Scavenger Bird

Handmade treasures (+ a free gift!)

2010-02-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

I have been too quiet of late, so thought I would do a little update on The Oriental Magpie to ease myself back in.

I have added some lovely new pieces to the site over the last couple of weeks, a small selection of which are shown below. I am also adding some gorgeous handmade leather bow headbands later tonight, which will be priced at just £6!

These lovely glass heart earrings are really striking and unusual. £8, matching necklace also available for £17 or buy both for just £25!

Lovely handmade pink bead bracelet, £5

Beautiful handmade lace earrings, £24 (don't forget Mother's Day is next month!)

There is lots more gorgeous handmade jewellery, cards and homewares on the website. If there is something that catches your eye, let us know you came through Scavenger Bird blog (put a note on Paypal, or send us a message) and we will send you a free gift with your order!

Apologies and the chance to win a super prize!

2009-10-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

I will put my hands up and admit it-I am rubbish at updating this blog. I'm one of those people who starts a diary, goes at it full of enthusiasm for a week...and then gives up.

We are now settled in our new 'snug' (read:small) home and The Oriental Magpie is now up and running (filled with lots of gorgeous handmade goodies perfect for Christmas!) so I now have no excuse to get back to my scavenging of handmade finds.

So, to ease myself back into this gently, I'd like to mention a fabulous competition to win lots of lovely prize from Temporary Secretary, Love Hearts and Crosses, PennyDog, Funky Junk, LaurasJewellery, Dollipops and Kooky Boutique. Whew!
These lovely ladies have donated some pieces to new blog Bling and Buy who will be giving all the goodies away in a competition which starts tomorrow morning.

Below are a selection of some of the lovely items in the goodie bag;

Check out Bling and Buy for the full list and details on how to enter! Good luck!

The Oriental Magpie now up and running!

2009-07-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

I am very proud and excited to announce Ji Ji Kiki's new sister website, The Oriental Magpie.

We have rounded up a very talented collection of designers and artists who create beautiful jewellery, stationary, homewares and accessories and are very excited to announce that the website is now up and running, and filled with lots of gorgeous things for you and your home!

Below is just a small sample to whet your appetite...click here to visit the website to see our full range.

If you, or someone you know, create things and would like to sell your pieces through the site, click on the 'Artist or designer' button below the designers category to find out more.

The Oriental Magpie is also on Twitter and Facebook, so you can be the first to know about new designers and products as and when they arrive!

I would appreciate it so much if you were able to spread the word in anyway you can...via Facebook, Twitter, blogs, word of mouth...

If you would like to add a link to The Oriental Magpie on your blog or website, here is a link to help you :)

URL: http://www.theorientalmagpie.com
Text: Handmade jewellery, gifts, homewares and accessories all made with love

Competition at Jolicious' blog!

2009-06-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

Jolicious is running a competition on her blog to win the delicious Bubsie cake badges below.

She is picking 2 winners on Friday, so hurry hurry!

Win a WOLLIE!

2009-06-13T02:39:00.000-07:00

And the winner is.....
Chrissy!

Pip refused to play ball with picking a name, but she did grudgingly hold the paper for me to take a picture!

Check back next Friday for another competition to win a handmade purse!

<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

I'm running a new giveaway, with a very cute prize kindly donated by Olly.
She makes amazing little creatures called WOLLIES, who have a magical, fairy tale feel.

Olly was born in Switzerland, and grew up there and in the UK. She is influenced by both the Swiss and English traditions in hand sewn and embroidered crafts.

She started making her first little animals by using recycled material from her old dresses and by 2007, she was regularly making WOLLIES and giving them to friends and family as gifts.

She noticed how much people appreciated the care and work that went into the creation of each individual piece and decided to sell her WOLLIES so that more people could have their own to enjoy.

I caught up with her to find out a bit more about her and the amazing WOLLIES!

- What do you make?

At the moment WOLLIES is mainly fabric brooches, keyrings, purses or toys. I like to think of my WOLLIES as individual little characters with their own personality. Sometimes they are sad, sometimes happy, sometimes mischievous and cheeky, sometimes they are just sweet and pretty.

- How long have you been crafting for?

I started crafting regularly when I was 16. I made all sorts of things for my room, like clips to hold up photos or pretty/trashy boxes. I customized my clothes alot and liked to make things out of old plastic Barbie accessories or other plastic toys, bits and bobs I found in the bottom of my drawers.
Generally, anything that recalled childhood play and imagination appealed to me.

- What is your most and least favourite thing about your craft?

I like it because it gives you alot of freedom. You can endlessly make up new characters and find new colour combinations. The medium of sewing is very versatile - you can create any shape and use all sorts of techniques to render a pattern: beading, embroidery, appliqué, printing, painting etc...

However, it is also quite restrictive and I do find it hard to transfer the character of my WOLLIES into more practical things like bags.

- Who or what inspires you?

Who? Bobby Dazzlers, Victor & Rolf, Annette Messager, Abigail Brown, my other fellow crafters!
What? Nature, Children's stories, Medieval art, Japanese street fashion, Vintage fashion.

- Are there any other crafty things you'd like to try?

Amigurumi (Japanese art of crocheting small animals or toys) and crochet. A step up from my rather basic knowledge of knitting :-S

- Do you have a day job?

Not at the moment, I have just finished my degree, so I'm sending out CVs and crossing my fingers alot.

- Where do you sell your work?

On Folksy mainly. People can also buy WOLLIES off my website and I have a few things on Etsy.

I am doing several fairs over the summer, otherwise I rely on word of mouth alot.

- Do you have a blog?

Yes! www.wollies-design.blogspot.com

- Anything else you'd like to tell us?

No that is all. Thanks for reading chappies! Xx

~~~~~~~~

Olly has kindly put one of her WOLLIES up for adoption, so I am looking for someone to give him a new and loving home!

He is a blue afro hedgehog badge called Sniffles and would love to keep you company on your adventures - Olly can vouch that he has very good conversation skills.

He is made with the finest cotton fabric and his beautiful afro hairdo and comb are both made of felt.
A brooch pin is secured to the back so you can pin him anywhere you like. Measures 6 cm x 5.5 cm.

If you would like the chance to become Sniffle's new friend, all you have to do is click here to go to Olly's shop and then leave a comment telling me who your favourite WOLLIE is! (N.B All comments are moderated before posting)

Extra entries for blogging and Tweeting. Please leave an extra comment if you blog/Tweet.

I will pick a winner Saturday 20th June-don't forget to leave an email address if you're not a Blogger, so I can contact you if you win!

Threadless t-shirts

2009-06-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

Today I'm featuring one of my favourite online shops; Threadless.

I discovered them a few of years ago, and been hooked ever since.
They sell amazing t-shirts, all designed by independent artists and designers. It's a very hands on site for both customers and designers-designs are only printed once given the go ahead by the customers.

The design below is called 'Low Ink' and is one of the designs up for voting. You score it out of 5 and can choose whether, if it were printed, you'd prefer it as a t-shirt or print.

If you are a budding designer, you can submit your designs here and if your design is chosen, you'll get over $2,500!

All of the t-shirts are printed in limited runs. Rarely (and I do mean very rarely) they will do a re-run if an item has been especially popular.
This has only happened twice on t-shirts I have requested to be reprinted, so my advice is if you like something on there buy, otherwise someone else will and you'll be kicking yourself!

I like this one as it has giraffes (who are under-rated) and is almost a Postal Service song :) Such a Great Height

T-shirts range in price from $15-$25 (approx £9-£15). Shipping costs are a bit annoying, as they don't tell you what they are until you have added the item in the cart and told them where you want it posted to.
And you also have to watch out for those nasty customs charges-I bought a hoody from them and got stung for about £20 on customs/tax. Ouch.

Nesting Dolls

It's pretty easy to find discount vouchers, and they reward you for participating in the street team. By doing things such as submitting a photo of you wearing your shiny new t-shirt, you get points, each worth $1.50, which you can then redeem against future purchases. They have a list of the top earners, and the guy at the top has over 49,500 points so god know how much he has spent to accumulate that much!

They also have a 'Threadspotting' section, where you can send in pics of people you've spotted wearing them. It's amazing how many people you actually start notice wearing Threadless-it sort of becomes a bit addictive. They should bring out one of those Michelin Eye Spy books...

If you like the designs, but don't fancy a t-shirt why not adorn your walls with some colourful limited edition prints. They are usually $35, but at the moment Threadless have a sale on, so they can be snapped up at the incredibly cheap $15.

The Tree Referendum Limited to 250

New t-shirts are printed weekly, and if you sign up to the newsletter you'll receive weekly updates.
You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter

I'm off to have a shop (and I will probably be tempted to buy). If only they gave street team points for people writing lovely blogs about them....

NIght-night x

Win a Little Fox necklace!

2009-06-08T11:06:00.001-07:00

Another giveaway, this time being run by ...Anything Indie to win one of my Little Fox necklaces. Yay!

Closing date is the 12th June, so go enter (and Tweet and blog if you can :D )

Good luck!!

Platic bat giveaway

2009-06-08T02:35:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome camera necklace, which Plastic Bat is giving away on her blog.

But you'll have to be quick as it closes today! Eek!

Nifty Thrifty + Competition!

2009-05-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

And the winner is.....

Number 3- Here Pretty Kitty!

Well done! I have lots more competitions lined up for the next few weeks, so check back soon :)

A few days ago I got a little package through the post from the lovely Tracey, who owns online shop Nifty Thrifty.

Wrapped in some tissue paper....

... was this beautiful, corsage made from scraps of fabric left over from her other creations.

Isn't it pretty? And what's more, Tracey has kindly donated it for one of you lucky people to win!

So what does Nifty Thrifty do then?

As well as creating brooches, Tracey also makes doorstops, cushions, jewellery and much more while aiming (and succeeding) to show that recycled products can be cool, contemporary and innovative.

Tracey states 'I make use of everyday clothing and re-purpose them in surprising ways. I take surfy t-Shirts and turn them into travel backgammon sets and men's cotton work shirts are transformed into cushion covers adorned with flower corsages.'

These two cheery little birds are doorstops, made from shirt sleeves with contrasting wings and vintage button eyes. They are stuffed with polyester and have rice in their bottoms to weight them down.

Much prettier than a wooden wedge-and less likely to hurt if you stub your toe on them!

There is also a very sweet star gazing bunny available and all three are priced at £15 each.

Not letting the sleeve cuff go to waste, she has created these yummy cupcake pin cushions, which are £8.

The main part of the shirt is turned into a cushion or a backgammon set-who know you could get so much of out one old shirt!

Thess pretty and very girly cushions (check out the little flower details!) are between £20 and £30 and Tracey will even do a custom cushion using one of your old shirts.

She has also just started making jewellery and has some very tasty gummy bear necklaces listed in her Folksy shop.

To find out more about Nifty Thrifty recycling ideas visit Tracey's blog and to join the mailing list go to the Nifty Thrifty website.

Now to the bit you've all been waiting for...how to win that lovely brooch. I've decided to keep it very simple this time (after over complicating mine!). All you have to do is go to the Nifty Thrifty website, pick your favourite item and then leave a comment telling me what it is!

I will give 1 extra entry each if you blog and/or Tweet about this competition! Just leave a comment with your links so I know about it.

The winner will be picked next Friday, 5th June using a random number generator. Don't forget to leave an email if you don't have a blog/website so I can contact you!

Good luck!

Hmm...More Cake!

2009-05-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

As it's half term, and there seems to be hundreds of children around at the moment enjoying the sunshine, I thought I would feature a kiddie related shop today.

More Cake Designs is a collection of quirky and original limited edition clothing, jewellery, toys and homewares all lovingly designed and handmade by mum of 2, Hannah.

While the shop is child orientated, there are lots of pieces for adults would love as well.

I'm really taken with these adorable star gazing mice for £11 (each) and stray cats, made from vintage fabric, £12.

Perfect for both big and little people :)

Hannah also makes gorgeous children's clothing, which makes me wish I was 5 again and off to a friend's birthday party!
This cute one-off sundress is made from vintage floral fabric. There is even matching hair slides.

Her applique t-shirts, such as this little mouse one, are gorgeous with really unique and eye-catching designs. They are all 100% cotton and available in lots of different designs, ranging from boats and robots to mushrooms and cupcakes. £12 each.

Hannah has lots more goodies in her shop, including jewellery, wish purses and vase covers.

Her items are available from her shops on Folksy and Misi and she is happy to do commissions/custom pieces.

Thrifty Trendsetter

2009-05-27T04:03:00.000-07:00

Today's featured shop is The Thrifty Trendsetter, run by Kara and based in Oklahoma.
She has only been open since last month and already has a healthy feedback of 9-pretty good considering how competitive Etsy is.

Thrifty Trendsetter sells altered clipboards, mini notecards, magnetic memo boards, clothes pegs, coasters, picture frames '...basically anything that will make your home look fabulous!'

Her work has a very vintage feel to it, demonstrated beautifully in this wooden Songbird picture frame which has been created using a decoupage of floral scrapbook paper in shades of brown, green, yellow, and blue.

Perched on the bottom right of the frame, adding some colour, is a wooden bird covered with polka dot paper.

The bird theme continues in this altered notebook, entitled 'Eccentric'. I think it's a really lovely piece that would be a great present, particularly for that awkward person who has everything. Even better, it's only $6!

As quoted above, she does have things to make your home look fabulous.
These pretty double sided 'Blueberries and chocolate' clothes clips (for indoor use only!) are great for keeping boring paper work neat and tidy.

Kara is also able to add a magnet, free of charge, to one side so that you can use them on your fridge or magnet noticeboard.

Even though she is just starting out, here's lots more beautifully things in her shop, so head over to Etsy to check them all out!

Talking Beads

2009-05-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

Summer is on it's way (apparently) which means an excuse to buy lots of lovely, feminine sundresses and wander barefoot along the beach.
And buying a new dress naturally means that you should also treat yourself to some new jewellery.

Wiltshire based friends Jean and Janice, aka Talking Beads create beautiful handcrafted jewellery, perfect for weddings, formal occasions or just a day at the beach.

This colourful Mixed Pebbles necklace caught my eye as it reminds me of the beach, which was the inspiration behind it. It consists of two strands of intertwined sweetie-like glass beads and is £55.

I am also very taken with this colourful glass leaves bracelet, which is also available in silvery black.
The multi-coloured version is £26 and the grey tone is £27

What is more reminiscent of the British summer that strawberries and cream (which reminds me, I forgot to get Wimbledon tickets again)
If you're not a big fan of the real thing-strawberries, not tennis- then how about these delicious looking lampwork strawberry earrings for just £8?
Very pretty and guaranteed to get you loads of compliments!

If you fancy having a go at making your own jewellery, Talking Beads have a couple of kits available to make to make the bracelet shown below, in a choice of either pink or purple.

The ladies also run jewellery making workshop with their friend Jackie, under the monkier Three Jays.
Annual membership is £20 and lessons are £5, but they offer 2 free 'try-out' sessions.
They are usually held once a month at the Scouts Hall in Devizes, Wiltshire.

Talking beads jewellery is available to buy through their website- www.talkingbeads.co.uk or via Folksy.

Bailey Bowls

2009-05-17T05:13:00.000-07:00

As the majority of shops I have featured so far sell accessories and jewellery, I thought I would cover something different today, so have decided on the amazing Bailey Bowls.

Bailey's Bowls sells gorgeous and whimsical pottery handmade made by designer Lisa, 'helped' out by her dog Bailey, after whom the shop is named.

I just have to start this post by featuring this lovely Bailey-ware platter.
Lisa recently drew a set of cartoons featuring Bailey for a local newspaper and has taken some of the pictures and used them as decorations on her pottery. This platter features Bailey and his friend Ben and is $24.00

Owls are one of those magical creatures that you can't help but like, and this applies to this little chap, who is $20.00

He is made of stoneware clay which gives him a rustic look and has carved eyes and feathers. Hanging from the branch he is sat on are some corn and carrot danglies.
It says on the item description that owls hung on porches are meant to bring good luck-even if he doesn't, he will definitely look cute!

As I have a pussy cat (who is very poorly) I have to also show you this meow mug featuring 3 kitties trying to get to the sea creatures who live in the bottom of the cup.

The perfect mug to brighten up any coffee break :) $35.00

All of Lisa's pieces are made one at a time in her studio with a lot of care and attention. Each piece is unique and Bailey-bowls are food, dishwasher and microwave safe.
Lisa also has a second shop called Muddy Paws Pottery which sells more 'serious,' but just as pretty pieces. She can also create custom orders

Check out Cute Crafts for customer testimonials and an adorable picture of Bailey!

Cool cosies by Jacksknits

2009-05-14T13:16:00.000-07:00

I started this post on 7th May, a week ago, so I think it's probably about time I got round to finishing it...

I have a bad habit that really annoys my boyfriend of making pots/cups of tea and then forgetting about them so they sit and go cold. I then heat them up in the microwave despite the fact I think this makes the tea taste horrible and then leave them to go cold again.

So I've been thinking for a while that maybe I should invest in a nice tea cosy to keep my teapot warm, thus solving one part of my problem!

Jacks Knits sells the most amazing and unique tea cosies I have ever seen. How cool is this stripey back and yellow creation with little knitted bumble bees!

If something sweet is a little more to your taste, how about the 2 cosies below-one with yummy donuts and the other in the style of a shocking pink cupcake.
The perfect tasty accompaniment to your tea break if you're resisting the real thing.

The great thing about these designs over traditional tea cosies is that they are like a little jacket so you don't have to take it off to pour your tea.

All of Jacky's teacosies are £7.00 each and she is more than happy to take on custom orders if you have an idea in mind for your own teacosy.

I highly recommend that you check out her Flickr album as she has some amazing items on there.
How sweet are these little hatching chicks...

...and this sandwich and salad platter looks really realistic. How cute are the little cherry tomatoes!

Ji Ji Kiki jewellery winner!

2009-05-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered the competition to win a piece of Ji Ji Kiki jewellery.
I have put all (308 in total!) entries into the hat and the winner is....

Well done! If you email me on emma@jijikiki.com with your address I can get the necklace and some other goodies in the post for you :)

I'm really sorry to everyone who didn't win. I will be running more competitions soon to win prizes kindly donated by other very talented artists and designers, so make sure you check back soon and enter!

Also, if you are not already a Ji Ji Kiki fan on then go over and become a fan as you'll get a 10% discount to use on the site!

Make sure you are also signed up to the newsletter to be entered into our monthly draw to win £20 to spend on the site.

I am adding lots of gorgeous new vintage jewellery pieces to the site this week, and Lacey the Octopus will be back in stock too. Yay!

Rubi Rocket

2009-05-04T06:19:00.000-07:00

I thought that today I would cover an Australian site for my Antipodean readers.

Rubi Rocket is an online shop who's influences range from 80s childhood, tattoos, rock n' roll and pin up girls through to cult icons.

Their main line is laser cut jewellery, but they also sell hair clips, t-shirts (guys only) and kitsch and retro and coasters.

The prices are pretty reasonable too-is little black and white panda is really sweet and is only $25 AU (about £12).

I really like this Tiki inspired hibiscus flower necklace ($34 AU) available in a choice of red or yellow. It's just so summery and makes me wish I was sat on a tropical beach with a cold cocktail.

My boyfriend and I are obsessed with Mario Karts Wii at the moment, so I couldn't resist adding this Donkey Kong style gorilla necklace as well, which is also available with a mirror finish! From $22 AU

Continuing with the retro game theme: Pac Man coasters! Set of 4 with three ghosts and Pac Man himself. From $36 AU.

There is loads more cool and kitschy stuff on the site, so go check it out! As items are sent international as parcels postage is just over $10 AU, about £5, which is pretty good considering you would pay that for delivery from most shops based in your own country!

Plus, if you sign up to their newsletter, you'll receive exclusive discounts, product updates and sale info.

Lolo's

2009-05-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

Today's featured shop is Lolo's, selling a beautiful mix of handmade purses, bags, jewellery and scarves.

Lolo uses a mix of sewing, knitting and beading to create her gorgeous, usually one-off creations, which range from clutch bags and neck warmers to fabric brooches and beaded necklaces.

I love this pretty blue flower clutch bag. It is a one off piece and on sale for just $22!

The picture below is an example of one of her hand sewn brooches, created using layers of fabrics with a button and seed bead centre. Purple fabric circle brooch, $10.00.

As well as sewing Lolo also makes knitted creations such as this skinny pink scarf which is perfect for this time of year!
Small enough to pop it in your bag so if the weather changes and it gets cold and blustery like it is today, you still have something cosy and stylish to keep you warm :)

My favourite piece of jewellery in the shop has to be 'The Black Sea' necklace made from black seed beads and striking turquoise Czech glass beads. It is elegant yet eye-catching and I think it would look fantastic with a simple black or ivory cocktail dress to really make it stand out and do it justice.

Lolo is currently offering free shipping on some of her items, though sadly within the USA only.

If you would like to see more of her work, visit her Flickr account (which has this really colourful and summery bag)

and check out her blog to see all of her latest creations, including some really pretty rings and pin cushions.

Scribble Art

2009-05-02T03:25:00.000-07:00

I am featuring another lovely Folksy seller today, and something a little different.

Scribble Art specialises in creating original art for children’s rooms, but I'm a bit of a big kid myself so would definitely have some of these creations hanging on my wall.

Each of the canvases are hand-finished and produced as signed limited editions of 250.
You can also have a child's name added to make them completely unique.

'Dizzy the Dinosaur'

Each of the pieces are embellished with glitter, jewels and metallic paint so they take on a magical appearance. The canvas on the right remind of the scene in the Disney version of 'The Sword in the Stone' when Merlin and Arthur turn into fish!

They measure 30 x 30cms (approx 12 x 12") and are hand-stretched over a 3.7 cm deep frame-all ready to hang!

'Undersea'

Scribble Art also creates lovely framed prints onto which can be added 4 items (baby's name/date of birth/weight/place of birth etc).

These can be made in a choice of 5 colours and the image is printed onto high quality textured watercolour paper.
They are supplied in a hand made, glazed wooden frame and a gift label attached to the back allows you to write your own personal message.

'Woolly Sheep'

The canvases are priced at £35.00 each and the framed prints are £20.00. The perfect gift that will be treasured!

Competition time!

2009-04-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking that it's nice to read about and look at the lovely things I feature, but I thought it would be lovely to run competitions to win some of these beautiful pieces.

So...I have decided to hold (ir)regular competitions. Yay!

I have some gorgeous pieces up for grabs over the next few months, but thought I would start by running a competition to win a piece of jewellery from my website, Ji Ji Kiki.

I sell my own handmade kitsch and vintage jewellery alongside pretty things for you and your home including bags, bath and beauty products and kitsch and retro homewares.

All of have to do to enter is go to my site and pick the piece of jewellery that you would like to win and put a comment here. Simples! I will also send the lucky winner some extra surprises :)

I have noticed that a lot of blog running competitions/giveaways give multiple entries depending on how much 'effort' you want to put it ;)

I thought this was a nice idea, so I am offering extra entries of your name in the proverbial hat if you...

- Subscribe to or follow this blog (3 entries)
- Blog about this giveaway (5 entries)
- Sign up to receive the Ji Ji Kiki newsletter (5 entries - I also run monthly draws to win £20 to spend on the site for newsletter subscribers!)
- Tweet about this giveaway (2 entries)

If you Tweet/blog about the comp, please put a link with your comment (blog) or username (Twitter) otherwise I won't know about it!

The competition is open to everyone worldwide and the closing date is Friday 8th May (next week). The winner will be announced on Saturday 9th May, so check back then to see if you've won!

Good luck everybody. x

P.S
As someone has kindly just pointed out, I should also really be promoting Ji Ji Kiki's Facebook page here as well! Hopefully the image/text link will work, otherwise search for 'Ji Ji Kiki'. I have just put up an exclusive discount, so make sure you check it out and become a fan to receive other exclusive goodies :)

In memory of a gerbil

2009-04-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

Today's post is not a very happy one as my little black and white gerbil, Jake, died today. I've had him about 3 1/2 years, which apparently is pretty good going for a gerb.
He had a very happy life and was a bit of a character so we will miss his noisy paper/card munching (as demonstrated!)

So I thought I would feature a handmade gerbil related find, and have just come across this black and white silhouette pendant from Noisy Bird Studio

The store is run by a husband and wife team and they have some really pretty pieces for sale.

Hedgehog in the flowers pendant

As well as a large range of pendants they also create pocket mirrors such as this 'Bird in swirly tree' design. They are a great price at just $5.50. Who said looking good (or at least checking you do) had to be expensive?

Robot pal pocket mirror

Each item from Noisy Bird comes in a gift bag, so is perfect to give as a present. They can also create custom pieces for you.

I also have to mention a website I came across last night called Tween Bots

Creator Kacie explains on the website...

'Tweenbots are human-dependent robots that navigate the city (of NY) with the help of pedestrians they encounter. Rolling at a constant speed, in a straight line, Tweenbots have a destination displayed on a flag, and rely on people they meet to read this flag and to aim them in the right direction to reach their goal.'

There is a brilliant video on the site of one of the little robots trying to get from one side of Washington Park to the other with the help of human intervention. It's amazing to see how many people want to stop and help this happy looking inanimate object on his mission.

Stix N Stone

2009-04-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

Recycling (or 'upcycling' is the posh word I believe) is very popular in the crafty world at the moment and understandably with good reason.

I have inherited a trait from my grandmother (and my dad come to think of it) where I don't like to throw things out 'just incase...'.
Most of the things I keep are for sentimental reasons, but I have to admit I do keep a lot of junk.

I do believe that good can come from using old things to create something new. I am launching my new jewellery line soon using broken, vintage jewellery pieces (little plug there!) and creating lovely, new jewellery pieces from old, unloved things is what today's featured artist Stix N Stone does. And very beautifully as well.

This Bird tree top vinyl set is probably the piece of jewellery that best suits me. It is made from recycled records (my favourite music 'medium'), has a painting of a bird and is girly but in a rock/indie way. What more could I want from a jewellery set?! Oh yes, maybe the fact it's only $13 (about £9!)

If you prefer your jewellery a little more delicate, how about this pretty swallow necklace $18.

Stix N Stone also create 'eco friendly' jewellery such as this 'Sweetly Sophisticated' cuff. Created from an old black leather belt and decorated with contrasting pink ribbon and two silver squares $22.

Stix N Stone has only joined Etsy this month, so will be adding more items over time. If you have an idea for a custom item, just sent her a message through her shop.
You can also follow her on her blog.

Tea Party for Girls

2009-04-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

I joined Folksy this week (click on the image on the right to visit my shop) and am really loving it so far. It's so nice to be able to talk to other UK crafters (who talk about things happening in the UK, and therefore things I understand!) and everyone is so friendly and helpful.
On top of that I have even had a few sales already. Yay!

I have spent more time on the forums that I have setting up my shop though :/

So, in support of Folksy and it's lovely people, I am featuring a Folksy seller today. Tea Party for Girls, run by student Sarah, sells the loveliest handmade accessories.

These pretty crocheted red flower hair grips are perfect for spring and at just £3.00 are a bargain!

This pretty Crochet flower brooch is on my favourites list

As well as crocheting, Sarah also sews and is currently selling this unusual asymmetric brown flower clutch bag. I love the contrast of the turquoise ribbon and flower buttons she has used.

These 'She sells sea shells' earrings are made using shells from Cornwall and are great if you are looking for something a little different. The packaging is perfect for giving them as presents as well :)

Sarah is also more than happy to make custom orders, so if you can't find something you like in her shop, drop her an email.
You can also follow Sarah on her blog

Meow Box

2009-04-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

Today I have decided to feature a wonderful little online shop I came across a few months ago.
Meow Box Jewellery sells the most delicious looking hand crafted food jewellery alongside cute items from Japanese brands such as Decole, Cram Cream and Swimmer.

How amazing is this chocolate brownie necklace?!. It looks so realistic it's making me hungry!

In fact, everything on the site looks good enough to eat.

Mini donut earrings £7.00 (choice of 6 designs)

Waffle and ice-cream ring £10

And surely the best birthday gift ever, this amazing heart cake and faux pearl necklace

Designer Keynes states
'Making jewellery has been a hobby of mine for around 5 years. It all started with a few beads and charms and selling at Camden Market in London. Through time I have changed my designs and my latest products are miniature food charms including cakes and biscuits for Meow Box Jewellery.'

Alongside her line of miniature food jewellery, Meow Box also sells items from Japanese brands Swimmers, Cram Cream and Decole.

Swimmer bunny card holder

Cram Cream squirrel hand towel

Postage is £3.00 within the UK, £6.00 for International customers or free for orders over £20!

Meow Box jewellery can be bought online at Meow Box.co.uk in the US from Wizard Sleeve Toys or visit Keynes at London Bricklane’s Backyard market on Sundays from 10 am – 5 pm. Her stall is the third on the right hand side.

I'm off to make some brownies...

PrettyParis

2009-04-22T04:26:00.000-07:00

There is a vintage inspired feel to today's featured shop.

PrettyParis sells gorgeous jewellery using vintage or vintage inspired findings.

These mini chrysanthemum flower earrings are just lovely. They are available in a choice of five colours and priced at only $5 so if you can't decide which colour to go for your purse will forgive you for buying more than one set.

I currently have a bit of an obsession with anything bird related and love this cream owl hair grip which is also available in green and the teeny tiny Sterling silver owl earrings shown below.

I don't tend to wear costume jewellery rings-I have three silver rings that I wear all the time (the same as with my watch, I feel naked without them!) but even I could be tempted by this black vintage star flower ring which is just so delicate and unusual.

As shown in the photograph below, all items come gift boxed so they are perfect to give as presents.
French charm necklace

Plus if you spend over $25.00 or more in one transaction you will and receive a free gift of a pair of the sweet rose flower earrings below.
These little lovelies are also available to buy for just $4.25

PrettyParis can be followed on Twitter and check out her blog to be kept up to date with the latest news.

Images of Oregon - Pfeifferphotos

2009-04-21T02:23:00.000-07:00

Something a little different today, in the form of Pfeiffer Photos.

All photographs are taken by self-taught photographers Chris and Tina and feature their home state of Oregon, USA.
Subjects range from the lonely, windswept 'Sentinal' shown above to the image below of the rather sorry looking rusting cars featured in 'Rides from the Past'

My favourite photograph is Humbug Creek. It looks such a peaceful, serene place-it says on the listing it's the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and you can certainly see why!

Prices start at $4.00 for a notecard or $7.00 for a 6" x 4" fine art photograph. If there is nothing in the shop that takes your fancy, they have plenty more images in their Flickr account for you to request.
Chris and Tina post their work worldwide, with 50% shipping discounts for multiple purchases.

You can follow Tina, Chris and Pfeifferphotos on their blog.

Wonderland Boutique

2009-04-17T01:42:00.000-07:00

Today's find is another Etsy store- Wonderland Boutique, who are based in Wales.

Designer Amy handmakes tote bags, clutches, coin purses and pouches using beautiful colourful fabrics to create 'delicious and distinctive accessories in an amazing array of retro polka-dots, kitsch bows, quirky buttons and vintage florals. It’s sew-a-go-go for me as I look for inspiration from the sweetly kitsch to the effortlessly retro and make them into the perfect accessory just for you.'

This beautiful peony and polka dot print clutch bag is perfect for summer evenings in the pub and a nice size to fit all of your essentials, with a bargainous price of $22.50

If you are looking for something for day to day use, how about this 'Nautical But Nice' pouch and matching tote bag

Prices start from $5 for a purse and shipping is very reasonable, with free shipping for any additional items. Her feedback is impeccable as well, with customers stating how much they love their new purchase and how well made it is-always good!

You can also follow Amy on her blog Wonderland Boutique blog.

Polarity jewellery

2009-04-16T11:28:00.000-07:00

Today's scavenge comes in the form of old car parts. Etsy's Polarity take recycled steel auto parts and turn them into these lovely magnetic lockets.

Each set comes with 2 or 3 interchangeable lids, all beautifully designed so you can match your necklace to whatever your wearing. Who said fashion couldn't be functional and gorgeous?!

Polarity also sells bracelets, rings, earrings and magnetic boards. I am very tempted by these woodland earrings which are priced at a very reasonable $14.

Cat has also collaborated with a number of other Etsy artists to create some stunning pieces using original artwork. The locket below is the result of a collaboration with illustrator Amy Blackwell of Blackoutwell

Prices for Polarity's pieces start at $5; lockets are $16 and collaboration pieces are $18. Each piece comes in a tin, perfect to give as a gift.

Origami jewellery

2009-04-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

I have just come across a site called Silver By Fire which sell the most gorgeous handmade jewellery.

The pieces are made from precious metal clay 'a relatively new innovation that allows for spontaneous creativity. It comes in several forms all of which have particles of silver suspended in a nontoxic binder which when fired, burns off leaving 99.9% pure silver!'.

The technique sounds very complex but the results are stunning. I particularly love the crane below, which is $69.

If your budget doesn't quite stretch that far, you could buy a charm such as this sweet little goldfish who is just $19.

I am also very taken the the leaf bracelet on the front page but sadly can't find it anywhere on the site.

I think some of these pieces will definitely be going on my birthday wish list!

Joining the masses

2009-04-06T02:06:00.001-07:00

So it seems that these days everyone and their dog has their own blog. I have one for my shop Ji Ji Kiki but thought it was also time to set one up for myself to post my random musings and things that I stumble upon on my daily trips around the internet.

My first find that I want to blog about is an online store called Kings of Neon, who sell customised plimsolls.
I currently have my eye on a couple of pairs including doggy do (the little poo puts me off a bit) and bunnies (the angry pink one is my favourite).

Prices start at £19.99 for plain shoes and £27.99 for decorated women's. And if you can find something that takes your fancy you can send in your own work of art to be immortalised on your shoes!