Friday Finds: Hemp Produce Sac

Our world now is all about recyling and reducing waste to preserve our Earth for future generations.  If you're eco-conscious or know someone who is, these reusuable hemp produce bags are perfect!  They are made by TheArtofReZen, a shop devoted to creating eco-friendly products for us to use in our everyday lives.  The owner of the shop uses hemp for her products.  As she states in her description of this product, "These produce bags are reuseable, light weight, stashable, washable, easy to use, handmade and made from an earth friendly product. These sacs are breathable, durable, lightweight and Machine washable and dry-able. These will last for years." 

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and theartofrezen.

Friday Finds: Book Bunny Boyfriend

Let me introduce you to Stan. Stan caught my eye because he's one cool looking bunny. Right now he lives in the Yermit shop, but he truly wants to find a new home! He stands 21 inches tall and is handmade from his blue jeans, green knitted sweater, scarf and toque, right down to his fuzzy shoes.

This Canadian shop is filled with colourful and unique character dolls. Truly, one of a kind and great conversation pieces! Visit Yermits to see more fun and fantastic creations. Add the phrase OhCanadaTeam to your searches on Etsy.com to find even more Canadian treasures!

Found by Leanne Designs

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team and Yermits

Shop Spotlight: The Backyard Bear

Nature is a common inspiration for all kinds of artists. There are so many wonderful shapes and colors found in the outdoors that speak to us, drawing on our ancestral roots and affectionate connection to the Earth. And nobody captures nature in art quite like Mary Ann of The Backyard Bear.

This shop features a variety of delightfully rustic objects, lovingly hand painted with images from the natural world. Oh Canada has put The Backyard Bear in the spotlight.

Oh Canada: Of all the things that you sell, which item or style is your favorite?

Mary Ann: It is hard to pick just one item as I put love into all of them but if I narrow it down it would have to be the chipmunk cedar box.

That poor little box was sitting in a 2nd hand store all water stained and musty smelling but it was still sturdy and had potential. I took it home, sanded it down inside and out, re-oiled the inside to give it back its original aroma and then painted a chipmunk on it.

Chipmunks love to stash things away and this little box which was once trash can now be used to stash items once again. Chipmunks and moose were the hardest creatures for me to paint but for some reason this little guy was just waiting to be brought to life. I’m really proud of that box and I’ll be sad when it sells but happy that the new owner will enjoy it.

Oh Canada: Where did you learn your skills?

Mary Ann: I’m self taught, although I have to add that my whole family is creative in some shape or form. My father was a builder, my mother could knit and crochet anything, my five brothers and sister have built, sketched and painted a few things in their life.

I think being the youngest and just too young to hang with my siblings and no one to play with, I took it to a whole new level to keep myself amused. I was a wildlife lover and when I wasn’t trying to find animal tracks and mold them with Plaster of Paris I was sketching birds and animals in the woods. I remember asking for a “John Naggy Learn to Draw” set for Christmas. It came with pencils, pastels, charcoal, sketching pad and a How To Draw book. I carried that set everywhere.

My mother would only use our old Singer sewing machine to mend, but once I was old enough she taught me how to use it and I started to make stuffed animals and Barbie doll clothes.

My father being a carpenter and me tagging along on his jobs taught me how to build a thing or two, and I would make bird houses and feeders in our boathouse out of scrap wood. I have the scars on my thumb to prove it!

My mother, to keep me busy, would give me old Sears or Eaton’s catalogues, egg cartons, jars and tins, worn clothing, anything she could find. She was from the old school where you didn’t go out to buy crafting materials, you made due with what you had. I tore apart many old dresses and jeans just to remake them into something else. I remember when I was 10, making a pair of bibbed hot pants out an old pair of pink pants when they were a craze in the 60’s. Therefore upcycling was normal in my family.

My wildlife painting started when my oldest brother bought me an oil paint-by-number set when I was around 7. It was a picture of two horses, and not having any patience I leaned that first painting over the hot air register to dry fast. When I came back to check on it my horse painting was abstract. After that episode I turned to watercolour.

I left all of my sketching and painting behind once I hit my teen years. I married young and raised two children with no time for hobbies. It wasn’t until a couple of years ago I started painting using acrylics. My boyfriend is an airbrush artist and watching him build and paint life like fishing lures took me back to when I would sketch and paint wildlife and I had the desire to paint again. My first painting was of my cat Marabou using driftwood as my canvas. I was quite pleased as it turned out better than I thought it would. After that painting I started painting fish on driftwood and then found other mediums to paint on, wood or metal boxes, jars, music sheets, etc. If it’s paintable I’ll paint on it.

Oh Canada: Everyone has different motivations for making their unique wares. What drives you to create?

Mary Ann: I’ve been creating art and upcycling since I can remember. Some people like to sit and read for hours, some people enjoy a cup of tea on the deck. Me… I enjoy painting and creating.

I get up in the morning and for an hour I paint something… a solar lantern, a magnet, fish on driftwood. I go to work and all day I’m thinking of what I want to make that night. It’s a great feeling to see an item that was someone’s trash made useful again and have another person purchase it from you because they love it.

We live in a throw-away society which is sad because it affects the environment, it affects our future. Our ancestors never threw away anything because everything old had a new use. Whether it be clothes turned into rugs, calendars into pictures, there was always something useful in an item. I try to be that person my ancestor was and I try to pass this on to my children as well.

Oh Canada: If you could learn to use any new technique or material, what would it be?

Mary Ann: I’m pretty content with what I’m doing now. I’m so busy upcycling items that I’ve purchased at yard sales that I don’t think I’d have time to learn a new technique…although I wouldn’t rule it out. I’m willing to teach myself if something catches my interest.

Oh Canada: Any plans to incorporate a new product into your shop this year?

Mary Ann: I’m hoping to get my birdhouses and birdfeeders in the shop. I’ve made a few out of old silver tea pots, garden tools etc. They take a little longer to make and the ones I have made have sold quick so they don’t get on Etsy.

Oh Canada: What is your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?

Mary Ann: I started selling on Etsy this year on Jan 2nd. I wish I had joined earlier, before Christmas as I missed out on those sales.

I originally started selling on Etsy to sell off items which didn’t sell at the couple of craft shows I did last year. Now I’m glad I did even if it’s only for the social aspect of the forums. I’ve met a lot of wonderful Canadians (even those that live a short distance from me) that have great talent and are in the same boat as I am. We work full time, craft at the kitchen table, we do it cause we love it and can’t get enough.

We motivate each other when sales are down and we critique each others wares and shops because we want to help. I’ve been on other forums where people can be nasty because they sit behind a computer, but the Oh Canada Team threads are purely inspirational.

On the sales side I love the extra money I can make for doing something I love. I use that extra cash as my Christmas money and this year I’ll be purchasing a lot of my gifts off of Etsy.

Oh Canada: Do you have a number one tip for new sellers?

Mary Ann: I have a few tips: Ask questions, chat on the forums and get your name out there. Make use of the Daily or Weekly challenge forum. The daily challenge alone has brought in more sales and hits on my shop. Have a theme to your shop to give it consistency.

Make sure to sell cheaper items in your shop to bring the customers in. I’m frugal myself and so I check the bargain rack and if I like what I see I’ll step to the back of the store and find the more expensive items. I think if you have more of a variety of prices and items in your shop you’ll get people like me who will go past that first page.

Don’t get discouraged if you’re not selling right away. There are people out there that don’t like what you have for sale, it’s not their thing, on the flip-side you’ll find buyers who just love it. It’s all personal.

Oh Canada: What is your favorite thing to buy on Etsy?

Mary Ann: For my vegan daughter’s birthday I purchased vegan soaps and even vegan deodorant. It was great that I was able to purchase these items off of Etsy, and I didn’t have to drive around or phone around looking to see who sells vegan soaps in my small town. I bought Canadian as well which is what I try to do. I actually bought from a couple of shops. Not only did I get her bath soaps but I bought pet shampoo and laundry soap - all vegan!

Oh Canada: What is the number one best item in your shop right now?

Mary Ann: Other than my upcycled chipmunk box I really like this Tic Tac Toe game – Lady Bugs and Bees.

I’ve also made checkerboard games with moose/bears and one with ducks on it. I see them being played on a porch at a cottage on a rainy afternoon.

You can catch up with Mary Ann and her latest inspirations on her blog The Backyard Bear Arts and Crafts Studio. To see more wonderful wildlife inspired designs, visit The Backyard Bear shop on Etsy.

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada and The Backyard Bear

Friday Finds: Postage Stamp Notecards

Canadian Style Notecard Trio
by Stuff by Steph

The internet is a truly wonderful invention. It allows us to connect, learn and share with people all over the world, sell our creations on Etsy, and do all sorts of other amazing things. But do you ever feel like it has ruined the art of letter writing?

Perhaps emails are a blessing in disguise. Now, sending a personalized, handwritten note is even more of a statement than ever before. And what better way to show your unique style than with a handmade card?

These delightful Canadian style note cards are perfect for adding a special touch to a gift, or just to say “I’m thinking about you.” Wouldn’t they make a charming surprise inside a sack lunch?

To see more up cycled and collage designs like these, visit Stuff by Steph!

Want to see more? Whatever your tastes, chances are the Oh Canada Team has something for you! Include the phrase "OhCanadaTeam" in your searches on Etsy.com to see what our talented artists are making!

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada and Stuff by Steph

Tag Workshop: Embroidered Wool Purse

Most Etsy sellers will tell you that having a really great first photo is the key to getting views, and ultimately, sales. It’s true that a fantastic and interesting photo invites people into your shop, but having really great tags is what helps you turn up in their searches. The Oh Canada Tag Workshop aims to help sellers find new ideas for tagging their items that will help shoppers find them.

Thistle Embroidered Wool Suit Coat Purse
by Heather Lair Designs

This week, our tag workshop will focus on this unique upcycled purse by Heather Lair Designs. The description reads: This lovely little purse is made from parts of gently used wool suit coats. I construct the purse in pieces so I have an opportunity to embellish all over with embroidery. I developed a new design for this purse- thistle flowers and leaves!

This purse has a flap on the front that closes with a vintage button.
There is a patch pocket on the back for your cell phone, business cards or keys. Inside there are three pockets to help keep things organized.

soapstar suggests these tags:

bags & purses, vintage, wool, grey,
recycled suit, upcycled, over the shoulder, thistle,
embroidery, buttons, pockets, herringbone tweed,
silk lining, ohcanadateam

Joanniel Creations recommends:

bags and purses, embroidery, upcycled,
wool, leaf, floral, patchwork, gray,
orange, vintage, artisan, ooak,
feminine, long strap

Oh So Sweet Prints suggests:

bags and purses, messenger purse, cross shoulder bag,
patchwork, wool, button embellishments, small,
purse, vintage, handmade, plaid,
grey, unique, one of a kind

And the actual tags are:

bags and purses, pouch, thistle, wool, gray,
leaves, embriodery, ohcanadateam, silk,
pockets, recycled wool, original,
buttons, heatherlairdesigns

Each list has some great style and technique keywords that real shoppers use. Even if you make very similar items, it’s important not to get into a tagging rut by using the same word combinations for every listing. Remember that tags can describe not only what an item is, but what makes it special as well.

For more tagging help, visit:

Tag-o-rama with Descriptive Keywords
Guidelines and Tips for Tagging on Etsy
Tagging for Success
Etsy DOs and DON’Ts

Follow the Oh Canada Team blog to see more great tag ideas every Tuesday!

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team and Heather Lair Designs

Canada Helps the Gulf

Gulf Oil Spill
Photo Credit: Greenpeace USA Flickr Pool

April 20th, 2010 could mark the start of the worst environmental disaster the world has ever seen. The tragedy began when an offshore rig, drilling for oil in the Gulf of Mexico, exploded. Eleven workers were killed in the accident, which caused the oil well to rupture.

The resulting leak spews between 35,000 and 60,000 barrels of crude oil every day, or as much as 9500 cubic meters. The oil slick on the surface of the water has reached roughly 6,500 square km in width. It covers the shores of four US states, including beaches, wetlands and estuaries. The black sludge has killed hundreds of fish, seabirds and turtles, as well as dolphins and other precious marine creatures.

To get an idea of just how massive the oil spill has become, visit If It Was My Home to see a size comparison with your own location. The area of damage is enormous, and it continues to get larger and more deadly every day. Jay Holcomb, director of the International Bird Rescue Center, says “…it’s like a new spill every day.”

Size of the BP Oil Spill Compared to Ottawa, Ontario

The Deepwater Horizon disaster has halted all marine industries in the area, and put thousands of families out of work. This newest tragedy threatens an economy already sensitive due to hurricanes like Katrina and Rita.

So what can you do to help? Many charitable organizations are doing what they can to repair the environmental damage, and offer aid to impoverished families. A generous group of Etsy sellers has united to raise funds for Oxfam America and the National Wildlife Federation. At Help the Gulf Coast, you can find a stunning array of handmade wares, all donated for this important cause. 100% of the net profits from this shop are divided between these two charities. Help the Gulf Coast has already raised over $5000!

Many of our talented Oh Canada Team members have reached out by donating their time and materials. These exclusive designs are just a few examples of the products you will find at Help the Gulf Coast, with over 400 listings and counting. To learn more about how you can donate an item, or how even the smallest purchase can help, visit the Help the Gulf Coast blog.

Cobalt Blue Wire Wrapped Necklace
Donated by Blue Jeans Jewelry

Neighboats Sea Breeze Soap
Donated by soapstar

Mermaid Tail Beaded Bracelet
Donated by Ocean Pearl Jewellery

Ophelia Vintage Gemstone Earrings
Donated by Joanniel Creations

Other Oh Canada Team members that have donated include Little Bear's Mom and The Sage's Cupboard. We would all like to thank the amazing admins at Help the Gulf Coast, who donate so much of their time to this great fundraiser, as well as all of the Etsy sellers who have donated, and everyone who has made a purchase for these important charities. We can make a difference one handmade creation at a time!

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team

Friday Finds: Olive Bamboo Tank Top

Deep olive bamboo and organic cotton top
Originally uploaded by annymay.

Have you ever experienced the incredible softness of bamboo fabric? It’s like wearing a cloud. Woven bamboo is fast becoming one of the most popular organic textiles. It is incredibly sustainable, requires no pesticides to grow, and processing it is very low-impact. Bamboo is also considered hypoallergenic and bacteria resistant.

This beautiful shoulder-wrap tank top is made with a lovely deep olive fabric, spun with bamboo and organic cotton. It’s a wonderful piece for any summer wardrobe. This tank can be dressed up or down for any occasion! To see more unique, eco-friendly designs, visit Anny May: Eco-designer.

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team and Anny May

Enjoy the Earth

Beach Debris
Photo Credit: Aaron A. Aardvark.

Earth Day is fast approaching, and eco-conscious people are doing their best to spread the word about green living. The more we learn about climate change, pollution and the overall health of our ecosystems, the more important it becomes to change our lifestyles for the sake of future generations.

Of all the things that humans have created since the industrial revolution, none of them is more hazardous or devastating than plastic. Toxic chemicals in our water, clear cut logging and fossil fuels have done plenty of damage, but when humanity is no longer a dominant entity on the Earth, nature will eventually heal. Plastic is not only a huge problem now, but it will continue to pollute our planet for millions of years.

The chemical properties of plastic that make it so durable also make it impossible for it to break down and return to it’s base elements. Throw away an orange or a book, and eventually it will become dirt again. Plastics only become smaller and smaller. As this happens, they also become more and more dangerous.

One of the things that anyone and everyone can do to reduce the amount of plastics that they use and throw away is to make the switch to reusable cloth shopping bags. After only a few trips to the market, they pay for themselves - and they’re incredibly fashionable.

This wonderful treasury by Oh Canada Team member The Art of Zen Crochet is a Tribute to Earth Day, and features a great selection of reusable bags that are also handmade - no sweat shops involved! There are also some fabulous handmade, recycled and natural goodies.

Congratulations to Oh Canada Team member Bovine Bubbles for making it into the Leisurely Lunch Etsy Finds tribute to spring picnics. Why not have a picnic, and get out to enjoy nature during Earth Week, April 16th to 22nd? But don't forget to clean up your litter!

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team

Friday Finds: Cute Comfort Doll

Comfort Doll
Originally uploaded by sarahraymond1.

Over the past few weeks, stores have been filling up with candy, toys, and all manner of treats in pastel colors and spring shapes. Everything from bunnies to eggs are transformed into delightful treasures for kids to enjoy over the Easter holiday.

Many kids will be lucky enough to receive something handmade and unique, like this Comfort Doll by Wooldebeast. This adorable upcycled plush friend is more than just a great gift - it is also part of a series that contributes to an important cause. When you purchase one of these cuddly creations, a second doll will be donated to ICROSS. To learn more, check out the selection of handmade Comfort Dolls by Wooldebeast.

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team

Shop Spotlight: pondhopper

At some point in her life, almost every woman dreams of owning a garment by a famous designer. While wearing couture fashions may be luxurious, it will never beat the charm, and the thrill of wearing something that is one hundred percent one of a kind and unique. When we buy upcycled clothing, there is very little chance that any other person in the universe will have the same pieces. There is nothing more personal or stylish than a handmade wardrobe.

At pondhopper, artist and designer Lorraine turns forgotten fabrics and clothing into remarkable new fashions. She also creates a wonderful selection of jewelry, accessories and home décor items from reclaimed and sustainable materials. Oh Canada has put the spotlight on pondhopper.

Oh Canada: Of all the things that you create, which item or style is your favorite?

Lorraine: I love variety, so it changes depending on the day you ask me! I like working on concepts that are not fully dictated in the beginning and the final outcome is a bit of a surprise because it has evolved throughout the creation process.

Oh Canada: Where did you learn your skills?

Lorraine: Formally, I pursued drawing, painting, papercrafts and sculpting throughout my school and college years, studied sewing and textiles in England and learned about jewelry in Montreal. Informally, I grew up helping my Mum sew my dance costumes and learning photography from my Dad – I can still remember going into the attic where the darkroom was and watching the magical process of pictures appearing on a blank sheet of paper (pre-digital of course!). I continue to devour new knowledge through many avenues – there is so much to learn!

Oh Canada: Everyone has different motivations for making their unique wares. What drives you to create?

Lorraine: I’d love to give you some noble or profound reason, but the truth is I am just addicted to everything about the process of creation - from the initial inspiration to the end result, I love it all! I really enjoy taking something that has a previous life and may otherwise be discarded and turning it into a unique new piece to be loved.

Oh Canada: If you could learn to use any new technique or material, what would it be?

Lorraine: Well of course I have a list! But the top five would be: lost-wax casting, book sculpting, glass blowing, metalsmithing, carpentry, watercolour painting, and calligraphy. O.k. that’s seven!

Oh Canada: Any plans to incorporate a new product into your shop this year?

Lorraine: No plans, but I’m sure there will be something new!

Oh Canada: What is your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?

Lorraine: Meeting wonderful people from across the globe. I also love hearing the stories and comments about how my items are used by their new owners.

Oh Canada: Do you have a number one tip for new sellers?

Lorraine: Don’t open up as a seller right off the bat - become a buyer first then take some time to thoroughly understand Etsy; hang out in the forums where there is a wealth of information to help you establish a successful shop (but avoid the negative and/or discouraging threads); purchase some items to experience the transaction process from a buyers viewpoint. This is valuable learning time that will help you decide how you want to present your brand - from the look of you shop, through policies, pricing and customer experience.

Oh Canada: What is your favorite thing to buy on Etsy?

Lorraine: It would be easier to list what I don’t like buying! Prior to “pondhopper”, my shop was called “House of Mouse” (had to set up a new shop as Disney has that name trademarked!). I made hundreds of purchases (all in the name of research you understand!), but if I had to nail it down to one favourite I would have to say merino wool roving – gorgeous, beautiful, oh so soft roving in such delicious colours that came from sheep with names that I got to know – completely irresistible!

Oh Canada: What is the number one best item (listing) in your shop right now?

Lorraine: MADELINE. I love the contrast between the masculine wool tweed and the lacy, vintage cotton doilies. I also enjoyed the opportunity to create something for a little girl - I have two sons, grew up with two brothers and their friends, my husband has two brothers…not a girl in sight in my family!

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team and pondhopper

Friday Finds: Recycled Jeans Pie Hat

Blue fleece and recycled jeans cuffed pie hat
Originally uploaded by annymay.

This week's featured item is a cozy pie hat by AnnyMay. Made from blue fleece and repurposed denim, this is recycling at it's finest. It's the perfect accessory for wearing while you cheer on your favorite winter sports team! Check out her shop for even more ecofriendly, handmade clothing, and some cheerful, bilingual customer service!

Other team members in the spotlight today include Joanniel, who was recently featured on the front page in this beautiful treasury. You can check out all of the items featured in The Vault on Craftcult.com. This collection was curated by SayYourPiece.

This lovely team treasury was curated by Little Bear's Mom, and features some wonderfully gorgeous Moody Blues.

Dalim (aka Dashe Designs), a new member to the Oh Canada Team, shares this cheerful treasury with a bright contrast of colors. Yellow and Purple features some beautiful team creations.

To see even more incredible creations by Canadian artists, include the tag “OhCanadaTeam” in your searches on Etsy.com.

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team

Shop Spotlight: Wooldebeast

Anyone who grew up watching Sesame Street knows that there’s nothing fuzzier, friendlier or more cuddly than a monster. And the only thing better than a cuddly monster is one that is also kind to the Earth. The adorable Wooldebeast friends are kind as can be, made with repurposed wool and recycled Ecofill stuffing. Shop owner and designer Sarah makes these fuzzy friends, along with a selection of fashionable felt bags and fur-ocious mittens from her home in Toronto, Ontario. Oh Canada has put the spotlight on Sarah and the beasts.

Of all the things that you create, which item or style is your favorite?

Sarah: I love designing and sketching beasts, playing colours against each other and hand-embroidering their faces.

Where did you learn your skills?

Sarah: When I was a wee little thing, I used to sit on the spare bed where my mom quilted and I’d embroider. I was a country mouse then, and everyone – me, included – took 4-H classes and learned to sew. Later I went to art school and specialized in craft design and making. I teach, too and learn lots from students!

Everyone has different motivations for making their unique wares. What drives you to create?

Sarah: Drawing and making are a way of life, and something akin to breathing. If I’m not making something, I get restless!

If you could learn to use any new technique or material, what would it be?

Sarah: Although I embroidered alongside my quilting mama, I didn’t pick up her craft. I’d like to know how to assemble and bind a quilted wall-hanging -- of beastly faces, maybe?

Any plans to incorporate a new product into your shop this year?

I’d like to make mother and child beast combos, or even families. People have asked for beastly mittens for adults, so I’ve got to get on that for next season.

What is your favorite thing about selling on Etsy?

Sarah: Making is a solo gig (although I team up with my neighbour Jocelyn for weekly sew-fests) and so Etsy is great for giving community to craft. I’ve recently joined the Plush Team via Etsy, and the support from that group is fantastic.

Do you have a number one tip for new sellers?

Sarah: Research! Check what’s out there – there’s so much information on Etsy about what buyers love (“heart”) and buy, so use it! On the other hand, make something you love enough to sustain your interest.

What is your favorite thing to buy on Etsy?

Sarah: I bought a gorgeous crocheted scarf from AuntieDawn for a Christmas present. I search out local Canadians for gift-buying.

What is the number one best item in your shop right now?

Sarah: Beasts! I have two sizes, but people seem to like the larger, 12” ones best.

You can see all of Sarah’s creations in her Etsy shop, Wooldebeast. You can also stay up to date on her latest additions and sales by following her on Twitter. To see even more fantastic art by Canadians, add the tag “OhCanadaTeam” to your searches on Etsy.com.

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team Blog