Top 5 “One of a Kind” picks for crafty kids

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…the One of a Kind Christmas Show & Sale starts this week and I can’t wait. If you’ve never attended OOAKS, here’s the lowdown: more than 800 artisans selling their handmade pieces, from home decor and fine art, to fashion and jewellery,  to food and fun.

There is a so much to see (and buy), so if you don’t have hours to browse, here’s my list of top picks for crafty kids.

• Silk Baby Shoes. These adorable first shoes are made from Kimono fabric and come in a multitude of vibrant colours and beautiful patterns. A wonderful baby shower gift. Ubuchitta Japan, $45.
• Birds on a Wire Pillow. I was originally going to write about Heidi van Veen’s lovely stockings (a thoughtful first Christmas gift), but then I saw this pillow and it took my breath away. Heidi van Veen, price unknown.
• Bunny Mittens. Cate & Levi have soared in popularity at OOAKS, and while that could be because of an appearance on Martha Stewart or photos of Elton John singing along with one of the company’s hand puppets, I also think it’s because they came up with a good idea. That idea: making stuffed animals out of reclaimed wool. Now they top that idea with stuffed animal-like mittens, made again of reclaimed wool and lined with soft eco fleece. What kid wouldn’t want to keep these on? Cate & Levi, $40.
• Child’s Combination Chair. My friend turned me onto this chair last year when she, not having bought it when she attended the show, asked me to pick it up during my visit. It’s easy to see why: the chair grows with the child, starting off as a stable chair, changing into a rocker and then ending as a step stool. The unfinished wood means you get the opportunity to make it your own. Thorpe Toys, price unknown.
• Car Bingo Game. If you’ll be travelling for the holidays and hope to avoid the dreaded “Are we there yet” from the back seat, these cotton bingo boards may just do the trick. Lined with metal, each board features 25 colourful images – from police car to baby carriage – and a bag of magnets to keep little ones entertained. For a bit, anyway. Pi’lo, $28.

If you’re looking for a unique gift alternative for your gadget-loving guru, take a look at this OOAKS guide written for WorkLivePlayCafe.com.The show runs November 24 to December 4 at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place.

Tomorrow, my top OOAKS spots to shop for yourself – you know you deserve it.