Miss Crowland

Giveaway happening!

2012-02-02T11:31:00.003-05:00

Head over to the lovely blog The Marion House Book, for a chance to win my little Fox Necklace, and find out a little more about my collaboration with The Arthur in Toronto.....

Happy Faces

2012-01-31T09:30:00.000-05:00

My new project is finally done and available in the shop! I've called them Happy Face Bracelets, both as a play on the watch 'face', and just because they can't help but make you smile when you look at them. I have a few multiples of a couple of the styles, so you can select which colour you wanted as well! You might as well start spring early.

In the works...

2012-01-27T12:55:00.000-05:00

Coming soon...very excited to let you know about this one...

Great Graphics

2012-01-23T20:20:00.001-05:00

Love this so much.

Gettysburg Address from Adam Gault on Vimeo.

3 More

2012-01-20T10:16:00.002-05:00

I had an extra surge of inspiration this week, and have 3 more necklaces up at Big Tinsel! It's been fun getting carried away with Valentine's Day ideas...especially some shorter and chunkier necklaces. Have a great weekend, kids.

Google Fun

2012-01-18T21:26:00.000-05:00

Google hydrangeas, and this happens. I can't be the only one who finds this hilarious.

I've got my sights set on you.

2012-01-12T19:41:00.001-05:00

Hey guys, did you know Valentine's Day is just around the corner? That's right, you've barely recovered from your Christmas spending and finished off your Christmas chocolates, and now it's time to buy more gifts! I've added a couple of items to Big Tinsel with Valentine in mind, but I did my best to stray from the conventional played out iconography. The Hunter Bracelet is a bit of a play on the Cupid idea, and I also had a couple of vintage heart cutouts that worked out to be really cute pendants when a stray bullet is dangled in the centre of them. Plus, it's an homage to a classic Bon Jovi song...so it had to be.

New Year, New Mix

2012-01-08T12:20:00.002-05:00

Happy belated new year! Here's hoping for happiness and prosperity for everyone this year.

To start out things, I added a couple of new pieces to Big Tinsel. These babies feature elements from relatively tacky and standard costume jewellery elevated into something a bit edgier. Something tells me transformation is going to be a big theme for me this year. In the shop now!

Recent Discoveries

2011-12-20T22:26:00.000-05:00

I've spent some time on the internet machine coming across some amazing artists in the past couple of weeks. Interestingly, they are all women, all use completely different mediums, but seem to be strongly influenced by the natural world. I'll let the work speak for itself. So much jaw-dropping talent...

Textile designer Victoria Garcia.

Sculptor Kate MacDowell.

Photographer Robin Schwartz.

Industrial designer Inma Bermúdez.

Portrait Deadline

2011-12-13T23:57:00.001-05:00

Hello all! I wanted to inform you that the deadline for Miss Crowland portraits will be for this Sunday, December 18th. Because the files are sent electronically, I am not bound by any shipping deadlines! I do plan on starting my holiday early next week, however, so I need to make sure I have sufficient time to work on late orders.

I thought I would share a few recent portraits, my Pet Markings Portraits, and the Custom Couple Portrait. I wanted to include this because this man's profile is THE BEST, and the flower in her hair is pretty cute too. It turns out he is the guitarist from Canadian band Billy Talent and girlfriend, which I didn't find out until later!

I also wanted to thank everyone who helped support me this past year. I truly appreciate all of you. This year is ending on a challenging note, so please know you have really helped an independent artist in the world. I hope to add at least one new style of portrait in the new year, so stay tuned.

Navy

2011-12-12T15:08:00.002-05:00

Kate Spade, Navy from Chris Silas Neal on Vimeo.

Love this animation.

Big Tinsel Update

2011-12-09T21:46:00.001-05:00

Lots of updates in the world of Big Tinsel these days. I first wanted to mention that Christmas shipping deadlines have passed for US shipments, but within Canada, the deadline is December 15th. Alternatively, if you live in or near Toronto or Ottawa, you can find Big Tinsel stocked in several boutiques! BT is now available at Milk Shop in Ottawa, where you can also exclusively find my Skin and Stone Necklaces. You can also still find Big Tinsel at The Arthur in Toronto, which has just announced extended holiday hours. Last but not least, you can find a broad selection of many exclusive pieces at Miracle Thieves in Toronto. Actress/Rock Star Juliette Lewis visited Miracle Thieves this past week and purchased my Franklin Necklace! (which is also available at Milk Shop). I encourage you to check out those shops for all kinds of great gifts, while supporting your local communities and artists.

I also added a couple of new pieces to my Etsy shop this week, including the Fox Necklace, as well as gift certificates, which will be provided as PDF files that you can either print out or email.

There is only one.

2011-12-05T23:46:00.001-05:00

I can't get over how happy this makes me.

Miracle Thieves

2011-12-02T12:23:00.001-05:00

Come one come all! This Saturday, Miracle Thieves kicks off it's winter launch, and you can pick up a healthy selection of Big Tinsel items! Most of these items are exclusive to Miracle Thieves, so it's the perfect place to stop for some Christmas shopping! The ladies there are super awesome, and do a great job of supporting Toronto artisans.

2011-11-25T14:29:00.000-05:00

I recently came across the work of video director Emil Trier, who shoots music videos using documentary footage. The results are pretty fascinating. I especially like this particular video, 'Good Day', in which a group of teenage girls run around their town, somehow evoking A Clockwork Orange.More here.

Big Tinsel Update

2011-11-21T13:11:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a nice weekend! The gorgeous weather in Toronto this November continued.

Aaaand...some more items were added to Big Tinsel!

Something to start your weekend...

2011-11-18T11:57:00.000-05:00

All this silly talk of People's sexiest man alive prompted me to set the record straight, once and for all. Enjoy your weekend!

2011-11-13T11:00:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share a little of what I've been working on in my dad's shop. These are some more leather bound rocks that are going to be part of something I will introduce in the next few weeks. Hopefully some of the tricks I picked up from him have paid off. If you live in Toronto, stay tuned!

2011-11-10T14:37:00.000-05:00

I'm mucho excited to share my feature on Miss Moss today. Check it out! Some things you knew about, some you didn't...

Scarf Tutorial

2011-11-09T14:46:00.002-05:00

If you're like me, you want to know how to look nice wearing a scarf, but can only manage to think of two ways to wear one. This nice lady shows us how!!

The best thing you'll see all day.

2011-11-02T21:19:00.001-04:00

I have nothing to add to this other than, I wish this man could be my best friend.

Boo!

2011-10-31T09:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween/ Day of the Dead!

I thought I should include some pics of some of my favourite recent scaaary purchases. I picked up the skull on my recent trip to Oaxaca. It is handmade dark pottery which is a specialty of one of the regions in Oaxaca. Mexico will always suck me in with their love of skull iconography. The hand jewellery holder was just a great find in a thrift store (50 cents!).

I also thought I should include the two newest additions to Big Tinsel, available now, the Muerte Bracelets.

Stay spooky!

2011-10-27T10:00:00.000-04:00

Some new pieces were added to Big Tinsel last night! I have several vintage loafer chains that have been taunting me, because for the longest time I couldn't figure out the best way to use them. I finally settled on the most simple solution of just attaching them to simple leather cords for bracelets.

Leatherbound

2011-10-23T20:03:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was playing around in my dad's shop and stumbled across a fun idea. While trying to work out an idea for something else, I experimented with completely covering pebbles in leather to use as pendants. It works best using a particular style of leather that is a bit softer and stretchier, but with access to the polishing machines and tools, they turn out relatively seamless. I have a couple of them currently in my shop, but I hope to develop the idea further and add more as the weeks go by. Each one will be one of a kind!

2011-10-22T20:57:00.001-04:00

The Adventures of Tintin from James Curran on Vimeo.

These unofficial credits for The Adventures of Tintin will likely be better than the upcoming movie. I'm not one for creepy motion capture animation, and really, Tin Tin? Whatever, this is still worth watching.

2011-10-20T12:28:00.001-04:00

Advanced Style: Age and Beautyfrom Ari Cohen on Nowness.com.

Just something to look forward to!! I love the idea that the older you get, the more you let go. This is what I needed to see after feeling dread about an upcoming birthday.

2011-10-20T00:09:00.000-04:00

Toronto Tempo from Ryan Emond on Vimeo.

Living in a big city can be frustrating sometimes, but I love this ode to Toronto shown in time lapse photography. Sometimes you need to be reminded of what's around you.

2011-10-18T19:13:00.000-04:00

My New Roots - How to Make Nut Milk from My New Roots on Vimeo.

I recently found out about the blog My New Roots through Anabela of Fieldguided. I am always looking for something besides regular milk, and this is too easy not to try. Plus, the photography is gorgeous and the videos are completely charming.

Black and White and Cool All Over

2011-10-14T16:31:00.003-04:00

Some recent additions to my Pinterest page.

Oaxaca

2011-10-08T09:53:00.001-04:00

I thought I would share a couple of my favourite photos from my recent trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. So many markets...so many colours!! You can see all of my photos on my flickr page.

I have also updated Big Tinsel this week, and added a new Posada Bracelet.

All in the Family

2011-09-06T21:51:00.000-04:00

All images can be found on my Pinterest. The Analog Bangles are new at Big Tinsel.

New items and a new look.

2011-08-29T09:30:00.001-04:00

I spent the good part of my Sunday afternoon photographing some new work for Big Tinsel. I played around with some new settings for them, and I'm pretty happy with the results so far...I have some other ideas for changing things up, but that would require devoting some extra time in front of the computer. I also added some new items last week--most of the new work is one of a kind, and my August 20% sale goes until Wednesday!

MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

2011-08-26T11:06:00.003-04:00

This looks amazing.

Samberg meets Borg

2011-08-24T22:58:00.005-04:00

I have fond memories of watching tennis as a child of the 80's...there just doesn't seem to be the same bold personalties around today. I didn't really understand the sport, but watching John McEnroe get worked up was fascinating. New York Times Magazine did an editorial profiling those famous old rivalries, casting Andy Samberg in the roles of various tennis stars, and this has to be one of my favourite editorials I've seen in a while. Totally took me back! You really need to check out the video as well.

SUMMER SALE!

2011-08-15T11:05:00.002-04:00

Because summer isn't over yet, I am having a sale running until the end of August on Big Tinsel! Just type in the coupon code SUMMERFUN on checkout to get 20% off all orders.

Bloorcourt Craft Show!

2011-08-12T10:20:00.003-04:00

I've been a busy little bee preparing for the upcoming Bloorcourt Craft Show this Saturday. It takes place between 11-7, and features many other great vendors positioned on Bloor between Dovercourt and Ossington. You can find me at Bloor and Delaware under the tiki umbrella. I have some new pieces and some new one of a kind pieces (a small selection shown here). It's going to be a good time, so for more info check out the website.

All in the Family

2011-07-12T11:41:00.003-04:00

Goya
Benecio Bag
via Special Party
via heart charlie
Crusades Necklace

Phoenix Wedding Photos

2011-07-04T16:56:00.007-04:00

I recently came across the gorgeous wedding portfolio of Angela & Peter's wedding on Style Me Pretty (thanks, Google Analytics!). I created my hair portraits for them a while back, and they used them for their save the date invitations. I can't get over how stunning this wedding is, from the lovely bee theme to the warm colour palette. So original and tasteful.

All in the Family

2011-06-09T09:00:00.001-04:00

Beet Hummus via Simply Recipes

via Richard Mosse Photography

via The Style Crusader

Fieldguided tote

Spark Necklace on Big Tinsel

West Elm & Etsy

2011-06-07T15:29:00.004-04:00

Thanks to the lovely Ella from West Elm, I have a couple of pictures of me and my booth from the West Elm event this past weekend (I'm hiding in the mirror there). I couldn't really leave my station to walk around and talk to the other vendors, sadly (other than my neighbours Sandi of Deadweight, Nicole Tarasick and of course, Anabela and Geoff). Thanks to everyone who came out, and especially those who visited me. Everyone I talked to that day was very kind and generous, and it was a really positive experience.

You can see many other photos from the event here.

Whew!

2011-06-05T23:09:00.004-04:00

So, how was your weekend?

I had a great weekend with a bustling and successful Saturday at the West Elm and Etsy event, and a peaceful and gorgeous Sunday. I think this video of me and my bird sums it up nicely.

West Elm Pop-up!

2011-05-25T16:08:00.006-04:00

The awesome folks at West Elm and Anabela of Fielguided have invited me to participate in the West Elm Pop-up show in Toronto on June 4th! I will be there with a table set up for Big Tinsel, and will feature some one of a kind pieces before they have a chance to make it to the shop, as well as a few select and newer pieces. There will be many other great local Etsy sellers there, so stop by! If you haven't been to the Toronto West Elm yet, it's the perfect time to check it out. You can find out more here, and let them know if you will be attending.

Kate Bush Revisited

2011-05-20T16:29:00.008-04:00

mmmm yessss!

Right now NPR is featuring a full stream of Kate Bush's 'Directors Cut', in which she's gone back and revamped many of her classics. Just in time for the holiday long weekend here in Canada! Hear it here.

All in the Family

2011-05-19T16:29:00.004-04:00

Deadweight

from piccsy
via Simone LeBlanc

New! Malocchio Bracelet from Big Tinsel

Bridesmaids

2011-05-15T12:56:00.005-04:00

When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I dismissed it a bit as trying to be like The Hangover for girls. However, good word of mouth, and an overall desire to encourage Hollywood to make women-centric comedies that don't have anything to do with shopping or finding a boyfriend prompted me to go. It was worth the trip to the theatre. For some reason, they marketed it as something it's not, and what it really is is a fantastic, hilarious and bold comedy writted by women for EVERYONE. Please go see it! I enjoyed it in a theatre full of people who were having as good a time as I was. We need to make sure smart ladies get to keep making movies!

All in the Family

2011-05-13T15:26:00.003-04:00

Shell Mug from Villarreal Ceramics

Cate. via Socialite Life

Liberty Print via kris atomic

via Angela Hardison

New! Killing Me Softly bracelet on Big Tinsel.

All in the Family

2011-05-11T12:13:00.005-04:00

New! Mariner Necklace at Big Tinsel

New at Big Tinsel!

2011-05-04T22:24:00.002-04:00

Calla Earrings
Killing Me Softly Necklace
Lightning Dust Earrings

With spring, comes flowers, pastel colours and storms...

Sleeping Beauty

2011-04-19T15:41:00.002-04:00

Every once in a while a trailer comes along that really makes you pay attention. Very Kubrickian.

New this week!

2011-04-14T17:32:00.003-04:00

I've been feeling a bit more experimental lately.

Foxtrot Necklace
Abstract Necklace

New Purchases

2011-04-10T21:56:00.004-04:00

I thought I would share some recent purchases that have made me happy:

Sterling silver ring tucked away in a shop in Chinatown...haggled down to $15! I love it--it looks like it comes both from the future and from medieval times.

A lovely tote bag picked up at the Toronto OOAK spring show. This is from a local designer, Bookhou. It has a lovely lavender tie dye wash, and it goes perfectly with my scarf from Urban Revisions! I might have to go to their shop and pick up one of the pouches as well.

Melancholia

2011-04-10T17:05:00.002-04:00

Does anyone want to see this as much as I do?

Melancholia from Zentropa on Vimeo.

Silhouette mug and subject.

2011-04-03T17:36:00.002-04:00

I thought I would share a photo my friend sent me of his cat Elvis with his silhouette mug. Elvis seems pleased.

From cats to birds, I feel like this video needs to be seen by as many people as possible. I love Ratatat, and I love budgies, so my head nearly exploded when I saw this.

My first public market!!

2011-03-29T11:10:00.006-04:00

If you've got Thursday night free in Toronto, please do check out the spring pop-up show at the Drake underground this week. I will have a booth set up for Big Tinsel! Many of my items will be discounted specifically for the show. The lovely Eva of TNK Vintage will be looking over my booth for me, as unfortunately I cannot be there personally (but I will be there briefly at the start and end of the show). However, there will be tons of great artisans there, and lots of other fun stuff to do. You can check out the facebook page here.

New this week on Big Tinsel

2011-03-17T13:48:00.003-04:00

A new variation on the Posada Bracelet

Miner Necklace

Canada's official tartan

2011-03-10T16:10:00.003-05:00

I am not even remotely Scottish, but it this was recently revealed as Canada's official tartan, and I LOVE IT. The colours are meant to evoke the changing fall leaves.

via Canada.com

New this week on Big Tinsel

2011-03-08T22:37:00.004-05:00

Posada Bracelet

Swirl Necklace

Misfits!

2011-03-06T12:45:00.005-05:00

I've been talking to anyone who will listen that they should watch the British show, Misfits. It's stylish, funny, dark, sexy...great writing and a terrific cast. Seasons 1 and 2 are available to view on YouTube, and I can't wait for the third, which debuts in the UK in November this year. Trust me...this show is addictive.

Steven and Chris update...

2011-03-01T09:30:00.001-05:00

Look for the silhouette mugs (created by Brooklyn Rehab and myself) to be featured on Wednesday on Steven and Chris (CBC). You can check out this week's line-up on their website. They used our photo on their site for a sneak peek!

The best ladies

2011-02-28T21:47:00.004-05:00

Can I just take a moment to express my unabashed love for Tilda and Cate? Cate Blanchett was a total rock star at the Oscars last night...the only thing that made it worth watching.

via here and here

New on BIg Tinsel!

2011-02-23T21:58:00.005-05:00

The Order Ring (limited quantity).

Heavy Metal Necklace (one of a kind).

Laser Beam Necklace (one of a kind).

Steven and Chris!

2011-02-21T17:25:00.004-05:00

Some exciting news I was waiting to share is that the silhouette mugs that Brooklyn Rehab and I collaborate on are going to be featured in a future episode of Steven and Chris! Steven and Chris is a daytime talk show broadcast across Canada on CBC, but they have been recently picked up by several networks in the U.S. as well. The taping of our segment was last Wednesday, and I was kindly invited to attend by the segment producer, Jamey Ordolis. They were part of a feature about customized gifts you can purchase online. I wasn't allowed to take photos during taping, but you can see them in the shot above. They were portraits of the hosts, in case you can't make them out clearly. I still don't know when the episode will air on CBC, but I will be sure to update once I know.

2011-02-18T10:46:00.004-05:00

OK...so I really need to watch Portlandia.

New this week on Big Tinsel

2011-02-13T11:44:00.003-05:00

Available now!

2011-02-02T09:30:00.004-05:00

I love this fashion video for Givenchy Spring 2011.

Colour and Valentines

2011-02-01T10:00:00.001-05:00

I know this is a bit late in the game for Valentine's, but I added a new necklace to the shop over the weekend at the final hour. The Love Me, Love Me Not Necklace is sort of valentine/anti-valentine idea, but it is also abstract enough that it just works as being something different and punchy to spruce up an outfit. The colour of these beads is delicious. Hearts are just so boring, you know? I have been thinking a lot about COLOUR lately as well, so this is the first in some newer, brighter pieces I will be adding in the coming weeks for Spring.

Gasp!

2011-01-30T11:10:00.004-05:00

How would the planets look if they were as close to us as the moon?

Scale from Brad Goodspeed on Vimeo.

On another lunar note, I just added the Half Moon Necklace to big tinsel.

Second Life

2011-01-24T11:50:00.006-05:00

I recently came across these amazing Second Life rugs. They are old persian rugs that have been given a new life by dyeing them with a wash of bright colour. They are a bit steep in price (over $2000), but a great idea nonetheless.

via Elte

New Work

2011-01-21T12:59:00.002-05:00

I've been recovering from surgery for the past couple of weeks, which resulted in a secondary surprise injury to my arm, so it's been a bit quiet. However, I did manage to add some new items to Big Tinsel!

Insects and Dark Liquid

2011-01-02T18:40:00.006-05:00

Big Tinsel has moved into a slightly more science fiction direction as of late, with the new additions of my Dark Drop Earrings and Exoskeleton Necklace.

Maybe it was seeing The Wrath of Khan as a kid??

Stunning

2010-12-31T16:20:00.003-05:00

I love this time lapse photography of the milky way over Lake Tahoe. Truly humbling.

via Bad Astronomy

Hallelujah

2010-12-30T13:06:00.006-05:00

I guess many of you have seen this YouTube video of the flash mob choir? It happened in the mall in my hometown!! The Seaway Mall in Welland, Ontario, if you're interested. On my birthday!! Makes me teary eyed...

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T10:45:00.007-05:00

I'm back from the holidays, and I thought I would celebrate with a sale until New Year's Day for 15% off everything on Big Tinsel. Just type in HELLO2011 on checkout!

If you're wondering what is happening in the photo above, it's all part of what you'll see coming up in 2011 on Big Tinsel. Check back for details!

P.S. Does anyone know a good source for small cardboard sleeves??

A special message...

2010-12-23T22:24:00.007-05:00

I just wanted to extend my warmest and deepest thanks for everyone who has visited my blog/twitter, and especially all my customers at Miss Crowland and Big Tinsel over the past year! I feel lucky to have come across so many great people. Have a safe and happy holidays, and see you in the new year!

xo,

Maria

A gentle reminder to rock on.

2010-12-19T16:24:00.005-05:00

Fortunata Bracelet just added to Big Tinsel. I completely love how this bracelet turned out. I won't be adding any new work to the shop until the new year, and will be taking Big Tinsel and Miss Crowland on vacation starting Thursday of this week, so come and visit!

There's still time!!

2010-12-17T21:28:00.003-05:00

If you think you don't have time for a special customized gift this Christmas, I must remind you that I will definitely be available for all kinds of custom portraits in the next week. The beauty of digital files and the internet! These Pet Markings Portraits are just a small example of some of what I've been busy with over the past couple of weeks. Confession: I always make goofy noises to myself when I draw pets. I can't help it. Look at these faces!

The look of Black Swan

2010-12-13T15:15:00.010-05:00

I saw Black Swan over the weekend, and was really blown away by the production design. They stuck to a defined palette of black, white, grey, green and pink, and I especially thought it was interesting how the interiors of the ballet company looked looked very prison-like at times. I also love how both objects and people were continually being broken down and forced into new shapes. This film is a real genre buster, and the end result is thrilling to watch.

This short goes into the production design a bit to help explain the thought process.

Intense

2010-12-09T13:05:00.006-05:00

This tribute to Alexander McQueen, shot by Nick Knight, is pretty amazing. There's something particularly tragic when such fiercely creative people leave this world.

via FASHIONOLOGIE

Music isn't dead!

2010-12-07T12:47:00.004-05:00

Aloe Blacc is a genius. That is all.

New things!

2010-12-05T21:58:00.006-05:00

It's been a pretty busy couple of weeks with both Big Tinsel and Miss Crowland. I have some new pieces available at Big Tinsel.

Thanks to Anabela at Fieldguided, I sold out of my previous version of my Comet Necklace, and I created a new version that is a little more rough and cosmic.

The Molten Earrings are a super shiny organic shape, and I've worn mine several times already.

The Bright Idea Necklace is inspired by that moment that a little spark finds its way to your brain.

More with the science!

2010-11-24T21:56:00.006-05:00

So, I was hunting around my dad's cash register this past weekend (not what it sounds like!), and found some great salvaged hardware. He keeps all kinds of things in a couple of the compartments that have been saved from who knows what. I particularly like this double bead, which I thought would be great with two chains going through either opening. Hence, the Mitosis Necklace was born!

P.S. I am currently offering a promotion for Black Friday that runs until the end of this weekend (Nov 28). Just type in the discount code TURKEY15 upon purchase, and you will get 15% off!

My new musical crush

2010-11-18T21:52:00.005-05:00

I mean, are you kidding me with this? Dayum. Plus, he's on the twitter, and he tweeted me back! sigh...

You could go with this...or you could go with that...

2010-11-14T18:00:00.003-05:00

I added a set to Big Tinsel this weekend. I don't often make sets, but I love the mix of sizes and colours by pairing up these two charms. Subtle as a necklace and dramatic as earrings.

Updates!

2010-11-07T20:15:00.003-05:00

So, what do me and Rachel McAdams have in common?

We both make an appearance in the November issue of InStyle magazine! My (and Brooklyn Rehab's) silhouette mugs are in a shopping feature on page 344.

New goodies coming.

2010-10-31T19:41:00.003-04:00

I've spent quite a bit of time in my dad's shop, going through all kinds of hardware. Most of the time I try to think of any use something can have beyond it's original intention, and while some of it has potential, sometimes a buckle is just a buckle, a grommet is just a grommet. I decided that I am going to start selling vintage buckles as supplies in my shop, and see how it goes. Maybe they can be used as buckles, or maybe something else?? Who knows? I'm going to start with this small selection, and see how much I can add later on. There's more where this came from!

These pieces will probably find themselves in a necklace at some point in the future...

Happy Halloween

2010-10-29T14:45:00.005-04:00

Loving these fan-created opening credits for the new AMC series, The Walking Dead. I think I might watch this tonight.

THE WALKING DEAD "Opening Titles" from Daniel Kanemoto on Vimeo.

I love this song.

2010-10-26T15:17:00.004-04:00

New this week on Big Tinsel

2010-10-23T15:55:00.001-04:00

Knotted Necklace
Remix Necklace

I've always been a bird person.

2010-10-21T21:12:00.004-04:00

In a blog world inundated with cat people, I just needed to put one out there for the bird people! I never had a chance to be anything else.

2010-10-20T11:25:00.009-04:00

Here's the thing...I'm a lazy bitch. That is why I don't blog terribly often, or put myself out there more. I'm also not naturally outgoing or perky, and sometimes I think that blogging requires too much of an 'exclamation point' mentality that I confess, is a bit unnatural for me. I recently came across an interesting new social media application called Pinterest (from Allison). With blogging, I have to SAVE an image, upload it, write about it, bla bla bla. Pinterest is a much simpler and more immediate way to share. It's a great way to archive what you love, and do it from anywhere. I think it will also be interesting for me to see what I dig in one place, and see if any patterns reveal themselves. Please follow me, and join!!!!!(exlamation point!). You can follow me, I can follow you...and the internet gods keep smiling.

Me like. Me buy.

2010-10-12T19:57:00.005-04:00

•boots by BC

•cardigan from ASOS

Do you need a new favourite song?

2010-10-06T22:07:00.004-04:00

I'm a sucker for 60's garage music. I heard this song at the end of the first episode of the new season of Eastbound and Down last week, and I could not be happier that it is now in my life. Perfect for Halloween!!

It's available for download on iTunes in the album 'Lucha va Voom - Señor Amor's Mexican R&R Faves', along with some other awesome Mexican cover songs. You're welcome.

New at Big Tinsel!

2010-10-01T18:55:00.006-04:00

Well, I guess I have been feeling a bit of a creative surge lately. I came across a pair of earrings with these great faceted gunmetal beads, so I decided to take them apart to create a series of necklaces with a 'dark star' astronomy theme. I only found the one pair of earrings, so my quantity of these necklaces is really limited. At Big Tinsel now!

Recent Custom Work

2010-09-29T21:43:00.006-04:00

I wanted to share a custom Lord of the Flies series I completed a couple of weeks ago. I had a customer who wanted to personalize it using her children. So fun! I love that it's hanging in the bathroom.

New at BIg Tinsel!

2010-09-21T21:23:00.002-04:00

Just added this week at Big Tinsel!

Gentlemen Broncos

2010-09-20T13:07:00.003-04:00

I have yet to see Jared Hess' follow-up to Napoleon Dynamite, Gentlemen Broncos, but the opening credit sequence is fantasic. The only thing I know about this film is it is about a science fiction writer who steals an idea from a teenager...or something like that. Each credit has their own book jacket design, using original vintage illustrations. Amazing. Check it out here, with a great interview about the making-of.

via Art of the Title

Reading...

2010-09-07T21:57:00.006-04:00

So, I spent the long weekend visiting my parents, and they have very limited cable. The weather was also a bit off. I decided to buy a copy of The Hunger Games. After that, all bets were off. I finished it on Sunday night, and I needed to run to the drugstore to buy the other two installments. I've now started the third, and while I'm starting to slow the pace a bit, I still felt inspired to do the nerdiest thing possible...make an Etsy treasury themed to the book. Seriously, this book finds it's way into your brain. Do yourself a favour and give in!

Just added to Big Tinsel!

2010-09-02T13:47:00.005-04:00

Don't these colours remind you of the magic hour? Two new necklaces added to Big Tinsel today!

Last minute addition...

What I want right now...

2010-08-31T23:04:00.006-04:00

With fall coming, I can't help but think of getting myself some new things! It's time to change things up a little. Wanting...

A leather satchel. I love this one from the Etsy shop goldenponies. They are made to order!

A colourful and girly kimono robe. Is there a more regal way of hanging around the house? This new obsession may stem from me watching Golden Girls reruns. Blanche had the best robe collection. I am having a hard time finding one I like, however. I want something with bold colours, slightly graphic in a more traditional Japanese way. No pictures of geishas or tacky chinatown prints. This one at plum pretty sugar is close...but a little too pastel. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Finally, I have been thinking about a new rug for a while, and I have decided on getting a black and white cowhide rug. There is a great leather store on King St. in downtown Toronto that has a fantastic selection...just waiting for the weather to cool down a bit first.

Standing Portaits -- wedding edition

2010-08-26T17:05:00.003-04:00

Thought I would share this wedding portrait I just finished last week. It's the first time someone has asked me to create a wedding portrait for my Standing Portait listing.