Cheap Thrills

Need a little help deciding what to buy? Before you hit the mall, check out my guide to one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts by Long Island designers, artists and makers of all stripes.

Buying the wares of many of these Long Islanders is like investing in their hopes, dreams and creativity. That alone can make a gift extra-special.

So this year, avoid all those cookie-cutter gifts and forget about buying another impersonal gift card.

Here's a look at some of the most imaginative and unusual items around, all of which can be ordered online. Start shopping here!

Also, take a gander at our previous offerings for handmade holiday gifts that are local and not-so local too. You're sure to find something gift worthy!

Happy holidays!
Corris

Photo: Mistletoe by Zoo Loo Naturals

Michael Trent, a friend to the Cheap Thrills blog and fellow crafter, sent in this tip:

The Ink Pad, a rubber stamp store in Manhattan's Greenwhich Village, is sponsoring the fourth annual Handmade in New York Craft Fair on Saturday, December 1st from 11a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Westbeth Community Center, 55 Bethune Street (between Washington Street & the West Side Highway in Manhattan.)

Grab your holiday shopping list and pick up handmade jewelry, greeting cards, gift tags, collage papers, scarves, ornaments, and other one-of-a-kind crafts. It's a great way to support the local artists. All the items are handmade! Admission is free.

For more information, call the Ink Pad at (212) 463-9876 or e-mail: theinkpad@aol.com.

Thanks for the tip Michael!

Each week this month, I'll introduce you to some great handmade arts and crafts -- many are made by New Yorkers -- that are perfect for giving as gifts. I hope you will find this shopping guide helpful. Please consider supporting handmade artists in our area.

This week: For the home

Jimmy Pickles Design -- Everyone has their bad habits...I'm always looking for my keys, but I think I've found a cure! The adorable key chain wristlets designed by Cherie Doherty at Jimmy Pickles Design would be perfect! They have coin purses too. I adore their fabrics as anything vintage or preppy is a must-have in my book. Pick up several of these useful, yet chic key chains for your friend who has everything. Made in Long Island. Visit online: jimmypickles.etsy.com



Minet -- I have an affinity for boats and the beach and recently fell in love with the artwork by James Minet from Nesconset, NY. This self-taught artist paints beautiful scenes using oils, acrylic and watercolors. His goal: "to create art that makes the viewer feel drawn in and comfortable." A gift of art is truly something special. Visit online: Minet.etsy.com




Elicias Creations - Summer is long gone, but you can reminisce with handmade signs by Elcias Creations. My favorite is the "Beach House" sign that is perfect for my dream home on Long Island. In addition, she offers signs inviting you to relax, come and sit down, and enjoy good wine and friends. If you're a wine lover, you'll want to take a look at her unique holiday wreath made of wine corks. Made in Long Island. Visit online: eliciascreations.etsy.com



Crafts by Joanne -- For your favorite cook, check out these "towel dresses" made for displaying on your towel rack or oven door handle by Joanne Leipold from Bay Shore. They can be used to dry your hands or simply look pretty in your kitchen or bathroom. If you wish to coordinate your decor, feel free to request a specific pattern or color scheme. Visit online: craftsbyjoanne.etsy.com

Photo of couture gift wrap, above, from ErinRuth.etsy.com.

This week's featured crafter has been making stuff since she was a child. A recent holiday gift spurred her interest in designing her own t-shirts. Let's meet Kimm!

Name: Kimm Alfonso, 33
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Occupation: Graphic designer
Craft: Silk screening
Web site: kimmchi.etsy.com

How did you get into your craft?

My mother taught me how to crochet, embroider and sew as a child and as I grew up my crafting progressed to decoupage and even making paper if it meant pulling sheets in my bathtub! I always enjoyed the tactile component of crafting, so when my sister and her husband designed and made hand-screened t-shirts for our family as gifts, I took this as a new challenge. The first small run of shirts I did on their kitchen table and everything just sort of went from there.

What's your best craft tip?

Always spring for the best sewing machine with most decorative stitches! (Also my biggest craft regret)

Where do you find inspiration?

I am the sort of person who has to carry around a little notebook around everywhere to sketch out ideas as they come to me. I like to take the forms, shapes and patterns I observe around me and let them inspire me, and then translate them in a new way. My current collection of t-shirts are stylistically expressed by Art Deco forms with their concentration on decorative elements in a clean modern way, but the actual moment of inspiration may have come from observing circles of water splash up from a puddle!

What craft would you like to try next?

I just got Jenny Hart's, "Sublime Stitching" for my birthday, so I really want to try my hand at embroidery again, which I haven't touched since I was a kid. But as far as something I've never tried before, I would really love to try felting, but I haven't mustered up the courage.

Where do you get your supplies?

I use these great feminine cut t-shirts from American Apparel. They are American made and sweatshop free! I really love their fine cotton jersey because it holds the ink really well. The screens and other supplies I get from a local silk screen shop down on Varick Street in Manhattan.

What's your biggest challenge?

Having the space to do everything that my little heart desires!! It's always hard in a New York apartment to find the space to work on projects and I am constantly challenged by my own clutter.

Any advice for beginners?

Try everything! If the first time you try out a new craft you suck, be patient and try again. Also, a good crafting buddy helps.

Why do you love designing t-shirts?

I love designing designing t-shirts because it is a very tangible way to see your artwork displayed and used. Even more so than a traditional let's say textile design, a t-shirt is something that can appeal to a very broad range of people in a very usable way.

For more information on Kimm's designs, please visit her Web sites: kimmchi.etsy.com and www.kimmchi.com.

Want to show off your creative side? Send me an e-mail with pictures showing off your favorite craft and you might be chosen as our next DIYer of the Week!

Anda from Etsy.com shows us how to stencil a t-shirt. Why spend big bucks on designer t-shirts when you can customize your own? Once you learn the steps, you'll be wishing you learned this months ago!

Are you looking for a great bargain on holiday gifts? Check out this great Black Friday sale.

The NewNew Etsy Street Team, a group of handmade artists representing the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut area are hosting a 10% off sale on Friday, November 23. All purchases made that day with the participating shops will receive a 10% re-imbursement on the item price.

To see a list of the participating stores, please visit their blog: http://thenewnew.blogspot.com/2007/11/newnew-black-friday-10-off-sale.html

Each week this month, I'll introduce you to some great handmade arts and crafts -- many are made by New Yorkers -- that are perfect for giving as gifts. I hope you will find this shopping guide helpful. Please consider supporting handmade artists in our area.

THIS WEEK: Bath tub treats

Morgan Street Soaps -- Sharon Jenkins makes bathtime luxurious with her handmade soap. She makes every bar of soap from scratch and then artfully adds swirls of color and scents to her creations. Pick up a few of her most popular soaps, including Pumpkin Spice, White Tea & Ginger or anything scented with Patchouli for an unusual bath experience! She also makes sugar scrubs for smoothing rough, dry skin and body lotion too. Visit online: morganstreet.etsy.com

Daisy May Natural Soap – Can you find the soap ornament? Sure, you can hang it on your tree first! Delores Harris makes each batch of soap by hand at her home in Brooklyn. She offers natural soaps in the shape of holiday tree ornaments, gingerbread men, snowmen, and snowflakes to celebrate the season. How clever! These soaps would make great stocking stuffers for children and the young at heart. Visit online: www.DaisyMayNaturalSoap.Com

Kopah -- Kopah means soap in Hawaiian and just one bar of Candice Shelton's soap will transport you to this tropical location. She uses a tried-and-true recipe of olive oil, coconut oil, and palm oil combined with orange and lavender essential oils and dried orange peel for exfoliation. It has a light, citrus scent combined with the deeply fragrant lavender oil. It's a delicious combination! To pick up your own, visit online: kopah.etsy.com

Anderson Soap Co. -- While Dennis Anderson sells a variety soaps, I was enticed by his handcrafted beer soap. It's made of the usual soapmaking ingredients with a splash of good 'ole Samuel Adams Boston Lager! It's a great gift for that special beer drinker in your life. For more information, visit online: dennisanderson.etsy.com

Sun Kissed Bud -- Working as a pastry chef for many years in New York City, Ayelet Meshulam felt it was time for some pampering. She started making soaps and other bath products as a way to ease the pain in her back, neck, and feet. She has lots of yummy offerings, but the most decadent is her Valrhona Chocolate Rush and Coconut soap. It has a rich, intense chocolate aroma that will appeal to your senses. When you purchase this soap, it arrives wrapped and ready for gift-giving. Visit online: ayelet17.etsy.com

NEXT WEEK: The best of the rest!

Previously featured in our handmade holiday guide: baby gear and handcrafted jewelry.

Photo of fancy garland, above, courtesy of www.thewreathlady.com

Calling all stampers and scrappers! Here's an event you're sure to enjoy ....

The 7th Annual Greater New York Art Rubber Stamp and Scrapbook Show will be held on Saturday, November 17 at the Smithtown Sheraton, 110 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Smithtown. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Vendors from all over the country will sell craft items, host demonstrations and offer make-and-take projects to inspire you. There will be door prizes and classes too. Admission is $6.

Visit stampsmith.net/newyorkshow.htm or e-mail: estelle@stampsmith.net or call (631) 547-5922 for tickets and details.

What: Scrapper's Playground

Where: 785 Deer Park Ave., North Babylon, 631-539-9888, scrappersplayground.net

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Closed Monday.

Details: Tucked into a small shopping center just north of Sunrise Highway, Scrapper's Playground is a new store geared toward scrapbookers, stampers and other DIYers. Though the space is tight, the shelves are loaded with an impressive selection of modern supplies not typically stocked in stores. Of note- sheets of luxe felt embellishments ($18) and acrylic stamp designs ($40 for 12 x 12 sheets) from Fancy Pants Designs and transparent page overlays, rub-ons, and patterned papers ($3-$5.25) from the cult-favorite Hambly Studios.

Owner Sue O'Malley says she carries these boutique lines because her store is small and she'd rather give scappers materials they can't easily find elsewhere. Several classes are offered-- a mix of crop sessions, themed layout designs and papercraft projects.

Turkey, gravy and pies ....oh my!

Whether you're eating out or in, cooking from scratch or ordering takeout, we have guidelines, tips, recipes and instructions to help ensure the holiday gets off without a hitch.

Check out our video on carving a turkey and then get the lowdown on turkey day recipes, wine pairings and so much more!

The fourth season of Bravo's hit series "Project Runway" kicks off Wednesday, and if the first episode is any indication, it is going to be a doozy. The challenges are brutal, the judges funnier and meaner than ever, and the contestants -- a motorcycle mama, a nature nut and a slew of designing divas -- give new meaning to the word kooky.

But Long Islanders, no doubt, will be rooting for Jillian Lewis, 26, who is none of the above. Lewis, who grew up in Selden, was chosen from thousands of applicants as one of 15 finalists on the show. Her goal, natch, is to be one of the last three designers standing, meaning she would get to strut her stuff on the runway during New York Fashion Week in February and perhaps win the whole shebang -- an editorial feature in Elle, $100,000 seed money for a business and a 2008 Saturn. -- BY ANNE BRATSKEIR

Click here to see Project Runway videos and to learn more about this Long Island do-it-yourselfer.

This month's Sampler arrived in my mailbox and it's brimming with wonderful handmade treats!

What is the Sampler? It's where clever marketing and handmade goodies join forces to promote independent designers. Every month, crafters, zines, musical artists and makers of all stripes submit their samples to a huge pool of contributed items that are divvyed up, tucked neatly into care packages, and then sent off to Sampler subscribers. Best of all, if you contribute to the Sampler you will also receive your very own Sampler. How cool is that?

In addition to their monthly box o' crafty goodness, the Sampler offers special curated boxes of items that are custom-ordered from Sampler contributers and it's called Sampler Select. It's very exclusive!

To learn more about the Sampler, visit them online: www.homeofthesampler.com

OK, let's take a peek inside this month's Sampler!

The owners of Compai (means company in Spanish) contributed a really lovely silk scarf in a beautiful color palette of peach, brown and gray. It's so soft and feels luxurious! Along with the scarf were cute "recipe cards" with instructions on how to wear the scarf with style for the launch of their book "99 Ways to Cut, Sew, Tie & Rock Your Scarf" in stores on March 8. I think I'll make mine into a halter top!

Manic Trout does it again with another stunning piece of jewelry. Upon setting my eyes on their Alegra Midnight Show Necklace, my mind drifted off to a dream vacation to Morocco where I might find such a treasure. It's a necklace that's feminine, yet funky and sure to make your gal pals jealous.

Indie designers love animals! I've seen cool handmade items featuring owls and birds and now I have a super cute octopus to call my own. My new pet has eight legs, is made of sterling silver, and hangs around my neck. To adopt one of your own, check out Imogene, which carries a nice selection of jewelry, paper crafts, and home goods.

As I'm rummaging through my Sampler box, I notice a delicious aroma and discover it's a bar of oatmeal, milk and honey soap and a tube of chocolate dreams soothing lip balm by Dejae Blue Spa. They both smell heavenly! The soap is made up of wholesome ingredients such as rice bran, shea butter, and coconut oil. I can't wait to try it after a long day at work to wash away the stress.

And finally, I received a plethora of greeting cards just in time for the holiday season. Carta Etc. sent in a pack of five cards stamped with a gilded bird that are absolutely stunning. On their Web site, they are offering 20 percent off your first purchase and free gift wrap until December 25. What a great bargain!

The card makers at Presents and Law contributed adorable postcards of dogs wearing antlers and one sporting a tiara.
These cards made me howl with laughter!

Alicia Bock of Alicia Bock Photography captured a moment in nature that's similar to one I witnessed just the other day -- a flock of birds flying away for the winter. Her artwork is inspiring and ethereal. I can see myself picking up a few of her offerings for gift-giving.

Frank & Bean's cards will make you smile. They are whimsical and unexpected, which are the perfect ingredients for must-have greeting card in my book! Look for their birthday card featuring a cave man wielding a club, inside it says "let's go clubbing!" I know just the person who receive this special card!

Well, I'm off to enjoy my goods. Viva la Sampler!

Can't get enough? See what's been written about the October and September editions of the Sampler.

Each week this month, I'll introduce you to great handmade objects of desire that are perfect for giving as gifts. Plus, many of these items are made in New York! I hope you will find this shopping guide helpful. Please consider supporting handmade artists.

THIS WEEK: Handmade jewelry

Cosmic Charms -- Made by Amy Illardo on Long Island, these charm bracelets are fabulous! She also makes earrings and necklaces, but it's the charm bracelets that are the most whimsical and fun. What girl doesn't deserve a charm bracelet? This jewelry line would make a great gift and a fun addition to any wardrobe. Visit online: cosmiccharms.etsy.com

Everlasting Glass -- This Brooklynite's jewelry is cute as a cupcake, literally! Christine Gant sculpts glass into amazing shapes, including cupcakes, strawberries, and hearts. She starts with beads made of Italian Moretti glass and each piece is a unique work of art. For the girl that has everything, a handmade glass necklace or earrings will definitely do the trick! Visit online: everlastingglass.etsy.com

Jantar Handcrafted Jewelry -- The first thing I noticed about Mirela Jazdzewska's unique jewelry line is the explosion of color, so lively and imaginative. Her Web site says: "I decided to finally think about myself and follow my bliss. I'm having the time of my life and I can only hope you will love my jewelry as much as I loved making it!" Treat yourself to one of her gorgeous designs. Made in Long Island. Visit online: jantar.etsy.com

Robin's Jewelry Box -- This crafter creates gourmet miniature food and specialty desserts you can wear! Check out the selection of parfaits, cakes and pies. Talk about fun with food! When you purchase one of Robin's sweet treats, it comes wrapped in a lovely organza sachet to make gift-giving easy. Plus, you'll get a free dessert item handmade especially for you! To learn more about this funky food art, visit online: robinsjewelrybox.etsy.com

NEXT WEEK: Bath tub treats!

See last week's handmade gift suggestions: baby gear.

Photo of gift wrap, above, courtesy of lawatha.etsy.com

-- by Corris

This week's featured artist creates one-of-a-kind floral sculptures for weddings, sporting events, charity fund raisers, Sweet Sixteens and any other type of affair. She's currently working on new unique designs and enjoys creating custom pieces. Let's meet Felicia!

Name: Felicia Greenberg, 49
Hometown: Dix Hills, NY
Occupation: Event Designer/artist
Web site: www.tablearteventdesigns.com

How did you get into floral art?

As my children reached the Bar and Bat Mitzvah years I decided to try my hand at creating the centerpieces and room decor for their parties. The response was so overwhelming that I decided to open Table Art & Event Designs, a decor company for corporate and social gatherings. The event planners at Atlantis Marine World, in Riverhead, where we had my son's reception, saw my work and they were impressed with my unusual creations. They soon placed me on their recommended vendor list. Since then I have created pieces for events held at venues such as Oheka Castle, The New York Hall of Science, and various other venues throughout New York.

Continue reading "DIYer of the Week: Felicia Greenberg" »

Reuseable bags are gaining in popularity as more consumers seek easy ways to preserve the environment and produce less waste. Check out this video tutorial by Make magazine and learn how to make your own messenger bag, which is perfect for any person on the go!

In recognition of Veterans Day, County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi has announced that all County veterans and active-duty service personnel will receive a free round of golf at five County golf courses in commemoration of Veterans Day, November 11, 2007.

The following golf courses are involved in the program:

The 18-hole Blue Course at Eisenhower Park (516-572-0327/28).

The 9-hole executive courses at:

Bay Park in East Rockaway (516-571-7242)
Cantiague Park in Hicksville (516-571-7061)
Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn-North Hills (516-571-8120)
North Woodmere Park in North Woodmere (516-571-7814).

To be eligible, golfers must present proof of Nassau County residency and either military identification (for active duty) or discharge papers (veterans); a Nassau County Veterans Leisure Passport is also acceptable. This offer involves walk-up games only (no reservations), and all other charges (such as golf cart fees) will apply.

For more information about the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums, visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks, or call 516-572-0200.

With the holiday season upon us, I want to share my favorite finds by local crafters, and best of all, you can get them online. There's nothing better than shopping online, you can skip the long lines at the mall and avoid all those cookie-cutter gifts too. And don't even think of getting another gift card!

Each week this month, I'll introduce you to some great handmade arts and crafts -- many are made by New Yorkers -- that are perfect for giving as gifts. I hope you will find this shopping guide helpful. Please consider supporting handmade artists in our area. Happy holidays!

THIS WEEK: Baby gear

Yarnworks by Ali -- A mother of two girls and a lifelong crafter from Long Island, Ali Coe loves to crochet and knit for her family and friends, especially infants. She specializes in handmade crib blankets, sweaters, socks and hats for newborns. I adore her baby blankets as they remind me of my first blanket from childhood. Her handmade creations serve as a memento of a very special time -- the birth of a child. Visit online: YarnworksByAli.etsy.com

Designs by Nana -- Two words describe the handiwork of Nana Waldo -- simply beautiful! She is a stay-at-home mother who loves fashion, art and design. Her design sensibilites shine through in her handmade onesies, baby bibs, blankets, and burp cloths. Got a special request? No problem, she customizes gift sets! Visit online: designsbynana.etsy.com



The Clever Kitty -- Want something unique for your baby's widdle toes? Try these felted mary jane baby shoes! Shannon Hanley crafts each one with 100% merino wool in a rainbow of colors. I love mary janes and if my feet were small enough, I'd definitely want a pair of these adorable booties. When you place an order, the shoes arrive in a gift box tied with grossgrain ribbon. Visit online: thecleverkitty.etsy.com

NEXT WEEK: Handmade jewelry!