Rare Bird Finds

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TNT Candles

So cute and just a little bit twisted.  These candles don't explode, obviously, but they look like they could. Made of paraffin, these suckers are just waiting to find a home. Perhaps next to an ACME brand anvil?  $12.00 (the bomb), $10.00 (the dynamite), or $16.00 (the set) at Mystake.

Are You Crafty? Win a LIFETIME Membership to Sell Your Crafts on Zibbet.com!

Hey!  If you're crafty and you're itching to sell your handmade goods, artwork or crafting supplies, Zibbet is just the place for you!  Zibbet is a global marketplace, connecting buyers and sellers of handmade goods, fine art, vintage items and crafting supplies.

The awesome part is that one lucky Rare Bird Finds reader will win a free Premium Account (valued at $7/month) for LIFE on Zibbet.com!  For details about what you get with a premium account, you can check it out here.  Plus, if you already sell on Etsy, you'll soon be able to import your listings from your Etsy shop to your Zibbet shop - woohoo

So, how do you enter to win?  Go to Zibbet and copy the URL of your favorite item and post it in the comments section of our blog.  For an extra entry, Tweet or do a Facebook update about the giveaway along with a link to Rare Bird Finds (and let us know so you get credit). Winner can be anywhere in the world.  Deadline to enter is Thursday, October 8.  One winner will be randomly chosen and announced on our blog - so be sure to check back to see if you won!

BONUS!  Zibbet is offering a Free 7 Day Trial of their Premium Account to all Rare Bird Finds readers.  Just use the coupon code: FREETRIAL

.Good Luck!!

CONGRATS TO AMY SOM WHO WON A LIFETIME PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Erin Smith Apron

Know a cook with an edge...someone that puts the cool in culinary? Then this apron, from collage artist Erin Smith, would be a great gift for them (or yourself)! I’ve showcased one design, but there are many to choose from. Channel your inner domestic diva today for $19 at High Cotton.

  

Paperclip Chandelier

I think this is so original and ingenious!  Check out this paperclip chandelier...yes that's right, it's made of paperclips.  Just look at the design it casts on the ceiling.  This is just too cool.  There are actually several different styles to choose from.  This one is $185 at ReDesign Technologies.

The Curious Garden

One of the favorite books of the summer in my house has definitely been one of Peter Brown's latest . Full of whimsical pictures and a main character that follows his heart by bringing a little bit of happiness to his surroundings, this sweet little book will bring the same to yours. $11.55 at Amazon

Dog Recipe Cards

These adorable, 2 sided, 4x6 recipe cards with a dog theme that even include a shopping list on the card will help you keep around your world famous recipes. The genius behind these wonderful illustrations is Susie Ghahremani and you need to see what else she has in her shop. $8 for 10 at boygirlparty.

Spacetime Wall Art

This is a set of 4 different space theme wall decals by 4 different artists. You can mix and match in the same room or have a space theme throughout your house….you geek. Anyways. Decorate and redecorate to your little hearts desire because these are removable and re-stickable. $48 at Poketo

Win 2 Tickets to the Ultimate Comedy Bash in Solvang, CA!

Helloooo our comedy-lovin' birdies!

The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre is taking over the Danish town of Solvang, CA for the Ultimate Comedy Bash Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10. Celebrate the best and brightest in alternative stand-up, sketch and improv at a special two day festival with stars from Saturday Night Live, Mr. Show, Reno 911! and more.

One lucky Rare Bird Finds reader will win a pair of special passes (valued at $100) for Saturday, October 10th. The passes get you into both shows on that day: ASSSSCAT and The Greatest Comedy Show Ever!

Go to www.ultimatecomedybash.com for more details!

If you want to win tickets, just leave a comment to this post with your name and email address. All comments will be kept private.  Your privacy is important to us - we won't sell your personal information.  The email address you provide will only be used to let you know if you won. The tickets will be wristbands that will be picked up at Will Call the day of the show.

Last day to enter is Oct. 2, 2009 - GOOD LUCK!

CONGRATS TO DANNY E. for WINNING THE TIX!!!!!!!!

Reusable Sandwich Bag - Skulls of Fire

I’ve been thinking about getting myself some reusable sandwich and snack bags. I mean, there’s an awful lot of waste in a regular lunchbox, either tinfoil or baggies, and these seem like a perfect solution. Even better, they are offered in a variety of patterns so if you are packing lunch for a guy, he can have his very own skulls of fire sandwich bag (or baseballs, or soccer balls or…whatever…oh wait, there are dragons too!) and not get teased about the flowery ones you were going to get him. $7.00 at Naturally Felt on etsy.

Robots They’re Just Like Us, They Go Incognito

If you’ve read US magazine then you’ve seen the feature about celebrities and how they are just like us; they drink coffee in their skivvies, they walk on the beach and trip, etc. This series of Robot art by artist, Steph Calvert is a fun take on that but with Robots. $20 at Hearts and Laserbeams.

Nail Brush

You know what’s so great about this nail brush? First of all, it’s a total play on words and second of all, it’s made by blind people. And that’s true! They were originally made in a school for the blind, and now the company that makes them employs the blind. I love that! Do they realize how much joy they give the world in cleaning our nails? $35 at Fitzsu.

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Sweet Pea Scarf

Even though it's technically not summer anymore, it's been in the 90's here in Los Angeles and I hate it.  Please cold weather come!  I am anxiously awaiting the opportunity to pull out my scarves.  This hand felted Sweet Pea scarf would definitely be an awesome addition to any girl's cold weather collection.  $125 at Elena Makes Things

Tetris Ice Cube Trays

Who doesn't love Tetris?  Bring a little of the game's whimsy to your favorite beverage with this silicone ice cube tray. Come in blue, pink, or green. $12.00 at Mymistake.

Toilet Tea Light Candle Holder

I live in an apartment and on our curb sometimes you'll find a couch, a bookcase, shopping carts, chairs and desks.  Well, it's now been replaced with a toilet.  Yep, folks, there's a toilet on my curb.  In honor of said toilet, I present to you the Toilet Tea Light Candle Holder.  At least it's far cuter!  $15 at Lepelstat Crafts

Gangsta Card Set

Don't get me wrong -- I'm a fan of technology. Texting instead of making a phone call, keeping tabs on people via Facebook statuses; I love it.  But as technology progresses at lightning speed, I start to pine for The Way Things Used To Be. I mean, people don't even read emails anymore! What's that about? I start to feel like a cranky old lady and I'm only 31!

What I've realized is that despite (or maybe because of) technology's rapid growth, people start to appreciate "old fashioned" things more.  Take, for example, a handwritten card. How great is it to get one of those in the mail? And even better -- what if that card makes you laugh, too?

These Gangsta Cards by Farewell Paperie (at Etsy) are the perfect way to let your friend know you're thinking about them; to give them a fun, cheeky surprise at the end of a long day. Made of sturdy, high-gloss cardstock, these notecards measure 3.5"x5", are blank on the inside and perfect for almost any occasion. They can be purchased seperately, but the 4-pack ("Sup Shawty," "Fo Shizzle," "Hey Holmes," and "Werrrd") comes in a cute linen pouch and is only $12.00.

The cards come with bright white envelopes and are begging to be sent to your dawg, shotty, boo, boy, or anyone else you can think of!

Leather and Metal Watchband

I have to admit that I have a weakness for guys who wear stuff on their wrists. Of course, a diamond tennis bracelet might not be sexy…this watch band is though! The wide leather strap with grommets looks pretty indestructible and I love how it tapers to the buckle. And at $25 for a handmade leather cuff, it’s a bargain. $25 at Shanalogic.

Sushi Rattle Set

You don’t become the most popular guest at a baby shower by correctly guessing how big the belly is; or naming over 100 songs with the word baby in the title...you do it by presenting the mother to be with this amazing knit sushi rattle set packaged in a soft serving tray. Buying it will make you feel good because you’ll know it was handmade in Bangladesh by a women’s cooperative and is a fair trade product. Giving it will make you feel even better because it’s one gift that will grow with the child, turning from rattle to toy as they get older. Maybe if I throw a tantrum someone will buy these for me?! $32.99 at Elsewares.

 

  

My Garden Linen Dress

How does your garden grow? Dress-shaped and in linen, of course! Available in most sizes and sure to make any rainy day sunny and bright. $32 at MeliMelon

Roller Stop Bookend

In honor of the new roller derby movie "Whip It" , I found for you, this jammin' neon green marble and resin  roller skate bookend by artist Harry Allen. It would belong in a place of honor in your home, I just know it!! $96 at Show.

Russian Squid Print

This squid print is pretty nifty because it not only says "squid" in Russian (I don't know about you, but I find the look of foreign languages fascinating), but the print is made of a linoleum hand carving.  Limited edition prints in a variety of squid colors.  $17 at Robot Zombie Monkey

Soap Knuckles

These soap knuckles are for those of you who wanna feel tough in the shower.  $15 for two at SPYE   Thank you Claudia for the tip!

Visit Our New Blog: IBetYouLookGoodInThatTShirt.com

Ohh, I'm so excited to announce the launch of my new blog, I Bet You Look Good In That T-Shirt!  I'm crazy about t-shirts, and if you are, too, then come on by and check out Rare Bird Finds' NEW sister blog!

If you have t-shirt tips or if you're a t-shirt designer and would like to be interviewed or do a giveaway, feel free to contact me.  Also, we're looking for readers to send in snapshots of themselves looking good in their favorite tee!

xo,

Mei-Lynn

Four Seasons Wine Set

 

Anyone who drinks wine needs a good decanter and nice wine glasses.  I just love these handpainted wine goblets and decanter depicting the four seasons in the life of a tree. Other styles of goblets and decanters available too. $85 at Mary Wibis

Nose Magnet

Stick your nose where it belongs...on your fridge! This heavy duty magnet is a guaranteed conversation starter! $15 at Art Akimbo.

Crossword Puzzle Skirt

I love this punchy little skirt. It comes with a hot pink fabric marker to fill in the squares. My middle schooler has been bitten by the Twilight bug and said she would put something about vampires. Ah...but of course. $37 at C.A.B. Fayre

Neutraface Slab Pillow

   

Black, white and modern letterforms come together to create a simply powerful statement with this large twill pillow, by design and type foundry House Industries. It would of course be perfect for a home office, but I could see it adding a graphic punch to a bedroom or living room as well. $55 at House Industries.

Animal Cracker Play Set

Who doesn't love animal crackers? This felt Animal Cracker play set includes 1 lion, 1 sheep, 1 pig, 1 elephant, and a delightful red box in which to store them. Hand sewn and simply adorable! $18 at Kenshop

Dog Pool

I realize it's a little late in the season to be posting pet pools.. but if you have a water dog like I do, you're always on the look out for the perfect pool. I think I found it.  $129.95 at Jake's Dog House

Round Bag Caps

You know what I hate? Twist ties. They're the bane of my existence. I either twist them too tight (I've a slight case of OCD when it comes to making sure things are closed.) and the wire breaks, or I don't twist them tight enough and the food goes stale.  Bag Caps to the rescue! $6.00 at Sur La Table

Bunsen Honeydew and Beaker Prints

       

You know the Muppet Show was the best TV show ever.  Recently I gave you Fozzie Bear's head mounted on a hunting trophy.  Today I give you wonderful prints of Bunsen Honeydew and his assistant Beaker.  Enjoy!  $7 each at Slugwork.

Monsters Don't Just Eat People, They Eat Cupcakes - Limited Edition Giclee Print

This print just helps fulfill my motto of “don’t even ask for a little slice in my house. Just eat and enjoy!”  This  8x10 Monster eating Cupcakes Print is the best reminder to finish your dessert. So put it over your kitchen table! $25 by Kill Taupe

 

Oh, Snap Cheese Slicer

Here's a snappy take on a giant mousetrap, this beechwood cheeseboard and cheese slicer will have your guests begging for some cheese. $19.95 at Z Gallerie.

Commuter Woven Men's Tie

Oh I have been waiting and waiting so patiently to post this! And it's available now! Ladies and gents, I give you...the commuter tie. Available in eight different colors (shown here in deep pink), this tie makes your morning commute, whether via plane, train, or automobile, not only bearable, but stylish! If I were a tie-wearing kinda gal, I would wear it. Alas, I am not so I will just have to settle for buying one for every man I know, including my hypothetical sons and grandsons.  Available from thomaspink.com for $100.

Robot SMASH Messenger bag

Ok, the tags on this bag contain the words "robot monster, attack smash fire, bomb apocalypse, giant alien, punk goth emo" and I think that about covers all the bases for most guys I know. It also looks like she uses a really interesting bleach stenciling technique, so these are about as one-of-a-kind as you can get. $42 a Raygun Robin on etsy.

Burst into Flames Wall Art Print

Funny mixed media art print that shares a bit of the private thoughts of the artist.  I'm sure you can relate - I know I can!  $50, but on sale for $45, at Sun Dog Company

Let's Coffee Mug

  

Until now, I never knew that coffee could be used as a verb! But I guess it makes sense; because without it there are many verbs for me that wouldn’t exist (like moving, talking, thinking…). The main reason I love this 15 oz mug though, is the slightly annoyed expression on the cats face. Better buy one quick and pour him a cup before he gets angry. You won’t like him when he’s angry. On sale now for $9.95 at Engrish.

Monster Pillow

Maybe it's my subconscious excitement for the upcoming Halloween holiday, but I can't seem to shake that monstrous feeling. So when I came upon Albert the Monster Pillow, it solidified that a) monsters can be spooky and cute and b) how fun would this be in the boys' room? You choose from 18 colors for a 14" inch pillow. $42 at Zooguu

Stumped Necklace

This handmade sterling silver necklace of a log is both unusual and cool.  Love the detail!  $45 at Nina Gibson Designs

Petite Nebula Mobile, In Spectrum

I blame it on my high school art history teacher but Alexander Calder is still stuck in my head as one of my favorite artists ever and I am always in search of that Calder-esque mobile. These brightly colored mobiles are perfect for starting your child out younger than high school as they are perfect for over the crib, made of EVA foam and bright aluminum wire, but then again, they don’t have to be for babies…$38 by The Wonderland Studio.

Simple Periodic Table Cuff

Oh! Oh! It’s so nerdy! But it’s also so sexy! Deck your favorite scientist in this cuff and he’s bound to get compliments. Black reclaimed leather with gold print will pretty much go with anything, even a lab coat. $45 at Project Transaction on etsy.

Bacon Soap

I have a friend who's a real meat lover.  We went to breakfast one morning and she just ordered sausage and bacon.  That's it.  She had killer indigestion all day, but that's meat love for you.  She'd probably really dig this bacon-scented soap.  I love that it's marbled, too!  $5.95 at Archie McPhee

Star Wars™ Dagobah Frog Habitat

This froggie habitat is a replica of Yoda's home planet.  Includes mail-in certificate for tadpoles. Cool, it is.  $39.98 at Things You Never Knew Existed

Grow Your Own Edamame

This is the perfect gift for the Japanese food and beer lover. What goes great with beer when your waiting for your sushi, but some edamame. So why not grow some at home and impress your friends and your sushi chef. $14.99 at Perpetual Kid.

Gnome Be-Gone GnomeBearers

I might get flack for this, but I’m kinda over the whole gnome thing. And I think this is the perfect solution to get these pesky gnomes out of our gardens once and for all. Made of recycled materials, artist Fred Conlan had given these Gnome Bearers a purpose in life. $44.99 and comes with a ceramic gnome, 2 gnome bearers at Perpetual Kid.

The Pizza Boss

A regular pizza cutter is so old school.  And, if you love the look of power tools, then the Pizza Boss is perfect for you.  Looks like a Power Saw, acts like a pizza cutter.  You can find the Pizza Boss at Catalog Favorites for $19.95.

Whisky Glass

I am a whiskey drinker, so is my brother. Perhaps this print would make a nice gift from me to him? Or perhaps it would make a nice gift from me to me. This limited edition, glicée print of a whisky glass is vivid, incredibly simplified and has a super impact. I think it would look great in my…I mean HIS living room. £100 at Adrian Johnson’s website.

Mimobot USB Flash Drive

 

 

My continuing search for interesting flash drives has led me to these by the collective Friends With You. They’re loaded with character (figuratively and literally; it has character content for your computer built in), and its 4GB should be enough to hold all your files, music and downloaded episodes of H.R. Pufnstuf. If you still need any more reasons to buy one, I have a hunch that in the future—when we’ve mentally joined with computers and can save all our info by twitching our noses like Samantha from Bewitched—flash drives like these could be very collectable art objects.  The fact that they’re being sold at the Museum of Modern Art store bodes well for my theory. $35.00 at the MoMA Store.

Ruffled Diaper Cover

Baby bottoms decorated with layers of ruffles? Yes, please! Adorable for dresses, summery tops, or a run through the sprinklers, these Ruffly Diaper Covers (or Panty Covers for the potty-trained) come in a variety of prints and colors and in sizes newborn to 4T. $20 from Sherbet Baby