Heather’s favourite time of year has arrived – the One of a Kind Show & Sale. We know what you’re thinking: technological goods at an artisan show? Yep. We found a bevy of handmade goods for the gadget guy and gal on your holiday gift list.
By Heather Camlot
We know what you’re thinking: technological goods at The One of a Kind Show, an artisan sale? While you won’t see the latest laptops or tablets among the handcrafted items by some 800 artisans, we found a bevy of geek chic goods for the gadget guy and gal on your holiday gift list.
Gifts for adults:
iPod Docking Station, The Woodlot
The Woodlot came up with a clever use for firewood – other than burning it for warmth, of course. This iPod docking station is so simple, yet beautiful with its warm, variegated tones. Technology and nature can co-exist. iPad version also available. Approximately $65.
Magz Bagz is known for its colourful selection of laminated designer fabrics that keep the varied selection of bags water-resistant, mildew-resistant and clean with a simple wipe. The Cellz Pouch is designed to carry smartphones or small essentials and can be attached to any bag strap for easy access. It looks pretty cute on its own too, plus you can colour coordinate with other products in the line, such as the laptop bags. $18.
Heather Church’s belt buckles are a little bit funky and a little bit rock ’n’ roll. The Music! series is pretty darn cool, with etched guitars, boomboxes, cassette tapes and more, but Gestalt’s imagery covers everything from yoga poses to transportation to cityscapes. $40 for buckle, $20 for belt.
Mariclaro’s mission is simple: to intercept useable materials on their way to the landfill. This particular laptop bag is made primarily from truck tarp and finished with a car seat belt and bike inner tubes. It features a 15-inch laptop compartment and two small side pockets. And the colour scheme – purple, white and black – is a definite headturner. $139.
Alphabet Photography, Alphabet Photography Inc
While there’s nothing wrong with individual photos framed and hung on a wall, Alphabet Photography takes pictures one step further by turning them into word art. Imagine the Eiffel Tower as the letter A, a park bench arm as the letter B, half a train window as the letter C, etc. Pick your word or name, pick your preferred corresponding images and frame. A three-letter word with simple frame and mat starts at $119.95.
Large Stainless Steel Watch, Wilk Watchworks
Although we love the watch face’s glow in the dark lines, black, grey and red colour scheme, and logo that for some reason reminds us of a stormtrooper, what we really like is the crystal caseback that allows you to see the watch’s movement. A fascinating way to watch time fly. $375.
Gifts for kids:
This adorably adorned reversible bib is bound to be a hit with babes and parents alike. As hard as they try, little ones won’t be able to stain the leather and the magnet closure means a snug fit around the neck and the ability to stick it to the fridge for safekeeping.
Rocket Ship Superhero Cape, Tall Buildings
Show us a kid who doesn’t want to be a superhero and we’ll show you a kid who hasn’t found the right cape! Tall Buildings helps bring children’s imaginations to life with fab capes, cuffs and belts in a variety of colours and images. We’re leaning towards the Rocket Ship Superhero Cape – for our kids of course — but even the prettiest princess will swoon over a smashing pink cape. $48.
Discarded Journals, Margi Laurin
A hit in my home are these lined and unlined journals made from discarded library books. They may be low-tech but with the ever-increasing sales of e-books, creator Margi Laurin may have her arms full in the coming years. The blank paper is spiral bound between the two covers and the story book pages are interspersed. Cost varies by size, with an approximate price of $20.
Mechanical Mighty Robot T, Kiki Kids’ Wear
It’s with first-hand knowledge as a mom with a young son that I can state with 99 per cent certainty that any little boy on your gift list will love this shirt. We already own the Flying Saucers Comics version and every time my son puts it on he, without fail, asks for the Mechanical Mighty Robot. I know what my first purchase for the holidays will be this year. $24.
Can’t make it to the One of a Kind Christmas Show & Sale, running November 24 to December 4, 2011? There will be a two week “pop up” One of a Kind Online Shop Jan 10 to 23, 2012, with items limited to 10 designers. Or check out your favourite artisan’s web site for more information on how to buy.
First published November 3, 2011, on WorkLivePlayCafe.com.
Heather Camlot 