My latest covet for my mini-art collection is one of Rachel Austin’s mixed media map paintings. I really like her whole collection from oil paintings of poppies and lanterns to her watercolor farm series. The farm series is a lot like Wayne Thiebaud’s rural landscape paintings which I love but could probably never afford. Rachel’s map paintings can be purchased here in SF at Off Beat on Haight or at her Etsy shop.

How lovable are these stuffed elephants and giraffes!? Wren Handmade is Laura Normandin, a craft editor for Martha Stewart, this is her side business. I would imagine that one of these pets would be a perfect baby gift that could eventually become a beloved family heirloom. Made of linen, $60 dollars each.

My new favorite shopping spot is day-lab, a fantastic site, run by a cool woman from Baton Rouge, LA. Amy, the founder and owner of day-lab, specializes in finding unique items by independent designers as well as vintage finds that are all really affordable. Even cooler, every month she donates a portion of her profits to The World Society for the Protection of Animals. Here are a few things that caught my eye, the top 2 are vintage jewelry and on the bottom salt and pepper shakers, and vintage buttons, all under $30.

I have never crocheted in my life but after seeing this cute sweater apron I might need to learn. Seen on this great little site Crochet Me, it includes the pattern and all the instructions you need to make this yourself. I would imagine you could use this pattern to make a real kitchen apron too.

I first saw these prints by artist Andy Davis in Domino and quickly fell in love. Andy captures the free spirit, beauty and a love of surfing in his Pop Art inspired drawings and clothing line, Ando & Friends. I pretty much have to buy one for our California ranch house and I know my surf fanatic friend Carter needs one too. Prices start at $250 for limited edition prints and go up to $7,500 for original artwork. You can buys his tees online at Ando & Friends.

Aren’t these dream catchers so enchanting? I am probably too old to be purchasing one and they might be better suited for a child’s room, but I can’t resist. Plus I love dreaming, except when it’s the recurring nightmare I have of being chased by June bugs on Cape Cod. Anyhoo you can pick one up from Etsy seller Nest Pretty Things at $20 a pop.

(courtesy of Yvestown)

Kristin Laing makes these gorgeous etched sterling silver jewels inspired by her travels to Japan and vintage fabrics. They look so delicate but still have an edgy almost gothic look I really like. Her latest Mikado collection features jewelry etched with patterns and motifs by Mod Green Pod, very cool.

My friend, the talented Mary Mar Keenan, just launched her latest and greatest ceramic venture, Purple Bird Designs! Personalized baby plates and bowls with adorable designs handmade by Mary Mar are customized with your choice of design and color. Each one is unique and such a great baby gift idea.

I’m back from my 2nd vacation this Summer! Oh how I love vacation.

Thought I’d share a jewelry designer that caught my eye recently, Alisha Louise and her Deco inspired enamel earrings and necklaces in pretty blues and greens, they’re just lovely.

(courtesy of clothes-pin).

I have been a fan of these Robert Longo prints for years. Too bad I didn’t purchase one 6 years ago, since the price is up to $3,500 now! Fortunately you can still buy the poster for $110. But the original is so much cooler. I love the energy and the “American Psycho” 80’s vibe, plus they are gigantic and would look so cool as a pair on a huge wall in your all white loft.

My friend Ramey, of Rainy Ramey fame, turned me on to Erin Condren Designs for custom notecards, announcements and other fun paper items. Her notecard sets come with really cute personalized address stickers, envelopes and cards. Check out the personalized gift wrap and lots of great baby announcements.