I can’t remember exactly where I spotted this raspberry jam jar bag. But it was love at first sight.
I heard that familiar siren call — look at me, marvel at my beauty, find out who made me.
Well, this delightful piece was created by Lyuba and Max of KruKruStudio out of Moscow, Russia. They teamed up in early 2011 and began selling their wares in local handmade stores before opening their Etsy shop several months later.
Their unique collection includes technical objects, musical instruments, animals, books, and geeky/iconic objects made from high quality Spanish felt or genuine leather.
Pilgrim Dolls (John and Priscilla Alden) by Uneek Doll Designs
Of course I’m referring to the nine perky, uncommonly good-looking, crazy-talented women who’ve visited Alphabet Soup this past year to share their wares in our Indie Artist Spotlight series.
If, like me, you’ve already shifted into holiday gift-buying mode, you’re probably hungry for some good ideas. Supporting independent artists is always a win-win — your lucky friends and relatives receive unique heartmade-handmade gifts, and you’re helping to ensure that these ingenious, inventive people can continue to make the world a more beautiful place with their delightful creations.
Just to refresh your memory, I’m linking to all the Spotlight interviews and sharing two new items from each of their Etsy shops. Click on any image to be taken directly to the listing. Be quick about it, especially if you want to place a custom order. Enjoy!
It’s always a good day when you find something lovely that makes you stop, smile and wonder who created it.
I was instantly taken with Mia’s hand knit, needle felted purses, bags and cozies with their charming big-eyed birds, adorable animals and colorful flowers. How could you not smile at something like this:
Felted cat and birdie bag
or this:
Using 100% Finnish wool and vintage fabrics, Mia designs, knits, sews, felts and decorates each and every piece herself. The birdie pouch and bunny cozy I ordered arrived on my doorstep zippity quick.
You can just feel the love and care she puts into her work. Holding one of her cheery creations is like getting a warm, joyous hug from the Land of the Midnight Sun.
Mia’s cozies are perfect for smart phones or smart bears. 🙂
I’m so glad Mia agreed to visit us today all the way from faraway Finland. Yes, she does take custom orders and also makes a few Moomin items. Enjoy! 🙂
Recently spotted these on Etsy and couldn’t resist sharing.
Michelle of Chick-Lit Designs specializes in designer book purses, clutches, eReader and iPad/tablet covers. If the book is large enough, the handbag will include a pocket for your eReader.
Little Women Book Purse HandbagInterior includes eReader pocketPride and Prejudice Book ClutchBook Clutch interiorChildren’s Book of Virtues iPad/tablet coveriPad/tablet cover interiorFrog and Toad eReader covereReader cover interior
Aren’t they fun? A great novelty gift that blends the old with the new. If you don’t see a book that you like at her shop, she will try to find the perfect book. Or, if you already have a book that you would like converted into a purse or cover, place a custom order.
In case you’re worried about the book pages, Michelle donates them fully intact to a local refugee center. You also have the option of having her re-bind them in matching fabric. Nice gift set idea for your special bookish friends. ☺
♥ Click here to read more about Michelle, who was a recent Featured Seller at Etsy.
♥ Click here to visit Chick-Lit Designs. She also has another shop featuring wonderful vintage items, Yesterday and Today.
Jama's Alphabet Soup 