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Yes, these frames are a little more expensive that what you may be used to, but they’re made of cotton rope (probably by hand). Traditionally used as piping in furniture, the cotton rope is used in a traditional style to playfully mix historical periods. Frame whatever you choose- a picture, a mirror, or leave it empty as a piece of art on its own.
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Um, isn’t there some event in your near future where you might need to send a nice, thoughtful gift? Mother’s day? Someone’s birthday? Instead of sending something they may or may not like, give them something they’ll cherish- and they should, as you’ll need to spend a few hours embroidering the message. A piece of cotton ‘paper’ and embroidery thread from this Correspondence Kit by Lauren DiCioccio will be your mode of communication to express your heartfelt sentiments, or maybe just the weather. Either way, it will be a surprise and (let’s hope) a keepsake. Pre-stamped envelope and supplies included. And, if you’d like a more budget-friendly version, here’s a poetry paper kit for $16 that just has the basics (lined cotton fabric, thread, needle).
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If you’re going to add a little nautical flair to your surroundings, please, please, please make it one of these rope mats by Sophie Aschauer. Reclaimed sailing ropes are woven with four different knots- referred to as “Bonny”, “Drake”, “Morgan” and “Killigrew” (pirates from the 17th century, by the way)- into doormats or smaller sized area rugs. Remember that the rope is reclaimed, so they’ll show a little bit of wear, but that’s a small price to pay for such color and texture.

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Like these graphic, silk screened cork boards? You could easily point-and-click purchase them and no one will think less of you because, hey, you’re busy, and it’s nice to have a little pattern on the wall. Or, you could go to your local craft or office supply store and buy some regular cork board tiles (like these on Amazon), mask each corner half off with painter’s tape and paper, and then spray or brush on black paint to create the same sort of look. Remove taper/paper and ta-da! You have your patterned cork board. It’ll take a little more time, but it’ll save you a little cash.
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Do you recall the Bluelounge Backpack we featured a while ago? This messenger bag is similar in its simple exterior style and multi-pocketed interior, yet suits the over-the-shoulder mode of carrying around your goods. A quick release buckle makes the on/off process easy and (of course) it’s also got an ergonomic fit that’s pretty important if your commute is longer than, say, 5 minutes. Just like the backpack, the fabric is made of 100% recycled PET plastic bottles.
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This chair by John Reeves is remarkable. A stool becomes a chair and vice versa, simply by lifting or lowering the seat back. Several chairs can be stacked as stools, which takes up a very small footprint indeed. Perhaps this same idea has been employed before, but I’d reckon it would be hard to find a sample with the same degree of thoughtful design and simplicity. (Update: price is $495 now, compared to $395 in 2010.)

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Scrabble pillows. It was only a matter of time, really, before these hit the radar. And, if you want to shop around, it looks like Etsy has quite a few sellers offering their own versions in different sizes and such. These pillows (available from Spoon Sisters) are printed on organic cotton and measure 15.75″ square.
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Have a nice first-weekend-of-March. The nice weather is just around the corner, I promise.

Home security systems aren’t all that exciting- long term contracts usually dissuade renters and homeowners alike- but this one offers something new. You install it yourself. There’s no wires or technicians required, and you can take it with you if or when you move. There’s also no required monthly fees. Sounds pretty good, right?

There’s a base station, which works over WIFI and allows you to use the security system on your smartphone or computer, an arm/disarm panel to place on main doors, open/close sensors on any door or window you want monitored, and a motion sensor to cover other areas where open/close sensors might not work (glass breakage, for example). You pick and choose which ones you want, and how many. Read more about the software at Scout.
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This is getting filed under toys instead of desk accessories, as the fun potential is much higher than the somewhat boring/functional office usage. They’re simply a set of 288 cardboard magnets, to be placed on your magnetic board/wall or fridge, for making shapes, animals, landscapes or whatever else your imagination wants. Share them with the kids or keep them in your office space, up to you.
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Are you though? Or do you only appear to be? Such questions, such statements. Designed and printed by Izabella Dennis for Fifi du Vie. (Sound familiar? You might recognize some of her work that’s recently been pinned/posted around your regular (internet) haunts: Adventurers and Good People Print .)

Screen printed using non-toxic ink on 100% cotton tote bag.

I hesitate to use the word ‘dainty’ to describe these lamps from RestartMilano, mostly because it brings to mind doilies and frail flowers. With their sleek swivel arms and warm brass finish, these lamps are just the opposite, yet the thin silhouette allows for a light (as in, not heavy) touch in any interior, allowing other elements to take center stage. Three versions available: Long Wall Lamp, Short Wall Lamp, and Table Lamp.

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Now, some might say that framing a favorite t-shirt is for a 20-something’s decor, but we’ll politely ignore them and carefully put ours behind this frame from Umbra. Never say donate! (Never say donate to the one (or two) worn out shirts that are worth keeping, that is, but donate the heck out of the clothes you don’t wear.)
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And just when you thought you were too old to enjoy the outdoors, Stick-lets comes along. Sure, they’re meant to help kids get back outside and build forts with sticks, but who says you can’t enjoy them too? Be sure to share with others (team building, anyone?), and stay away from trees and branches that don’t belong to you- that could cause some problems- but other than that, have fun. Made from 100% silicone, each Stick-let stretches to meet your construction needs, whether you use natural branches or wood dowels. On the count of three, what’s the first thing you’d build? (One..two…three) a TIPI! Other answers are acceptable, of course. Need it be mentioned that this could be an excellent gift?
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For your favorite mathematician (a.k.a. mathemagician), how about a dishtowel, pencil case, or mug? Or all three? Chalk white lines on a black backgroung evoke memories from past math classes, and no matter if you liked/loved/hated them, you (or someone you know) can still enjoy a little math imagery with appreciation.
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