Forget what the fashion magazines say about the colors this Fall! You can still enjoy wearing bright, cheery colors such as this gorgeous beaded necklace from the UK. Necklace features hand painted wooden beads contrasted in texture with hand felted and glass beads. Available for $90.00 at Gill Notha Designs
Ever wanted to try scrapbooking but just couldn't make the time to sit down and put it all together? Let Green Porch Lights help you with one of their Ready-Made Scraps Art Journal. It is already put together, all you need is to let your imagination flow. Get it for $22.00 at Green Porch Lights
Need something to add a little character and chicness to your home? How about adding an All-In-One table lamp to your home? You get everything from shade to pedestal, all you need to include is the bulb and the wattage. $35 at yoursTrulyxoxo
Nguyen from KnitKnit creates the most darling necklaces with a whimsical feel to them such as her Amazonite, Wood, and Fiber Necklace. Beautiful choice in color combinations and textures, now available for $60 at KnitKnit.
Carolyn Dong is a foodie, Sox fan, and occasional jewelry
designer. "The Type A in me loves working with little glass beads and
bits of wire," says Carolyn.
Jewelry making has become quite an enjoyable hobby for Carolyn, but her real passion is for good food and cooking. "I sometimes wonder whether or not my current profession as a graduate student in molecular biology is really my calling," Carolyn ponders.
Carolyn is from Boston, Massachusetts. You can visit her Etsy shop flutterbyblue.etsy.com for pretty jewelry pieces, and be sure to also check out her blog.
Too fickle to make things permanent? Why not try one of these adorable temporary tattoos! A cute, fun way to dress yourself up for the upcoming holiday! And with such easy application and removal, there’s no commitment involved! $1.25 at Holly's Vinyl Wall Art
Picked by Carolyn Dong, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
These postcards are a perfectly unique way to wish someone a very happy Halloween! Set of 5 crisp double sided, professionally made, sturdy Satin postcards. (comes with 5 white envelopes) $6.50 at Fanciful Twist
Picked by Carolyn Dong, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
With the weather getting colder, these pretty legwarmers are just the thing! Adjustable raw-edged chiffon laces ensure these beautifully hand-knit warmers are a perfect fit. Made of 50/50 llama and wool yarn in cable pattern. $100 at Year of the Goat
Picked by Carolyn Dong, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
“Beau is on his best behavior for this photo since Mamma Bunny insisted on a taking it before they went out Trick or Treating. All ready for a Jolly Halloween, Beau is shown with his pet Black Bird and Jack O'Lantern.”
So odd! So cute! Perfect for Halloween - or any time of year, for that matter! Image is printed on high quality photo paper with special fade and smudge resistant inks. $13 at The Decorated House
Picked by Carolyn Dong, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
A pretty cast ginko leaf to wrap around your finger! Such a unique adornment! These beautifully handmade sterling silver rings are made to order (they’ll even do quarter and half sizes). Elizabeth Scott also carries a variety of beautiful handmade botanical jewelry items. $34 at Elizabeth Scott
Picked by Carolyn Dong, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Author and professional letter-writer Samara O'Shea is determined to keep the written word alive and well even in the digital age. She believes it's okay to slow down and connect with friends and family through letters and also to connect with yourself through journal entries.
She is the author of For the Love of Letters: A 21st-Century Guide to the Art of Letter Writing and Note to Self: On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits.
Visit www.LetterLover.net to learn more.
We're so honored to have Samara as our guest editor today for Fab 5 Friday!
I think it's less important to have a fancy pen and more important to have a
Picked by Samara O'Shea, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
It's a voodoo doll! It's a mini-statue of Medusa! It's a—pen holder? Yup. This
Picked by Samara O'Shea, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
You never know when you're going to have to thank someone. There are obvious occasions, such as after birthdays and holidays, but there are also less obvious occasions, i.e. in the face of favors and random acts of kindness. A thank you note is a foolproof way to brighten someone's day and having thank you notes on hand at all times makes you a magician of sorts. With these
Picked by Samara O'Shea, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Tis a gift to be simple. This
Picked by Samara O'Shea, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
There's a practical nostalgia that comes with using a letter opener. It reminds us of a magic time when letters were the main form of correspondence, but they also work really well. Whether slashing open bills or love letters (I need more of the latter) the envelope stays virtually in tact and there's no extra time spent fiddling with a stubborn label. This letter opener is especially elegant with a fleur di lis sitting pretty on top. A Fleur de lis is a symbol of French royalty. I love fleur di lis so much that I had one tattooed on the small of my back. I kid you not! $9.99 at Nanalulu's Linen Closet
Picked by Samara O'Shea, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
It's an Etsy Fab 5 Friday!
Amy Hubbard just switched from being a WAHM (work at home mom) to a WOTHM (work outside the home mom). "I was doing home daycare and am thrilled to have a new job that involves no diapers or any kind of bodily fluids," says Amy.
She is also a face painter extraordinaire. "I am a mixed media collage artist who has the best intentions in the world to eventually open an Etsy store."
You can see Amy's art on her blog, Violet Skies.
Yes, I said needs. I don't consider this fabulous houndstooth clutch to be a want. It will be the perfect classic touch for a night out on the town. Of course, it's handmade and unique too. $48 at Girl by Aileen
Picked by Amy Hubbard, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Don't you hate it when the weather is changing and you can't seem to stay warm? The stylish solution to this problem is this gorgeous handknit shawl. It has a wonderful texture of merino wool, alpaca and silk and I adore the ruffles. If this gets snatched up, don't be too sad. Ticked Pink Knits loves to fill custom orders and will make one to your specifications in color and size. You won't find these at the mall! $260 at Tickled Pink Knits
Picked by Amy Hubbard, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Ahhh, the romance of dia de los muertos. There is nothing like finding your one true love. The one that will be your eternal dancing partner. Show the one you love that not even death will part you. $65 at J.T. Nee
Picked by Amy Hubbard, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
I am a proud peacock who believes that you are never too old to play dress up. If you think you need an excuse - Halloween will be here before you know it. Won't you wow them wearing these beautiful peacock fairy wings? Go ahead, splurge on yourself and have fun. $55 at Creatures by Chase
Picked by Amy Hubbard, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
I love this art print. It is both classic with the chandelier yet the creepy crows give me goosebumps. This will make a great addition to your holiday vignette. I can picture it in a wonderful ornate black frame. $12 at The Decorated House
Picked by Amy Hubbard, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Angie loves to shop! She doesn't believe in buying candles and never burning them, and her home decor reflects her creativity and style. "My creative outlet is furnishing my home, kids and me with super rad-funky-fresh fun!" says Angie.
Angie lives in a suburb of Milwaukee with her kids, her weenie dog and two bald Sphynx cats.
Well, since I'm crazy about Halloween and classic monsters, I just had to pick this gem. It's a lamp and shade made from copies of the old Aurora Monster Model kit boxes. He does such a wonderful job! I can just imagine this sitting on my buffet table at our annual Halloween party. $125.00 at Creative Pals
Picked by Angie Lockerman, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
These invites are so hilarious! The inside reads "We're all going to dress up, lie about our accomplishments, then bitch about the person that leaves the room first!" We've all done it. Just admit it! I'm ordering them for my next "sales" party I get roped into hosting. $7.00 for a pack of four, including envelopes (In your choice of color even!) at tudifygreetings
Picked by Angie Lockerman, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
I am obessed with anything flocked, and when it's on wallpaper there is nothing more chic. Wallpaper is making a HUGE comeback. This totally reminds me of our groovy bathroom we had in the early 80's (only now updated and very fabulous) It's the Elizabeth Flock Effect Yellow-Silver from Graham & Brown. $149 per roll, so a little pricey (but think of the impact on an accent wall, or reading nook? Maybe a powder room.) A little goes a LONG WAY.
Picked by Angie Lockerman, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
So, I recently became a mother for the 2nd time. My how things have changed in the 8 years since my first son! (Thank God) Perfect example...this rockin' diaper bag is complete with outside bottle pockets, inside compartments and a changing pad! $32.99 at Shop Happy Trails. Because in all reality, your diaper bag says a lot about you..Hello? No more Winnie the Pooh bags!
Picked by Angie Lockerman, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
I have had my eye on these wood tiles for about a year now. The scrabble-esque look would be so awesome in a game room. I'm thinking about my stairway. How fun to arrange everybody's name in the family in a cute, artistic way! The price is based on size of each tile (LOVE THAT!) starting from $4.40 up to $11.00 each at Craft Cuts
Picked by Angie Lockerman, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Jan is a screenwriter living in West Hollywood, California. A few days a week, she is also a manager at a large lingerie store. Thus, she has seen most of greater Los Angeles naked at one point or another. "I generally use my time at work to observe crazy people acting in crazy ways," says Jan. "Then I use the material in my writing."
Jan's originally from Wisconsin and moved to Los Angeles to attend film school at USC. She likes macaroni and cheese, unique jewelry, and Chris O'Donnell.
I adore this laser cut cuckoo clock necklace. It’s eye-catching, distinctive, and fun. Unfortunately, it will always read 4 o’clock (possibly 5'clock), which may make you late (or early?) for important events. I seldom do anything important, so I’m all set! $30.00 at Marmod8
Picked by Jan Epstein, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
If you know me, you know how much I like anthropomorphic vegetables. But you probably don’t know me, so here’s a cute bracelet featuring some pretty angry looking veggies. Well, I guess the cucumber just looks nonplussed. I’m personally afraid of broccoli, but that has nothing to do with the bracelet. $8.75 at AnthroPoMorphCo
Picked by Jan Epstein, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
You know what I’ve always wanted but never had?? A pouch with a picture of a steak on it! Plus, the vinyl used to make the pouches contains no animal products, so it’s technically a vegan steak…yeah, think about that one for a while. There are some other really cute designs there, too, and 10% of their proceeds go to charity. $18 each at Stitch Pixie
Picked by Jan Epstein, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
These cute earrings are made from beads formed from recycled Sunday comics strips. I enjoy recycling almost as much as I enjoy reading Garfield each Sunday morning. Okay, that’s a lie; I recycle, but I don’t like it. And I don’t really “get” Garfield anymore; the humor is just too dry for me. But look, pretty earrings! $99.00 at Newspaper Jewelry
Picked by Jan Epstein, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
I’m big on old-timey stuff, specifically saloons or twirl-able mustaches. I recently found this cool stationery that enables you to more accurately pretend that you went back in time and sent your friend or loved one a very important message via British telegram. Just looking at them makes me feel slightly stuffy and eminent, and I’m into that right now. Plus, they’re easier to mail than, say, a parasol. $12 for a set of 6 telegrams and envelopes at 16 Sparrows
Picked by Jan Epstein, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
It's an Etsy Fab 5 Friday!
Today's Fab 5 Guest Editor has asked to remain anonymous. Anonymous Ms. X is often sending us links to new Etsy discoveries or purchases. You can sometimes spot Anonymous Ms. X with her Holga camera.
When asked if there was anything she'd like to share with Rare Bird Finds readers, she said simply, "Let them know that I spend too much time on Etsy."
I think these Little Piggy Goes to Market grocery totes are very cute. $28 at Chez Sucre Chez
Picked by Anonymous Ms. X, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
I just bought something from this store. Too many pretty items to choose from. I am really drawn to the mix of pretty Japanese paper and brass. $12 and up at Enso
Picked by Anonymous Ms. X, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Who can resist these slightly creepy and sinister looking plush dolls? $35 and up at Curster
Picked by Anonymous Ms. X, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
A diverse collection of nature-inspired necklaces made of glass. Plenty of bird designs for you birdies! $25 and up at Photo Glassworks
Picked by Anonymous Ms. X, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Now you, too, can crochet your own foot long jellyfish. The store carries a variety of patterns for curious specimens. $3.50 at WunderKammer
Picked by Anonymous Ms. X, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Victoria is a writer who is currently earning her MFA in Fiction at the Iowa Writers' Workshop. She is engaged to be married next summer in New York City to a handsome Naval Aviator. Victoria chose the photo for this piece "because my fiance took it, and he is really good at capturing genuine emotion on film!"
Victoria is originally from New Jersey, but has lived in Cambridge, MA, Dublin, Ireland, and Iowa City.
She is also the creator of Victoria with Roses, a delightful blog of creative wedding ideas and products for the bride (or groom!) to-be.
Silhouette artist Karl Johnson will cut your profile by hand from a photo, to create an original work of art, signed by the artist. If you can sneakily get a profile shot of a friend or family member, this would make a great birthday, wedding or anniversary gift! You can also buy gift certificates on the site. Silhouette portraits start at only $25 for a 5x7, and go up in price as size gets bigger at Cut Arts.
Picked by Victoria Sprow, Guest Editor of Fab 5 Friday
Want to make sure you'll have a huge turnout at your next party? Send these Cootie Catcher Party Invitations. In a mix of orange, teal, purple and pink, these will send your invitees on a trip down Memory Lane. Lift the flaps to reveal the time, date and place of the party. $1.49 each, minimum order of 10 at Urbanity Studios.
Picked by Victoria Sprow, Guest Editor of Fab 5 Friday
Write your wish on the Flying Wish Paper™, then roll the paper into a tube and place it on the Wish Platform™. When you light the top of the tube, the paper burns down and then floats into the air! This would make an incredibly unique party gift or wedding favor. Watch the video and buy individual favor sets for $3.00 at Flying Wish Paper.
Picked by Victoria Sprow, Guest Editor of Fab 5 Friday
When I saw these creative moving announcements, I almost wanted to pack my things and go, just to have a reason to send them! 10 cards per pack, each is 9" x 4". 60 total moving announcements for $29.99 at Shredlines.
Picked by Victoria Sprow, Guest Editor of Fab 5 Friday
As a writer and avid reader, I loooove these authentic library cards and pockets. Use them to host a holiday gift exchange themed around books--create your invitations on library cards. Then have each guest bring his or her favorite book, gift wrapped, for a a grab-bag. Have an author trivia game, with prizes (like bookmarks, magazine subscriptions, or gift certificates to Barnes and Noble). Research some famous author's favorite foods, and feature these on the menu. $12.75 for 50 sets at School Locker.
Picked by Victoria Sprow, Guest Editor of Fab 5 Friday
Whew - time flies! More than a year ago Robert did the second issue of Fab 5 Friday. We loved Robert's picks so much that we invited him back to pick us 5 more - and he happily obliged!
Robert is the proprietor of our favorite artisan children's shop, Mahar Drygoods. He is also delightfully known as the Grand Poobah of the Junior Society, a society that is "dedicated to the proliferation and advancement of better than average kiddie culture and design!"
"My approach with this Fab Five was to select items on my personal ‘wish list’, goods I’ve had my eye on for awhile," says Robert.
I have long been a fan of artist Ann Wood and the magical sailing ships she creates, complete with songbird shipmates. View images of these crafty vessels on Ann's blog or purchase one at Hazel Wood Children, $224.
Picked by Robert Mahar, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
The animal photography of Catherine Ledner is nothing short of brilliant...or miraculous when you consider how on earth she managed to position everything from alligators to zebras against beautifully wallpapered backgrounds. Catherine's Animals, 11" x 14" photographic prints $250. Larger sizes available.
Picked by Robert Mahar, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
Create a little office intrigue by keeping a Mustache on a Stick in your pencil jar. Perfect disguise for avoiding uncomfortable client meetings or simply pretending you're not there. Something's Hiding in Here, 10" tall, $40.
Picked by Robert Mahar, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday
