Etsy Dallas Spring Bash ‘09

Everyone knows how wonderful the online Etsy community is, but even better than that is the real life community of Etsy Dallas. Not only do they put on super fun craft fairs, but they benefit local non-profits like The Family Place. I spent a good chunk of my afternoon meeting some amazingly talented crafters at the South Side Lofts on Lamar and have loads of goodies to share! From jewelry to kids clothes to letterpress to housewares, Etsy Dallas has a lot to offer. It was tough to narrow it down, but I rounded up my favorite items of the day. Be sure to check out all of the different shops, you’ll be sure to find something you can’t live without!

KIDS

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threeyellowstarfish: These are sure to get your clock ticking. FABULOUS baby and toddler girls’ reversible pinafores. I cannot wait to have a little one to buy these for. I love love love the fabrics and style of these very-well-handmade dresses. She mentioned that she’s working on some reversible overalls for boys, too. (And small world, it turns out we graduated from the same high school. Go fighting farmers!)

sutecchi: Hand screenprinted and appliqued tees for babies, toddlers, kids and adults. 100% organic and non-toxic inks. I especially like the Asian Girl design.

anklebiters: Not just for kids, I came very close to taking one of these little buddies home with me. These adorable sock creatures pack a lot of personality. Take your pick of dogs, kittens or monkeys.

CLOTH BAGS & WALLETS

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lolafalk: Beautifully made clutches, wallets and handbags. The fabrics are great, but its the little design details that make these a must-have.

nerdbomber: I laugh everytime I see this little apathetic bird. These girls have much more to offer than just this tote, though. Check their shop for some really innovative repurposed Reader’s Digest books (you know, those old ones with the cool patterned covers). They also have a terrific collection of 1″ buttons made from old children’s book illustrations that I’ve added to my own collection.

cutoutandcollect: One of the coolest displays at the bash, this girl knows how to merchandise. I was super envious of her dressform made of twigs and the vintage suitcase full of gorgeous japanese fabrics. Hidden between the lovely bags and wallets I spotted a few little needlepoint vignettes that I wouldn’t mind taking home, either.

b.liscious: I love this metallic ink paper clip tote bag. I’m a super nerd when it comes to office supplies. You can find cute patchwork style tote bags in her online shop, but may have to catch her at a craft show to grab up some of her other items like these screenprinted totes and her fabric bracelets.

JEWELRY

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pamelamichelle: A great combination of illustration and jewelry. I love the playfulness of pieces like the one above and the earthy, sixties feel of the painted wood. My biggest problem is trying to decide which one I like best!

tefidesigns: A wide variety of jewelry at this shop, but this chunky felted necklace really stood out to me. I love the color palette, it just seems like they’re a bunch of berries picked fresh from the field. Having a piece of jewelry with this soft texture is a great way to change things up a bit from your typical bead or bauble.

evemmetalsmith: These hammered (brass or copper?) pieces have a lot of character and great little details. I really like the contrast of the shiny vs. distressed areas of the metal. This shop also has a great selection of oversized organic stone rings.

MORE

{fabric leaf arrangements, letterpress, housewares & screenprinted t’s}

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janejoss: Such a great idea, this shop offers dozens of fabric leaf arrangements for your home or office. Customizable, colorful and totally unique.

colorboxdesigns: One of the few Etsy Dallas letterpress shops. Products range from personal stationery sets to greeting cards to art prints, all made with a lovely level of craftsmanship and modern style. I couldn’t help but buy a couple of tiny prints with mine and my husband’s initials. I’m a sucker for typography.

lauradavisdesignlab: Let me just say, I absolutely love this shop. Pillows made of thrifted sheets with fantastic vintage patterns and colors plus clever little phrases embroidered in clever little cursive. Love it. If I could, I would definitely transplant this table display to my kitchen. Check out the shop to see a lot more pillow designs as well as some great repurposed plates and glasses.

dowdystudio: For the rock star in you. This shop’s hand-drawn designs are just as beautiful as they are cool. Its like buying art and getting to show it off on your chest everywhere you go.

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Below are some more pictures of products currently available in these fantastic shops.* I know you wish you could’ve gone to the Spring Bash, but don’t worry, that’s what Etsy.com is for!

*Several of the shops are closed for the weekend due to the Bash, so be sure to check back soon if they’re not currently open.