Archive for 2012|Yearly archive page

The thanx.

In american made, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 26, 2012 at 10:00 am

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They thought. They shopped. They spent. They wrapped. And they delivered.

Now, its your turn.

Let them know how much you appreciate the new whatever they gave you by writing (that is the one with the pen and paper, you may have studied about it in history class) a proper thank you note.

Of course, proper does not mean have to mean stuffy. It just means sincere (if you’re not – fake it), spell-checked and, best of all, punctual.

The 10 fantastic American companies below make expressing gratitude fun.

In fact, their clever and artful cards below are so fabulous that you might just get a thank you note for your fabulous thank you note.

(So stock up!)

CarolynSuzukiThankfulBows

Thankful Bows Boxed Set ($15) by Carolyn Suzuki Goods

Made in Los Angeles, California

Set of 8 cards. 4.25″ w x 5.5″ h. Printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Cards come with a brown craft paper envelope. (Also available as a single card.) Carolyn Suzuki Goods are inspired by nature, the past, the present, and Carolyn’s son Akira’s imaginative mind.

TheCloudMachineGracias

Gracias (Thank You) Card Set ($12) by The Cloud Machine

Made in Portland, Oregon

Set of 6 cards. Simple graphic is hand-drawn and lettered. Screenprinted onto either grey or green (shown) cover stock. Includes speckled cream envelopes. (Also available as a single card.) The Cloud Machine makes smart, bold, Latino-inspired clothing and paper goods using non-toxic inks, organic cotton, paper milled with wind-power, and a whole lot of love.

Exit343UpcycledThankYouCards

Upcycled Circular Thank You Cards ($4) by Exit 343 Designs

Made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Single card. 5.25″ w. Bright blue with a faint swirl background design, yellow accent and mint printed hand-drawn text. Made from upcycled card stock and comes with coordinating square envelopes.  (Also available as a set of 6.) Exit 343 Designs makes silkscreen cards and prints and creates/sews functional goodies with hand printed fabrics.

FlyRabbitPressThanksDude

Thanks Dude Card Set ($18) by Fly Rabbit Press

Made in Rochester, New York

Set of 6 cards. 5.5″ w x 4.25″ h. Printed on lush white 100% cotton paper using wood & metal type. Blank inside. Comes with dark chocolate colored envelopes. (Also available as a single card.) Fly Rabbit Press makes a variety of letterpress printed goodies, including posters, prints, cards & coasters.

HawkGerberManyFranks

Many Franks Letterpress Thank You Card ($5) by Hawk Gerber, Ink

Made in Ladera Ranch, California

Single card. 4.25″ w x 5.5″ h. Original design, letterpress printed on high quality card stock. Comes with a kraft envelope. Hawk Gerber, Ink creates letterpress works that incorporate humor and goofy images.

LaFamiliaGreenPickleJarTY

Pickle Jar Thank You Card Set ($12) by La Familia Green

Made in Chicago, Illinois

Set of 6 cards. Flat printed on recycled paper from an original handcut collage, drawing, or print. White envelopes included. (Also available as a single card.) La Familia Green was conceived by a painter/printmaker/paperlover whose aesthetic is Mexican folk art meets Scandinavian design meets wildlife preserve. The Company gives a portion of all proceeds to Chicago-area animal charities.

ManVsGeorgeRetroCassetteThankYou

Retro Tape Cassette Thank You Card Set ($16.50) by Man vs. George

Made in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Set of 10. 5.5″ w x 4.25″ folded. Blank inside and includes green envelopes. Illustration of vintage cassette tape by fictional band – The Gratitudes. On front is printed “thanks” and on the back is printed “you rock”. 100% recycled, FSC certified premium 80 lb off-white smooth cover stock. (Also available in red and/or as a single card.) Man vs. George makes modern greeting cards that wrap around front to back for twice the color & fun.

SadShopSoNiceOfYou

So Nice of You Card ($5) by Sad Shop

Made in Seattle, Washington

Single Card. (Buy 4, get 1 free.)  5″ w x 7″ h. White card with bold red letters. Blank inside. Recycled papers, biodegradable sleeve. Printed in small batches. Hand-folded and hand-packed. Sad Shop makes funny greeting cards and sweet, sad things.

SycamoreStreetPressMerciCard

Merci Card ($4.50) by Sycamore Street Press

Made in Heber City, Utah

Single card. Size A2. Printed by hand on 100% recycled card stock using a vintage letterpress. Sycamore Street Press creates letterpress goods using materials and techniques that are sustainable and good for you.

TwoTrickPonyThankYouSpiral

Thank You Spiral Boxed Card Set ($16) by Two Trick Pony

Made in Milford, Massachusetts

Set of 8 cards. 4.25″ x 5.5″ when folded. Blank inside and include kraft envelopes. Screenprinted by hand with water-based inks. Made of 100% post-consumer waste. Packaged in a clear box. (Also available as a single card.) Two Trick Pony is an innovative, playful, retro-inspired and bold design studio and screenprinting shop.

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Merry Christmas 2012.

In Uncategorized on December 24, 2012 at 10:00 am

MERRY CHRISTMAS.

In this season of things wrapped in colorful paper and tied with beautiful bows, I wish for you all the things that cannot be put into a box:

Charity. Compassion. Contentment. Faith. Forgiveness. Generosity. Gratefulness. Hospitality. Humility. Joy. Love. Patience. Peace. Prosperity. Security. Sincerity. Tolerance. Wisdom.

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There is little to say about Christmas that has not already been said, so for your enjoyment I’ve collected some of the most poignant, profound, inspirational and funny words on the subject below. Please enjoy and thanks for reading!

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. ~ Luke 2:14

Christmas is the day that holds all time together. ~ Alexander Smith

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. ~ Oren Arnold

Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall. ~ Larry Wilde

Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people once a year. ~ Victor Borge

Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love! ~ Hamilton Wright Mabie

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. ~ Charles Dickens

We should make the Yuletide season an occasion not merely for the giving of material things but an occasion for the giving of that which counts infinitely more … the giving of self. ~ J. C. Penney

Christmas is the keeping-place for memories of our innocence. ~ Joan Mills

What I don’t like about Christmas office parties is looking for a job the next day. ~ Phyllis Diller

What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace. ~ Agnes M. Pahro

A good conscience is a continual Christmas. ~ Benjamin Franklin

There’s nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child. ~ Erma Bombeck

This is my wish for you: peace of mind, prosperity through the year, happiness that multiplies, health for you and yours, fun around every corner, energy to chase your dreams, joy to fill your holidays! ~ D.M. Dellinger

Remember, this December, that love weighs more than gold. ~ Josephine Dodge Daskam Bacon

The main reason Santa is so jolly is because he knows where all the bad girls live. ~ George Carlin

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It is never too early to get 2013 off to the right start:

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The stocking.

In american made, beverage, household, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 20, 2012 at 10:45 am

Stocking1

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care . . .

And as pretty as they looked in the family Christmas portrait, your loved ones did not hang them on the mantle to be lovely holiday decorations.

They hung them there as a way to get more presents, this time with size-constraints.

So do not disappoint them.

Choose from the 9 American-made goodies below. The assortment includes fun, festive, fashionable and functional treats ready to fill your stockings (and maybe even your dreams).

Go shopping.

TomBihnUltraSuedeUltra Suede Screen Cloth ($7) by Tom Bihn

Made in USA

9″ square. Ultrasuede® Screen Cloth gently yet effectively cleans smudges off of glossy surfaces (iPads, iPhones, laptops, monitors, eyeglasses and sunglasses). The edges are sewn so it will not scratch. Lightly embossed with the Tom Bihn logo. Hand wash with a very small amount of mild soap. Available in Asphalt Grey, Lapis Blue and Iberian Red (shown). Tom Bihn does not settle for less than the best in the design and construction of its über-durable bags and accessories.

Violent_Lips_houdstooth-pink_grandePink Houndstooth Temporary Lip Appliques ($14.95) by Violent Lips

Made in USA

Set of 3 appliqués. Vitamin enhanced with a smooth finish. Fit all lips. Easy to use. Last up to 8 hours. Remove easily with mineral or baby oil and a textured wipe. FDA approved, 100% latex and gluten free. Available in 200 styles including holiday patterns, animal prints, game day favorites, glitteratti sparkle and national flags. Violent Eyes Temporary Eye Appliqués also available. Violent Lips Collection offers a statement-making line of products that offer the ultimate form of self-expression.

MoonstruckChocolateMr&MrsClausTruffles

Mr. & Mrs. Claus Truffle Collection ($15) by Moonstruck Chocolate Company

Made in Portland, Oregon

4 piece set. Set includes (2) Santa Claus and (2) Mrs. Claus. Handmade of milk chocolate toffee and classic milk chocolate ganache. Moonstruck Chocolate Company makes the finest artisan treats with fresh local ingredients for an unmatched taste experience.

SparqSoapsotneRocks

Soapstone Ice Rocks ($19.50) by Sparq USA

Made in Colorado

Set of 9. Each stone approximately 0.93″ square. Made of recycled soapstone from factory excess. Non-pourous, odorless, tasteless and naturally food-safe. Use to sustain the temperature of your drink without watering it down. Reusable. SPARQ USA is committed to using recycled material to produce energy-efficient, earth friendly, gourmet kitchen products.

BenjosRossoScudiera36

Rosso Scudiera 36 ($9) by Benjos

Made in USA

Red, fine waxed cotton shoe laces. In lengths for shoes, 2-3 eyelet boots, 4-6 eyelet boots (shown) and 7-9 eyelet boots. Available in a variety of colors. The Company now also offers colored Pennies to dress up your loafers. Benjos makes accessible, premium means of expressing distinct style.

ScrappysBittersGiftBox

Bitters Gift Box ($16.95) by Scrappy’s Bitters

Made in Seattle, Washington

Set of (4) 0.5 oz bottles. (1) each - Cardamom, Chocolate, Grapefruit and Orange bitters. A recipe card is included. Gift box also available with Lime, Lavender, Celery and Orange bitters. Scrappy’s Bitters handmakes bold and robust bitters from natural, mostly organic ingredients (soon to be 100% organic).

HeliotropeSFSoapOlive Oil Soap Clove Geranium with Charcoal ($8) by Heliotrope San Francisco

Made in San Francisco, California

4.8 ounce bar. Made of 85% organic ingredients, including essential oils, herbs, spices and virgin olive, coconut and palm oils. (No fragrance or color added.) Cleans gently and moisturizes intensively; perfect for all skin types. Also available in lavender, orange cinnamon and spruce juniper. Heliotrope San Francisco specializes in high-quality, all-natural, fresh and personalized skin care with a focus on local suppliers and simple, organic ingredients.

FreshThreadSubtleCitrus

Subtle Citrus Drawer Fresheners ($7.99) by Fresh Threads

Made in USA

Set of 3. Each 4.25″ w and individually wrapped. Made of paper and fully/easily recyclable. Available in yellow/gray argyle (shown) with a refreshing citrus scent; blue gingham with classic, clean scent; and purple plaid with soft amber scent. All are unisex and suitable for any age. Will last 2-3 weeks. Fresh Threads uses the highest quality essential oils and ingredients in the manufacture of their goods.

EdwardMarcGrinchPopGrinch Pop ($3) by Edward Marc Chocolatier

Made in Trafford, Pennsylvania

1.5 ounce pop. Made of white chocolate. Edward Marc Chocolatier proudly continues their family’s nine decades of tradition by selecting the finest ingredients and handcrafting the highest quality chocolates.

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The price is right.

In american made, bags, household, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 18, 2012 at 10:00 am

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It may be the thought that counts, but it is you (and Visa) who get stuck with the bill.

To prevent sticker shock and retail regret, shop the awesome American-made goods below categorized by price.

There is sure to be something for everyone on your list no matter how (un)limited your budget.

Under $30

JenPearsonDesignReclaimedMatchBox

Reclaimed Apothecary Matchstick Bottle ($21 ) by Jen Pearson Designs

Made in Oakland, California

4″ h x 2″ w. Reclaimed apothecary medical bottles have been recycled and re-purposed into striking matchstick bottles. The bottom of each jar is etched to create a strikeable surface. Includes green matches. Jen Pearson Designs is a sustainable design studio that manipulates reclaimed materials into strong and elegant pieces that explore the timeless ideas of materials, surface, color and form.

StephMantisAnimalButtMagnets

Animal Butt Magnets ($20) by Steph Mantis

Made in Brooklyn, New York

Set of 7. Sizes vary from 1″-2″. Made of plastic and fitted with magnets. Artist Steph Mantis creates quirky household items that transform a banal area in your home into a place of fantasy and whimsy.

CuriousDoodlesDIYTealEmbroideryPocketNotebooks

DIY Embroidery Pocket Notebooks ($20) by Curious Doodles

Made in Portland, Oregon

Kit includes 2 perforated notebooks for stitching, quality teal thread and 1 needle. (Thread also available in red.) Notebooks are 3.5″ w x 5″ with 100% recycled kraft paper covers and 32 100% recycled blank pages. Curious Doodles makes modern embroidery kits and screen printed goods.

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Under $50

AlmanacIndustriesCardHolder

Leather Card Case/Wallet ($35) by Almanac Industries

Made in Baltimore, Maryland

Minimal leather card case holds approximately 5 credit cards or your ID and some cash. Hand-sewn. The raw vegetable tanned leather is screenprinted with a navy stripe. (Variety of other colors available.) The leather will darken over time from light and the oils in your hands. Almanac Industries is an artist-run bookbinding and letterpress studio.

HeathCeramicNightSky_StellarBudVase

Night Sky Bud Vase ($40) by Heath Ceramics

Made in Sausalito, California

3″ diameter. Bud vase in a special seasonal color, Night Sky – a combination rich blue and gray hues. Limited availability. Like all Heath Ceramics, vase is microwave, dishwasher and oven safe. Heath makes iconic tableware and tile in small runs that blur the line between everyday objects and family heirlooms.

elizabethWDrawerLinerLavender Drawer Liner ($32) by elizabethW

Made in USA

16″ w x 22″ h. Made of 100% linen with a silk band and filled with French lavender.  Use to lightly scent drawer or suitcase contents and/or place in your pillow case for sweet scented dreams. elizabethW creates scented products that are clean, simple, sophisticated, elegant, and totally original.

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Under $100

Joshu+VelaDoppKitWax Dopp Kit ($60) by Joshu + Vela

Made in San Francisco, California

8.5″ l x 3.5″ w x 3.5″ h. Handmade of 18 oz water-repellent waxed canvas with a vegetable tan leather handle and a sturdy brass YKK zipper. Available in 8 colors (orange shown). Joshu + Vela handcrafts handsome, practical and durable backpacks, totes, duffles and small goods.

JoolzHayworthComicBraceletComic Romance Bracelet ($60) by Joolz Hayworth

Made in Los Angeles, California

Signature stretch bracelet features (5) 30 mm x 40 mm resin cameos set in either plated or enameled (shown) settings with 10 mm bead accents. Patent-pending process makes bracelet super water-resistant. Joolz Hayworth makes chunky stretch bracelets, cuffs and rings featuring images that range from kitschy to sophisticated. Custom pieces also available.

Wolf&BearWorkshopTheGrey

The Grey ($70) by Wolf & Bear Workshop

Made in San Francisco, California

Approximately 21″ h x 16″ w. Handmade of 100% grey wool felt. Features vintage button eyes and filled with PLA (corn) fiber stuffing. The stuffed animals made by Wolf & Bear Workshop are patterned after ones that have been in the family for generations and are destined to become heirlooms themselves.

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Under $200

SimonPearceNantucketHurricane

Nantucket Hurricane ($175) by Simon Pearce

Made in USA

9″ h x 6.25″ w. Handblown by master glass artisans in either Maryland or Vermont. Made of the finest lead-free glass this simple cylindrical form tapers slightly toward the base. 3″ w x 3″ h pillar candle included. Simon Pearce creates glassware, pottery and home accents using traditional European techniques and principles.

JohnBoosMapleCuttingBoard

Non-Reversible Maple Chopping Block ($159.95) by John Boos

Made in USA

18″ w x 3″ h. Hard maple end-grain construction. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and thicknesses. Other wood species also available. John Boos creates butcher blocks and kitchen equipment of solid and quality North American hardwoods employing the finest in quality, workmanship and design.

PierrepontHicksBackseatBlanket

Purple Backseat Blanket ($198) by Pierrepont Hicks

Made in Minnesota

50″ w x 72″ l. Made of 100% Faribault Woolen Mill Co. Wool. Features blaze orange label & border. Also available in blue and red. Pierrepont Hicks designs ties, scarves, shoes and other goods for the modern man.

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Under $500

KleinReidMissMcKayTurqThumb

Miss MacKay Catch-All ($264) by Klein Reid

Made in New York, New York

10″ h. Made of Klein Reid’s hand-mixed proprietary porcelain recipe. Features a solid, hand-turned walnut base. (Walnut meets FSC guidelines and is harvested from low-risk forests.) Miss MacKay is available in 3 glazes – curry yellow, turquoise (shown) and hand-painted stripe. Klein Reid is renowned for creating elegant forms, dense, translucent porcelain, artisanal glazes, and fine “from scratch” craftsmanship.

CirrusProductsCirrusPress

2″ Ice Ball Press ($429) by Cirrus Products

Made in USA

3.5″ w x 5.5″ h. Made of solid anodized aluminum and polished stainless steel. Makes a 2.34 ounce ice ball to keep beverages cool without watering them down. (A sphere has the least surface area of any solid while containing the most volume possible. Therefore, ice spheres melt incredibly slowly.) Also available in larger size. Cirrus Products creates ice ball presses and other barware with an exacting attention to detail and superior functionality.

AliGolden

Crossbody Bag ($185) by Ali Golden

Made in Oakland, California

16″ h x 16″ w x 5″ d. Reversible bag with 2 deep pockets on each side. Wide Stripe/Gold shown. Made of linen (stripe) and cotton canvas (gold). Features brass rivets, black leather handstraps (12″ l/6″ drop) and a removable crossbody strap (36″ l/18″ drop). Variety of other patterns and colors available. Ali Golden creates clothes and bags that are inherently versatile and uniquely suited for all occasions. In short, Ali’s goods are the embodiment of the modern urban uniform.

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$ Indulgences $

StantonWatchesGrandEdition

The Grand Edition ($1,245) by The Stanton Watch Co.

Made in Hoboken, New Jersey

38 mm. Made by hand of stainless steel with a plated gold bezel. Limited Edition. Features Swiss movement, a sapphire crystal and a white dial embossed with a unique center pattern and black steel hands. Band is genuine alligator (choose from black (shown) or brown). The Stanton Watch Co. crafts watches for men and women that have modern style and a vintage attitude.

TomBinnsBigFOffTangledNecklace

Big F**k Off Necklace ($4,015) by Tom Binns

Made in New York, New York

From the AW2012 Regal Rocker Collection. Made of an elegant tangle of white crystals, pearls and rhodium. Tom Binns creates has been designing, manufacturing and distributing jewelry for over 25 years. His work is inspired by the Dada Movement’s deliberate irrationality, anarchy, and the rejection of standard beauty and social organization. Today he has a cult following and is a favorite among celebrities from Beyonce to Cate Blanchett, Michelle Obama to Lady Gaga.

BillyReidAlligatorDuffle

Alligator Duffle ($4,900) by Billy Reid*

Made in USA

22″ l x 14″ w x 11″ h. Limited production of 4 pieces. Handmade from the skins of 2 wild-caught Louisiana alligators. Lined in leather suede with a full leather bottom and straps sourced from Horween. The clothing and accessories Billy Reid designs for men and women are rooted in a specific Southern past.

*Many, but not all, of Billy Reid’s goods are made in the USA. Please note source information carefully.

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The winsome wit.

In american made, household, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 13, 2012 at 11:15 am

wit copy

Witty people are  . . .

Sometimes zany. Sometimes brainy. Sometimes ironic. Sometimes sardonic. Sometimes silly. Sometimes a dilly. Sometimes biting. Sometimes inciting. Sometimes cute. Sometimes a hoot. Sometimes sarcastic. Sometimes bombastic. Sometimes restrained. Sometimes feigned. Sometimes dry. Sometimes sly. Sometimes funny. Sometimes punny. Sometimes base. Sometimes chaste.

But never dull.

(Which is why we love them. And want to give them gifts.)

This year exercise your humerus and reward your funny friends/family with holiday gifts that are as clever as they are.

The 10 awesome and amusing American-made gifts below will put a smile on the face of any lucky recipient.

(And your’s too.)

ChenChenKaiTsienWilliamsColdCutCoasters

Cold Cut Set ($400) by Chen Chen & Kai Tsien Williams

Made in Brooklyn, New York

Set includes (1) Ham Hock and (4) matching Cold Cut coasters. Made of epoxy, resin, wax and found objects — bone, board game pieces, netting, rope, etc. Chen and Williams met in design school at Pratt and, after successful independent careers in the art/design field, joined forces to form their own design studio in 2011.

ashkahnBoobRecordFrisbeePrintBoob, Record, Frisbee Print ($35) by Ashkahn

Made in Silver Lake, California

12″ w x 16″ h. 3 concentric circles with “A. Boob B. Record C. Frisbee ” printed with archival inks. On 110 lb recycled paper produced by hydroelectric energy. Open edition. Signed by the artist. Fits in a standard frame. Artist, designer and all around bon vivant, Ashkahn Shahparnia creates clever (and often naughty) stationery, art prints and accessories.

ReshapeStudioKissingCream&Sugar

Kissing Creamer & Sugar ($70) by Reshape Studio

Made in Brooklyn, New York

Set of 2 pieces. Each piece approximately 3.25” h x 2.25” w. Made of slipcast clay. Lips and interior of each container are glazed with clear gloss. Exteriors have a smooth, sanded raw porcelain finish. Creamer features a mouth-shaped spout for pouring. Sugar comes with a lid. Reshape Studio produces a collection of modern, elegant, unexpected (and often humorous) original designs in clay.

EarmarkSocialPencilSet

Pick A Pencil 12 Pack ($15) by Earmark Social Paper Goods

Made in USA

Set of 12 hexagon style, full-size, unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers. Choose from over 25 fun/funny sayings (examples: “I’m Kind of a Big Deal”, “I Blue Myself” and “This Has Been in My Ear”.) Earmark Social Paper Goods designs stationery, pencils and art prints that are fresh, unique, bold and beautiful.

KielMeadRetainerNecklaceRetainer Necklace ($300) by Kiel Mead

Made in Brooklyn, New York

Cast from an actual retainer. Hangs from a 30″ chain. Available in sterling silver and gold-plated (shown). Kiel Mead fashions jewelry inspired by everyday objects that is at once remarkable and unexpected.

27thStreetPressPeopleIWantToPunchRude Little Black Book ($9.99) by 27th Street Press

Made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

5″ h x 3.5″ w. Cover reads: “People I want to punch in the face.” Handmade journal features soft buckram cover with hot stamped gold lettering. 20 pages of unlined paper. 27th Street Press designs and creates useful paper goods.

MercantileHomeclimbingsquirrel2

Climbing Squirrel ($55) by Mercantile Home

Made in Easton, Pennsylvania

8″ h. Ceramic squirrel sprayed in 1 of 8 enamel colors (chartreuse shown). Suitable for indoor and/or outdoor use. Comes pre-drilled and ready to hang by 2 nails on the wall or tree of your choice. Mercantile Home designs, hand-crafts and micro-manufactures artful accessories utilizing new, organic, and recycled materials.

PamelaBarskyMascara

Mascara Pouch ($15) by Pamela Barsky

Made in New York, New York

5″ h x 7″ w. Super thick canvas pouch. Silkscreened and heat cured. Features a black zipper and the hilarious edict: “In case of emergency, put mascara on yourself before helping others.” Pamela Barsky’s witty and wise sayings are available on pouches in a variety of sizes and shapes.

ActualsfZiptie

Zip Tie ($65) by Actual

Made in California

Men’s sizes S-L (based on height). Handmade of 100% merino wool. Tie zips for work, unzips for fun. Actual is an independent design company working at the intersection of product and sculpture.

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Don’t miss a single Made In the USA holiday gift idea.

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The bon vivant.

In american made, beverage, Clothing, Food, household, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 11, 2012 at 11:20 am

bonvivant copy

Foodies.

They may speak their own language.

They may on occasion (or often) linger too long over a perfectly composed bite or an exotic ingredient.

They may be the last people with whom you want to go to a grocery store.

They may even post photos of their latest finds on social media.

But when you get down to the meat of the matter, these food-obsessives are actually geniuses.

Think about it: These clever folks have converted a banal, vital act into a passion, a pursuit. They have raised the act of sustaining life to an art form.

And with the exception of a few noted pulmonologists, has any other group managed to do this? (I didn’t think so.)

So reward the clever guys and gals on your Christmas list with some truly gourmet treats this year.

The 10 American-made products below each celebrate the bon vivant’s motto: savor life.

ZingermansAmericanCheeseClub

American Cheese Club ($199) by Zingerman’s*

Made in USA

4 month subscription. Each shipment contains 2 cheeses (totaling over one pound), profiles of the featured American cheesemakers and serving tips. All of the included cheeses are made by hand, using traditional methods. Zingerman’s makes and sells extraordinary, traditionally made foods including hearth baked breads, handmade cheeses, varietal coffee, estate bottled olive oils and customized professional presents.

*Many, but not all, of the products Zingerman’s sells are made in the USA. Please read source information carefully.

XenoteesForkTee

Foodie T-shirt ($26) by Xenotees

Made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Men’s sizes s-2xl. Pop art inspired fork printed in black ink on a 100% cotton American Apparel t-shirt. Available in slate (shown), cranberry and charcoal gray. Fork design also available on women’s t-shirt styles. Xenotees prints original designs on clothing, tote bags, scarves, bedding, art prints & organic tea towels. 

JHolidayWineCollection

Holiday Party Wine Collection ($165) by J Vineyards

Made in Healdsburg, California

6 bottles: (2) each of Cuveé 20 Sparkling Wine, 2009 J Chardonnay Russian River Valley and 2010 J Pinot Noir Russian River Valley. J Vineyard creates varietal and sparkling wines using the finest Russian River Valley cool-climate fruit combined with gentle, respectful winemaking.

PlantBrooklynCheeseTray

100% Grade A Cheese Board ($40) by Plant Brooklyn

Made in Brooklyn, New York

9.25″ h  x 11.5″ w x 0.5″ d. A nonperishable slice of swiss for serving cheese. Made of a unique composite of acrylic resin and powdered bauxite (a mineral similar to marble). Can be chilled to keep cheeses cool. Non-porous, scratch-resistant and dishwasher safe. Plant Brooklyn designs products that are influenced by the founders’ passion for green design practices, Scandinavian modern lines and a good sense of humor.

OlympicProvisionsSalamiOfTheMonth

Salami of the Month Club ($135) by Olympic Provisions

Made in Portland, Oregon

1 salami per month for 12 months. (Can also choose 2 or 3 salami/month.) Included with the salami are detailed tasting notes and suggestions of how to enjoy it. Olympic Provisions is Oregon’s first USDA-approved salumeria craft “American Charcuterie” using the highest quality local ingredients. Currently they offer 12 different salami based on the regional flavors of France, Spain, Italy and Greece.

CulinariumSmConcreteSaltCellar

Salt Cellar ($34) by Culinarium

Made in Amesbury, Massachusetts

2″ h x 2.75″ w. Made of an advanced cementitious mix that is incredibly strong, smooth and tactile. Cast in a hand-made mold for about a week. Then hand burnished and coated with 2 applications of FDA approved linseed oil. Available in gray (shown) and white, as well as larger sizes. Culinarium creates beautiful, eco-friendly and practical solutions for home and entertaining.

EffiesHomemade6Pack

Grand Sampler ($36) by Effie’s Homemade

Made in USA

6 pack collection includes 3 boxes of biscuits (Oat, Corn and Nutcakes) and 3 boxes of semolina crackers (Roasted Garlic & Sesame Seed, Sunflower & Sesame Seed and Sea Salt & Lavender).  Effie’s Homemade rekindles old-fashioned and forgotten recipes to make a unique line of baked goods that are always wholesome, always all-natural and always simply delicious.

BallAndChairMixerNecklace

Mixmaster ($60) by Ball & Chain

Made in Dobbs Ferry, New York

1″ wide. Made of hand-sawed sterling silver. Hand-sanded to a satin finish. Hung on an 18″ sterling silver chain. In addition to clever, kitschy silhouettes Ball & Chain makes hand-engraved wood grain rings, crocheted chain jewelry and other jewelry inspired by a love of vintage and collecting.

AskinosieCRation

C-Ration ($78.50) by Askinosie Chocolate

Made in Springfield, Missouri

A month’s worth of chocolate. Tube contains a daily ration (3 itty bars of 7 grams each) of dark chocolate plus four additional rations for emergencies. (Total of 94 individual bars.) Ashkinosie Chocolate is a small batch chocolate manufacturer that sources 100% of the beans directly from farmers.

PottingShedCreationsMicroGreensSpice

Spice Micro Greens ($40) by Potting Shed Creations

Made in USA

18″ l x 3″ w x 2″ h. Windowsill garden box made of recycled steel with a bamboo lid that inverts for use as saucer. Spice kit includes soil-less growing medium, 2 crops of seed (organic japanese mibuna mustard, daikon radish, shungiku chrysanthemum) and directions. Veggie kit and seed refills also available. Potting Shed Creations creates products in which the finest materials, elegant design and handmade craftsmanship are combined to celebrate the art of gardening and design.

__________________________

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Don’t miss a single Made In the USA holiday gift idea.

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The snazzy sportsman.

In american made, Clothing, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 10, 2012 at 11:00 am

sportsman copy

Is their anyone on your Christmas list who:

  • likes to get up before the sun?
  • is the sworn enemy of clay pigeons and/or big game?
  • can coax an amberjack or trout out of the water?
  • has at least 3 pieces of camouflage and/or safety orange in their closet?
  • doesn’t mind having dirt under the fingernails?
  • has a dog with better manners than your children?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then odds are you are looking for a gift for a sportsman. (And by sportsman, of course, I mean outdoorsy people of all genders.)

And whether you are a sporting-type yourself or someone whose idea of outdoor activity is carrying the recycling to the curb, the amazing list of products below will inspire you.

Each of these American-made gifts is stylish, durable and of the highest quality and is sure to dazzle and delight even the snazziest of sportsmen.

FormFunctionFormLureBracelet

Lure Bracelet ($50) by form•function•form

Made in USA

5/8″ wide band. Fits wrists 6″-8″. Bracelet features a real, though slightly rounded, Eagle Claw fishing hook and pewter lure. Band made of Horween leather and is currently available in 3 colors: Natual Chromexcel (shown), Black Chromexcel and Essex veg tan. Enhanced with YKK snap, rivet and 1 of 6 colors of cord (blaze orange shown). form•function•form finds beautiful things and brings them together in new, more intriguing ways.

PladraSunsetPinkFlannel

Sunrise Pink Shirt ($89) by Pladra

Made in San Francisco, California

Available in women’s sizes S-L. Made of 100% cotton flannel with outdoor scene printed fabric liner on cuffs, collar and yoke. Features custom buttons and embroideries. Pladra creates a variety of patterned durable, function and stylish flannel shirts for men and women that are made to be worn in the field and/or on the town.

RandolphUSASportsmanSunglasses

The Sportsman ($159) by Randolph Engineering

Made in USA

Handcrafted sunglasses for the outdoor enthusiast. Feature a sweat-bar for comfort and style, adjustable silicon nose pads and lifetime-warranted solder joints. Available in 2 sizes (57MM & 61MM) and 3 finishes (23kt Gold (shown), Matte Black and Gun Metal). 7 Mineral crown glass lenses offered (gray shown). Randolph Engineering creates frames of unequaled strength and integrity using a more than 200 stage production process.

LISounderClassicSunglassesStrap

 Original Leather Sunglass Strap ($42) by L. I. Sounder

Made in New England

12.75″ l x 0.75″ w. Made from 100% vegetable tanned leather hide with latex rubber attachments. Fits most frames. Available in 5 leather colors (cognac shown) and stitched or unstitched (stitched shown). Gift box included. L. I. Sounder makes quality goods for an active lifestyle.

ExcotacMatchCapXL

MatchCap XL ($31.95) by Exotac*

Made in USA

3.6″ h x 1.2″ w. Fire starter holds 40 kitchen matches, 25 stormproof matches or 35 NATO matches. Large capacity and striking surfaces. Straight-walled inside diameter for easy access and scalloped body for easy match removal. Available in 4 colors (grey shown) and titanium. Exotac designs extraordinary, high-quality and unique outdoor and urban gear.

*Many, but not all, of Exotac’s products are made in the USA. Please read source information carefully.

LoganZaneMulberriPadCase

Mulberry iPad Envelope ($195) by Logan Zane

Made in USA

8″ w x 10″ h. Made of Italian leather. Features a soft cotton lining and a wax cord closure. Available in Camo Leather (shown), Pumpkin Pebble and Black Embossed Croc. Logan Zane crafts fine leather goods that reflect the confidence and aspirational spirit both of the person who makes them and the people who buy them.

ColLittletonNo3FoxfireStagBoneKnife

No. 3 Foxfire Stag Bone Knife ($83.50 ) by Colonel Littleton

Made in USA

3″ long (closed). Pocket knife made of bone handles with a stainless steel locking blade. Features brass bolsters that may be monogrammed. Colonel Littleton crafts quality, unique leather goods, home accessories, business accessories, belts, hats, jewelry and more that last and are designed to become more meaningful as time goes by.

OtterCreekSpitShineBodyWash

Spit Shine ($18) Otter Creek

Made in USA

8 oz tube. Body wash specially formulated to remove all dirt, grime and regrets. Lather, rinse and repeat, if necessary. Scent: Mix of cedar, coffee and leather. Otter Creek makes personal hygiene products that are tailor-made for outdoorsmen.

MadeByAmmoShotshell

Shotshell ($60) by Made By Ammo

Made in USA

3″ h x 1.4″ w. Heavy duty shot glass holds 1.5 oz. Made of premium-grade stainless steel. Features bright, machined finish with textured knurling at the base for easy gripping. Dishwasher safe and covered by a lifetime warranty. Made By Ammo creates unique, high-quality lifestyle products that have a tactical influence.

BeltedCowDuckDogCollar

Duck Dog Collar ($25) by The Belted Cow

Made in Maine

1″ wide. Signature ribbon stitched onto rugged nylon webbing. Features tough, quick release Wienerlock®. Available in blue (shown) or rust in sizes S-L. Matching leash and d-ring or leather tab belts (for owner) also available. Machine washable. The Belted Cow makes belts and accessories that feature first class designs and quality.

________________________

Don’t miss a single Made In the USA holiday gift idea.

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You will find links for all 3 at the bottom right of this page.

Thanks for reading.

 

The cocktail cutie.

In american made, beverage, household, liquor, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 6, 2012 at 2:00 pm

cocktail

Cocktail Cutie. Booze Hound. Mixologist. Drink Slinger. Favorite Relative.

How ever you describe them, these are the people who make the holidays merry and bright.

They are the (real) reason Rudolf’s nose is red, Mommy got caught kissing Santa and your troubles are miles away.

And while they are a gracious and magical lot who can make whatever bar ingredient or accouterment that you might proffer seem exotic and delicious, they can be difficult to truly impress.

That is for most people.

But you are definitely not most people.

You know (or soon will) the 10 amazing companies below that make American cocktail companions that are anything but ordinary and are guaranteed to leave even the most experienced barkeep in awe.

So put your drinking pants* on and get set to impress.

*Drinking pants are tighter than eating pants and may even feature a button or zipper.

JacobBromwellGreatAmericanFlash

Great American Flask ($149.99 ) by Jacob Bromwell

Made in Chattanooga, Tennessee

4″ h x 3″ w x 1.5″ d. 100% handmade to order of pure, solid copper with a hot-tinned interior. 9 oz. capacity. Backed by Lifetime Guarantee. Established in 1819, Jacob Bromwell continues to produces high quality housewares using authentic materials with the help of elbow grease and some “pretty darn old” machinery.

patchbottleteatowel

Bottle Dish Towel ($19) by Patch Design Studio

Made in Chattanooga, Tennessee

15″ w x 22.5 ” l. Made of hemp and organic cotton blend. Dish towel is printed by hand from an original Patch design using water-based inks. Patch creates unique towels, napkins, throw pillows and onesies in a variety of patterns and colors.

SusanHoffWineTote

Wine Tote ($38) by Susan Hoff

Made in San Francisco, California

15.5″ h (including handle) x 4″ d. Made of two layers of dacron sailcloth. Printed in seafoam green. Sturdy and sleek single bottle tote features a reinforced hand-stitched leather strap. Susan Hoff creates unique handcrafted bags and accessories inspired by her time spent at sea. The collections are inherently sustainable using primarily reclaimed sailcloth and leather.

Wheelmen&CoHighballGlasses

Mr. Wheelmen Highball Glasses ($60/set of 2) by Wheelmen & Co.

Made in USA

Highball glasses with top grain leather holders featuring a brass rivet. Available in brown (shown) or black leather. Wheelmen & Co. crafts bags, apparel and leather goods inspired by a strong family heritage in cycling and combined with a passion for classic tailoring.

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BittersOldMenRestorativeTonic

Restorative Tonic ($14.95) by Bitters, Old Men

Made in New York, New York

Rye-based tincture macerated with blood orange, galangal, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and star anise. Spiced and sweet, with gentian and the dry punch of rye on the finish. Try it with brown spirits and Amari. Bitters, Old Men produces bitters that are a studied exploration of complimentary flavor combinations. Available in Issan Another Level, Roasted Macadamia, Papaya, Smoke Get In Your Bitters, Krangostura, Prickled Pink, Gangsta Lee’n, Great in ’28 and Gator Glenn’s Citrus.

RoyalRoseRoseSyrup

Rose Syrup ($11) by Royal Rose Syrups

Made in Biddeford, Maine

8 fl. oz. A sophisticated classic made of organic fair-trade sugar, filtered water, organic lime juice, and fair-trade organic rose petals. Floral but not overly sweet. Rose Royal Syrups hand-makes its syrup in small batches. Available in Strawberry Fennel, Tamarind, Lavender-Lemon, Three Chiles, Cardamom-Clove, Raspberry and Saffron.

WoodinvilleWhiskeyAgeYourOwnWhiskeyKit copy

Age Your Whiskey Kit ($149.99) by Woodinville Whiskey Co.

Made in Woodinville, Washington

Kit includes two 750 ml bottles of 110 proof White Dog unaged whiskey, a 2-liter aging barrel, pouring funnel, two tasting glasses, and step-by-step instructions. Because of the small barrel size, the aging process is significantly accelerated with nicely aged whiskey available in 3-6 months. Aging barrel can be refilled and reused 5+ times. Woodinville Whiskey Co. makes micro-barreled whiskeys and vodka.

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DryFlyCreelCollectionCreel Collection ($30/bottle) by Dry Fly Distilling

Made in Spokane, Washington

Available in limited release. Each bottle is 375 ml. The new Creel Collection includes Dry Fly’s Barrel Reserve Gin, Port Finished Wheat Whiskey, Cask Strength Wheat Whiskey, Triticale Whiskey and Bourbon. Dry Fly Distilling crafts award-winning vodka, gin, whiskies, and bourbon using only locally grown grains and botanicals.

EASTSIDE

Holiday Liqueurs ($16/each) by Eastside Distilling

Made in Portland, Oregon

Available for a limited time. 3 specialty liqueurs each infused with Eastside’s Below Deck Silver Rum: Holiday Spiced Liqueur – secret blend of seasonal spices like  cinnamon, cardamom, clove and allspice; Holiday Egg Nog Advocaat Liqueur – eggnog; and Holiday Peppermint Bark Liqueur – finest French extra brute dark cocoa chocolate and clean, crisp peppermint oil. Eastside Distilling produces Below Deck Rums, Cherry Bomb Whiskey, Burnisde Bourbon and Portland Potato Vodka.

WyomingWhiskeyBourbonSmall Batch Bourbon Whiskey ($45) by Wyoming Whiskey

Made in Kirby Wyoming

Newly available. Wyoming’s first whiskey. Made of corn, wheat and barley grown in Wyoming’s Big Horn Basin and water sourced from a massive limestone aquifer.Taste: vanilla, caramel, sweet fruit, and slight oak with a mild, smooth finish.

__________________________

Thanks for reading.

Don’t miss a single Made In the USA holiday gift idea.

Like fifty on Facebook, follow fifty on twitter and/or subscribe to fifty: the blog.

You will find links for all 3 at the bottom right of this page.

The fashion conscious.

In american made, bags, Clothing, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 4, 2012 at 12:00 pm

fashion

You know the type.

People who look put-together all the time.

You see them everywhere – from the grocery store and dog park to work and formal affairs – and they always look planned, polished and pressed.

They understand clothes and accessories and how to combine the two for any occasion.

They, by comparison, leave many mere mortals looking and feeling out-of-date, sloppy and very uncool.

And, if standing next to these fashion conscious family/friends can be daunting, buying them a gift may feel like an insurmountable task.

But it doesn’t have to.

The 10 fabulous American companies below are fashionable to a fault.

They have done all of the heavy and heady design lifting for you and have come up with clothes and accessories for men and women that would be a welcome addition to any fashion fanatic’s closet.

AnotherFeatherLargeBowEarrings

Large Bow Earrings ($110) by Another Feather

Made in Asheville, North Carolina

3″ l x 1″ w. Hand-formed and fabricated brass bow earrings with 14 kt gold fill post and backings. Another Feather creates simple everyday adornments using traditional metal smithing techniques and tools.

Rag&BoneSilverTuxedo

Silver Tuxedo ($495) by Rag & Bone*

Made in USA

Women’s sizes 0-10. Tuxedo blazer features center hook & eye closure, princess detail in back, inside/outside seams, lined sleeves, inside piped seaming and horizontal vent pockets. Hits right above the hip. Rag & Bone designs clothing, shoes and accessories with a downtown sensibility for men and women.

*Many, but not all, of Rag & Bone’s products are made in the US. Please note source information carefully.

ThaLady&TheSailorWhiteTee

Basic Tee ($70) by The Lady & The Sailor

Made in USA

Sizes 1-3. Scoopneck t-shirt. Not too long or too short. Available in 7 colors and 3 materials (white, 100% tencel shown). The Lady & The Sailor creates timeless basics that can stand alone or perfectly compliment any outfit.

MrsPHicksBag

Mrs. P. Hicks x J.W. Hulme Bag ($590) by Mrs. P. Hicks

Made in USA

19″w x 12″ h x 7.5″ d. Created in collaboration with renowned luxury bag manufacturer J.W. Hulme Co. Photo printed on canvas and features a zippered top, 4 brass feet. It is fully lined, has double handles and a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap. Guaranteed for life. Mrs. P. Hicks creates menswear inspired footwear and accessories for women.

ThomDolanBabyBelleSkirt

Baby Belle Skirt ($345) by Thom. Dolan*

Made in USA

Women’s sizes 0-6. 18″ Italian wool herringbone skirt. Sits on waist and features a center-back zippers, on-seam pockets, inverted pleats and lining. Thom. Dolan women’s wear collection is combination of classic men’s tailoring, high and low-brow vintage and is constructed using high quality fabrics with thoughtful detailing.

*Many, but not all, of Thom. Dolan’s products are made in the US. Please note source information carefully.

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HughSimmsUnionStationTie

Union Station Tie ($75) by Hugh Simms

Made in Los Angeles, California

2.5″ Standard Skinny Tie. Made of 100% cotton denim. Each Hugh Simms tie is made using the same 17-step process used in the 1940s and then meticulously rolled up and handsomely packaged in custom metal replica 1920′s tobacco tins, also great for holding any man-stuff.

ErnestAlexanderBarlowWoolWaistcoat

Barlow Wool Waistcoat ($225) by Ernest Alexander

Made in USA

Men’s sizes M-XL. Made of wool twill with polyester twill back and lining. Features button-front closure, adjustable waist, flap pocket with button fastener and tortoiseshell buttons. Available in 3 colors – oak (shown), navy and brown. Ernest Alexander offers a variety of distinctive bags and accessories, neckwear, shirting and jackets. Each collection is based on classic menswear, adding a touch of panache and gentlemanly flair.

ReadWallCambridgeOxfordBlue

Cambridge Oxford Button-Down ($175) by Read Wall

Made in USA

Men’s neck sizes 14.5 – 16.5. Made of 100% cotton. Features single needle construction, sewn collar and cuffs. Signature button-down has a tailored fit with higher armholes and shorter length. To be worn tucked or untucked. Available in white, khaki and blue (shown). Read Wall makes classic American sportswear for the modern man.

TannerStandardCognac

Standard Belt ($105) by Tanner Goods

Made in Portland, Oregon

In even sizes 28″-40″. Belt is 1.5″ w. Constructed from 10-11 oz. vegetable-tanned natural tooling strap leather. Edges are dyed, burnished and waxed by hand. Each belt is stamped with signature maker’s mark. Available in 7 leather colors (cognac shown) and 4 hardware colors (brass shown). Tanner Goods handcrafts design-minded goods that meant to be used.

ToddSheltonSelvedgeDark

Selvedge Dark Jeans ($156) by Todd Shelton

Made in USA

Men’s sizes 29-40. Made of 13.5 oz cotton denim selvedge with a zip fly.  Available in two fits: Watts Regular/Trim Straight Leg and the Harvester Regular/Full Straight Leg. Todd Shelton designs for men focus on fit, high quality fabrics and non-seasonal style.

_____________________

Thanks for reading.

Don’t miss a single holiday gift idea.

Like fifty on Facebook, follow fifty on twitter and/or subscribe to fifty: the blog.

You will find links for all 3 at the bottom right of this page.

The chic geek.

In american made, Food, household, made in america, made in usa, made locally on December 3, 2012 at 12:00 pm

GeekChic

Geek is the new black.

This once pejorative term is now a socially acceptable, even desirable descriptor for people of focus.

Geeks are intense, passionate and eccentric.

They understand and are excited by things most of us take for granted and/or simply cannot fathom like string theory, recombinant DNA technology, Malbolge and math.

This group of esoteric experts moves the ball forward.

And we love them for it.

But that still doesn’t mean we understand them or know what to buy them for Christmas.

Luckily for us, the 10 companies below speak geek.

Their American-made products will startle and amaze even the chicest and geekiest on your list.

Chocolate Pie Chart ($20) by Chocolate Editions

Made in Brooklyn, New York

5.5 oz bar. Chocolate Pie Chart is made of 70% dark chocolate, 20% milk chocolate and 10% white chocolate. Chocolate Editions handcrafts smart, smile-worth modernist chocolates in small batches using the highest quality ingredients.

Crochet Coffee Mug Cozy ($14) by Knotwork Shop

Made in Apex, North Carolina

Coffee mug cozy handmade of multicolored techno ombre acrylic yarn. Features a hand-embrodiered wool felt patch with the words “Text Me.” Knotwork Shop makes funny, snarky, racy cozies for coffee cups, bottles/cans and travel cups. Custom orders welcome.

Moby Bobot Mini Notebook ($8) by Make My Notebook

Made in Denver, Colorado

5.5″ h x 3.5″ w. Top bound notebook. Hand printed with water-based inks. Available with 30% recycled blank paper or 100% post-consumer recycled combo paper (college ruled front/grid back). Also available in blue. Make My Notebook designs and builds environmentally responsible notebooks, journals and guest books.

Skateback ($39) by Maple XO

Made in Portland, Oregon

For the iPhone 4/4S and 5. Made from skateboard manufacturing industrial waste. Available in 3 color schemes (vibrant, shown). Each skateback is unique. Maple XO also transforms skateboards into jewelry, belt buckles and home accessories.

Test Card Coasters ($12.95) by studioooij

4″ square coasters. Sold in set of 8 and featuring a variety of test patterns. Made of high-density pressed paper. Coasters are durable and fully recyclable. Coaster sets also available in 3 other designs. studioooij makes furniture, pillows, textiles and ceramics that are at once a clever, light-hearted and narrative.

Pie Chart Clock ($48) by Modern Moose

Made in Massachusetts

11.5″ w x 11.5” h x 1″ d. 3D wall clock with quartz movement. Shows time to “live life” (orange) and time to “go on facebook” (blue). Made of laser cut baltic birch plywood and printed with non-toxic water-based inks. Modern Moose crafts unique, locally made wall art, clocks, corkboards and hanging decor.

Geekery Cloth Napkins ($28) by Nicole Porter Design

20″ x 20″. Set of 4 napkins. One each – Nerd, Geek, Freak and Dork. Environmentally friendly napkins are printed with colorfast pigments. Nicole Porter re-imagines the familiar to create table linens and housewares for the modern world.

Periodic States Magnets ($72) by Ross + Leo

Made in USA

1″ round. 50 piece set. (Also sold individually for $2/each.) Designed like the periodic elements chart, each super strong magnet features an US state abbreviation, the state’s capital and the state’s accession number. Ross + Leo finely crafts functional goods for the everyday.

iPhone/iPod Case ($35) by Stash

Made in Dallas, Texas

5.25″ h x 3.5″ w. Designed to hold an iPod Touch,  iPhone 4/3G or a similar size phone or gadget. Made of vintage wool tartan. Lined with off white canvas and features a rivet reinforced brown leather strap with a snap closure and metal eyelet strategically placed for the ear bud plug. Available in other patterns and colors. Stash handcrafts stylish and durable cases and bags.

Yorkie SE ($279/pair) by Well Rounded Sound

Made in New York, New York

5″ l x 5.5″ h. Made of 100% New Zealand wool felt and carbonized bamboo or American walnut. Frequency range 100-21,000 Hz. Features advanced Full Range Driver with nuanced detail, transparency and fast transients. Well Rounded Sound is a premier boutique company providing music aficionados with the finest sound achievable in the desktop domain.

______________________

Thanks for reading.

Don’t miss any of our holiday gift ideas.

Like fifty on Facebook, follow fifty on twitter and/or subscribe to fifty: the blog.

You will find links for all 3 at the bottom right of this page.

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