Cheap Thrills

"Decorating Gift Baskets: 35 Projects to Make Plus Ideas to Inspire for Baskets, Boxes, and More," by Catherine Woram (Cico Books, $19.95): For the creative, making gifts with a personal touch may come easy. Others may need guidance and the creativity shown in this book. Gift baskets outlined here are designed for several holidays, including Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day and Father's Day. Specialized categories including one for writers, those concerned about the environment, students, knitters and men. The tips are easy to follow and the final projects are shown in bright, colorful photos. -- Pam Robinson

Professional gift wrappers at Papyrus in Roosevelt Field mall spend all day cutting, taping and tying ribbons on packages for oh-so-busy customers who don't have time to wrap their presents.

How to wrap a gift and tie a bow

To do it yourself, see a step-by-step video tutorial, which includes a demonstration for dressing up gifts with pretty ribbon bows tied by hand.

Newsday Photo / Ken Spencer

For handmade artists who sell their wares, I believe the best gift you can give is a glowing recommendation. Awhile back, I asked Cheap Thrills readers to share their favorite places to buy lovely hand-crafted items for the holidays. Thanks to you, I discovered quite a few gems and was reminded of all the creative work that is being done on Long Island and in NYC.

Take a look at what readers picked as their favorites:

"I would like to nominate Cathy Buckley of "The Cat's Meow" jewelry.

Cathy designs the most exquisite earrings, necklaces and bracelets for all ages, in all colors and shapes and in all price ranges.

I have introduced Cathy's jewelry to my friends and business associates and they have all been pleased not only with her jewelry, but with her customer service and friendly attitude.

Her items are one-of-a-kind and most are made with swarovski crystals, sea pearls, semi precious stones and in the most unique style! Whenever I am wearing a Cathy Buckley item, I always get plenty of compliments. She has a knowledge of color and texture from being a faux and decorative painter and brings that knowledge and experience to her jewelry design. Cathy's a Registered Nurse with a Master's degree, too! As you can see, this woman is multi-talented and deserves to be featured in your next issue." -- Eileen Dolan

"It is my pleasure to nominate Karen Milroy to be included in your holiday guide. I discovered Karen's company in your guide last year and having been ordering ever since. Her quality and customer service is far superior to other companies I have had dealings with over the years." -- Beth Sherman

"I love items from Cakehouse.etsy.com. They combine many passions -- animals (cats in particular here), housewares, vintage and being environmentally conscious. It's amazing her items fulfill all of that and so elegantly -- handmade napkins and table dressings made from recycled vintage fabrics that are then silkscreened or appliqued with animals or other prints. I just love them!" -- Kimm Alfonso

"One of my faves is this awesome clutch "Wild Side Cotton Clutch" from Jaatee's Etsy shop. Made of ethnic print cotton, this clutch fits right in with the "boho" side of today's woman. I'd be "chuffed" (as the Brits would say) if I were so lucky as to receive this as a holiday gift." -- Marilyn ng-a-qui

Special thanks to everyone who sent in recommendations to Cheap Thrills! Click here to read more from our handmade holiday guide. It's chock full of great artists, do-it-yourselfers, and crafters who make amazing things you can purchase for gift-giving.

On my daily commute to the office, I enjoy looking out my car window at the falling leaves in autumnal shades. In colder months, I often visit the beach just to smell the salt air and feel the cold, grainy sand in my hands. I guess you could say I'm a 'nature lover.' Here are a few handcrafted creations inspired by nature that would make wonderful gifts.

Roses always remind me of love and this Carnelian Rose necklace-earring set by Nature Manipulated would be the perfect gift to say "I love you." Cost: $75. Don't miss Nature Manipulated's beautiful photography, too. To buy: naturemanipulated.etsy.com

This greeting card by WildWheat evokes those fond childhood memories of jumping into a pile of leaves. Cost: $6.50. To buy: WildWheat.etsy.com

Give your dry winter skin a treat with a moisturizing bar of vegan soap by Dirty Bird Soaps. This is a gift that gives back as 10 percent of every sale goes to the Humane Society, according to their Web site. Cost: $4.50. To buy: dirtybirdsoaps.etsy.com

If you're baking gifts this Christmas, presenting them in a holiday-worthy container is almost as important as the cookies.

We asked some crafts-loving staff members to take food canisters from oatmeal, bread crumbs, coffee and grits and decorate them in the spirit of the holidays. Here's what they came up with:

1. Ribbon container

Cover container with wrapping paper. Cut ribbons to the height of your container and affix one at a time, using a small amount of glue to secure each end. To make the bow: Cut a piece of ribbon to twice the width of the container's lid and glue one end over the other to form a circle. Pinch the middle of the circle flat to create two loops (use a dot of glue on the inside to hold the shape). Repeat several times and layer loops on the container's lid to create a bow.

2. Angel canister

Paint the container gold and allow to dry. Attach a background of wrapping paper using spray adhesive. Find a picture that can be cut out of an old calendar or from a holiday card and attach using spray adhesive. With a foam brush, apply 1 to 3 coats of a decoupage medium, such as Modge Podge, allowing ample drying time between coats.

Continue reading "How To: Deck the tins with the spirit of Christmas" »

This holiday boutique features original art, stained and painted glass, Christmas ornaments, pictures with Santa and more, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Deepwells Farm County Park, Route 25A and Moriches Road, St. James, $5 admission, call 631-563-8551.

(AP Photo)

My favorite decorating magazine, Domino, just launched its holiday gift guide online. (Thanks Katie!) The December/January issue featuring lots of gift suggestions won't be on the newsstands 'til Dec. 2, so take a gander at their offerings here.

I'm especially fond of the DIY gift ideas. You can make all sorts of inexpensive presents with your hands and a few materials, such as bath salts, foam fridge magnets, and more.

Here's a recipe for sooting bath salts from Domino staffer Amy Shearn:

Materials:

coarse sea salt
lavender essential oil
dried lavender
spice sachets
clean, empty jars
Epsom salts (optional)
ribbon (optional)

How-to:

Mix several drops of essential oil into about 4 cups of salt. Alternately, combine 3 cups of salt with 1 cup of Epsom salts.
Sprinkle in dried herbs. Mix well.
Pour into jars (and tie on a ribbon if you're feeling fancy).
Include spice sachets that bathers can spoon some salts into before using, to keep the lavender bits from floating around.

Brrr! Baby, it's cold outside!

Thanks to the chilly temps, I was reminded that I need a new scarf and preferably one that's handmade. Just like purses, I believe you can never have too many scarves. A girl's gotta look good right? I'm hoping one of my dear friends will see this wish list and surprise me with one for Christmas.

Here's a few fabulous, handmade scarves worth a look:

A Victorian-inspired scarflette by Feeting Frenzy evokes true romance. It's made of a variety of materials, including wool, acrylic, alpaca, cashmere and viscose. Cost: $49. To buy: FeetingFrenzy.etsy.com

The made-to-order scarves by Miss Bruno are edgy and chic. "Each piece is a one-of-a-kind, no two are ever exactly alike," according to their Web site. I love the idea of wearing a unique creation that no one else will have. Cost: $60 and up. To buy: www.missbruno.com

One of the most intriguing scarves I've seen so far, the Pembroke Cowl by Yokoo is simply stunning and so versatile. You must stop by this online shop to look at the interesting photos of Yokoo's work. Cost: $99. To buy: Yokoo.etsy.com

Last year's handmade holiday gift guide was a tremendous success, so we're doing it again and this time with a twist!

I want you to tell me about your favorite handcrafted gift items to buy, give and receive. Did you spy something on Etsy.com or Lov.li that's really cool? Or maybe you spotted a beautiful object made by a local artisan. Please let us know all about it!

This is a great opportunity to rave about your favorite artisans, crafters and do-it-yourselfers from Long Island and New York City. We're looking for handmade objects that are not edible: furniture, jewelry, clothing, artwork, bath and body, etc.

To Enter: Send me an e-mail with the subject line: Holiday Guide. Please explain why you love the handmade object, the item's Web site, and your own contact information in case I have follow-up questions.

Note: You should nominate someone other than yourself. Nominations are due Friday, Nov. 14.

Happy holidays!

Photo: Christmas Ornaments in Sock Yarn by Kalamazoo Knits

Since when did Halloween become yet another opportunity to outdo your neighbors by having the most inflatables and decorations in your front yard? Or sending the kids off to school with spookily decorated cupcakes?

Halloween used to be so simple, just a fun holiday for kids -- and kids at heart. Homey touches included displays of pumpkins, gourds, acorns or pine cones that you picked yourself; simple decorations were made from fallen leaves and twigs. Homemade costumes were cool, and home-baked cookies and harvest-fresh cider after a round of dunking for apples made the day complete.

It's not all that hard to get some of that feeling back. Here are some classes and workshops to help you get in the Halloween mood.

Continue reading about creepy crafts by Newsday's Judith Bernstein ...

Several weeks ago, I finally purchased something I've had my eye on for months! And now that I have it in my possession, I can't imagine why I didn't buy it sooner.

It's a beautiful picture made by Emily Martin, owner of TheBlackApple, and I simply love it. I'd hug and snuggle it, but I don't want to destroy all the hard work that went into making this amazing piece of art.

What propelled my purchase? Well, I stumbled upon this darling print on Etsy.com and bookmarked it as a favorite months ago. Then I discovered that Emily Martin would be featured on the Martha Stewart Show. I was so worried that my little girl would be sold to someone else, so I snapped her up the night before the show aired!

Luckily, she was still there waiting for me. Hurray!

The Black Apple offers hand-sewn dollies with sweet faces, prints of little girls holding animals and dangling from trees, and postcards, too.

Check out the shop online: theblackapple.etsy.com

Do you buy handmade? Tell me about your latest handmade purchase! Pop me an e-mail describing your latest find and you may see it here on the blog!

Click here to read more from the "Buying Handmade" series.

Photo credit: Emily Martin

Lip balm is one of my favorite things to make at home. It's quick, easy and enables me to keep my lip balm addiction going strong too.

Last year, I received a sample of soaps from Ayelet, owner and creator, of Sun Kissed Bud bath products, and I enjoyed them immensely. So much so, I mentioned her bathtime treats in our first-ever handmade-holiday guide.

When I started running low on my favorite lip moisturizer, I decided to check out Ayelet's collection of hand-crafted goodies in her online store on Etsy.com, a marketplace for all things handmade.

Sun Kissed Bud offers natural deodorant, soaps made from scratch, hand lotion made with shea butter, and moisturizing lip balms. Sun Kissed Bud products are incredibly fragrant, too. I adore the sweeter scents, such as chocolate mint truffle, bubble gum, sweet pea and banana cream.

To save on cash, I picked up a three-pack where I could pick the scents for a mere $7.50. You may also purchase singles for only $3. What a deal! The best part about this purchase was Ayelet's friendly and professional manner.

For more information about Sun Kissed Bud products, visit online: ayelet17.etsy.com.

Have you taken the pledge to buy handmade? Here's why you should ... buying the wares of a craftsperson or artisan is like investing in their hopes, dreams and creativity. That alone can make a purchase extra-special.

Do you want to rave about your recent handmade purchase? Pop me an e-mail describing your latest find and you may see it here on the blog!

I finally got my tax refund. Hurray!

I must say, I'm pretty proud of myself for doing them myself and itemizing a few deductions to boot! As a reward, I decided to buy a few things on Etsy.com, my favorite Web site for affordable and unique handmade goods.

Here's a look at what I purchased:

Debbie Chialtas is the owner of Soapy Love and sells adorable handmade soaps in the shape of a popsicle! The "soapsicles" come in a variety of colors and scents. Her soapy creations remind me of summers I spent chasing the ice cream truck as a child. For my Etsy purchase, I chose the Squeakymelon soapsicle because of it's sweet scent and bright color. When it arrived, my mailbox smelled like watermelon candy. It's pure heaven on a stick!

Lather up with one her whimsical soaps for only 8 bucks via her Web sites: soapylove.etsy.com or www.soapylove.com.

In addition to soap, I picked up a couple of her soap tutorials to try out at home. I'm always interested in trying new ways to make my own soap. I love her polka-dot and cameo soap tutorials.

Are you looking for an interesting gift? Debbie's soaps would make great wedding favors or stocking stuffers for the holidays.

Did you buy something handmade and want to rave about it? Pop me an e-mail describing your latest handmade purchase and you may see it here on the blog!

At the end of every rainbow there is a pot of gold.

No rainbows in sight? No problem, create your own cauldron of coins with a terra cotta pot.

Of course, Irish eyes are smiling upon you, as this project takes less than 30 minutes to complete.

Click here to get the tutorial written by crafter extraordinaire Steven James. Be sure to check out his other tutorials on the Cheap Thrills blog.

Nothing says "from the heart" more than a handmade treat for your sweetie on Valentine's Day. Check out this fun craft tutorial for making an adorable wrapping for a box of Valentine Nerds candy! When giving a loved one a gift -- no matter how small -- it pays to be creative and show that you've put forth an effort. Enjoy the video!

Special thanks to Angie Juda for the video tutorial! For more information on Angie's altered creations and other crafts or to inquire about craft supplies, please visit her blog: http://www.chicnscratch.typepad.com/

When Shirley Darkeh lights the black, red and green candles today, she'll think of hope. An ancient land. A people's tradition.

Today marks the first day of Kwanzaa, a secular seven-day festival that celebrates African-American culture and history.

Darkeh, who lives in Westbury, said she's been observing the holiday almost since it was created 41 years ago by Maulana Karenga, a black-studies professor in California.

"It's not a political holiday, and it's not celebrating one individual," Darkeh explained. "It's a celebration of a people."

Every year, Kwanzaa - named after a Swahili phrase for "first fruits" - falls on the day after Christmas, but has no connection to it.

Gifts are encouraged to be handmade and usually include a book or something educational for children.

Continue reading this article on Kwanzaa by Newsday's Jennifer Barrios.

For more information about Kwanzaa, check out the official Web site.

Online marketplace Etsy has a touching article about a family of adopted children and their celebration of Kwanzaa.

Photo: Mekiyah McCorvey 7, of Wyandanch points to the first lit candle on the Kinara (candleholder) and recites the first of the seven principles at the Wyandanch Public Library. (Photo by Joseph D. Sullivan)

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

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.

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

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

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!