WEST Summer Promotion: Hoshii Designs

Today we feature Deborah from Hoshii Designs.

Hoshii Designs specializes in Bags, Baubles, and Objects of Desire.

From the Hoshii Designs profile:

"hoshii" wanted, wished for, in need of, desired

My love of creating things was inspired by the amazing women in my life. My Obachan, Tsuya, (Mom's mum) was an incredible artisan. The intricate detail she put into many handmade ornaments and embroideries was breathtaking. Dad's mum, Hayako (Bessie), worked for many years as a seamstress for Simpson Sears and taught me how to sew as a youngster. She bought me a reconditioned sewing machine many years ago and it's the same one I'm still using today. My mother Lily is an unrealized artist in her own right and an incredible painter of sceneries. When I can get her to figure out her computer, look out for her own Etsy store.

I try and use as many renewable and sustainable materials as are available to me. The vast majority of the fabrics I use are ones I purchase from local thrift stores or pre-owned items that I have upcycled. Any and all leather details on the pieces I create are absolutely, 100% recycled from pre-loved garments.

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Check out this item:

This one of a kind mini clutch was made from a recycled leather coat circa 1980's. Trust me, no one misses this coat but the leather fabric has been given new life in this petit and funky clutch. The inside has been lined with brilliant marine and jewel toned vintage upholstery. It has been decorated with three antique gold colored studs.

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If you'd like to keep up with Hoshii Designs, please visit the following links:

Hoshii Designs on Etsy

Hoshii Designs on Facebook

Hoshii Designs on Twitter

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk about upcycling to make beautiful  creations with Deborah in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: SoGa Soap and Cupfakery

Today we feature a luxury item from SoGa Soap and Cupfakery.

SoGa Soap and Cupfakery specializes in Simply Delicious creations.

From the SoGa Soap and Cupfakery profile:

I make everything using only vegan ingredients. Even our packaging, although using plastic, is totally recyclable. We have accreditation through the International Vegetarian Union. None of our products are tested on animals, although when I emerge from my lab space in the basement, my dog and cat always greet me!

Our bubble bath ingredients are composed of both natural and naturally derived ingredients. They are SLS free. Our soaps are made using organic and sustainable oils. Our scrubs and creams are paraben free.

We've been selling retail through the local markets here in Winnipeg, and online. I love meeting my customers face to face and getting the direct feedback, but now I think it's time to try and reach out a little more. That's when I saw Etsy, and most of my facebook friends joining your collective. I thought, what a fabulous idea, and I'd love to be a part of that!

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Check out this item:

We decided to make our own (vegan) version of Oatmeal, Milk and Honey soap, a favorite of many due to its gentle cleansing. Our version contains oatmeal, coconut milk and agave nectar for a similar experience without compromising our commitment to remain animal free.

This bar lathers beautifully! (We tested it on ourselves!) and without scent, a great choice for those with sensitivities.

SoGa bars are handmade in small batches, with only organic and sustainable oils used in their creation.

Wetting the hard bar exudes natural fragrance into the air, slightly scenting your skin. The balance of creamy moisturizing bubbles with the cleansing action of the larger rainbow coloured ones will leave your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated as well as clean!

Each handmade SoGa bar retains its own natural glycerin, keeping your skin smooth and soothed. SoGa bars are made with vegan ingredients, with custom blends of essential and fragrant oils to add the wonderful scent that you will not find anywhere else.

Our bars will last many weeks when cared for properly, so keep out of the flow or pool of water to extend its life! SoGa soap is perfect for baby, new mom, or anyone that suffers from ultra-sensitive skin. You simply won't find a more gentle soap.

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If you'd like to keep up with SoGa Soap and Cupfakery please visit the following links:
SoGa Soap and Cupfakery on Etsy
SoGa Soap and Cupfakery on  Facebook
SoGa Soap and Cupfakery Website
SoGa Soap and Cupfakery on Twitter
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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk about delicious creations with Louise in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Smash Knits

Today we look at Smash Knits.

Smash Knits specializes in scrumptious handcrafted accessories for you & yours.

From the Smash Knits profile:

Born and raised on the Canadian Prairies, I became accustomed to bitter cold winters at a very young age. Several years ago I dusted off my childood knitting needles, and my Mum's old crochet hooks, and put to use the skills I was lucky enough to learn from both of my Grandmas as a young girl. I began making winter gifts for friends and family, in an attempt to keep loved ones warm - without forsaking fun and fashion - two of my favorite things!

Knitting soon led me to renew my junior high love affair with my Mum's trusty Kenmore sewing machine, and I have never looked back! The Kenmore has since moved on to greener pastures and now I'm working on my aunt's industrial Viking.

Nothing escapes my creative interest, and I have at least 900 pins on Pinterest waiting to be attacked. I try to focus on creating eco-friendly accessories from renewable or recycled sources as frequently as possible, and apply that attitude to all facets of my life.

Smash Knits evolved as a result of an overflowing amount of items I have created in need of a home. My pieces are influenced by my love of anything vintage, everything feminine, and bright, bold colors that POP! I like creating pieces that pay homage to days gone by, but are still functional and appealing in today's fashion world.

I love every and all crafts; sewing, scrapbooking, knitting, crochet, painting, furniture re-upholstering, as long as it's creating then it's right up my alley! Pottery is next on my hit list.

In my spare moments, I moonlight as a grammar nerd, bookworm, music junky, volleyball addict, and hot yoga fiend.

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Check out this item:

Make a statement with this bold jersey infinity scarf in vibrant turquoise and off white.

This scarf pays homage to the chevron craze that has recenty swept the fashion world by storm, but is still neutral enough to wear with almost anything!

Scarf is made of 100% cotton jersey, is delightfully soft and lightweight. It measures approximately 8.5" wide, and 42" around.

Can be worn single or double-looped.

Washing instructions: Hand wash and lay flat to dry for best results.

- This item is made in my smoke-free studio!

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If you'd like to keep up with Smash Knits please visit the following links:

Smash Knits on Etsy
Smash Knits on Facebook
Smash Knits Website
Smash Knits Twitter

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or critique my grammar with a self-proclaimed grammar nerd in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Birdie and Dot

For today's beautiful treasury item, we feature a pair of earrings from Birdie and Dot.

Birdie and Dot specialize in a cute mix of quality handmade items.

From the Birdie and Dot profile:

Welcome to Birdie and Dot! We are two sisters that work together to make quality handmade items for moms, moms-to-be and children. we hope you find something you like!

Check out this item:

These elegant glass earrings feature an eye aqua main stone with flickers of gold shimmer. The earrings feature silver filigree bead caps and are finished using a beautiful sparkling crystal accent bead. The earring measure approximately 1.5 inches and are made using non-tarnish silver findings.

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If you'd like to keep up with all things Birdie and Dot please visit the following links:

Birdie and Dot on Etsy
Birdie and Dot on Facebook

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk about making for moms and children with Birdie and Dot in the comments below****

WEST at the Canada Day Market in Osborne Village

June 30 & July 1, 2012

The WEST Canada Day Craft Sale will be held in Winnipeg’s trendy Osborne Village! 
(Find us one block north of Confusion Corner)
Sale hours: 11:00 am - Sundown

Join us at the Osborne Village Street Festival and meet 10 sellers from the Winnipeg Etsy Street Team (WEST) and treat yourself to something local and lovingly handmade!

The Etsy artisians participating in the first annual WEST Canada Day Craft Sale include:
PeriwinkleDzyns | Facebook
ToxieDesigns | Facebook
FlatlandersSoapCo | Facebook
hoshiidesigns | Facebook
YamasMarie | Facebook
aeliosdesign | Facebook
SoGaSoap | Facebook
SecretJewelry | Facebook
byblackbirddesigns
branchesandfeathers | Facebook
image by Jackie Duhard of branchesandfeathers

WEST Summer Promotion: We Are Bound Together

Today we're featuring a book binder artist Andrea from We Are Bound Togetherhttp://www.etsy.com/shop/WeAreBoundTogether.

We Are Bound Together specializes in  Handbound, brightly coloured or traditional grey duct tape books. Simple and modern design, sometimes with a bit of punk.

From the We Are Bound Together profile:

I enjoy doing many artsy things, but currently bookbinding is on the frontline. My desire is to use my talents to help others. This is why my store"We Are Bound Together" was started. Proceeds from the sale of my books go towards supporting persecuted Christians around the world. We are bound together as believers, under Christ.

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Just take a look at this item:

 The snow is melting and flowers are on their way. It's spring! Celebrate with this dainty little notebook. Hand bound with blue, waxed, linen thread to display a flower against a white duct tape cover.

Measures 4” x 4” x 1”

Use as a journal, notebook, or sketchbook. Makes a great gift, especially for Mothers Day, as a bridesmaid gift, or just because it's spring.

Hand bound using upcycled bookboard. Pages are hand torn from 60lb (89gsm) weight, white sketch paper, made from over 50% recycled material.

This blank book contains 120 hand torn pages (consisting of 6 signatures, containing 5 leaves each).

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To keep up with We Are Bound Together please visit the following links:
We Are Bound Together on Etsy
We Are Bound Together in Facebook
We Are Bound Together Website

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk about Bookbinding with Andrea in the comments below****

Summer Shows and Farmer's Market Tips for Vendors

I like many of you, am constantly searching for ideas to improve my show experience and sales.  I never stop learning and like new ideas for booth display. In my search for ideas tonight I came across a listing through Pinterest that I thought would be worth sharing.  It's a good overall listing about how to improve your visibility at shows, and hopefully sales.  Hope it's beneficial to all you Westies and others.

Today’s display tips are coutresy of adornedbyrobin. They originally appeared as a post on the Etsy forums, and she was kind enough to allow us to reprint them here.

1. Raise your tables. I did this using bed risers from Bed Bath & Beyond.
2. Make sure your table covers reach the floor. This gives it a finished look and hides your storage boxes. My covers are actually long strips of fabric wrapped around the tables and duct taped (I duct tape, velcro and hot glue EVERYTHING lol). Then I added black fabric panels to the table tops.
3. Have multiple levels. This serves several purposes. It allows more merchandise to be displayed in a small area. It adds visual interest. It brings your product to the eye level of the shopper.
4. Make sure there is visual contrast between your display colors and your product so your merchandise will stand out.
5. Lots of light. (This may be more important for jewelry than anything else. We need that sparkle!) A well lit display will attract more attention than one that just blends in with the others. If the venue charges more for electric, pay it.
6. You must have a sign and/or banner. Make it visually similar to your other marketing materials. I had a woman come looking for me and she recognized my sign because it is the same style and colors as my business cards. In fact, the look of your display, Etsy shop and marketing materials should all tie together well.
7. If you want to sit, sit high! Get a bar height director’s chair so you will always be at eye level of your buyers.
8. Space permitting, have a separate small pay-out table. This moves the buyer away from the front of the display so others can move in to look. It also allows for a wrapping area if necessary. I keep my mailing list sign-up book there. While I write up the receipt and package the purchase, the buyer can sign up for future event notifications.
9. If you accept credit cards (and you should) have a sign saying so. I’ve had people stop at my booth simply because they could use their Visa with me.
10. This is an odd tip I’m just gonna throw in to make an even 10: At outdoor shows I always have a bowl of wrapped candies, but I also bring dog treats. So many people bring their dogs everywhere they go and always appreciate the thought.

WEST Summer Promotion: Nancy Blokland Pottery

Today I'm going to introduce you to Nancy from Nancy Blokland Pottery.

Nancy Blokland Pottery specializes in: "Functional work or utilitarian is likely what I will always enjoy making. Pottery made in my home studio and fired in both gas and electric, my work is meant to add beauty to the daily tasks of life in your home and office."

From the Nancy Blokland Pottery profile:
I am a potter living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada with my little son. I continue to look for balance in our life through making handmade pottery, organic gardening and being right with the world.
In pottery all pieces thrown on the wheel must be "centered". This has been a good metaphor for life.

In the spring and summer the leaves, foliage and flowers from my garden will become a physical part of my pottery, and my focus will be on my garden, both raising food for our family and friends , but also to sell along with the pottery in our local Farmer's Market.
Just as drinking out of a handmade mug is special , so is picking my organic peas and raspberries and eating them while we stand in the garden and watch the bees , caterpillars and butterflies.
My work has been sold in and around Manitoba for 25 years and continues to evolve and change with me. The creative process is addictive and healing.
Here is some feedback I received from an Etsy customer.
awesome. just what i was looking for. bright color and great craftsmanship. fast shipping, well packed, from Canada to the States and i LOVE it! cheers!

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And check out this item:

This beautiful hand built soap dish, candle holder comes from a leaf harvested in a tropical location we love to visit in the depths of Canadian winter. I brought them home and tenderly transferred them into the clay.
The turquoise colour is my way of making them more magical for your soap, candles, candies or as a catch all.

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To keep up with Nancy Blokland Pottery please visit the links below:
Nancy Blokland Pottery on Etsy
Nancy Blokland Pottery Blog
Nancy Blokland Pottery on Facebook

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk about pottery making with Nancy in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: The Silver Agenda

Today I would like you to meet Wendy from The Silver Agenda.

The Silver Agenda specializes in ~Fine Jewelry~Gemstones~Sterling Silver~Recycled Metal~Modern~Romantic~Elegant~Precious Metal~Swarovski Crystals~Pearls

From The Silver Agenda's profile:

Hi, I'm Wendy and I have been a jewelry artisan for 13 years.

After graduating high school I took a course in Silversmithing learning various techniques. I apprenticed with a Goldsmith for two years.

When you look at my shop you will see many different styles: modern, steampunk, romantic, bridal and geekery. I love so many aspects of jewelry making I can't focus on one particular theme. Hopefully this will give you many pieces to choose from.

I want to offer people the ability to own an eclectic and elegant piece of jewelry at an affordable price. I recycle all my materials resulting in no production waste.

I love working with metal clay for the fact that it is comprised of recycled silver and I can recycle every portion that is left over for future projects.

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And just look at this pretty bracelet:

Sparkling opaque and clear aquamarine swarovski element crystals wrap around your wrist to create this elegant and simple spring bracelet.

6mm swarovski crystals are the focal point in the middle of the bracelet. Smaller 4mm opaque crystals surround the larger crystals with sterling silver discs every third crystal. A hand forged silver spiral S hook clasp completes the bracelet.

This bracelet measures 7.25 inches (18.5cm) and comes wrapped in a handmade recycled felt pouch.

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If you'd like to keep up with Wendy from the Silver Agenda, please check out the following links:
The Silver Agenda on Etsy
The Silver Agenda on Facebook

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk about silversmithing with Wendy in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Cloverleaf Art and Fibre

Today in our summer promotion series I'd like to introduce you to a pair of fibre artists - Margaret and Linda from Cloverleaf Art and Fibre.

Cloverleaf Art and Fibre specializes in one-of-a-kind wall hangings and wearable fibre art in many forms.

From the Cloverleaf Art and Fibre profile:

Cloverleaf Art and Fibre is an ever evolving collective project, including an artist, a spinner, and a flock of Shetland sheep.

Linda Glowacki has been a passionate artist from a young age, mostly drawing and painting. Becoming shepherd to a flock of Shetland sheep opened up a whole new artistic medium in fibre and felting. The depth and textures of the natural coloured hand-made felts were an inspiration. When enhanced with needle-felted images, the spirit and substance of each subject are captured with a vibrancy difficult to achieve on canvas alone.

Margaret, the other half owner of the Leafhaven Shetlands flock, lives miles away in the big city, and must content herself with playing with fleece and fabric between visits with the sheep. She does the sewing and linings on the purses, dyes fleece for Linda's needlefelting, occasionally spins, and enjoys combing thrift shops for fabrics, sweaters, blankets and other treasures to recycle into Cloverleaf fibre art projects.

Our flock of Shetland sheep are a source of endless delight and entertainment as well as lovely fleeces in many colours. The two guardian llamas also contribute fibre for felts and yarn. 

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Check out this needlefelted goody:

 Wearable fibre art from our backyard flock of Shetland sheep to your wrist. This is a one of a kind. soft and comfortable felt cuff. The fibre is washed, dyed, carded and felted by us. Linda then applies the needlefelted design.

Joyful dolphins dance through the waves in this image, created in serene shades of aqua, teal and greys.

Shetland fleeces offer a wide range of natural colours, but for this unique cuff we have also dyed white fleece with professional colourfast acid dyes. The cuff is hand washable in lukewarm water with mild soap. Lay flat to dry.

Small to Medium sized: width is about 2 1/2 inches (6 cm); length 7 1/2 inches (19 cm)

The button and elastic closure allows for a flexible fit. With the current button placement and some overlap, the circumference when closed is about 6 inches (15 cm). The button can be moved to change the size. Just let us know if you would like it adjusted before shipping, or set it yourself for a perfect fit.

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If you would like to keep up with all things Cloverleaf Art and Fibre, please check out the following links:
Cloverleaf Art and Fibre on Etsy
Cloverleaf Art and Fibre Website
Cloverleaf Art and Fibre on Facebook

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk needlefelting with a pro in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Flatlanders Soap Co.

If you're like me, you may have never heard of felted soap. Check it out below from Flatlanders Soap Co. and you'll be converted. An awesome product from an awesome shop (who just so happens to be participating in the WEST Summer Promotion Giveaway as well).

Flatlanders Soap Co. specializes in simple, high quality handmade soaps that offer you a luxurious and rich moisturizing lather.

From the Flatlanders Soap Co. profile:

I come from a long line of crafters and artisans - family who knitted, sewed, wood worked, needle worked, quilted, among many other crafts. I wish more of them were still around so I could learn from them.

Besides soap making, I enjoy gardening, knitting, fashion, reading, and traveling. I would really like to learn how to hand make lace. I like dioramas and tacos.

I came to make soap because I have allergies to certain scents and have very sensitive skin, my body just cannot tolerate the harsh fragrance and chemicals in commercially made soap. I make my soap for people like me with sensitivities and allergies, but also for those who are conscious about avoid exposure to chemicals that may have ill effects on our bodies. Also people who like to be clean.

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And as promised, check out these felted soaps:

Handmade Peppermint Soap

*3 aqua and white soap balls
*Peppermint
*Natural and simple ingredients
*One of a kind
*Wet and needle felted
*Approximately 5 oz. (140 g)

Ingredients: Vegetable oil shortening, water, coconut oil, olive oil, lye, peppermint essential oil, 100% merino wool.

Flatlanders felted soap creates a rich and moisturizing lather which gently exfoliates even the most sensitive skin.

These soap balls are ideal for hand soap.

Our felted soap lasts approximately 3 times as long as a regular bar of soap and is a beautiful addition to your bathroom or kitchen.

We recommend that you place your soap in a draining soap dish, that is, do not let it sit in standing water; this will ensure that your soap lasts as long as possible (see our shop for draining soap dishes).

If you have yet to experience felted soap, it is used just like a regular bar of soap, wet your hands or body, wet the soap, and rub it on your skin. Lather will come through the felt and it will gently exfoliate your skin. The colour will not run. The wool will continue to shrink with the bar of soap and you will be left with a small piece of felt when the soap is gone.

Leftover felt can be used in a variety of ways. I like to use it as a pot scrubber to get all the remaining soap residue out and then I cut it up into small pieces and put it in my compost bin. You can also put a few drops of your favorites essential oil on it and use it as a room or drawer freshener. Large pieces can be used as an alternative to dryer sheets - wet the felt and put it in about 5 minutes before your load is done.

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If you'd like to keep up with Sarah from Flatlanders Soap Co. please check out the following links:

Flatlanders Soap Co. on Etsy
Flatlanders Soap Co. on Facebook
Flatlanders Soap Co. on Twitter

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or profess your new found love for felted soaps in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Toxie Designs

Today I'd like to introduce you to Jennifer of Toxie Designs.  She was the awesome person who pulled all of us together to participate in this summer promotion.  And of course, she's participating with her shop Toxie Designs.

Toxie Designs specializes in Modern Geometric Eco Friendly Jewelry. The designs explore geometric shapes, minimalism, clean lines along with eco friendly practices and materials.

From the Toxie Designs profile:
I began making jewelry at a young age - mainly as gifts I gave to my mom - who as it turns out is allergic to nickle and does not have her ears pierced therefore could not wear her ten year old’s lovingly made jewelry.

I continued on making jewelry for just myself and other as gifts until about 5 years ago. That’s when I started making Swarovski crystal jewelry that I been selling in a local women’s boutique. I have even had a couple designs appear in movies that were shot in Winnipeg (The Lookout with Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Make it Happen with Tessa Thompson). Recently I decided to change from purchasing my finding to learning to make my own. I have been forging, bending, twisting, hammering and am just starting to use a micro torch to fuse silver.

All the jewelry is made in either sterling silver, Argentium silver or gold filled. The earwires, wraps, clasps, links and even some of the chain is handcrafted by me. For adornment I mainly use Swarovski Elements - beads, pendants and other components, vintage glass beads including vintage crystal, Baltic amber and other gemstone and tagua nut or vegetable ivory.

What is in a name? Toxie is my nickname for Toxaris- who was, according to legend, an Amazon warrior and skilled archer.

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Check out this lovely item:

Marquise hoops with locking bottoms feature a single floating briolette bead in blue green opal effect. The earwires, made of Argenitum Silver wire (anti-tarnish and ethically mined) wire, are hand-shaped and hardened by me. The beads are small faceted crystal clear donut shaped briolettes milky aqua effect from Swarovski Elements.

Fresh yet Classic

Length is 7/8" or 22mm

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If you would like to find out more about Toxie Designs please visit the following links:
Toxie Designs on Etsy
Toxie Designs Blog
Toxie Designs on Twitter

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or inquire about the world of jewelry making in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen

Today I'm excited to introduce you to a vintage seller who is participating in this year's WEST summer promotion: Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen

Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen specializes in vintage kitchen, barware, jadeite, patterns, decor, Christmas items, accessories, lamps, tins, canisters.

From the Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen profile:
I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and have been buying treasures at garage and estate sales for about 30 years, and have recently started going to auctions as well.
I love to find good homes for neglected vintage items, and allow them to be enjoyed by a whole new generation.

Check out this awesome kitchen accessory:

Beautiful half apron with one pocket. Pale aqua gingham, with machine-embroidered designs in bright green.
Nice, sunny yellow piping around edges, and down the front.

Waistband measures 18" (45.72cm) across, with ties each measuring an additional 20 1/2" (52.07cm).
Approximately 24" (60.96cm) from top of waistband to hem. Pocket is about 5" (12.7cm) x 4" (10.16cm).

I believe it is made of a cotton/poly blend.

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If you would like to keep up with all the happenings with Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen, click on the links below:
Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen on Etsy
Bitchin' Kitsch 'n' Kitchen Blog

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or discuss vintage canisters in the comments below****

WEST Summer Promotion: Periwinkle Dzyns

Let me introduce you to the next participant in our WEST Summer Promotion Series - Periwinkle Dzyns

Periwinkle Dzyns specializes in: Geek nerd recycled computer components handmade recycled upcycled eco friendly jewelry which is made from resistors, capacitors, diodes, oscillators, MOV's, transistors and more.....making them Future Friendly Accessories.

From the Periwinkle Dzyns profile:
I take inspiration from the shapes of my latest recycle finds, materials needing a new use and traditional jewellery design.

I used to work in a large electronics manufacturing plant...and that led me to my love of upcycling factory discards into wearable pieces of jewellery. I am pleased that the factory continues to set aside their discards for me!

I love to try new jewellery techniques and my mind is often consumed with finding supplies and executing a new design. I participate on several beading forums and enjoy helping out people new to the hobby.

Proud member and team captain for the Winnipeg Etsy Street Team

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Check out this recycled goody:

I always sell out of these at craft sales, they are one of my most popular designs and I can see why, geek sleek at it's finest!

Factory discarded lock washers, dangle 1.5" (3.8 cm) from your piercing, 3 lock washers interwoven with 2 jump rings.

Light and fun but green too!

You will know how you are saving the environment, one piece of recycled industrial left overs at a time!

Feel good and be green by wearing these earrings made from pre-consumer waste!

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If you would like to keep up with Ruth from Periwinkle Dzyns check out the following links
Periwinkle Dzyns on Etsy
Periwinkle Dzyns Blog
Periwinkle Dzyns Group on Facebook

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And if you'd like a chance to win the item featured above along with 15 other fabulous WEST creations, please visit this treasury link and leave a thoughtful comment on the treasury page.  Simple!


*** Only comments on the treasury itself count for entry into the giveaway.  But you're more than welcome to introduce yourself, ask questions or talk geek with Ruth in the comments below****

May Design Challenge Results

The W.E.S.T. May Design Challenge was "Cool Stuff for Dudes!" Members were invited to create something for the men in their lives, whether significant other, dads, brothers, friends....

Our first entry was from Nancy, of Nancy Blokland Pottery:

Red, white and blue pottery mug for the serious coffee drinker by Nancy Blokland Pottery

Nancy notes: large mugs are always my best seller with men. This one is long and lean and holds a lot of liquid (coffee, beer, chai): the choice is theirs.

Andrea, from We Are Bound Together, submitted this entry:

Rustic leather blank journal with tie closure by WeAreBoundTogether

This rustic leather journal is fitting for the whatever kind of man you have (or are trying to get!), from the cowboy to the scholar. As if duct tape wasn't manly enough (editor's note: check out Andrea's shop to understand this comment!). Leather is very diverse, and fits the masculine side perfectly. 

A big Thank You to the participants in this month's challenge!

We'd love to hear from you--what comes to mind when you think of "Cool Stuff for Dudes?"

We'll be taking the summer off from the Design Challenges, and our next one will be for the month of September. Stay tuned!

Manitoba Craft Council - Slow Craft - Congratulations Kami!

Last night I had the opportunity to attend the opening of the Manitoba Craft Council's Juried Exhibition - Slow Craft and cheer on a very talented WESTie! Kami Goertz, or as we know her, Marathon1981
Kami's piece "prairie soil profile in plush" was one of only 15 pieces selected! This is no small accomplishment - congratulations!! Over 50 pieces were submitted and Kami's plush work took a well deserved place in the show.
From MCC's website "There’s no denying it – craft takes time. In a culture endlessly obsessed with speed and increasingly aware of its downsides, craft in its many varied forms may be the antidote of choice. The Manitoba Craft Council takes this idea as the starting point for its most recent exhibition, SLOW CRAFT
May 31 - Jun 30
12-4pm
Gallery 1C03, University of Winnipeg
515 Portage Ave
For most craft-based artists, slow is all in a day’s work. The processes associated with craft cannot be hurried, and the skills associated with craft take years to master. Most craft artists embrace the slowness of their craft, and many are using their work to question Western society’s addiction to speed, to shopping and consuming, to unsustainable environmental practices. Taking its cues from the broader Slow Movement, the SLOW CRAFT exhibition asks viewers to slow down, take a breath, and consider the implications of the work on display."

Congratulations Kami! I really enjoyed the opening on Thursday May 31 and encourage others to take it in. You are an inspiration to us all as you push the boundaries of plush work.

authored by Ruth of Periwinkle Designs