Standout Artisans

Toronto’s One of a Kind show is in full swing at the Direct Energy Centre. It’s only on until Sunday, December 5, so be sure to visit before the artisans start packing up.

I was browsing the aisles over the weekend, and came across several treasures. If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas, look no further.

These pieces from Montreal’s Ceramik B stood out for their simplicity. Check out these organically shaped salt and pepper shakers.

Porcelaines Bousquet had beautiful white vases and tableware. The porcelain cones above would be perfect for holiday entertaining.

The Saltbox Shoppe, based out of Kincardine, ON, salvages vintage doorknobs for these coat hooks — crafty! I can picture the sapphire blue knobs in a cottage entryway.

These veneer gift tags from Flakes Paperie are an original spin on flimsy paper ones. Use pencil to write with so that they can be reused. Their handmade Christmas cards were gorgeous, too.

Heather Shaw, owner of Toronto’s Pi’lo, has toured us through her home for Online TV, and I caught up with her at the One of a Kind show to browse her latest crafts. These vintage-looking sewing kits (above left) are a great idea for those who prefer practical gifts. And how cute would her white feather balls (above right) be on a simple Christmas tree with white lights?

Hailing from Hamilton, ON, Jenna Rose screen-prints textiles with her own drawings. Her designs are inspired by everyday life, as illustrated with this whimsical bicycle cushion.

Sandy Middleton, of Tansy & Co., combined her background in photography with her passion for home decor. She uses her own original photographs for these handmade printed lampshades and repurposed window frames.

Christie Greyerbiehl’s fabric light boxes would make a perfect gift for people on your list with little ones. Their soft glow and fun drawings are so much more interesting than plug nightlights.

I’m not quite here yet, but I couldn’t get enough of all the adorable baby booths. Montreal-based Poids Plume uses 100% natural, organic cotton for their clothing and bedding, and all items are handmade in Quebec. These onesies were softer than a baby’s you-know-what.

Tulip+i hand-prints fun Italian phrases on blankets, bibs and pillows with water-based inks. I would like a “latte + biscotti” bib for myself, please.

So head down to Exhibition Place and see the show for yourselves! (It will also be in Vancouver from December 9-12.) Gift ideas galore!

Photo credits:
Gwen McAuley