Make, Play and Display! RoseArt® Introduces New Color Blanks™!

Mar 152011
 

photo courtesy of Color Blanks

RoseArt® introduces the next generation of Color Blanks™ characters and all-new Color Blanks™ accessory packs. These 3D figurines inspire imagination by providing fun canvases for kids to make, play and display! Color Blanks™’ newly available accessory packs make it even easier for kids to discover their inner artist. With accessories like hats, sunglasses, clothing items and more, kids can make their Color Blanks™ characters better than ever before! 

Featuring rocker, surfer, fairy princess and Western designs, anything is possible with the help of these new accessories. Now, kids can rock out, hang ten, daydream, or go on a wild ride. Additionally, new Clip-A-Blanks™ are portable mini Color Blanks™ that clip on backpacks, belt loops, and more! Color Blanks™ are tough and 100% shatter-proof so they can be taken anywhere.

There are over 20 unique Color Blanks™ designs including seasonal styles for Easter, Halloween and Holiday. They make great gifts for children, but siblings, parents and grandparents also love how easy it is to transform Color Blanks™ into something personal and full of life. With new accessories and portability, you can create a whole world of Color Blanks™!

photo courtesy of Color Blanks

How to Find the Perfect Gift for Bike Lovers

Nov 112010
 

Lovely Gifts for Bike-Lovers (Image courtesy of.Kara.)

Recently cyclists from all over the world descended on my town for a professional bike race. The community of cyclists is definitely a passionate one. If you’ve got cyclists in your life, finding a fun gift that they’ll love can be very easy– especially with our help. We’ve found some great gifts for bike lovers.

Bike Accessories

No matter where you live, cycling can be a great way to get around. It’s affordable and earth-friendly. But unlike a car, there’s no trunk space. So why not pick up your bike-loving friend the Nantucket Wicker Bicycle Basket from The Bicycle Muse. It’s just $25 and would be perfect for holding purchases from the farmers’ market. And to help pedestrians move out of the way there’s the Public Federico Red Brass Bell for $12. Pee-Wee Herman had one so it must be cool.

Bike Clothing

Europeans love crocheted bike gloves and now you can pick up a women’s version for $15 or a men’s version for just $7.50 at PublicBikes.com. These Smooth Rider Socks from Anthropologie would make a great accessory for the cyclist in your life.

Bike Safety Gear

It may not look like safety gear, but the reflective bird pin is also functional. It sells for $18 at PublicBikes.com and comes in lime, silver or orange. Similarly, the Yakkay Tokyo Blue Stripe helmet may look like a fashionable bucket hat, but it’s actually a must-have piece of safety equipment.

Kids’ Bike Stuff

As a kid, there’s nothing better than the freedom of a bike. Encourage the little riders in your life with a gift that makes their bicycle even cooler. This Ladybug Bell from AdelineAdeline.com will do just that.

Bike Art

The bicycle is an iconic image which makes it a great focal point for art. This vintage bike photo taken in Holland is simple, yet beautiful. For a truly custom gift, enlist Kara Ginther to create a one-of-a-kind bike saddle that turns the seat of any bike into artwork. And if you’re buying this as a thank you gift for the bike-lover in your life, pick up this colorful bicycle greeting card at Luxe Paperie to complete the theme.

Career Day Gift Ideas for Kids

May 272010
 

In elementary school, Career Day exposes young minds to the many possibilities of what they can become “when they grow up.” From the shiny red hat of a fireman to the opportunity to mend the broken bones of furry companions, there are aspects of certain jobs that especially attract kids. Below you will find some of the most popular careers that pique the interest of elementary-aged children and a couple of gift ideas to show that you’ve been listening.

Fireman

Many children see the fireman as a modern-day Superman – able to save burning buildings and put out fires with a blast of their magical water hose. The fire department is notorious for making pit stops at schools and impressing students with their adventures. You can place your child in charge of their imaginary firehouse with the Melissa & Doug Fire Chief Role Play Costume Set, which comes with helmet, “fire extinguisher,” bullhorn with sound effects, shiny badge, and a bright red, machine-washable jacket.

Teacher

With an apple on the desk and chalk in hand, the teacher enlightens children each and every day. In the eyes of young kids, becoming a teacher is a respected position that many aspire to attain. Encourage their love of education with their own chalkboard, which allows them to not only take on the teacher role, but also advance their own studies. Chalkboards for kids come in a variety of shapes and sizes – some in the form of an easel, while others attach to the wall or the back of a door.

Doctor

Every doctor needs the right tools, and with the Doctor’s Bag by Schylling, your child will have everything they need to enjoy hours of pretend play fun. Eight different doctor tools are contained in the snap-shut bag – perfect for children ages 3 and up. You can also supplement the doctor’s bag with the Melissa and Doug Doctor Role Play Costume Set, which comes with lab coat, facemask, stethoscope with sound effects, reflex hammer, ear scope, and a syringe.

Veterinarian

You can allow aspiring veterinarians to experience the ins and outs of working with animals by the gifts you choose for their next special occasion. Not only does the Dalmatian Vet Kit come with all the appropriate tools for a veterinarian, but also supplies your child with a plush puppy to attend to. Features of this gift include medium puppy vet cage, stethoscope, small tray hammer, mirror, ear tool, tweezers, tongs, scissors, thermometer, syringe, and bandages.

Astronaut

Before you make the investment of purchasing a telescope for the child who sets his or her sights on becoming an astronaut, start with the basics. Teach them about what they are looking for beforehand. Use the 3-D Solar System to create the universe in their room with more than 200 glow-in-the-dark planets and stars. With the Illuminated Constellation Globe explore about 70 fascinating celestial images. Other astronaut gift ideas for kids include a pair of Aeromax Astronaut Boots with a NASA emblem or one of the many helmets found on Amazon.com.

Scientist

Introduce a budding scientist to an exciting world of discovery by gifting a microscope made for children. For example, the My First Lab Duo-Scope Microscope is quite extensive – offering a 50-piece accessory set, and is made with real optic glass. Reaching 40x, 100x and 400x magnifications, the microscope promises wide-ranging fun because it offers the flexibility of exploring slides, as well as solid material.

How to Give the Gift of Knowledge

May 072010
 

Give the Gift of Knowledge (Photo courtesy of I am K.E.B.)

Gifts can accomplish many things. Gifts can provide entertainment or make life easier. But can you make someone smarter with gifts? We think so. Here are five ways to give the gift of knowledge.

Books

Books are great gifts. You never have to worry about whether or not they’ll fit or if it’s the right color. Give books that you enjoy or that cover topics you know your loved one will appreciate. Books make especially great gifts for children. They probably have plenty of toys, but they can never have enough books.

Admission to Museums

Your loved one will probably visit local museums or galleries more often if the admission is free. Give them a season pass to a local attraction where learning is likely to happen. Make sure to choose a venue that they’ll find interesting whether it be art, science or history. Make sure to include some promotional materials highlighting activities and events that they’ll be able to participate in with their new membership.

Tickets to a Production

Open doors for your friend or family member by giving them tickets to an upcoming production like a play, opera or concert. You may just expose them to a whole new world of enjoyment.

“How to” Kit

Give your loved one everything they need to learn a new skill with a “how to” kit. There are kits geared towards children like the How to Draw Cartoons Kit from Overstock.com. There are also “how to” kits geared towards adults like the Organic Herb Kit or the Beginner’s Knit Kit available at Walmart.

Tuition to a Class

Tuition can be extremely expensive. But what about signing up your friend or family member for a class at a community college or a local art studio? Tuition to these types of classes can be very affordable and can make a great gift that will turn into knowledge.

How to Give Trick-or-Treaters Something Unique this Halloween

Oct 152009
 
Give Them Treats than Candy

Give Them Treats Other than Candy (Image Courtesy of Gmutt)

Halloween is quickly approaching, but rather than running to the grocery store for a few bags of sugary snacks to give the trick-or-treaters, why not pass out something unique this Halloween? Do the droves of princesses and super heroes that come knocking on your door really need another candy bar? Here are some unique ideas for when the trick-or-treaters start knocking.

Coupons

If you don’t get crowds of trick-or-treaters then picking up coupons could be a good way to go. Fast food joints like McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Burger King all sell coupon booklets for $1. The coupons are good for things like free ice cream cones, free french fries and free apple pie. It’s a unique idea that will insure the trick-or-treaters have something to enjoy after they eat all of their hard-earned candy.

Organic Treats

Moms and dads will thank you when they spot these organic lollipops in their children’s mound of candy. They’re allergen-free, gluten-free, egg-free, soy-free, nut-free; casein-free, and dairy-free. But somehow they still taste like a sweet treat. You can get a five-pound bag which equals 350 suckers for less than $25. They’ve also got smaller bags for about $16.

Art Supplies

Some kids would rather have art supplies over candy. Spark their creativity this Halloween with some spooky stickers or temporary tattoos. Make sure you have a variety of choices for different age groups.

Spooky Toys

Rather than rot their teeth with sugary candy, why not give your trick-or-treaters a toy to play with? Oriental Trading Company has lots of great options like these glitter sticky hands which are just $7.99 for 72 of them. They’ve also got 48 Halloween bouncing balls for $9.99.

Practical Gifts

The kids won’t like it, but their parents surely will appreciate that you managed to stuff a practical gift in their trick-or-treat bag. Pick up a 12-pack of toothbrushes for $9 on Amazon.com. Or head to your local discount warehouse and stock up on things like pencils, notebooks and toothpaste. Just be prepared to get your pumpkins smashed when the little goblins realize they won’t be getting any chocolate from your house.

5 Cute Easter Bunny Gift Ideas

Apr 082009
 


iconHoppy Easter Basket

The assortment of treats includes premium Harry London® white and dark chocolate bunnies, a buttercream egg, taffy logs, jelly beans, purple MARSHMALLOW PEEPS® and crispy pretzels

This gift arrives with a cuddly plush bunny who measures 8.5″H and is safe for ages 3 and up
The unique felt egg basket features a cutout egg design and can be used after the treats are gone to hold toys; measures 9.87″H x 6.25″W x 11.25″L

Price: $39.99

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iconGodiva® Bertie the Milk Chocolate Bunny

Fill their Easter with the gigantic gourmet taste of Bertie, Godiva®’s mouthwatering milk chocolate bunny!

A savory semi-solid 9 oz. milk chocolate bunny created by the master chocolatiers at Godiva®; the gift arrives in a stylish Easter gift box adorned with playful seasonal decorations.

Chocolate bunny measures 9.25″H; Kosher OU-D

A gift of great taste that’s much more than just eye candy!

Price: $22.50

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icon
icon

bunny-toiletry-bag-2

photo courtesy of Grandma's Shoppe

Make Your Easter Eco-Friendly with this cute Bunny Traveling Bag!

Add some toys and treats to this bag and simply zip it up! What a fun way to present your Easter goodies. After Easter, this adorable Kids Toiletry Bag will become a true traveling buddy for your kids. Unzip the pouch to store all of your kids travel essentials. Or hang it in the bathroom so your kids have their own space to keep all of their toiletry items together and safe from their siblings.

The Kids Toiletry Bag is made of 100% polyester, soft terry cloth material which can be machine washed. This fully lined bag also included an inside zipper pocket. Bag measures approximately 7″ x 7.5″ x 5.5″.

Price: $18.95

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bunny 3-D cake mold Easter Bunny 3-D Cake Mold at CSN Stores

There are several ways to enhance the Easter tradition for kids, demonstrating what a little ingenuity, fun memories and a conservative budget can do to produce can’t-miss celebrations.

Make your own standup bunny cake creations to set a fun and festive mood. You can use a standard cake mix or your own recipe to create a 3-D bunny cake. Made of aluminium, it is very easy to clean.

Price: $19.99

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I-Play Barnyard Bunny Slippers- Pink & White (Size 5-6: 9-18 months)

Whimsical slippers come in fun bunny shapes that light up and make animal noises. Elastic at heel helps slippers stay put. They are made of soft plush material with padded sole and non-slip tread on the bottom.

Price: $12.99

Archibald’s Swiss Cheese Mountain

Feb 202009
 

6249

Looking for a children’s book with a lot of heart and teaches children to follow their dreams? Then Archibald’s Swiss Cheese Mountain is the book you are looking for.

Archibald Mouse

Archibald is a little mouse who teaches children how to reach their big dreams, just like he does to overcome his obstacles to reach his big cheese! Archibald lives with his family in Mr. Hochmeyer’s General Store. Archibald learns everything from his mother, so when he goes to Mr. Hochmeyer’s General Store for the first time on his own, he remembers his mother’s wisdom and has to practice all the things he was taught on his own. It is a story about life, wanting to do things on your own, and the discovery of your surroundings.

Archibald’s Swiss Cheese Mountain is a fun story with wonderful and enchanting illustrations. Archibald is a great role model for kids and adults alike. Archibald mouse shows us that new adventures can be exciting and a little scary sometimes, but with practice and a little confidence, you can achieve your dreams of Swiss Cheese Mountain!

Award Winning Book

A portion of the proceeds goes to two children charities, Feed the Children and Variety: The Children’s Charity.

How to Get Archibald’s Swiss Cheese Mountain

To get Archibald’s Swiss Cheese Mountain, please visit the website. An autographed first edition is available for a limited time, so get your copy today!

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Tell me what you think of Archibald’s Swiss Cheese Mountain. Please leave any comments you have.

2009 Valentine’s Gift Guide – Bookwormbaskets.com

Jan 142009
 
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Fond-ue Memories Gift Basket photo courtesy of BookWormBaskets.com

 We were very happy to mention BookwormBaskets.com in our 2009 Valentine’s Gift Guide.

At BookwormBaskets.com “the book is only just the beginning”… If you want to offer a gift that is based on a book, then BookwormBaskets is the place to go to!

They have lots of choices and every basket is customized to fit the theme of the book. And if your New Year’s Resolution was “going green”, then you should really check them out! They have been adding eco-friendly products to their baskets; also for every book you buy from them, a tree will be planted! That is because they joined Eco-Libris in their efforts towards sustainable reading! 

My Bubbly Valentine

Another nice thing about them is that they create custom baskets. Just tell them what your favorite book is and they’ll find the right products! 

It was hard for me to choose my favorites… they all look so good!  Especially the ones for babies! Finally, I decided on the “Fond-ue Memories” and “My Bubbly Valentine“ gift baskets; both on sale for $59.99.

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DISCOUNT COUPON

I am delighted to say that Bookwormbaskets.com were very generous to offer our happy readers a 15% discount with the discount code: HC15. Check out their awesome gift baskets at BookwormBaskets.com !

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2009 Valentine’s Gift Guide – Ficklets.com + Giveaway

Jan 112009
 
Fashionable Eyewear Charms

Fashionable Eyewear Charms

Ficklets.com was one of our choices for the 2009 Valentine’s Gift Guide.

Moms say, Ficklets helped improve their kids’ attitudes about their eyeglasses and admit to enjoying the added bling themselves.

What are Ficklets? Well, they are little adornments that can be easily attached and removed from eyeglass frames. This is one ingenious way of being fashionable without having to change the frames! They are fun to use and come in all sorts of shapes and colors.

Ficklets.com

Ficklets.com

My favorites are the Light Blue Glitter Butterfly and the Elegant Marquise Sapphire. Check them out at Ficklets.com!

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GIVEAWAY

Ficklets.com offers 3 Ficklets ($18-$24 value) to our loyal readers. If you’d like to participate, please visit Ficklets.com and then come back and leave a message with a link to your favorite ficklets! The winners will be announced here on the 4th of February, ’09. Let’s start!
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The winners are: Eliane, Renee G. and Michele P. Congratulations!!
Here is the feedback we received from the winners:
Today I received the pair of ficklets. They are really cute!!! I love this gift.
Thank you very much!!
 
Have a nice day,
Eliane

Interview with Si­lvia Leite

Nov 222008
 
Felt Doll (Lilly) on LookMamaMadeIt.Etsy.com

Felt Doll (Lilly) on LookMamaMadeIt.Etsy.com

I interviewed Ms. Sílvia Leite, creator of handmade dolls and miniature play food on LookMamaMadeIt.Etsy.com. I asked her a few questions about her creations and the work she puts into her craft.

What made you start creating children’s toys and accessories?

To tell you the truth, this is something I wanted to do since my early childhood. I simply can’t get tired of small scale objects. I started to make my own toys when I was about my daughter’s age (she is 6). I used to build large mansions with furniture made from cardstock and homemade glue, and to populate them with happy families of paper dolls. I also sewed, knitted and crocheted for my dolls. My deep love for miniatures lead me to unwillingly kill two innocent bonsai trees, and also made me want to become an architect. I gave up this project when I understood that what I really wanted was to build 3D models and maquette- and that is not what architects do.

Latter in life, and even though I was able to follow another dream of mine (taking a degree in Art History), I found myself doing repetitive, administrative work, and forgot all about toys and miniatures. Till the day when my daughter asked me to make her favorite doll a birthday cake!

Then, in the beginning of this year I had a little spare time in my hands (I was in between jobs) and decided to give it a try. I made my first felt cakes, cookies and dolls for my friends’ children, and they were the ones who encouraged me to start selling.

Miniature Birthday Cake on LookMamaMadeIt.Etsy.com

Miniature Birthday Cake on LookMamaMadeIt.Etsy.com

What is your inspiration for your creations?

My daughter was my first client, and the main cause and inspiration for everything I’ve created since her birth. A lot of the toys and accessories I make are also based in memories from my own childhood. Of course, this means I am particularly at ease with girl’s toys! I believe children should play with good quality, beautiful objects. I design my products to be visually appealing, pleasant to the touch, and easy to play with. They must have the right size, feel and weight for children’s hands, and to be stimulating and suggestive enough to encourage pretend play. Finally, everything is carefully and lovingly crafted, and tested in my home lab (my daughter’s playroom)!

What kind of materials do you use for your handmade toys and accessories?

I use mainly felt. Just love this material! I choose a high quality, rich wool blend felt that I can buy in a wide range of lovely colors. I always try to use non-allergenic, all-natural materials, and also use recycled materials when possible.

How long does it typically take to make one of your creations? Small (e.g. a cupcake) and large (e.g. a doll)?

Well, with a 6-year-old child and a full time job I have very little spare time to craft. I mostly craft at night, or on weekends, though I also need to take time for my family. I usually cut several pieces in one crafting session, then sew them all in another session, and then make all finishing in yet another day, so it is hard to answer this question. But if I had to make a doll in a single session I would need
at least 5 hours to finish it whereas one cupcake would take me about 1-2 hours.

Do you take into account customer feedback and suggestions when you start a new creation?

Yes, by all means. Clients can customize almost anything from my shop, and I am always glad to have special orders, because they help my work to evolve. Feedback is very important, since I really want my clients to be satisfied. My toys are conceived to make people happy.

What is next for Sílvia Leite and her handmade children’s toys and accessories?

I don’t know. Maybe I should, but I am not really making plans. I love to craft, and would love to be able to do this full time, but the right moment hasn’t arrived yet. Anyway, a part of me likes to keep this business in small scale… like my toys. But I always have ideas for new products!

Tell me what you think of Sílvia Leite’s handmade children’s toy and accessories. Please leave your comments and let me know if you enjoy handmade and handcrafted gifts.

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