Adventures at the New York International Gift Show, part 1

This past weekend, I went to the New York International Gift Show with my friend Mandy who owns Studio Six in Bristol, RI.  This was my first time visiting this show.  What an overwhelming experience it was. Let's just say, I felt like a kid in a candy store. [click photos for larger view]

The show is at the Javits Center and Piers 92 & 94 twice a year.  It's big, really big.  I'm certain we only saw 1/4 of it.  I have a lot of pictures to sort through.  In this post, I'll highlight a few of my favorites.

We started in the handmade section, of course.  It was so fun to walk the aisles and see fellow Etsians  Figs & Ginger, and Mani Designs.

Rounding one corner, I was happy to see Hotcakes Designs from San Francisco.  I have admired their jewelry from afar for years, often visiting their website for inspiration.  I eagerly introduced my friend to founder, Caramia, whom I may have initially frightened when I shouted, "You're Hotcakes."  Luckily, she is very nice and I hope took my excitement as a compliment.  I'm happy to report that my friend Mandy ended up buying from the collection.  I've got first dibs, fellow Rhode Islanders.


Moving on to the main floors, we stopped by Fred and Friends.  Always fun, F&F has some really great new products that are sure to please this season.  Check out their new iPlunge here.  We had lunch with my friend, Jason, their art director.  You can follow his blog here.  Yippeee!  Studio Six will be carrying F&F products this Fall!

It was great to see Jason and Ilira from Rag and Bone Bindery.  Their booth is always fresh and gorgeous.  I'm in love with their "12 ways" book series.  You can see their 12 ways to say I Love you book here.  They are fantastic for the writing challenged, like me, as they include prompts such as "I've always admired the way you..." or "my favorite way to spend the day with you..."  Great baby, Valentine, friend gifts!!

Here is Jonathan Adler's booth.  I have nothing more to add here other than, this is JONATHAN ADLER'S BOOTH.

 

I came away wanting to either sell at this show or buy for the awesome studio/boutique I do not yet have (or know that I even want to have).  I also came away with the realization that there are many, many creative people and ideas in the world.  There is enough creativity to go around.  I'll post more pics and details soon.

Upcycled paper jewelry

Last weekend at a fundraiser, I had my eye on a great necklace in the silent auction. It was made from paper punched bits from an old book and strung on a sterling silver choker. My friend Jason, Rag and Bone Bindery, made it. The wizard of all things paper, he's the one who taught me how to make those great paper flowers (tutorial here). Anyway, I didn't win the necklace. But, I was inspired to try to make one myself. You know how I like to use those old magazines and calenders.

I ended up making earrings as well. Isn't it amazing how something as simple as scrap paper can become useful and beautiful? I used the front and back covers of a calender (featuring shoes).

Jason is working on a book that will have details on how to make these necklaces as well as other great paper projects. I'll be sure to let you know when it comes out.

Here is a seller on Etsy who makes these necklaces from library cards, History of Art. Brilliant!!