Etsy :: The Storque :: Spotlight :: Guest Curator: Wide Open Spaces

Guest Curator: Wide Open Spaces


Story by empaige Published on October 14, 2009 in Spotlight	Photo by Wide Open Spaces

Emily Paben is the author of the lifestyle blog Wide Open Spaces. Growing up with absolutely no handmade experience, as an adult she began the slow process of trying to get back to the basics. She dreams of one day being accomplished in everything from cooking great meals from scratch to sewing clothing her kids are proud to wear. She particularly loves making gifts by hand. Last Christmas it was homemade Amaretto to go with her husband's homemade truffles. This year they are considering orangettes and French macaroons.

Here are my current Etsy favorites — all the types of things I would put on my blog on any given day: things that are beautiful, simple, and quality with good design.

Gold Woodgrain Band

Faux bois has definitely been having its (second) moment in the sun and I am loving it. fisforfrank has done a great job of combining two of my favorites aesthetics — earthy with modern glam. This is my kind of cocktail ring. $52.

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Organic Linen Sandwich Bag---Vintage Floral Bartlett Pear

These are adorable. Nothing thrills me more than when reusable, eco-friendly options are cooler than the plastic alternative. My daughter would love to take this to school every day. And the seller, countrylifenaturals, has so many gorgeous choices. I've been trying to think of all the other stuff I could store in these. Wouldn't they be great as gift bags? $14.

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Modern Design Deck Poster

My friend Anne sent me the link to this poster because she thought I'd love it. She was right. How else could I find the room and finances for all my iconic loves? pleasebestill has done me right. Thank you, friends. I'm thinking of putting this in our playroom as a sort of early education for my future little design gurus. $49.

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Penny Peacock Print

I am not quite sure what it is about Penny, but I love her. Perhaps it's her uncertainty. No reason for that though, she is something fierce. Especially with all those feathers coming out this way and that. tuesdaymourning's work is awesome. All of it. I'm saving up to get a family portrait done by her. $20.

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24 Exclusive Advent Calendar Pouches - choose your font and ribbon.

I already have Christmas on the brain, perhaps because somewhere back there, I always have Christmas on the brain. It is the greatest holiday after all, right? And Advent calendars are one of my very favorite holiday traditions. These pouches are adorable and so practical to allow for little surprises that are larger than a thimble. And I particularly love how nuvonova lets you customize yours by choosing the font and ribbon. Very merry. $70.

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An African Tea Party - 5x7 Print

Other pieces by kirby have caught my eye in the past but this one stole my heart. The reasons are numerous. I love tea parties. I love Out of Africa. Oh, and we are in the midst of our first international adoption and I love the idea of hanging art in our house that looks a little bit like our family will — beautiful. $12.

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The Classic 2-Piece Harness Belt in Bison Brown

This belt is gorgeous, as are all of the offerings at Death and Texas (I love that name). I love how it appears both simple and classic and but really it's a bit of a showstopper. I would wear this over shirt dresses and skinny cardigans all season long and call it a day. By DNTX, $89.

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Milkweed... Felted Cashmere Slippers from Upcycled Sweater, Size 2-3 years

Okay, people. This may be the last time you have to ever wonder what to give as a baby gift. Really. I am thinking these little slippers from woolybaby just may be the perfect gift. Ridiculously soft, these have been made from 100% cashmere sweaters that have been recycled along with the leather. There are oodles of gorgeous styles that are perfect whether you know the baby's gender or not. Perfection. $46.

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Olive Tree Print

I have this thing for trees in general, and something beyond that for olive tress in particular. I love this simple depiction. Yeah, I'd hang it in my little boy Oliver's room. I told you the love ran deep. Check out jellybeans' other trees as well. If you too are a tree lover, these are bound to make you smile. $15.

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Recipe Cards

I posted about this several months ago and have yet to come across a set of recipe cards I like more. Simple, happy, beautiful and functional. What more could I hope to find? jessicagm has a knack for simple clean illustrations that pack a lot of punch. $6.

Brights Set of Website Cards

What is it about tiny things? So often I find that the best things really do come in small packages. Take these website cards from avie — they are perfect for bloggers like me. Just a little something with which to pass on our site address. Tiny, sweet, just the facts. I want these. $15.

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SALE - Imaginary Conversations (Add Your Own Message) Paper Wreath

Wreaths and paper are two of my favorite things so it should come as no surprise that I am over the moon about these personalized wreaths by haru. They will include decorative detailing and a note or quote of your choice. I think this would make a great housewarming gift. $60.

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A Heart for Thailand

My husband and I have two biological kids and are in the midst of our first adoption. Within the year we should be traveling to Thailand to meet him. In the meantime, my heart feels like it is there. This necklace is such a perfect expression of the way that I feel. And with every purchase made at JUNKPOSSE, you help give a child a family. Is there anything better? $68.

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Felt Tea Set - Tea Pot Tea Cup Tea Leaves Tin Tea Bag (Patterns and Instructions via Email)

I actually want nearly everything in this shop (and and the skills to pull it off). I would love to slowly begin to stock my kids' play kitchen with these homemade felt goodies. Soft, durable, beautiful and made with love. Heirloom toys! By umecrafts, $5.

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Looking for past Guest Curators? Check out our archive!

Children Gift Guide | Handmade Kids Series | Paper Goods Category

Tags	art, blog, blogger, children, curate, design, Emily Paben, Guest Curator, Handmade Kids, paper goods, shopping, Spotlight, SPOTLIGHT, Wide Open Spaces

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93 comments Login to add your own!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:17 p.m.

Girl216Designs

Beautiful choices!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:18 p.m.

Radness

sweet picks :)

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:19 p.m.

Aquanetta

Wow, love all the classic design choices.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:19 p.m.

littlealouette

lovely- I would expect nothing less from her- she is awesome and gorgeous.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:19 p.m.

MayaLee

Really great picks!
Love that Penny Peacock Print!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:22 p.m.

spacejam

wonderful choices!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:27 p.m.

fernfiddlehead

these are pretty choices. I follow your blog and really enjoy it.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:28 p.m.

pinkytoeclothing

oh my gosh - wonderful picks!!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:28 p.m.

PunchDrunkPrincess

That tea set is adorable

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:31 p.m.

BeadinBabe

Absolutely beautiful! Those little shoes are too cute!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:38 p.m.

hypothesis

Beautiful picks! Thanks for sharing.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:38 p.m.

4TheSparrowsNest

Such beautiful picks! There's something simple, yet heartwarming about them...

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:43 p.m.

blueskyclouds

Junkposse has the greatest stuff...so unique!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:45 p.m.

aimeesarmoire

So many lovely picks! I looooove the poster, the tiny website cards.... oh, I'll take one of each, please!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:47 p.m.

JessicaDoyle

The modern design deck poster is beautiful!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:51 p.m.

seababejewelry

Wondeful article! I love the olive tree print!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:52 p.m.

StaceyGynn

I love the picks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:52 p.m.

ME2Designs

Beautiful classic choices!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:55 p.m.

WildWomanJewelry

great selections!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:57 p.m.

dangcutebow

Love the conversation wreath! Thanks for introducing me to all these great shops!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:02 p.m.

itsastitch

Cute! I love jellybeans - she is awesome ^.^

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:10 p.m.

HoneysuckleLane

Lovely choices!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:12 p.m.

StudioCherie

Love the pallet you chose. Nice article.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:15 p.m.

wristielove

there are just so many cute picks here! thx for sharing emily!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:17 p.m.

felicitycrew

some great new finds, thanks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:21 p.m.

coolranchstudio

really, really lovely! and penny peacock is one of my favorites, too. :)

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:21 p.m.

SewnNatural

fabulous. thank you.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:25 p.m.

lovelygifts

Nice selection! Love the wreath!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:26 p.m.

warpedLaurie

I'm really loven this , good ideas

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:32 p.m.

cozycottagecreations

I really love these selections! Each one made me stop and linger to look.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:33 p.m.

odiliafu

Lovely picks! I love the felt tea set. So cute!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:34 p.m.

girltuesdayjewelry

The paper wreath and modern design poster are my personal faves!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:42 p.m.

cottonbirddesigns

Lovely!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:44 p.m.

MyMoms

Gorgeous picks! What beautiful colors.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:50 p.m.

Fairyfolk

Gosh... such stunning picks! Am just in love with the felt tea pot... magical!
Blessing and magic.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5 p.m.

ArtisticIntentions

Awesome pics, really cool items. I think the story about the adoption and "A Heart for Thailand" is wonderful - gives me chills!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:01 p.m.

recycledwares

i love the simplicity of each item.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:03 p.m.

belovedbaglady

Sweet and simple...NICE

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:12 p.m.

ChloesRuffleButt

Great picks! I love Penny!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:15 p.m.

Tias

Baby shoes are fab!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:20 p.m.

VixVintage

Love your style, thanks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:27 p.m.

alfastudio

Great pick!!! Love the wreaths by haru!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 5:36 p.m.

lemonadetree

love all of it! the wee felted teapot is super fresh!! (^__^)

Oct. 14, 2009 at 6:10 p.m.

TreeHuggerStudio

postcards are so simply gorgeous!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 6:18 p.m.

compulsivelycompiled

These are great pieces! I can't believe the tea set is felt, it looks real. The advent bags are my favorite, I'd love to have one out for each of my children each morning of the season and then maybe I could wake up Christmas morning to the woodgrain band. It will be on my wish list!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 6:19 p.m.

bedouin

Thanks for sharing ~ great choices ~ sweet story

Oct. 14, 2009 at 6:24 p.m.

BlackStar

great choices and wonderful blog!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 6:25 p.m.

ParadiseBodyShop

My favs are the pouches and the recipe cards! Too cute!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:21 p.m.

UrbanCave

Lovely picks from a great blogger! I'm gaga for the modern design deck poster...

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:41 p.m.

breadandroses2

Beautifully curated selections! The tea set is wondrous.

'She dreams of one day being accomplished in everything from cooking great meals from scratch to sewing clothing her kids are proud to wear.'

Just do it every single day, a little bit more by hand until it's second nature. A genuine diy, handmade life keeps you busy, fulfilled and sets a great example for children. It's inherently meaningful.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:44 p.m.

gretchenmist

beautiful finds ~ off to have a look at your blog :)

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:50 p.m.

lealerjcreates

Thanks for sharing. Wonderful picks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:52 p.m.

designlab443

all lovely and feel like home... nice picks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 8:17 p.m.

starvingartistbazaar

beautiful picks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 9:16 p.m.

petitepaperie

Great article! Thanks for introducing me to jellybeans art - her trees are beautiful.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 9:39 p.m.

BizzieLizzie

Oh, I love cooking from scratch just as much as I love sewing up bags and clothing. I crave the simplistic life and when I stepped off that corporate bus 11 years ago - I became such a happier person. Love the choices!! Especially those wee little slippers!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 9:58 p.m.

FluteTeacher

This was fun to look at! Thanks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 10:01 p.m.

craftpile

great article and love your finds!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 10:08 p.m.

BGBJewelry

Very sweet and love the website cards!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 10:21 p.m.

PipocaHandmade

Lovely and inspiring blog and picks!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 10:49 p.m.

1AEON

neat!!! love the picks!!!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 11:03 p.m.

LoveAppleBoutique

Lovely choices.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 11:32 p.m.

oldworldprimitives

Beautiful picks with a pretty color palate!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 12:19 a.m.

moonovermaize

Such lovely selections! What a great twist on advent calendars!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 12:40 a.m.

tomokotahara

Great choices!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 12:41 a.m.

urbandesign

Love, love, love the advent bags!!! Beautiful collection!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 12:59 a.m.

GgaBulShop

nice picks!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 1:22 a.m.

raghousenternational

Beautiful article and lovely finds!

Ren
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=...

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:06 a.m.

bainmattox

that paper wreath is beautiful

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:26 a.m.

lisaroy

fun choices!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:39 a.m.

Morado

Penny Peacock is my fave!
http://twitter.com/MoradoShop
http://www.facebook.com/MoradoShop

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:43 a.m.

puolukka

I love them all, especially the Imaginary Conversations!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:51 a.m.

babook

Great artist with the great post !! thanks for share i would take a look of all : ) http://www.babook.etsy.com/

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:52 a.m.

Fairyfolk

Wow... that paper wreath is a great idea! Would be such fun at a wedding or even Thanksgiving!
Blessings and magic.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 10:25 a.m.

colouryourhome

how beautifullll

Oct. 15, 2009 at 10:33 a.m.

accentonvintage

Thanks for sharing! I love your philosophy. Back in the 70's I did what you want to do and I'm so glad that I did. My children have grown and carry on the same tradition. I guess that's why I love vintage and hand made. Great story. Wish you the best!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 11:09 a.m.

cassidycay

I love all of this picks! So great! I wish I could live on this page! haha

Oct. 15, 2009 at 11:38 a.m.

papavercreations

Very nice picks. My favorite is also the Olive print! Very simple depiction and also the website cards!! kool idea. best wishes! PJC

Oct. 15, 2009 at 11:41 a.m.

pulpsushi

Lovely! Especially loving the felt tea set, too cute.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 12:04 p.m.

vivikas

very nice picks, I love avie's shop!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 1:25 p.m.

DalkullanJewelry

Wonderful article Empaige, with so many unusual and love finds!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:22 p.m.

steinschmuckdesign

Wonderful finds!!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:40 p.m.

voleurdebijoux

simply divine!!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 11:10 a.m.

shopgoodgrace

These picks are lovely!
And good luck and congratulations on your upcoming adoption. :)

Oct. 16, 2009 at 12:10 p.m.

KatyScudieri

Ooh. love Jellybeans' shop. I've bought a couple of cards there (one to give, one to hang up!). I love how they look like color blindness tests, but they level the playing field for those of us who are color blind, because there are no hidden numbers. ;)

Oct. 16, 2009 at 12:42 p.m.

kirby

Oh, thank you so much for mentioning my African Tea Party! This is a lovely article, and many lovely finds!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 2:44 p.m.

DNTX

Lovely! Thank you for the wonderful description, and best of luck to you!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 3:06 p.m.

JUNKPOSSE

Emily,
Thank you so very much for your Kind words and for highlighting my Etsy. I am so happy you have chosen to start your adoption Journey and Be the Change for a Child.

Oct. 17, 2009 at 1:49 p.m.