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 

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.

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.

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/

The Green Bride

The Original Wooden Conversation Starters Tree Branch Wine Glass Charms

Break the ice at your next dinner party, cocktail party, or wedding reception with these unique and natural rustic wooden Conversation Starter wine glass charms.

Each Conversation Starter is approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick. They are cut from a reclaimed tree branch in hopes of giving it a second life. Our Conversation Starters are sanded super smooth and finished with a light coat of carnauba wax. A single hole is drilled at the top and raffia completes the look. You may also choose ribbon or hemp twine.

These Conversation Starters are great for going green or a rustic party, bridal shower, or outdoor wedding theme. They would be a wonderful addition to an at-home dinner party, too. Try turning it into a game for even more fun!

Give one to each guest as they arrive or sprinkle them around your table setting to get the conversations started. Each guest can tie one to the stem of their wine glass to remember which one is their glass. Who knows...you might learn something new about family and friends.

Are you a DIYer? Ask us about blank tree branch charms. We would be thrilled to make a set for you!

Each tag is sanded super smooth on both sides and left natural. Write the name of a lucky recipient using a felt tip pen or use for your own creations. Hemp twine keeps with the rustic and natural charm of these tags.These tags are a perfect embellishment for gift bags and boxes, scrapbooking, baked goods, and more. They are also terrific for hand stamping and woodburning projects. You can create your own questions, use as escort cards for your wedding reception, and much more.

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/

Thank you for stopping by! We hope you come back again.

WINTER BLUES BUSTER 3-Day Sale

Brrrrr...baby it's cold outside.

To help beat the winter blues,

A Remark You Made is having a 3-day sale!

Visit A Remark You Made Sunday, January 23rd - Tuesday, January 25th to take advantage of the savings. Our "green" items will save you a little "green." Sale begins at Midnight and runs through 6:00 pm on Tuesday, January 25th (Eastern time).

Want to go green? Try a set of our handmade tree branch buttons! They make a perfect embellishment for journals, accent pillows, handbags, and your knitting and sewing creations.

Maybe you are looking for a unique gift for the Quilter, Hobbyist or the Sewing Guru. Our Eco-friendly and Rustic Needle Case Pendants are handmade from reclaimed tree branches and would be the perfect gift!





We have a large selection to choose from.

• Wood Tree Branch Buttons
• Organic Linens
• Earth-Friendly Jewelry
• Sustainably Harvested Needle Case Pendants

and much more!

How to qualify:

For every in-stock item purchased in our shop, you will receive a 20% discount. When placing your order, be sure to use coupon code "WinterBluesBuster" during checkout.

Please note: This offer is not valid on custom orders or with any other discount or previous purchases. Sale ends at 6:00 pm Eastern Time.

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. No living trees are harmed in the making of our products. For selections, please visit our shop at: http://www.aremarkyoumade.etsy.com/

To all of our wonderful customers, you are truly appreciated. We hope this sale brings a warm feeling your way!

A Remark You Made is Launching a New Line of Eco-friendly Needle Case Pendants Handmade from Reclaimed Tree Branches

For Christmas, my husband gave me the most beautiful inro-style pendant made from cow bone by a fabulous scrimshaw artist. An inro is a traditional Japanese case for holding small objects. This gave me a wonderful idea for a new product for 2011!

We are introducing a new line of eco-friendly needle case pendants handmade from reclaimed tree branches. Visit our shop for more selections: http://www.aRemarkYouMade.etsy.com.






This particular pendant is loaded with rustic charm and is handmade from a reclaimed tree branch from a down cherry tree. The pendant case can hold your sewing needles or small treasures like beads within it's hollow compartment. The pendant case has been drilled with all edges sanded smooth, and the bark is still intact adding to the rustic charm of this unique piece.

The top is also made from cherry wood and is opened by sliding the top up on the cord, exposing the inner compartment. The top stays put on the cord, so it will not get lost. This needle case pendant allows you to have a variety of needles at your fingertips any time you need them.
Perfect for your gatherings with your sewing groups.

This particular pendant is handturned on the lathe from a reclaimed tree branch from a down maple tree.
The wood features spectacular spalting patterns. The pendant case can hold your sewing needles or small treasures like beads within it's hollow compartment. The pendant case has been drilled and sanded smooth then finished with a light coat of carnauba wax.

The top is made from a scrap of ebony wood and is opened by sliding the top up on the cord, exposing the inner compartment. The top stays put on the cord, so it will not get lost.