Crafty Creations – Heather Camlot

A book lover’s jaunt through The One of a Kind Show

Posted on March 27, 2014April 3, 2014 by Heather Camlot in Crafty Creations, The Written Word

The spring One of a Kind Show is on now at Toronto’s Exhibition Place until March 30. This year, I dreamily walked the aisles taking in all things bookish. Some very clever uses of the written word and its format. Enjoy!

One of a kind show, Bookwork, noelle hamlyn, sporouts press, necklaces, books, — Book necklaces by Sprouts Press and Bookwork book spines by Noelle Hamlyn

One of a kind show, Margi Laurin, Silk Pulp Cedar Mountain — Alice in Wonderland papercut by The Silk Pulp, Typewriter signs by Cedar Mountain, and Book journals by Margi Laurin

My Kind of Candy Store

Posted on November 23, 2012November 23, 2012 by Heather Camlot in Crafty Creations

The One of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale is a feast for the eyes. It’s impossible to leave without an artisanal little something (or two) tucked under an arm (or two). Of the 800 Canadian artisans at this year’s show, 150 are new exhibitors, bringing their talent and passion to what can only be called “the big time” in craft circles.

From playful and imaginative to practical and polished, here are the items that caught my interest on opening day.

For the kids:

Raccoon, Heidi Van Veen

Blocks, Fidoodle

Bear, Him Creations

For him and her:

Niagara, Eve Gravel

Moleskine notebooks with hand printed covers, Margaret Rankin

The Trammel, Wilk Watchworks

For the home:

“Little Red” diorama, Gosia

Natural lace tall pitcher, Ruiter Brook Pottery

Serving pieces, Ceramik B

The The One of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale runs November 22 to December 2, 2013.

More Goodies from the One of a Kind Show & Sale

Posted on December 1, 2011December 1, 2011 by Heather Camlot in Crafty Creations

The show, as always, is spectacular. Here are some of my on-site finds:

Lucille Pleated Apron — Lucille pleated aprons from Crumb Designs

This Little Piggy Flower Taps — Tap flowers from This Little Piggy

"Nature's Delight." Japanese and Thai paper on canvas, by Mary Karavos

Reclaimed Midgey Petite handbag from Mined ReCreations

Barber's Daughters Watches — Sterling and stainless steel watches from Barber's Daughter

Top 5 “one of a kind” picks for the crafty gal

Posted on November 22, 2011November 22, 2011 by Heather Camlot in Crafty Creations

The One of a Kind Christmas Show & Sale starts Thursday. Do you know what you’ll be treating yourself to? Start with these:

Shirley Underpants. When was the last time your underwear made you smile? These cheery colours will certainly perk up a grey winter day. The price may seem high but they’re fantastic: they last forever, they stay put, and they look good on every shape. The Candi Factory, $20.
The Gills Hat. Love the three-brim design, the bright red colour, the shape that covers the ears and the overall elegance. Wildhagen, price unknown.
Contemporary Quilt Pillow Cases. Striking colour combinations of new and used fabric in a patchwork style. Precious. Studio K, $34 each.
Chatterbox Pocket Book. When I first came across these purses, I was smitten. The artist takes apart old books and reuses the covers to create the most delightful accessories. Talk about judging a book (and its carrier) by its cover. Noelle Hamlyn, $110.
Water Collection. Isabel Desy has a knack for combining colourful semi-precious stones, glass beads and pieces of pewter. I’m always in awe of her latest collections. Stella Bijoux, price unknown.

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. For the children on your holiday list, see my Top 5 “one of a kind” picks for crafty kids. The show runs November 24 to December 4 at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place.

Enjoy the show!

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

Posted on November 21, 2011November 21, 2011 by Heather Camlot in Crafty Creations, Kids Stuff

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.