Sunday, October 31, 2010

A Warm Welcome for Out-of-Town Guests

With the upcoming holidays right around the corner, many of us will have out-of-town guests. Here are some great options for making your guests feel welcome in your home!

This café cutting board from Gray Works Design is handmade from black walnut and can pull double-duty as a breakfast tray for your guest room. Personalize it with custom engraving, and you've got the perfect gift for anyone on your list!

To shop, please visit: http://www.grayworksdesign.etsy.com/.

Katherynmd's shop has the most amazing coffee blends. She offers a wide variety of organic custom blends - whole bean or ground. ♥ Would you like to give someone their "Own Personalized Coffee Label"? Well, all you have to do is pick the Blend you want, e-mail their name/names, example: "Matthew's Mocha" or "Janet's Java" and then she places the blend description below their name/names!!! You should see people's faces light up when they read their names on the label! GREAT Gift Idea for your guests. ♥

Visit http://www.katherynmd.etsy.com/ for selections.

Pair this beautiful and sweet handmade wooden coffee scoop from Sunset Turnnings with the bags of coffee to make this gift even more special.

This wooden scoop was hand turned and carved from a beautiful piece of cherry wood from a down tree. The wood has a wonderful wood grain pattern and the color is a golden honey with swirls and streaks throughout.

To purchase this scoop or for other selections, please visit: http://www.sunsetturnings.etsy.com/.

Go one step further...Hang this adorable stocking from South House Boutique from the headboard or footboard in your guest room, with of course, a lovely gift tucked gingerly inside. Ideas for gifts: coffee and scoop, handmade soaps and wash cloths, or candy. You are only limited by the imagination.

The cuff is made from chalk cloth allowing you to write the name of the lucky recipient or an appropriate greeting. South House Boutique also sells the chalk markers.

For a wide variety of fabric options, visit Diane at http://www.southhouseboutique.etsy.com/. She would be thrilled to help you.

Here is another great idea! Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Goat Milk Soap from The Happy Homestead. This OLD-FASHIONED OATMEAL soap is like a good ol' home-cooked meal early in the morning. You'll be glad you started your day this way.

Of course, they have added real milk and oatmeal to this bar. Enjoy the goodness of goat milk and the refining exfoliation of real oatmeal.

For other available scents or to purchase, please visit: http://www.thehappyhomestead.etsy.com/.

These crocheted scrubbies from Cocoa Beans are great for the whole family because of the soft texture. You can use them for just about anything, from removing your make-up, showering, bathing, kitchen and even on babies.

These crocheted scrubbies are made of 100% cotton, and they are machine washable and dryer safe.
Visit Cocoa Beans at http://www.cocoabeans.etsy.com/.

MAKE YOUR GUESTS TO FEEL SPECIAL...

These gorgeous, vintage looking, cream linen huckaback guest towels from Linen Me are produced from 100% high-quality linen in antique herringbone weaving. Linen has the ability to absorb moisture better than cotton and will dry more quickly. With a sensual touch and soft absorbency that will last for years.

You can find more Spa linen items at http://www.linenme.com/, which will help you to live in healthier or can be the perfect gift.

Set of 3 Padded Hangers from Out of the Closet Hangers.

This hanger set has been covered with natural homespun linen and trimmed with organic cotton ribbon. Simple and elegant!

These padded hangers have so much personality you won't want to hide them in the closet! The perfect gift for your special guest or pamper yourself!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ootch?ref=seller_info

Tuck these super cute felted ballet flats from A Life Crocheted at the foot of the bed for your guests. These are more shoe than sock and will keep your feet clean and warm. Perfect for lounging around the house in style and comfort.
These slippers are hand-crocheted and felted from 100% natural wool and finished off with a fun patterned button. Wool is stretchy and will form to your feet as you wear them to create a custom fit.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/alifecrocheted?ref=seller_info

Friday, October 29, 2010

How to Properly Care for Your Handmade Tree Branch Buttons

If you have purchased handmade tree branch buttons from A Remark You Made, just consider a few simple tips to ensure your buttons will last a long time.

Washing An Item Embellished with Tree Branch Buttons

Washing is best done by hand using a mild detergent in cold water. Do not leave buttons submerged in standing water for an extended period of time.

Drying An Item Embellished with Tree Branch Buttons

Line drying is preferred, or lay the article flat. I do not recommend a dryer. However, if it is necessary, use a no heat setting.

Tips

Do not place buttons in direct sunlight or expose to high temperatures for an extended amount of time. Buttons are best stored in a cool, dry place.

Ideas

Want your buttons to remain in great shape? Try this! Instead of sewing the button directly to the article of clothing, sew a strand of hemp twine or yarn to the garment where you want to place the buttons. Slide each end of the twine or yarn through the button holes and tie a bow. A fun look and practical way to preserve your tree branch buttons for a lifetime!

Photo credit: Pillow made by White Oak Room
http://www.whiteoakroom.etsy.com/

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Gather Around the Harvest Table and Give Thanks

One of life's greatest pleasures is to share a meal with good family and friends. The joy they bring to our lives is priceless. Bring the warmth of the holiday season into your home with these Autumnal finds from some wonderful etsy shop owners.

Gorgeous rustic walnut footed platte from Gray Works Design...just the thing for handmade rustic baguettes. Personalize it with their wood engraving, and you'll have the perfect gift for a serious baker...

This elegant yet ruggedly built board is an excellent cutting and food/prep surface that transitions beautifully from kitchen to dining table. Signed and numbered underneath.

SIZE: 20"x6"x2"

Please visit http://www.grayworksdesign.etsy.com/ for a wide selection.

A Great Gift Idea for the Cook or Baker on Your List - Beautiful and Functional Hand Turned Pecan Wood Wooden Scoop

This wooden scoop from Sunset Turnings is hand turned and carved from a beautiful piece of pecan wood from a down tree. The wood has a wonderful wood grain pattern and the color is a chocolate brown and golden honey with swirls and streaks throughout.

This scoop has been turned on the lathe and sanded super smooth. It is finished with tung oil to protect the wood then buffed with carnauba wax for a soft luster and flawless finish.

Pair this scoop with your favorite spices or baked goods ingredients and recipe cards for a perfect gift for the cook or baker on your list. Or try including it in a basket of bath salts or laundry soap for a wonderful birthday, shower, housewarming gift, or any other occasion that calls for a unique gift.

Visit Sunset Turnings at http://www.sunsetturnings.etsy.com/ for a variety of hand turned items.

This stunning bowl from Sunset Turnings is hand turned from a piece of the reclaimed wood. The wood has wonderful colors and a beautiful grain in a starburst pattern. This bowl would make a lovely statement piece in any room decor. This bowl has been finished with tung oil and buffed with carnauba wax for a flawless finish.

This bowl would make a functional piece for your dining table or could be used as the container for a wonderful Autumn centerpiece.

An unusual conversation piece! These beautiful hardwood acorns by ejwitherell are done on a lathe. Life size acorns with real acorn tops! Spalted maple, Ebony, Cherry etc. Sanded and a slight sheen makes these acorns a nice decorative centerpiece on your Shaker table. Perhaps placed in a small wooden bowl or on a glass dish. Unique!

You can visit ejwitherell at http://www.ejwitherell.etsy.com/.

Looking for a unique and natural napkin ring? These napkin rings from A Remark You Made are handmade from pieces of an authentic burlap coffee bean sack. The burlap is adhered to a cardboard tube and each ring is embellished with a handmade spruce tree branch button attached with hemp twine.

These napkin rings are sure to be a year-round favorite. Designed for casual or formal dining, these napkin rings bring a natural texture into your room.

Please visit my shop at http://www.aremarkyoumade.etsy.com/.

Want to go green for your next dinner party or event? Well, make it easy and memorable with these wonderful and eco-friendly tree-branch place card holders from A Remark You Made. They would make a natural and rustic table display and would be great for going green.

Each holder is cut from a reclaimed tree branch from a down tree in hopes of giving it new life. The wood center markings and bark are unique to each piece and make a rustic statement. A groove for your place card has been cut in the center.

Slide your place cards in the groove for an eye-catching display. These tree branch holders are sure to be the talk of your party!

These handcrafted place cards from Timeless Paper gracefully make any table more eye-catching. These paper cutout silhouettes guide guests to their seats with whimsy and charm. They enhance events from the largest wedding reception to the most intimate dinner party. Guests will enjoy having their own place card to take with them as a keepsake to remember your special occasion.

Please visit this shop at http://www.timelesspaper.etsy.com/ for a large selection.

I love Just Mare's pottery!

This 2-piece nesting bowl set was hand thrown from white stoneware clay. The orange and black glaze captures the season’s spirit, and is of course lead free and food safe. It is also safe to put these bowls in the dishwasher and microwave.

Visit her shop at http://www.justmare.etsy.com/ for a wide selection of pottery.

Are you looking for some unique dinnerware for your party? This 12-piece set of Tapestry Dinnerware from Just Mare is handcrafted in her Pine, AZ studio from durable stoneware. The rich tapestry design was applied with a third firing. Each of the four place settings includes a dinner plate, salad/side plate, and bowl . Of course, they are lead free, and food, microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe

A soft pumpkin made of a lovely ivory jacquard fabric. It has a natural linen stem and hand embroidered pale green leaf. A pretty decoration to have around the house for Halloween, Thanksgiving or any time of the year.

The gourd is all hand sewn together and measures approx. 6" in diameter and 5" tall.

~~See more from Sea Pinks! http://www.seapinks.etsy.com/

The Bean Pot from Jasper Jane can be made with or without a metal handle. These are great to display a decorative seasonal arrangement!

Out of the Woods baskets are made of Basket Reed or also referred to as Splint Reed. She uses oak handles and bases along with a few wire handles depending on the design.

For more selections, visit http://www.jasperjane.etsy.com/.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Take Me for a Spin

Spindles, and Yarn, and Buttons, Oh, My! For all of you DIYers out there, this one is for you! Here are some fantastic selections from some of my favorite etsy sellers.

Check out an amazing selections of top-whorl drop spindles from Sunset Turnings. This beauty is handmade from the wood of a down maple tree. This stunning and eco-friendly drop spindle is well balanced and has a beautiful hand turned whorl made from spalted maple. The wood has lovely color variations and spalting patterns. The spindle has a poplar shaft and the hook is made from brass.

For more selections, please visit: http://www.sunsetturnings.etsy.com/.

This beautiful crochet hook from Sunset Turnings is handcrafted from Lignum Vitae Wood. Lignum vitae is a fine, dense wood that is very smooth.

Each crochet hook is unique and hand turned on the lathe then buffed with carnauba wax for a perfect and super smooth finish with added durability. Each hook is a one-of-a-kind design!

This yarn bowl from Just Mare is thrown white stoneware clay. It is then cut and carved with the swirl pattern. It is glazed a deep translucent green. Your yarn can be threaded through either the swirl or the separate hole to keep your yarn from rolling away while you work.

Check out Just Mare at http://www.justmare.etsy.com/.

Neal Pottery yarn bowls have become a favorite of anyone who loves to knit or crochet. The bowl nestles your yarn while you work, preventing it from rolling away and keeping the yarn clean as well.

They have created a yarn bowl that is quite generous in size, measuring 6 ½” across the top, and 4” tall. The bowl has a fish hook channel design, making it easy to remove your yarn if you want to take your project to go.

This yarn bowl has a beautiful denim blue glaze, and a cork pad on the bottom to protect surfaces.
Visit Neal Pottery at: http://www.nealpottery.etsy.com/.

Prefer wood over pottery? Visit One Good Turn 4 U. This is an outstanding Ambrosia Maple yarn bowl with a Walnut insert. It sports colors of black, golden browns and oranges. Just beautiful!

To shop: http://www.onegoodturn4u.etsy.com/.

This Blue Face Leicester from Skeinwinder123 is wonderful for spinning or felting. Just gorgeous!

This is a great gift idea for the spinner or felter in your life. This lovely Blue Faced Leicester (BFL) Top roving is ready to craft into whatever your specialty may be.

For a large selection of items, please visit: http://www.skeinwinder123.etsy.com/.

Look at this gorgeous Oat Straw Tea handspun yarn for Spinning Wheel Studio! What fabulous Autumn colors. Yummy!

This pretty new colorway was created from Spinning Wheel Studio's own hand dyed oatmeal swirl blue faced leicester wool. It has been overdyed the already grey/brown wool with shades of straw, brown and pumpkin along with emerald and burgundy. It is then spun and plied at random into a 2 ply on a Schacht Matchless spinning wheel. The result is lovely!
For more selections, please visit http://www.spinningwheelstudio.etsy.com/.

At our shop, A Remark You Made, you will find a wide variety of handmade tree branch buttons. Our wood items are locally and sustainably harvested or salvaged from fallen trees ensuring our commitment to sustainability.

This particular button is a "hoot." If you use your imagination, you can see the face of an owl. OK...maybe it is just me :)

This stunning button would make a unique and rustic embellishment to any sewing or craft project that is begging for some natural flair. A perfect addition to knitted hats, scarves, sweaters, neck warmers, cowls, handbags, totebags, decorative pillows, or your handmade gift boxes and journals.

For a large selection of tree branch buttons, please visit: http://www.aremarkyoumade.etsy.com/.

Looking for a button that is a little more delicate and feminine? Check out these beautiful polymer clay buttons from Phydeaux Designs. Each button is hand rolled, stamped, cut, painted, sanded, buffed and gloss glazed in a variety of colors.

Visit http://www.physeauxdesigns.etsy.com/ for more selections.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

"Tree"mendous Buttons

Looking for a unique and eco-friendly embellishment for your special project? My handmade tree branch buttons are a natural and rustic option to mass-produced factory buttons. They are a perfect accent to throw pillows, handmade journals, handbags and tote bags, scarves, and more.

Here are some great examples of handmade goodies incorporating my tree branch buttons by some of my favorite Etsy shop owners. Please visit their shops for some wonderful gift selections for the upcoming holiday season and support handmade!

Need something to keep you warm this winter? Well, then this cowl from ImpossibleDreams is just what you are looking for. It is knit using a super soft and warm wool blend in a beautiful lemongrass color. It has functional 2 1/2 inch handmade wood buttons sewn on with a contrasting magenta yarn. It measures 12 inches by 28 inches. This cowl is ready to ship to you.

If this isn't the color for you, she can make this cowl in any of the 24 colors on her color chart. Please visit http://www.impossibledreams.etsy.com/ for more selections.

Named after a town in vermont, the Londonderry colossal scarf by bungaloe converts to a cowl or it can be used as a shawl. The honeycomb stitch used creates a very plyable scarf, It's very warm, but not too dense.

The tree branch buttons by A Remark You Made are handmade from a fallen maple tree branch and can be hooked anywhere to create a look all your own. The buttons are pushed through two holes next to each other hooking it on the stitches so that you can see the buttons no matter where you connect the scarf.

For more beatiful selections, visit bungaloe at http://www.bungaloe.etsy.com/.

The Solano Series from EfiaFair is one of my most favorite designs. The scarflettes come few and far between, because she finds just the right yarn and just the right buttons for her designs. Usually they are one-of-a-kind or will be a limited edition of 1 or 2.

This yarn was handspun by kgmcats.etsy.com and is cloud-soft! The creamy blend of caramel browns and vanilla is mouthwatering. The button was handmade by ARemarkYouMade.etsy.com out of a reclaimed tree branch. Simply stunning!

She has sewn the button on with silk thread in robin's egg blue, which brings out the subtle blue filigree in the background of the button.

For more selections, please visit http://www.efiafair.etsy.com/

This washed wool cardigan from Sandmaiden is amazing! I own several of her pieces and I love them all!

This design is a simple, long cardigan with slash pockets featuring a funnel collar and two of my handmade tree branch buttons.

Visit Sandmaiden at http://www.sandmaiden.etsy.com/ for some fabulous gift ideas!

This wrap from Sandmaiden also features a handmade wood button closure from www.aremarkyoumade.etsy.com

The wrap jacket/cardigan features a wide fold over collar and long fitted sleeves and is meant to be worn over sleeveless tops or dresses.

This style has been very popular since it's inception Fall 2008, I own two of these wraps and I'm sure it would find a place at the front of your closet and heart.

With the days becoming cooler, I begin to think of wool and falling leaves. This purse by LBArtworks is made of wool and has chocolate leaves appliqued onto its side in remembrance of all the beauty that comes with Autumn.

The purse measures 15" by 16" and contains 3 large pockets for all those things that generally end up in the bottom of the purse. It would also be comfortable for a new mom who needs to carry all those extras. The handle is just right for carrying on the shoulder or by the hand. (An adjustable strap can be added at no extra charge.)

The flap on the top of the purse is secured with a magnetic snap and a large handmade wooden button is used to add contrast and texture to the appearance of the purse, along with continuing with the curves of the appliqued design.

The inside of the purse is made of twill and the pockets are of wool. Everything has been double sewn and the stress areas have triple stitching. Batting has been placed between the lining and outer fabrics to give the bag a very soft and yet durable feel.

For more selections, please visit http://www.lbartworks.etsy.com/

I love this handmade accent pillow cover in vintage-style dark brown leather. The timeless worn look of the leather and the spalted maple tree branch button are a perfect match.

Add a little texture and rustic charm to your room with pillow covers by WhiteOakRoom. She has a variety of fabrics available. For more selection, visit her shop at: http://www.whiteoakroom.etsy.com/.

I love the look of a handmade leather journal. This one from AwakenJournaling is a beauty and would make a terrific gift for someone special on your list. Although this button is not from my shop, it is a wonderful leather journal.

It wraps closed and is secured with a handmade wood button and braided leather tie. Features 288 pages of creamy linen paper, handstitched into the spine with chocolate waxed linen thread.

For a variety of options, please visit http://www.awakenjournaling.etsy.com/.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

The Temperatures Are Falling and So Are the Prices!

Fall Extravaganza Sale Going On Now!

Visit A Remark You Made October 2 - October 10, 2010 to receive 10% off any in-stock item.
• Tree Branch Buttons
• Organic Linens
• Earth-Friendly Jewelry
and much more!

How to qualify:

For every in-stock item purchased in our shop between October 2, 2010 and October 10, 2010, you will receive a 10% PayPal refund (shipping not included).

When placing your order, be sure to mention code "102010 Blog Extravaganza" in the "Note from Buyer" section on Etsy during checkout.

Please note: This offer is not valid on custom orders or with any other discount or previous purchases.

A Remark You Made helps you live a greener, healthier, and happier lifestyle. For selections, please visit my shop at: http://www.aremarkyoumade.etsy.com/.