favor? The Gifted Grasshopper has various sets of book-filled totesfor baby up until 3rd grade! You can even add toys. $19.99 and up from The Gifted Grasshopper

Jasper guitar pick

Isn't this pick pretty? Handmade of polished jasper, this gorgeous guitar pick is sure to attract attention all its own, no matter who's playing. The shop also has picks made of agate, rhodonite, and other stones. They range from 10.00 to 15.00, pick shown is 13.00 at Abatis.

Lunch Lady Action Figure

The poor lunch ladies always get a bad rep!  Give this one a place of honor in your home. She comes with removable serving scoop and 9 mystery meat and veggie stickers to customize your own lunch specials. $11.95 at Giftapolis.

Rolling Stones Action Figures

Is that a Stones in your pocket? Mick and Keith are shrunk to a wee 7".  A little big for a pocket, but the  perfect size for a display stand or your mantle. $24.95 at What on Earth.

Ivory Guitar Pick

Selected for pegs and and bridges on high-end guitars, ivory has some beautiful tonal qualities. Don't worry, these beautiful picks are handcarved of pre-ban estate ivory, not stuff that is illegally sold now. It's a good way to make use of old pieces of ivory that would otherwise lie useless. One of my favorite picks today,it even looks musical. If you know a truly talented musician, this pick might be a welcome and unexpected gift. 12.00 at Tusker Picks. Tell them you saw it on Rare Bird Finds!

Recycled Picks

For your eco-friendly musician, these picks are made out of recycled credit and gift cards. Fun and colorful, they come in packs of three, so you always have a few on hand. The price is definitely right at 3.00 from The Jumping Flea Market.

Little Creatures Art Blocks

Hey, I wouldn’t mind these little guys hanging in my hallway trying to get me to hurry up in the mornings . Limited edition, vintage looking photo prints that are laminated onto handmade oak blocks. 49.50 each at Tansy & Co.

Custom Magnetic Paper Dolls

 

There are some finds that I just am crazy about, and this is one of them! These magnetic paper dolls are so much better than regular paper dolls of people you don't even know or care about.  These magnetic paper dolls can be customized to look like you or anyone else you know and love.  A delightful, playful way to dress up your fridge.  Would make such a lovely gift!  $25 at Claudine Hellmuth

Exotic Wood Picks

After seeing how many picks I had bookmarked, I dedicated my Monday picks to, in fact, picks. Perfect small gifts for the musician in your life, you can get one for a little pick me up gift, or several for an inventive themed gift. The first one is this set of exotic wood picks, which offer a different sound than plastic picks. I know we've all seen the silver picks, but this is a really beautiful and simple set, whether you have one musician in your life or several. Single picks also available. 20.00 from Christalos.

Retro Video games shirt

We all have that one guy or girl our lives who is absolutely obsessed with video games. They have the original Nintendo, an old Sega, and always the newest system. For these people, this shirt was created. Or just for those of you who can't quite let go of the Nintendo. Can be printed on various colors, in different colored inks. 21.50 from Faux Sure.

Soup server

When I first came to college, we used to have soup parties, where a bunch of people brought soup and some bowls, and we would vote on our favorites. I think this little set would be perfect for that, or any sort of soup or chili-based entertaining. I love how the bowls are contained in the pot, to keep things out of the way. I also love how the polka dot design goes together by being opposite. It's an adorable set for when fall comes. 50.00 for a pot and 6 bowls at Kymm in NYC.

Tentacle Earrings

Give your ears the look of a giant squid bursting out with these purple Tentacled Earrings!  Amaze your friends and freak out your family!  Available in other colors too!  Only $12 at CashewedAlmonds.

Owls and Bluebells II Print

This is one of the sweetest things I have seen in a while. These owls look so sad and lonely, you can't help but think they are adorable! This print is definitely one I will be putting on my "to buy" list. Just $10 at etsy.

Round Disc Turquoise Swirl Sterling Silver Gemstone Cocktail Ring

I admit it. I am in love with rings, and the quirkier, the better. This ring (and her other rings) feature a silver wrapped band, which is so delicate yet industrial. Stop by and pick up a couple of these gorgeous rings. (And pick one up for me while you're at it!) $19 at etsy.

45 RPM Record Insert Sterling Silver Cufflinks

I kind of don’t like featuring cufflinks as a cool guy find because really, how many guys do you know that actually need more than one pair of cufflinks? And when do they ever use them, except at weddings? These 45 RPM Record Insert Sterling Silver Cufflinks, however, are too cool not to share. I just realized though…they are pretty much for men “of a certain age” as a lot of those under, say 21, may have never actually seen a 45. Ouch. $120 at Spoon Sisters.

Large Personalized Magnetic and Dry Erase Board

My mom has an old, small magnetic board that she uses in the kitchen, to hold her recipes while she bakes. I might upgrade hers with one of these when her birthday rolls around.  This board is big (18.5" x 18.5"), customizable (choose colors, fonts, ribbon accent), and can also be used as a dry erase board (even on this black one -- use a chalk marker).  The back has an easel so it can be set on the counter or it can be hung on the wall. So sweet! $28.00 at Etsy.

Elemental Goddess Tea Towels

I just thought these embroidered Elemental Goddess towels were so cool.  Each "Goddess" represents one of the 4 elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water.  Make your kitchen a divine place to be with this set of 4 tea towels for $26 at RainFeather13.

Personalized Scarf

A really personal gift for your significant other, mom, or anyone you love. Hand-loomed scarf features your words and phrases artfully arranged about the piece. For an anniversary, you could pick places and nicknames that are important to you. For a best friend, all of your silly in-jokes. The words show up on both sides and lots of colors are available. 50.00 at Blazing Needles.

Dirigible vest

There aren't nearly enough men in vests. They have such a classic, clean look about them. This vest has all these same classic lines, but with a steampunk touch. It would look great paired either with a t-shirt or a blazer, on anyone who has a taste for a classic twist. 28.00 at TaDa Boutique.

Your own Rare Bird

This little beauty reminded me so much of our own rare bird that I just couldn't resist. Called a victorian peacock in the shop, this little girl would look equally at home in a girl's room or a parlor. Comes in something like 25 colors, and the creator is more than happy to send out color swatches. 20.00 at Tweetheart Wall Art.

Edamame Pillow Set (Soy Beans)

 

Edamame may be an unusual inspiration for a pillow set, but I think it totally works - a bit of the unexpected in a cool, hip way.  $18 at Eon Creative

Maple Dinosaur Playset

 

I don't know about you guys, but I am sort of over the brightly colored, loud toys that they have for toddlers these days. When I was a kid, some of my favorite toys were the ones that I made all the noise for. These smooth maple dinosaur toys fall right into that category.Hand made and finished with flaxseed oil for safety, these wooden toys can last through a couple of sets of kids, making them perfect for a baby or toddler gift. And mod enough that you won't mind them sitting out! They also have a safari set and many other handcrafted toys in the shop. 28.00 at Little Alouette.

Tactical Bacon

Bacon is all the rage lately.  So if you're a bacon freak, get your freak-on with this can of bacon that has a shelf life of, uhm, 10 years.  Comes in strips!  Yummmers.  $15.99 at Think Geek

Cheese Katakana Camera T-shirt

Love this t-shirt of a camera with the word "cheese" written in katakana.  Pretty nifty!  I really want one!  Available in ladies sizes, too.  $20 at Snowcone Collective

Foks (not in a boks)

With fall coming upon us, I love the idea of this tongue in cheek fox scarf. Adorable and much more animal-friendly than a fur, it comes in several different colors, and two different lengths. I would kind of love a long one in the traditional ginger myself, but no matter what your color palette, there's one to work with your wardrobe. 58.00-82.00 at Celapiu

Balloon Dog in Bright Red Polymer Clay Pendant and Necklace

One of my kids' favorite restaurants was an old country diner that featured a balloon animal artist. He made all kinds of fantastical things, including a balloon dog like this one. $18 at Roscata

PAIR OF ANTIQUED SILVER JAPANESE DEATH BEETLE CUFF LINKS

These Japanese Death Beetle cuff links would be perfect for Halloween, or just out crawling the town. $30 at Ghost Love Jewelry.

Miniature Beef or Bean Taco Earrings

I am loving these yummy little taco earrings! $8 at Rainy Day Swap Meet

Felt Maryjanes

The flower embroidery on these little felt maryjanes are just too cute! Sizes range from 0-18 months and the color combinations are sure to please. Makes a perfect little baby gift! $26 at Ivory & Moss

Leather map travel journal

Whether you have lived somewhere, traveled there, or just love it, I think these leather travel journals are a great way to record your observations about a place. Or just about life. Tooled and dyed by hand, each of these journals are a work of art. There are many locations available, from New York to Japan to Australia, and even lesser traveled places like the Czech Republic or Morocco, and you can also get them in a natural, undyed state. Photo albums are also offered. 14.90 to 29.90 at Leather Maps.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Truffles

I'm not a huge fan of peanut butter cups, but these sound delicious and quirky. Truffles filled with an elementary school treat, peanut butter ganache and strawberry jelly. They come attractively packaged, and are complemented by the other offerings in her shop, like the honey lavender truffles or custom fortune cookies. 10.00 for 16 at Vintage Confections.

Shema Pendant

I love this pendant. I love the way it looks like some freehand artistic design until you look closely, and I love how the stylish silver design would go with t-shirts or a night out. It's unique, but without being in your face. I think it would great with the leather braided cord it comes with on any guy, but I think it would look equally classy and different surrounded by pearls or even on a delicate chain for a woman. There's also some peyote stich designs and more Hebrew pendants in the shop. 18.00 at Veroque

Avocado earrings

We all know someone who could rock these avocado earrings something fierce. I think they'd be great paired with a demure pink and yellow outfit, for just a hint of the unexpected. The price is right too, as are many of the selections in her shop. 4.00 at La Chapina.

Premium Beef Pillow

Red meat lovers rejoice!  Now you can rest your weary head on your very own Premium Marbled Beef pillow!  Remember, you can't eat this....it won't taste good. $42 at ChicsinDesignDoCom on Etsy.

Carnival Freak Signs

 

Don't you love a good carnival?  This sign shop has a wide variety of signs that you'd find at a self-respecting carnival full of freaks.  Awesome stuff.  $18 and up at Cinda

Salt Blend Collection

These are finishing salts and a thoughtful gift for any occasion or a great way to impress guests even if you believe that you've cooked the blandest meal on the planet. The flavors range from Sumac Pepper to Vanilla. 8 salt blends. $20 by Didi Davis at Foodzie.com

Swimming Hole Coasters

 

These silly, spill shaped, silicone coasters will put your guests at ease and give them something to fight over. The duck, frog, gator, or turtle in their own little swimming holes will go about their joyful relaxation as you party the night away. 4.99 each at Mod Cloth.

Your Customized Notebook Pouch

I love that this little pouch looks like lined paper and you can even customize the text.  Vegan, as it's made from faux white leather.  $22 at Squirrellicious

Moustache Salt and Pepper Shaker

I adore this pure walnut salt and pepper shaker made to look like a fancy mustache.  So awesome!  Made to order.  $28 at Paper Doll Wood Shop 

Personalized Lunchboxes

 

Need a little lunchbox love? These little retro-inspired beauties come in a variety of color combinations and styles abound! Take a peek. $36 EM Tanner Designs

Ninja Star Coat Hook

I've seen cute coat hooks shaped like birds or twigs, but never something as badass as this!  Each throwing star coat hook is made from really strong nickel-plated zinc, has a screw permanently attached so it's easy to install, and is really, really cool.  $12.99 at ThinkGeek.

Sombrero de Llama

I haven’t shopped at Dwanda yet, but this hat might just change all that. Who could resist such as thing as the sombrero de llama? Handmade of 100% lama wool and as stylish as all get out. It’s pictured on a girl, but I think it might fit a guy too, if you know the kind of guy who likes to look AWESOME. €35.00 from ARTE - SANIAS on Dwanda.

Let me see that sushi roll

If you're anything like me, you love pillows. I especially love exciting pillows, which is why I love this hand-knitted sushi roll pillow with tekka maki filling. I think it would look right at home lounging on the bed with your Jane Austen or your graphic novels. 12.50 from Zombie Hand Production.

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Easter Island Head Tissue Box

There's just something surreal about the Easter Island Heads but even more surreal is pulling a tissue out of an Easter Island Head's nose.  Wipe your nose with stuff that comes out of something else's nose!  Why not!  $19.99 at Amazon.com.

Pac-man Tie

Some of use live our lives in cubicles and ties. Some of us use them for a fashion statement. Some of us get stuck in them for senior pictures. Whatever your reason for needing a tie that fits the bill with a unique flair, I think they have something for you over at The Bag Basement 1. In addition to my favorite, this Pac-man tie, they have neon zebra stripes, rubber ducks with mohawks, bats, and more. Also check out the checkered heartbreaker tie. Did I mention right now, U.S. shipping is free? 13.00 at The Bag Basement 1.