OhCanadaTeam Secret Santa 2011

Once again the OhCanadaTeam held a secret santa gift exchange and it was tons of fun! We decided to host the event on Elfster this year which made matching up givers and giftees a bit easier. It was also fun to be able to ask anonymous questions! Many thanks again to Mary Ann of TheBackyardBear for organizing and coordinating the event. Below are a sample of some of the happy recipients with their gifts.







Isabelle of IGBijoux received a gorgeous scarf and bracelet from Josy of JDArtStudio.
Josy, in turn, received an assortment of lovely paper items from Christina of j2studios.







Jen, of Jensdreamdecor received beautiful and toasty mittens from Mary Ann of TheBackyardBear










and Mary Ann received several stunning pieces of turquoise jewelry from Leanne of LeanneDesigns.







And finally, Karen of KarensRopeWork received a gorgeous necklace from Isabelle of IGBijoux, and Molly of LittleBearsMom received a lovely, romantic necklace from Caroline of DarkRide.
















The 2nd annual OhCanadaTeam gift exchange was lots of fun for everyone involved. Who doesn't like to receive a suprise package in the mail? Happy Holidays to all, and here's hoping that at least some of us get to enjoy a white Christmas. Stay warm, enjoy time with friends and family, and see you in the New Year!!!

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

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

OhCanadaTeam holiday 2011 Sale, pt. 2

The OhCanadaTeam 2011 Holiday Sale is still going strong! Check out the shops listed below for wonderful deals on handmade and vintage items. Ends Nov. 13th.

Sale into the holidays!, by JansonPottery

alchemylifestyle	holiday15	15% off
AngelqueCreations	holiday15	15% off & free shipping
Anterosurbanwood	holiday	20% off
Boomerville	ohcanadateam15	15% off
Brazendesignstudio	ILOVEART	25% off
Brazendesignstudio	ehforart	free shipping
Brazendesignstudio	BDSFAN	25% off for FB fans
castillejacotton	holidayoc	20% off
Cerra	holiday	20% off
cmalinowski3	holidays15off	15% off
clonehardware	holiday	15% off
FinePens	holiday	20% off
flametouchedglass	holiday	15% off
JansonPottery	holiday15	15% off
JensDreamDecor	OHCANADATEAM15	15% off
junquete	holiday	15% off
KristiinaDesigns	Christmas	15% off
LeanneDesigns	HOLIDAY17	17% off
LittleBearsMom	HOLIDAY	15% off
OceanPearlJewellery	HOLIDAY2011	20% off
PatternsAndSuch	holiday	20% off
philosophiacreations	OCTHOLIDAY	20% off
rjcharms	HOLIDAY2011	30% off
shibadesigns	SALE15	15% off
spoolsandbobbins	OHCANADATEAM15	15% off
suzie2q	OHCANADATEAM15	15% off
TheMarulaTreeSoapCo	holiday	15% off
TheOldBarnDoor	holiday	15% off
Vitrine	holiday	15% off

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

OhCanadaTeam Holiday 2011 Sale

Holiday Sale Action in Canada, by ennadoolf


The OhCanadaTeam is having a special holiday sale from Nov. 6 - Nov. 13. The participating shops are listed below along with their coupon code and discount. Just in time to pick up some wonderful gifts for the holidays!

alchemylifestyle	holiday15	15% off
AngelqueCreations	holiday15	15% off & free shipping
Anterosurbanwood	holiday	20% off
Boomerville	ohcanadateam15	15% off
Brazendesignstudio	ILOVEART	25% off
Brazendesignstudio	ehforart	free shipping
Brazendesignstudio	BDSFAN	25% off for FB fans
castillejacotton	holidayoc	20% off
Cerra	holiday	20% off
cmalinowski3	holidays15off	15% off
clonehardware	holiday	15% off
FinePens	holiday	20% off
flametouchedglass	holiday	15% off
JansonPottery	holiday15	15% off
JensDreamDecor	OHCANADATEAM15	15% off
junquete	holiday	15% off
KristiinaDesigns	Christmas	15% off
LeanneDesigns	HOLIDAY17	17% off
LittleBearsMom	HOLIDAY	15% off
OceanPearlJewellery	HOLIDAY2011	20% off
PatternsAndSuch	holiday	20% off
philosophiacreations	OCTHOLIDAY	20% off
rjcharms	HOLIDAY2011	30% off
shibadesigns	SALE15	15% off
spoolsandbobbins	OHCANADATEAM15	15% off
suzie2q	OHCANADATEAM15	15% off
TheMarulaTreeSoapCo	holiday	15% off
TheOldBarnDoor	holiday	15% off
Vitrine	holiday	15% off

Happy Holidays from OhCanadaTeam, by rjcharms

Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

Shop Spotlight: Jen's Dream Decor

I love taking photos and I almost never have them up on display because I never know where or how to display them. How do you put your treasured photographs up in an elegant and fashionable way? Well, with beautiful photo memory boards from Jen's Dream Decor. Jen also works very hard to create beautiful magnet boards, jewellery holders, and other decorative items for your home.

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

Jen: I really love making my Photo Memory Boards the best. I have introduced a gathering technique which I do over double ribbons which really looks lovely and romantic.

Oh Canada: Where did you learn your skills?

Jen: I took a 5 year long night school program in Interior decorating which has helped a lot in the design of products and in fabric choice. A lot of the upholstery and sewing skills I learned in my previous life as a collector bear designer and maker.

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

Jen: What I really love is the feeling of timelessness that comes when you create, where you look up at the clock and can’t believe how much time has passed. There is simply nothing like it.

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

Jen: The art of upholstery is something I admire and love to do in my limited fashion in my shop. I would love to do more and larger projects like headboards.

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

Jen: Yes, a lot of plans…I’ve become re-interested in decoupage and plan to make book ends and expand on my line of key racks and coat racks.

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

Jen: I love having creative control and being part of this fabulous amazing group of talented artists.

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

Jen: Join this team (lol) seriously, joining a team to give you support and friendship is the best thing I ever did.

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

Jen: Supplies, I can’t believe how fabulous the sources are on this site. It would take years to find all these products if I didn’t have Etsy. I also love to support the other members of my teams as much as possible.

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

Jen: I love this frame(see photo to the left), which was a rare and wonderful garage sale find.



Keep up with Jen and see what new discoveries she has made by visiting her Facebook Fan Page. You can also follow her on Twitter and drop by her shop to buy a beautiful, handmade treasure for your home.





Copyright 2011 Oh Canada Team

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: 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

Merry Christmas, Canada!

We all know that the holiday season isn’t about getting presents. It’s about family, friends, hope and generosity. But the presents are pretty great!

This year some of our team members participated in a fun, cross-country Secret Santa exchange. Artists were paired up to trade small gifts from their shops in the spirit of giving. Here are some of the wonderful things that made their way around Canada:

From Blue Jeans Jewelry, to Karen's Rope Work, a wonderful handmade necklace.



From The Backyard Bear, to Wave Song, handpainted wildlife art.



From Frog Princess Designs, to Dark Ride, gorgeous handmade jewelry.



From Dark Ride to Butler Pottery,
a gorgeous handmade necklace.



From lepetitreve to Christine Sherriffs,
an adorable owl door tassel.



From Joanniel Creations to Little Bear’s Mom,
a delightful pair of handmade earrings.



From Batty’s Bath to Annabelle’s Art,
a delicious smelling handmade skin care set.



And last, but not least, the host of our Secret Santa exchange, The Backyard Bear,
received a wonderful selection of handmade body bars from soapstar.

From all of Oh Canada, to all of you - Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team

Canadian Gift Guides

A handmade gift is a treasure to behold. Our Canadian artists have gathered together some fantastic collections of gift ideas, featuring fantastic handmade and vintage designs.

Made in Canada Blues Under $50
by Lostcode





Your Man Will Love...
by Bunny Safari Pottery





Have a Holly Jolly Christmas
by Tarapparel

Copyright 2010 Oh Canada Team and Etsy.com