Friday Finds: Labradorite & Sterling Statement Ring by LeChienNoirJewelry

This ring is a beautiful homage to Canada, made by Carla of LeChienNoirJewelry. Labradorite (named after Labrador, Canada where it is mined) has a gorgeous iridescence. Depending on how the light hits it, you will see a shimmer of grey, blue, black, silver and sometimes even orange. This cabochon's beauty is highlighted by the handmade oxidized sterling silver bezel. For more statement pieces please visit her Etsy store LeChienNoirJewelry.

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and LeChienNoirJewelry

Friday Finds: The Pool After by PrankePaintings

This vibrant oil on canvas painting is a lovely representation of Canadian nature. It's also very reminiscent of the work done by the Group of Seven. Richard of PrankePaintings is a third generation artist from Montreal. His grandfather and father were artists too and the talent gene has definitely been passed on! This one is my favorite because of the starkness of the birches combined with the vibrant fall colors and turquoise water. The angle that the artist has captured makes you feel like you've stumbled upon a secret pool and it looks inviting enough to take a swim! For more beautiful paintings, please visit PrankePaintings.

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and PrankePaintings

Friday Finds: Recycled Chocolate Brown Winter mitts by RecycledandResewn

Looking at this stylish pair of mitts you would never guess that they have been recycled and repurposed from an old brown and turquoise sweater! Teresa of RecycledandResewn started experimenting with upcycling old sweaters into warm cozy mitts by lining them with polar fleece, way back in 2005 and successfully sold more than 130 pairs last year alone. She has now branched out into pillows and totes as well. More of her amazing talent can be viewed in her fab shop!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and Recycledandresewn

Friday Finds: Gemstone Wrap bracelet by Peacock&Lime

 

Today's find is a colorful wrap gemstone bracelet from Peacock&Lime. For those who love gemstones you can get your fix with this beauty! They've used a variety of gemstones like fancy jasper, rose quartz, fluorite, and aventurine coupled with metal beads and cultured pearls sewn onto dark brown leather and fastened with a vintage civil war/ military button. These wrap bracelets can be worn on the wrist or ankle and you can go for a daring look by wearing multiples.

 

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and Peacock&Lime

Friday Finds: Curly Maple Wood pen by Anterosurbanwood

 Michael of Anterosurbanwood has worked in different fields but has now found his niche in woodworking. His new shop on Etsy features his woodworked pens in a variety of woods and colours.

I was intrigued by this pen. It features Curly Maple Wood that has been dyed and worked under pressure to result in a beautiful grain. Coupled with a chrome finish, this makes for a sleek pen. It would be a beautiful souvenir or a classy gift when you don't know what to get someone!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and Anterosurbanwood

OhCanadaTeam Gift Guide: Father's Day

Dad, you're someone to look up to no matter how tall I've grown.  ~Author Unknown

Let's not forget all the dads out there who are hard working, loving, nurturing, and deserving of a little TLC just as much as moms are. Father's Day is the perfect occasion to show Dad just how appreciated he really is. Here are a few Oh Canada Team pics to inspire your shopping on this Father's Day.

Get this beautifully crafted leather wallet with an android design in a rich red and kiwi green from Keri V. Leatherworks.

Another great gift idea are these reusable snack and sandwich bags. Great for packing a lunch or for snacks during long work trips. Get them at The Silver Bobbin.

A wonderfully hip and totally retro pair of shorts with hot air balloons. Who says 'hip' anymore? Well, I do! You'll find these at Lucky Lucy's.

Whether your dad gets his hands dirty in the garden or at work, he'll definitely be in need of some of this salve. A great way to heal and repair those dry dad hands. You can buy this one at MisticalAcScents.

A great black belt with an eagle image that'll make any dad look fashionable. You'll find this flip top web belt at A.M.E. Creations.















Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

OhCanadaTeam Gift Guide: Mother's Day

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie.  ~Tenneva Jordan

Now that I am a mother myself I can see what my mom meant all the times she uttered the phrase, "You'll understand when you have your own children". And I do. I thought my mom did certain things for one reason. With time, wisdom, and motherhood I have come to see she did those things for different reasons.

This gift guide is dedicated to moms everywhere who help shape this world into a kind and gentle place. 

A beautiful and bright peach silk ribbon ring handmade with love. This is most definitely a statement piece that any woman would love to wear on her finger. Find this stunning piece at Bstudio.













An organic facial cleanser with a creamy foam that deeply cleanses and freshens your skin. Feel rejuvenated with this wonderful product found at ethicBioskin.

The Ambleside Cami. A versatile top made of 60% rayon from bamboo, 18% nylon, and 14% Polyester. A great addition to any wardrobe. Dress it up or down. Find this unique piece at Heiditheartist.

A handmade cold process soap with an inviting scent. Who doesn't love cheesecake? This soap is divine and feels wonderful on the skin. Just be careful you don't eat it. Find it at Soapstar.

A set of mini note cards with some beautiful sparkling green leaves. The perfect addition to decorate your gift bag, box, or to write a special message just because. Get these cards at j2studios.

















Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

OhCanadaTeam Gift Guide: Spring Thaw Sale

The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over no matter what my circumstances.  ~Robert Flatt

Special Edition: Gift Guide and Easter Sale

What does Easter bring? Besides having a religious meaning to some, Easter is the rebirth of long days and new life. A chance to start anew. You may celebrate the religious aspect or simply enjoy the Easter bunny and its chocolate eggs. Well, the Oh Canada Team is celebrating Easter with a sale. The featured shops are offering various discounts during the week of April 10-16, 2011. Be sure to read their shop announcements at the top of the shop homepage.

Beautiful fine art photography from Edmonton, Canada. You'll be amazed at the unique selection of prints you'll find at Larry Jang Photography.

Wonderfully hand crafted soaps, inhalers, and other bath and body products that will delight your senses. Find these yummy skin treats at Alchemy Lifestyle.

Handmade elegant jewelry you can wear anywhere. Find these pearl earrings and other timeless jewelry pieces at Noor Jewels.

Hand out your Easter treats in these modern, quality food grade reusable bags. Lots of designs to choose from. Head on over to The Silver Bobbin and pick out your favorite.

Shops Participating in the Oh Canada Team Spring Thaw Sale

JanJat 10% everything with coupon code SPRING the entire week of the sale
Junquete is offering a varying percentage off each day of the sale week. Check shop announcement for details.
Clonehardware free shipping to the US and Canada for the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRINGTHAW
TheBackyardBear 10% everything for the entire week of the sale with coupon code SpringBearSale
TreasuresbyTeala has a sale section
Joanniel is offering 10% for the week of the sale with coupon code SAVINGS10
Vitrine 10% off everything for the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRING
HilarysHats 10% off everything for the entire week of the sale
Chrisssmith22/The Art of Zen Crochet 15% off everything for the entire week of the sale with coupon code HEMP4SPRING
Boomerville 10% off everything with coupon code SPRING for the week of the sale
TheOldBarnDoor 10% off everything with coupon code SPRING for the week of the sale
DarkRide 10% off everything for the week of the sale with coupon code SPRING
ArtThatMoves buy 3 sets of greeting cards and get 3 cards (of the shop owner's choosing) free
RecycledandResewn is offering 10% off for the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRINGTHAW10
ElisasDezignz 15% off the week of the sale with coupon code SPRINGTHAW2011
RJCharms By 3, get the 4th free the entire week of the sale
Yermit is offering 10% the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRING
Tarapparel is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRINGTHAWSALE
TheSilverBobbin 15% for the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRINGTHAW
JensDreamDecor is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRING2011
AlchemyLifestyle is offering 15% off the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRINGTHAW15
LittleBearsMom is offering 10% off the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRING2011
JansonPottery is offering 10% off the entire week of the sale with coupon code SPRING2011
NoorJewels is offering 15% off with coupon code APR2011
Taibossigai is offering 10% off the week of the sale with coupon code SPRING2011
ljangphotography is offering 30% off with coupon code SPRING
BENTwoodwork is offering 10% off everything that week
LeanneDesigns is offering 15% off for the week with coupon code SPRINGTHAW2011
HappyBead is offering 20% off everything in the shop
humblehome is offering 15% off with coupon code SPRING
Saturations is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRING2011
Ahkriti is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRING2011
Frogprincessdesigns is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRING
JewelsByJasmin is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRING
j2studios is offering 10% off with coupon code SPRING
HeidiTheArtist has a special sale section in her shop
StuffbySteph77 is offering free shipping for the week with coupon code SpringThaw
OceanPearlJewellery is offering 15% off for the week of the sale with coupon code SPRING2011

***Please note, coupon codes will only be active from April 10-16, 2011, unless otherwise noted in a shop's announcement***


Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

OhCanadaTeam Gift Guide: St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day is an enchanted time - a day to begin transforming winter's dreams into summer's magic.  ~Adrienne Cook


To transition from Winter into Spring here is a gift guide of various handmade items in shades of green. Not the traditional shamrocks and leprechauns, but I kept it green and fun. Happy St. Patrick's Day! Let's let the luck of the Irish rub off on us all. Enjoy these beautiful creations. I hope they will add a dash of color to your day.

These are a must have for St. Patrick's Day. Tags by the dozen with St. Patrick's Day themed images from Stuff By Steph. Drop in to see these and other handy paper crafts.

A knit cable hat in a stunningly bold green. Perfect for this occasion. This hat is made with acrylic yarn and is washable. You'll find this at Hilary's Hats.

Accessorize your St. Patrick's Day festivities with this sea green tangle chain bracelet. Beautifully put together, this antique bronze and green glass bracelet can be found at Dark Ride.

Zen garden meditation. A beautiful soft felt sculpture. Fits right in with this gift guide in its various shades of green. This one is a custom order but you can get your own custom item at Eves Little Earthlings. You'll definitely need a zen garden after the festivities.

All natural cucumber and spearmint lip balm that is sure to please. Fresh and packed full of moisture rich ingredients. Will go on smoothly and feel divine on your lips. Get this top quality lip balm at Bubble Tub.

How about this fun pin cushion ring? Cool, original, and practical! Made with a felt bobble and adjustable ring base. This will most likely get you noticed. Get this neat gift at Frog Princess Designs.

What a wonderful way to keep your photos in plain sight. A gorgeous green and brown photo memory board. Made with a top quality quilting cotton and vintage buttons. Get it at Jen's Dream Decor.

Or how about a reusable bamboo and wool yarn blend coffee cozy. Hand knit, eco-friendly in a gorgeous moss green, and adorned with colorful heart shaped buttons. Get one at Doomsday Studios.











Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

OhCanadaTeam Gift Guide: Valentine's Day

"Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end."-Author Unknown

Valentine's Day is a day to say to the one you love, "I thought of you today." It's a small gesture that means a lot to your special someone and it usually comes along with a gift. A card, flowers, chocolates, jewellery, etc. Whatever you decide to give to your sweetheart, it is the thought that counts and it will most likely be appreciated.

I have selected a few handmade creations from some wonderful talented Canadian artists to help you find a gift or to inspire you to make your own.

FOR HER

Gradient Necklace In Silk Ribbon Embroidery.

So beautiful in white and shades of grey. This piece is definitely a conversation starter. It is what I like to call a wearable work of art. You can find this wonderful embroidered piece of jewellery at Bstudio.

 Hemp Scrubbie Tawashie Your Face.

These are just wonderful. They come in a set of four. I have personally had the pleasure of using these on my face and I love them. They are a staple in my bathroom. You can get these facial scrubbies at The Art Of Zen...Crochet.









 

GULL Tunic. Medium.

Very modern and ultra chic women's top in black and grey. What a classic piece of clothing. I love this color combination as well as the kimono sleeves. If you're looking to offer your special lady a great looking top this is the one. Get this soft and stretchy shirt at Bird Apparel.

Ring Holder. Coiled Mini Basket.

Pretty ring holder or organic piece of sculpture. This basket is made with hand dyed thread and adorned with a lucky stone. I love the idea of giving anything that has a lucky stone. It just seems magical. This would be a really unique way to propose. You'll find this lovely creation at Wavesong.



 

 

Striped Wool Sweater Bear Doll Boyfriend Softie.

Are you single? Get yourself your own gift. Get a boyfriend doll and forget all about teddy bears. What an original huggable doll to give yourself. He really makes a great boyfriend. Never says a word and is always there when you need him. Get this adorable softie at Yermit.

Little Surprise Owl Love Note - Set Of Four

Here it is. That Valentine gift that has both red and hearts in it, but it is not your typical love note. These are so beautiful, creative and handmade with love. Perfect for Valentine's Day. These come in a set of four and are great for hiding secret love messages for your sweetheart. Get them at Kraze4Paper.

FOR HIM

Hockey Puck Soap(Actual Size).

This one's a great guy gift. It is a replica of an actual official hockey puck. Not only does it look great but it smells great too. Though no guy would probably admit to this I'm sure they all enjoy a good lather which is what this quality handmade soap has to offer. Get this one at Maple Creek Soap.

Upcycled Computer Circuit Board Key Ring.

What a cool idea for the geek in your life. I put this in the guy section but this can easily be a girl gift too. It's a great way to be environmentally responsible and look cool doing it. Is this the perfect gift? Head on over to Clone Hardware.

Sweetheart Dish/Handmade Pottery.

A beautiful porcelain dish in the shape of a heart. Fill it with candy, chocolate, or other sweets to give it to your loved one. It is the kind of thing you will treasure for years to come. Find this lovely soft blue and white dish at Janson Pottery.

 Unisex Eco-Friendly Scarf Or Wrap In black.

This beautiful hand knit creation can be worn by either a man or a woman. I have placed it in the guy section but this would make a beautiful present for the lady in your life. It is so versatile and can even be worn over your hair like a hood. Beautiful color contrast with the two tones. You can find this eco-friendly gift at Anny May.

Unisex Copper Foldformed Cuff.

Ladies, this is a stunning work of art. This cuff is an original one of a kind piece of jewellery. The colors and textures are wonderful to look at and this would make a great gift for any man who enjoys wearing cuffs. Plus, you can borrow it anytime you want. You'll find this unique piece at Wabi Brook Studio.

Upcycled Wooden Bingo Markers Cufflinks

Here's another original and environmentally responsible gift for the game lover in your life. These cool cufflinks are made from vintage bingo/lotto markers. They are the perfect shade of red to be given on Valentin's Day. Get this cool find at Berry Sweet Treats.








Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team