There’s another new market in town… This one is more focused on art, collectibles and food creations.

The Queen West Market is held on the second floor of the Spin Gallery building at 1100 Queen Street just west of Dovercourt in a beautiful loft space with fantastic floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s open on both Saturdays and Sundays from 11am -6pm.

By the way, booths are still relatively inexpensive for those artistically inclined… could be fun.

Technorati Tags: Artists, breads, Craft, market, Beaconsfield, Queen St. W, Queen St. W

Thanks to Miru, we can all have these cute friends. Tai Kim McPhail originally designed these soft adorable creatures for her daughter Miru, and now makes them for more people to enjoy. She handcrafts them from recycled wool, cashmere sweaters and vintage buttons. You can find Miru’s Friends at a handful of stores around town. (Her website has all the details.) With each of these friends having so much character, I can’t see owning one of these and not being inspired to put on a short play for any willing viewer.

Technorati Tags: Artisan, environmental, handmade, recycling, Sew, Toronto

I took a course at The Workroom last week, and I must say it was a great experience. It’s a local do-it-yourself-with-a-little-bit-of-help-from-others sewing shop.

I haven’t sewn anything since elementary school, and the Workroom made it easy for me to complete a great project in record time. Working on a finely tuned sewing machine and being able to consult an expert seamstress made the project a breeze. It’s also social: you’re side by side with other students. And if you need inspiration, just check out some of the great finished products and the huge array of fantastic fabrics they carry.

In addition to courses you can also bring your own projects and simply rent a machine for $7 per hour.

The Workroom is a great place not only for people who know what they are doing when it comes to sewing, but also for those of us that aren’t naturals with a needle and thread. Pop in sometime when you’re in the neighbourhood.

Technorati Tags: Artists, Craft, Parkdale, fabric, Queen Street, Sew, Toronto

It’s Friday! Hurray!

And how fab would it feel to be sporting panties like these around town all day? I could dig it. It would feel more official. It would make me smile first thing, before I even had a sip of coffee.

The candi factory right here in Toronto is producing artisan panties for those that like to be fashionable on all levels.

Hmm… since Fridays are already awesome, perhaps I should really be investing in Monday panties.

Technorati Tags: Artisan

A good hat goes a long way. Especially when it is handmade of high quality fabrics and a unique design that flatters.

Wildhagen is a fantastic shop on Queen selling hats with attitude, elegance and lightheartedness.

Located on the second floor, the shop is a delight to visit. Check out this local family business on the south side of Queen Street West, just east of Bathurst.

Technorati Tags:
Toronto, Artisan, Hats, Design, Queen Street, family business, handmade

Norma W opened up recently in Kensington Market, bringing us all kinds of funky finds. I couldn’t resist the hats.

Or the buttons.

Or the …well… let’s just arbitrarily stop there. I have to say, this place is awesome.

P.S.
Warning: Norma W’s shop is so adorably small that if you wink at someone on the street you may miss it.

Technorati Tags:
Kensington, boutique, handmade, accessories, Toronto, clothing, artist

Well I’ll have to admit that this post is ‘out of scope’ - BUT these illustrations are too perfect not to write about.

Damned Dollies is a one woman show by Dana De Kuyper out of our neighbouring Montreal.  These charming little drawings and handmade dolls reflect exactly how I feel today.  There’s something a little angry and sarcastic about them. Perfect for days when you want the doll to do the talking.

Happy Monday!

Hmm… I don’t really feel that I need more stuff… but if I did (and you might), there is a great opportunity for everyone this weekend.  I’ll mention three (some are cash only):

1) A vintage bonanza: Showdown Vintage is an online clothing store that is having a massive clothing sale of new, used and vintage clothing at a house at 419 Shaw Street on Sunday 1pm -8pm. Don’t forget to RSVP.  

2) Two of a Kind Show. Just kidding, I mean One of a Kind. Sat 10-9pm. Sun 10-6pm.

3) A Designer Sample Sale. Potentially limited sizes but the brands are good - teen flow included. This is all women’s clothing mainly in sizes 6 and 8. (Thanks to Jules for the specifics on this!)  Its being held at Gangbar/Winslade 19 Mercer Street # 200. Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 11-4. Cash Only. Bring an item for the foodbank.

If you’ve just gotta shop, these are some good ideas. 

Outstanding modern designs are displayed in the MADE showroom on Dundas West.  All of these designers exhibited are Canadian and their works include furniture, lighting, ceramics, jewelry and home accessories.  Although MADE has a friendly gallery-like feel, pieces are also available for purchase. The art is always changing, and there is always something amazing to be found.

Susan Harris‘ studio/shop has a distinct, warm and funky feel to it. Her designs carry this feeling too. You may have admired one of her shirts on someone and wondered where it came from… well, the secret is out.  And you can feel good about buying her clothes since she reuses previously-worn worthy articles.  Her shop is located on Tecumseth just south of Queen St. West.  She will also have a booth at the One of a Kind Show from November 22nd - December 2nd.