Sustainable Style for the Environmentally-Conscious Consumer

Eco-Friendly Wood Tree Branch Buttons and Needle Cases • Nature-Inspired Gifts • Earth-Friendly Jewelry • Green Wedding Ware • and More

Friday, November 4, 2011

Restore. Recycle. Repurpose



At A Remark You Made, we constantly strive to find items that can be repurposed. These paintbrushes were being stored inside the vase in our studio. Now these used paintbrushes get a second chance at life by dressing up the outside of a plain glass cylinder vase. In minutes, you can transform any plain cylindrical vase into a whimsical centerpiece.

You will need:
• 2-3 wide rubber bands
• Tall cylinder vase
• Approximately 35-40 paintbrushes

Place rubber bands around the outside of your vase. Tuck the brushes inside the rubber bands until you have completely covered the outside of the vase and add flowers for a new work of art!

Monday, August 1, 2011

A Day in the Life of...

Anaid Designs
Hello, dear readers! I am thrilled to share this favorite shop with all of you! Diana is the shop owner of Anaid Designs and it is such a lovely shop! Her wearables and home decor creations are designed with great care and are as beautiful as the people and rooms they will adorn.
Let's take a peek at A Day In the Life of Anaid Designs...

The Eleanor Scarf with Wooden Buttons
http://www.etsy.com/listing/54944845/the-eleanor-scarf-with-wooden-buttons

Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
My name is Diana and I was a graphic designer in my past (and sometimes present) life. Anaid Designs was started as a creative outlet for me as a stay at home mom. I love to knit and crochet - especially wearables. When I got to the point that I had way, way too many wearables for any one person, I stumbled upon Etsy! Within a month I had Anaid Designs up and running on Etsy and getting my first sales. It was so exciting! Now that I am becoming a bit established, I am focusing on improving all things Anaid. Right now I am working on getting labels for the product, new design/logo ideas for a fresh feel, updated packaging, and of course the 2011 fall line of wearables! I really feel that my shop is ever evolving. Nothing is ever good enough as they say. I enjoy continually trying to out-do myself!

Bohemian Wrap
http://www.etsy.com/listing/54707836/bohemian-wrap

How did you discover Etsy?
I was ‘researching’ (surfing the net) new fashion trends one lazy Sunday afternoon. And I came across a listing from an Etsy shop. It was a gorgeous scarf so of course I clicked through. And after somewhere around 2 hours of intently browsing through Etsy, I had the thought. The one that we Etsiers all have. “If they can do it, why can’t I??”
And so I did!

Snow Baby Cowl PATTERN
http://www.etsy.com/listing/61439570/snow-baby-cowl-pattern

Blog: In Progress for this Fall!
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/pages/Anaid-Designs/183781598346520



The Organic Cowl
http://www.etsy.com/listing/60726630/the-organic-cowl
Do you have any other information you would like to share?
Right now I have a 10% off code for anyone who likes me on Facebook!!! AND if you get one of YOUR friends to like me then you’ll get an ADDITIONAL 5% off code! :)

Sunshine Smile Clutchie Baby Blanket
http://www.etsy.com/listing/71402337/sunshine-smile-clutchie-baby-blanket



What do you like to do in your spare time?
As a mother of two small children, I have very little spare time for just me. Usually my spare time is after they go to bed about 8 pm. And that is when I do 90% of my Anaid Designs work. However, in the rare quiet moments, I am an avid reader and have many bookshelves stuffed to overflowing! My husband wants to get me an e-reader in order to streamline the bookshelves...but I refuse to lose my actual books! I also enjoy cooking as does my husband. We tend to have very elaborate dinners on the weekends when we are stretching our cooking muscles. All other activities are focused on the children and we love going to the beach, the park, and generally being, well, children!
And yes, I join right in with them!
The Bay Street Scarf - Men's Luxury Line - Baby Llama
http://www.etsy.com/listing/61058731/the-bay-street-scarf-mens-luxury-line

 Describe a typical day for Anaid Designs.
First thing in the morning usually about 7 am, with my baby girl on my hip, I update Etsy (which stays up on my computer 24-7) to see if there are any new orders or convo’s that need my attention. After dealing with any of these then I move on with my day as mommy and getting breakfast for the kiddos. Any orders to be shipped that day will be packaged in the morning and taken to the post office before lunchtime. Then back into mom mode for lunch and naptime. The rest of the evening is family time until the children are in bed around 8 pm. Then my husband and I are relaxing, usually watching tv or a movie, and I work away on my new sales, or designing product until usually around 11 pm or midnight.
The Perfect Scarf
http://www.etsy.com/listing/56762545/the-perfect-scarf

Where do you find inspiration?
My main source of inspiration is based on my wants and needs. Is that selfish? Seriously though, I try to design items that serve a purpose that I haven’t been able to find anywhere else. And they are items that I want to wear! So my first question on a design is always, do I need it, do I want it, is it easy to wear? I guess that’s three questions! Other inspiration comes from the fashion industry as to the styles of clothing, hats, etc. I like to see the new looks coming out in clothing and think ‘oh this type of cowl would look great with that outfit’. And that gives me the new design idea.
Crochet Round Rug - Extra Large Size
http://www.etsy.com/listing/66406382/crochet-round-rug-extra-large-size

Describe your creative process?
When I get my initial idea, I sketch it down in my little notebook that is always around. To some extent I work out the stitching, etc on that sketch. But it’s just a rough draft. Next I pick the yarn that I think will work with that design the best. Hopefully I have some on hand, because I am always ready to immediately set to work on it. I hate it when I have to wait until I get to buy yarn! As I sit down to begin the physical production I choose hook or needle size and get to work. Counting, measuring, trying on as I go! Usually the design particulars change quite a bit from the original sketch as I am working. I see that certain stitch patterns will look more exciting, or that certain sizing changes will make it a more wearable garment, ,etc. By the end of that first item I usually have THE finished product that will be listed in my store.
The Face Flower Spa Exfoliating Pad - Trio Pack
http://www.etsy.com/listing/59065835/the-face-flower-spa-exfoliating-pad-trio

What is your favorite thing about running your own business?

Really the question is what don’t I like? I love everything about running my own business! First and most importantly, it allows me to be at home with my children which is the greatest gift to me. Also I am a very hard worker but on my own terms. I really hate being stuck in an office until 5 pm regardless of when the work was done! As my own boss, I get to work when it’s needed and play when I can! I also enjoy incorporating my work tasks in with my daily tasks. Throughout the day my ‘to do list’ is both personal and work all together. I don’t differentiate between the two so it all flows pretty seamlessly. Honestly I don’t normally feel like I’m ‘working’ because I would be crocheting or knitting for pleasure anyway! It’s truly a win-win situation for me and I could not be more contented! I’m so grateful!
Button It Up
http://www.etsy.com/listing/62065573/button-it-up

Where can potential buyers find you?
Shop link:

Saturday, July 23, 2011

News From the Workshop

Although we are in the midst of a heat wave, we are gearing up for the holidays at A Remark You Made!

5 Rustic Wood Burned Pine Tree Branch Gift Tags/Ornaments
http://www.etsy.com/listing/78354705/5-rustic-wood-burned-pine-tree-branch
Today we were in the workshop sanding blank slices of a pine tree branch to make gift tags/ornaments as embellishments for the perfect 'green' packaging.

Natural Blank Pine Wood Tree Branch Tags with Bark
http://www.etsy.com/listing/78348976/natural-blank-pine-wood-tree-branch-tags
First, we started with a pine tree branch and cut slices. After sanding each wood slice super smooth, we broke out the wood burning tool to hand burn a hemlock tree design on each tag. Each tag is drilled with a single hole, and hemp twine is used to keep with the rustic charm. Write the name of a lucky recipient using a felt tip pen.


If you would like to try this project, please visit our shop for a selection of blank tags for your own creations. Not a DIYer? No worries. We sell the finished tags, too. These tags are a perfect embellishment for gift bags and boxes, baked goods, and more. They are also terrific for hand stamping projects.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Playing Matchmaker Part III

One of my favorite posts from last year is entitled "Playing Matchmaker." It was so fun to create. I love looking at all the wonderful fiber shops, and it thrills me to feature their beautiful handspun yarns.

If you are a DIYer, here are some great selections to consider for your upcoming projects. I have played matchmaker by pairing these beautiful yarn selections with some of our handmade tree branch buttons that complement each other perfectly.

My hope is that you see something you like and are able to incorporate some of these great finds into your own designs.

#1: This ridiculously soft yarn was hand spun by Eliade on an Ashford Kiwi Wheel.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73626093/cleopatra-handspun-merino-crazy-plied?ref=sr_list_3&ga_ref=auto&ga_search_query=bulky+handspun+yarn&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

#1: Pair this yarn with a set of our spalted maple tree branches buttons hand crafted from a tree branch from a down maple tree. The wood is gorgeous with its coloring in light golden hues of honey and spectacular spalting patterns. http://www.etsy.com/listing/71481291/4-magnificent-maple-wood-tree-branch

#2: This wool is from the flock of Olde English Babydoll Southdown sheep. You can visit  www.MyLittleSheep.com to get a peek into their lives. http://www.etsy.com/listing/74511948/babydoll-wool-yarn-bulky-wt-38-yds?ref=sr_list_38&ga_search_query=handspun+yarn&ga_page=7&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade
#2: These buttons are so exquisite. The buttons have golden hues, reddish browns and blueish-grey coloring with a prominant grain pattern. Absolutely gorgeous! They are like little pieces of Mother Nature's art. I chose a simple yarn as to not detract from these beauties. http://www.etsy.com/listing/74225313/4-stunning-pine-wood-tree-branch-buttons
 
#3: This two ply yarn from SheepingBeauty was spun from either mohair and wool fiber, 50/50, or Alpaca, Mohair and Wool, 50/30/20, that was prepared by Wellington Fibres. This silky yarn has a lovely sheen with nice depth of color. http://www.etsy.com/listing/73805413/goblin-handspun-yarn-mohair-and-wool?ref=sr_list_16&ga_search_query=handspun+yarn&ga_page=8&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade


#3: I love these buttons with their two-tone, 'espresso with cream' centers. They are some of my favorites! They are hand crafted from a tree branch from a redbud tree and are consecutive cuts. The wood is gorgeous and has slight spalting and wonderful dark and light espresso-brown centers with blonde sap wood. A natural and eco-friendly embellishment for that special fiber project. http://www.etsy.com/listing/74142405/5-spectacular-spalted-redbud-tree-branch
 
#4: This is a very beautiful handspun yarn from alltheprettyfibers. It has a lot of coils and beehive coils, made from 100% extra soft Bluefaced Leicester wool. The colours are warm autumn shades of dark sunflower yellow, burnt orange and rosewood pink. A great yarn for special knitting projects that require extra texture. http://www.etsy.com/listing/56911052/autumn-whispers-ooak-handpainted-and?ref=sr_list_1&ga_search_query=handspun+yarn&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade
 
#4: These buttons were hand crafted from a branch of a down tree and are consecutive cuts from the branch. After doing some research, we determined that this species has the characteristics of the American Smoketree. The buttons have a wonderful circular grain pattern with a rich reddish-orange center and light sap wood. http://www.etsy.com/listing/72392763/eco-friendly-and-amazing-american
 
#5: This thick and thin style, super bulky weight yarn is from EnchantedYarn. It is spun from uncarded cotswold wool locks. Next to the skin soft. It is hand painted in rich shades of chestnut, forest green, goldenrod, and pomegranate. http://www.etsy.com/listing/68777720/handspun-wool-art-yarn-forest-witch?ref=sr_list_10&ga_ref=auto&ga_search_query=bulky+handspun+yarn&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade


#5: This set of 4 buttons was hand crafted from a branch of a fallen oak tree. The branch was splitting due to the drying process. To save this beautiful wood, we cut the branch in half to create half-circle buttons that are very charming. Each button has golden brown colors and spalting patterns. http://www.etsy.com/listing/73642468/a-new-take-on-toggles-4-beautiful
 
#6: This Merino wool roving was carded with shimmering nylon firestar fibers and angelina sparkle by Autumnrose. It was spun into a thick and thin soft and super bulky yarn. http://www.etsy.com/listing/74030442/enchanted-forest-sparkle-handspun-yarn?ref=sr_list_12&ga_search_query=bulky+handspun+yarn&ga_page=8&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade
 
#6: These pine buttons were hand crafted from a tree branch from a down tree. The buttons have a gorgeous swirling grain pattern in a golden honey-brown color with blonde sap wood. The bark is still intact lending to their rustic charm. http://www.etsy.com/listing/74167534/pretty-pine-tree-branch-buttons-with 

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Call for SWAG


We are getting ready for a big fiber festival in Yellow Springs, Ohio. The Midwest Festival of Fibers presents A Wool Gathering on Saturday, September 17 and Sunday, September 18, 2011 at Young's Jersey Dairy North of Yellow Springs, Ohio on U.S. 68. The vendor list is full for 2011, and this festival has record crowds.

We’ll be giving away 50 SWAG bags to the first lucky shoppers of the day. A Remark You Made will be including handmade tree branch buttons, magnets, and more. We would love to include your yarn samples, business cards, coupons, or any other items you would like to promote!

If you would like to contribute promotional material for your business, please contact me via our etsy shop by June 17th (http://www.aRemarkYouMade.etsy.com). I will provide more information to interested parties and answer any questions you may have regarding this festival.

Note: No pornographic, racist, sexist, or vulgar materials will be used in the swag bags. We reserve the right to refuse any materials. Please keep it friendly!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Fondly,
Brenda K.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

The Natural Statements Collection

Dare to be distinctive with a piece from our Natural Statements Collection. Each piece is fashioned with sustainability and designed with style. Rustic materials and earthy textures pull nature into your wardrobe to give you a one-of-a-kind piece.

A Remark You Made helps you live a greener, healthier, and happier lifestyle. Our wood items are locally and sustainably harvested or salvaged from fallen trees ensuring our commitment to the environment. For more selections, please visit our shop at: http://www.ARemarkYouMade.etsy.com


These gorgeous and eco-friendly earrings are the perfect accessory to any outfit. They are hand crafted from the burl of a maple tree branch from a down tree in hopes of giving it a second chance at life. The wood has gorgeous grain patterns and color variations. They are attached to sterling silver french ear wires and adorned with green aventurine stones.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/73181419/burl-beauty-ii-from-the-natural

Wood bangle bracelets are here! This beautiful eco-friendly wide bangle bracelet is handturned from a red bud tree branch from a down tree in hopes of giving it a second life. The wood has wonderful color variations and wood grain patterns.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/69449150/the-natural-statements-collection-eco


I kept this pendant design simple so nothing would detract from the stunning piece of maple wood showcasing Mother Nature's art. The pendant hangs from a simple ivory organdy ribbon and handmade sterling silver bale. This statement piece can be dressed up, or wear it with a tank and jeans for a casual look. http://www.etsy.com/listing/71803144/chloe-from-the-natural-statements

Beautiful Spalted Maple Wood Tree Branch Post or Stud Earrings - Give as a gift to someone special on your list or keep for yourself to enjoy!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/73228331/the-natural-statements-collection

Hand Painted Dogwoods on Spalted Maple Wood Tree Branch Dangle Earrings - These would look great with a summer dress or a tank top and jeans.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/71873643/dogwood-dreams-from-the-natural
 
These beauties are hand crafted from cocobolo wood scraps leftover from a job in the workshop. The wood has a gorgeous grain pattern with a reddish-brown color variations and light sap wood. They are attached to sterling silver french ear wires and handmade jumprings.
 
Stunning spalted maple wide cuff bangle bracelet. The wood has wonderful color variations and unique patterns caused from spalting. This is one of my favorite pieces!
 
We hope you see something you like! Come in for a visit. New pieces are being designed and posted all the time.

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Window Shopping with A Remark You Made

Running a business has many perks. You come across wonderful shops and meet some really great people.

I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorites with you. I hope these shops become some of your favorites, too. Happy shopping!

Who wouldn't love this little wristlet from sweetpeatotes? It is loaded with natural charm and is embellished with one of A Remark You Made's handmade tree branch buttons! http://www.etsy.com/listing/72965424/owl-wristlet-wallet-detachable-strap

The WhiteOakRoom makes some of the most beautiful pillow covers that would make a perfect addition to any room decor. I own several and they are very well made. Jayne is a such a pleasure to work with, too!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/52519992/16x16-handmade-designer-pillow-cover

This sweet little clutch from fuzzycraftknitwear is all spruced up! This roomy and colorful clutch features luscious fruity shades of pomegranate, lime, and orange that blend into each other. Perfect for those summer evenings out.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/70588789/all-spruced-up-hand-knit-wool-clutch

Super bulky, super soft, the Eleanor scarf from AnaidDesigns is gorgeous! Visit her shop for an amazing selection. The shop owner is a doll!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/54944845/the-eleanor-scarf-with-wooden-buttons?ref=pr_shop

Check out this hand-tooled leather look fabric! If you are in the market for a tech gadget cover, check out Clevelandgirlie. This shop offers a large variety.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/72755548/ipad-cover-hand-tooled-leather-look?ref=pr_shop

Wow, wow, wow! This black walnut cutting board from rusticandy is stunning! It would make a wonderful housewarming or wedding gift.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/72772027/black-walnut-burl-plattercutting-board

Are you hosting a gathering? Check out these mongrammed cookies from SweetAmbs! These will certainly be a conversation piece.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/31908682/monogrammed-cookies-in-juniper-green-set

This gift set from belleterre would make a perfect gift for out-of-town guests. Leave it on a dresser or bed to make your guests feel welcomed and right at home.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/71970055/black-gift-box-soap-lotion-and-lip-balm

Game on! Bring home a classic with this game from AlmasKnitShop! A great gift for the backgammon lover.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/66486197/knitted-backgammon-game

Dare to be distinctive with a piece from A Remark You Made's Natural Statements Collection. Each piece is fashioned with sustainability and designed with style. http://www.aremarkyoumade.etsy.com/