One for grandma...two for me... Gift ideas for the friends and family...and for yourself!

Look at the treats I discovered while perusing the collections of our talented NC members! From grandma, to the kiddos, to the mother...and yes, even a treat (or two or three) for myself.... What amazing finds for the upcoming holiday handmade season!

I love this stunning decoupage book box for my poet grandmother by Old Broom Street. It has such an air of mystery and beauty, and I know my grandmother would gently tuck her poetic musings into the velvet lined box: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34286835

And doesn't everyone love a happy blood drop? My director at the blood bank would adore this lovely wallet by hippofabulous: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10787331

And of course for the boys in my life, a racing heirloom quality quilt by Carolina Patchworks: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10433854

And be still my heart! The colors are so happy and bright! My lovely flamed-haired niece would look amazing in this outfit by The Laughing Giraffe! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10433854

And this one is for me! It honors strong women, and I know my mom would adore it... but hopefully my husband will read this blog and take the hint! :) Cowgirl Up Collage by LuLuSandbar http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14355721


This is a perfect hostess gift, and I love the idea of using them as placecards too. Way back in the day (pre 6-and 3-year old boy days ..) my husband and I actually hosted parties that didn't revolve around Spiderman! Owl Mini Notecards/Placecards by Whimsypics: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34261732

And for the sister that is finally going green, but will only carry her groceries in style, is this adorable market tote from PurpleDaisies: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19206952

And for the hubby..the man who swore he was fine with Zest soap. However, the funny thing is that my handmade soaps keep disappearing quickly. I have a thief in my shower, so it's time we added to his own collection! Also, I adore this scent so I'll be able to borrow it! The Nag Champa soap by Karenssoaps: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31822844

Have fun browsing our fantastic collection of artists! Happy Holidays!

Red in Raleigh

LuluSandbar picked out some wonderful red items created by team members for this treasury...





--If you create a NCTriangle Treasury (or TreasuryWest), please send DinnerTimeChimes a screenshot for the blog!

Local Featured Seller: LuluSandbar

Who are you?
My name is Laura Kasperlik and my shop name is Lulu’s Sandbar

Why did you choose your shop name?

Two reasons - I grew up in close proximity to Lake Michigan and when I was young, my parents would only let me swim solo out to the sandbar, because the water is significantly deeper beyond the sandbar. So this store represents my efforts to challenge myself beyond limitations. Also, I get bored easily, so the ‘bar’ represents the eclectic nature of my interests – belly up to the bar, as they say, to see what collage cocktail I’ve mixed up today!

Where are you located?
I live in Cary, NC

What do you create?
I create mixed-media collages, shadowboxes and artwork with paper, fabric, paints, chalks and canvas

What is your favorite place to visit in the "triangle"?
One of my favorite areas to visit is downtown Apex. There are great stores and restaurants there, and while Apex is booming, the downtown has retained a wonderful cozy storefront plan.

When did you start creating?
I’ve been noodling around with different paints and papers since childhood, but have only been creating with a purpose since July 2008.

What inspires you?
Color! Color, whimsy and vintage fabrics, papers, fonts and styles. I love blending and building layers of colors and textiles.

Where do you create?
I’m lucky to have a large, light-filled media room in my home that is split between office space and art space.

What is your most cherished handmade item?
A needlepoint sign made by my mom that I’ve hung in every place I’ve lived since leaving home – it says, “Call your mother. She worries.” It’s simple and pretty and inspirational to me.

--Don't forget to also check out Laura's Blog too!