Here they are - Now Go VOTE!

Hey OhCanada Team! Wow, I'm totally blown away and seriously pleased with the response we got from this month's Blitz! especially when we consider this the "bluest" time of the year! Congratulations all around!

Below are the 29 treasuries we received! Please look through them, consider each one for it's various merits and awesomeness. Choose your three VERY FAVORITE ones, in no particular order. Considering the difficulty we've had with posting here, please vote in the new voting thread on Etsy.

Voting closes 10pm Sunday (toronto time), tabluating will commence and the winners will be announced.... monday some time! (maybe tuesday, if life gets in the way...)

Copyright 2013 Oh Canada Team

February 2013 Treasury BLITZ!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team


Welcome Back Team! Happy New Year, and here's hoping the first month of 2013 has been good to all of us.

Let's start the year off with a brand new Treasury Blitz focusing on a theme to get us back in the swing of things. This blitz the theme will be "Fresh and New" inspired by our hopes for the new year. Please take this theme in any direction you want, meaning spring, clean, green, original, colour, whatever!

We thought we might try something a little different for this Blitz - Prizes! This is something I've done with another team to fun results. We have two prizes donated so far, one from myself and from Brazen so far. We are looking for one more from any member of the team (preferably something small and letter-mail-able for ease of postage).

EDIT - The Treasury Challenge rule of SIX teamies in the top three rows will apply to this Blitz as well, just for continuity's sake. Sorry for any confusion my earlier post may have caused.
 The idea of the blitz is to promote each other, and the team, get as many views on our items, and get them looking fantastic in a group of complimentary items. Make as many as you want, make them beautiful, bold, interesting, and heck, maybe even front-pageable!

 Once you've made your treasury (or treasuries) post the link to your treasury in the comment section of this blog by midnight (Toronto time) Friday, February 8, 2013. If your treasury link isn’t here, your treasury isn’t entered for voting!

If you can't make a treasury, for whatever reason, please check out the others, fave, click, comment, heart as much as  possible to get our teamies out there! The purpose of a blitz is to have FUN and to get our teamies SEEN. And of course, PLEASE come back and VOTE.

WHEN: Our three day Blitz will run from Feb 6, 7, 8th. That's wednesday, thursday, friday. (perfect to get those bored-at-the-office browsers).

VOTE: Feb 9, 10 - saturday and sunday! Come back to this blog, cast your vote for your fav three (3) treasuries. Votes should be tabulated by midnight monday (toronto time).

PLEASE - contact me via etsy with any questions or confusion, or if you would like to donate a prize! I hope the little small changes add some variety to the Blitz, but there is bound to be some mix ups! (I'm still a little new at this blogging thing, we'll figure out the details eventually!)


One more thing - Here at the OhCanada Blog, we'd like to start up some of the features we've had in the past, as well as some new ideas. Some things like features and interviews we can conduct mostly through Etsy and email, but other things Like friday finds and wordless wednesdays would be greatly aided if we started posting items to flickr again! That way, I know I'm allowed to pluck you out of the pool and put you on display.... er, your items at least. Go here, join the team (I just did!) do this ---

OhCanadaTeam on Flickr

Can't wait!
Cari and OhCanadaTeam Leadership!





Copyright 2013 Oh Canada Team

Friday Finds: Flower Thank-You Flat Note Cards by j2studioscraft

Today's find are these handmade mini thank you notecards by Christina at j2studioscraft. Christina is actually a violin and piano teacher, and when not teaching you can find her at her craft desk handcrafting cute notecards and the most adorable handmade flower pins for little girls. Check out her cute shop here.

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and j2studioscraft

Friday Finds: Canoe Charm necklace by RJCharms

When I first saw this Canoe charm necklace I immediately thought what a lovely gift it would be for a Canadian friend who's far away from home. To me, canoes are as much a symbol of Canada as beavers or Maple leaves! This pewter charm is included on a rhodium plated chain. Visit RJCharms lovely Etsy shop for more adorable and collectable charms!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and RJCharms

Friday Finds: Evie 100% Wool Felt Plush Heirloom Doll by claraclips

Introducing "Evie," a plush heirloom doll that your little girl will want to carry in her  pocket all the time, and probably want to be tucked with in bed. This sweetheart is hand cut and hand-stitched by Claraclips and made of 100% wool. She even has a removable dress (oh my goodness, this could be Barbie's replacement!!)  Check out claraclips shop for more handmade creations.

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and claraclips

Friday Finds: ceramic Christmas Tree Snowflake Ornaments by ButlerPottery

Joyce has created these beautiful snowflakes ornaments out of ceramic. She first rolls out some clay and then cuts the shape. After brushing the color she then fires the ornament for the second time and brushes a mother-of-pearl glaze to give it some iridescence. These ornaments come in blue, brown or purple and would make a beautiful gift set. You can start your own handmade tradition! Visit Joyce's shop to see more of her ceramic creations!

Friday Finds will be back in the New Year! Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Holiday season and all the best for 2012!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and butlerpottery

Friday Finds: Sterling Silver Lapis Lazuli Earrings by philosophiacreations

Lapis Lazuli is one of my favorite luxe gemstones, so I am so pleased to show you my latest find. These gorgeous earrings are made by Michelle of philosophiacreations and are not only sizeable but have beautiful flecks of gold pyrite running through them. These are available in sterling silver and copper, and for more designs, please visit her Etsy shop.

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and philosophiacreations

Friday Finds: Silver Dragonfly Embroidered Picture by SandrasCardShop

Today's find features an embroidered picture of a dragonfly by SandrasCardShop. I've always thought of dragonflies as magical and ethereal, and Sandra's embroidery conveys just that. Embroidered in silver and black and mounted on silver damask paper, it makes a very pretty picture, ready for framing. Visit SandrasCardShop for more lovely pictures and cards.

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and SandrasCardShop

Friday Finds: Roxie Green Fringe Glass earrings by ToxieDesigns

This vibrant pair of earrings is made by Jennifer from Winnipeg-based ToxieDesigns. In case you were wondering, Toxie is Jennifer's nickname for the Amazonian warrior and archer Toxaris. She has handcrafted these earrings out of Argentium Silver and included vintage glass beads as part of the simple and elegant design. Look in her shop to see more designs, some of which were featured in the movies!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and ToxieDesigns

Friday Finds: Drawstring Bag for Knitting Project by zigzagstitches

'Tis the season to be knitting, fa la la la la...!
And zigzagstitches has just the accessory to keep all your knitting in an organized fashion. The padded drawstring bag comes in a variety of fun fabrics and has room for lots of yarn, needles and patterns. I especially like the fact that the padding prevents the needles from poking through. Check out more items from this wonderful shop!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team and zigzagstitches

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: 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

Shop Spotlight: Junquete's 5 & 10 Variety

What if you suddenly woke up one morning and decided you just had to have a shoe purse, or a pair of Betty Boop earrings, or even a few vintage finds? Where would you find all of that? What if I told you that you could find it all in one place. Well, you most certainly can. At Junquete's 5 & 10 Variety you'll find all that and more.

Norma is a wonderfully creative gal who runs her shop out of Alberta, Canada. Here's a little bit about Norma and her creations.

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

Norma: That’s a tough question for me- -I flit like a bird from one spot to another all the time. I think that would be making earrings. That’s what got me through a very rough battle with a virus a few years ago. I love the challenge of turning anything I see into an earring. A friend once said when she looks at an item she sees it for what it is. When I look at that same item I see it as earrings.

I also love doing my shoe purses. They are something that I figured out for myself. I entered a contest to make a purse out of recycled items for under $5.00. I saw a manufactured shoe purse years ago and really wanted one but didn’t have the money to buy it. So because of the contest I took on the challenge. The finished purse came in at 3.95 so it was well under the five bucks. I used a shoe that was a friend’s already wrecked shoe, a belt, and a pair of black vinyl pants with a hole in them and broken chain and conchos. Funny enough it was purchased as a gift for a cross dressing comedian. He loved it.

Oh Canada: Where did you learn your skills?

Norma: I’d have to say self taught. I’ve been sewing since I was a little girl. My mother had a treadle sewing machine (not sure why though, she never used it ever). I wasn’t allowed to touch it but that didn’t stop me. I had to get down and pump like mad and crawl back up to sew. Sewed my thumb. Got a tetanus shot and spanking for that. I’ve never taken a formal lesson in anything I’ve done. It’s been one look at it and see if I can adapt it into something I’d like to wear.

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

Norma: I think what has driven me to do what I do has to be blamed on not having a lot of money to purchase whatever I liked. I’ve seen jewellery I’ve absolutely loved but could never have afforded. I figured making it myself would be the next best thing. So that’s what makes me do it. But for some reason I can’t just make one of something. I have this bad ailment that makes me go overboard! If I am going to make something I might as well make several. That’s my husband’s take on it.

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

Norma: Silversmith - glass blowing - but I’m afraid of fire!

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

Norma: I’ve had a few ideas pop into my head. The one thing I’ve wanted to do for so long is make my own greeting cards. They’ve been on my mind for so long now and I can’t wait to get started on some. I’ve been making them for family for some time now. I like to mix it up with some sarcasm at times too.

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

Norma: It has to be the thrill of the sale. When someone likes my work enough to buy it, it really gets my heart pumping.

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

Norma: Don’t listen to naysayers! If you want to do it just do it! As well as join this team(Oh Canada Team). The caring and encouragement here is wonderful.

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

Norma: Beads- supplies -beads -supplies- bead….

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

Norma: That’s a tough one! My shoe purses are pretty darn unique, though.
I also think my Betty Boop collection is an area I haven't expanded yet and need to.










You can always drop by at Junquete's 5 & 10 Variety to see what new creations Norma is working on. You can also keep up with Norma via Facebook, or see some more item photos on Flickr.




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