bltd

Forgive the short link list; back from vacation and there’s loads to catch up on.

Have an excellent weekend!

What the heck is this? Good question, because it’s sort of silly but also brilliant. If you happen to be the owner of a 3D printer, then you’ll be able to download this Free Universal Connector Kit by F.A.T. (Free Art & Technology Lab) to make these connectors. Connectors to what? Everything. Okay, well, almost everything: LEGO, Duplo, Fischertechnik, Gears! Gears! Gears!, K’Nex, Bristle Blocks, Lincoln Logs, Tinkertoys, Zome, and Zoob. Formerly closed systems are now up for combinations. The eighty pieces in the kit will marry modules from one system to another, so you can join your LEGO to your Lincoln Logs and add in some Tinkertoys…etc. Use that imagination of yours and see the possibilities extrapolate.
(more…)

It’s a very tiny projector for your Instagram photos. If you can’t quite talk yet because you’re thinking of all the possibilities for perfect gifts and future special moments to be captured, it’s understandable. Let’s just admit that the Projecteo is adorable and amazing and, if you use Instagram, you’ve pretty much got no choice but to try it out. $34.98 with free worldwide shipping.
(more…)

What’s the big deal about a simple step stool? Well, for starters, this Quick-Step Stool is made from solid oak and looks like the letter A in profile. That makes it easy on the eyes. The step may be used on either side and there’s a handle cut into the top, so that makes it quite functional. Easy on the eyes and functional? Yep, there’s your answer for those hard-to-reach higher-up spots in the kitchen or closet. It’s even nice enough to leave out for an extra seat or side table.
(more…)

Upon first glance, you may not notice that the Afteroom Chair only has three legs. If that’s the case, you’re forgiven, but sit up and pay attention. There’s something entirely appealing about reducing materials to the minimum, and that’s exactly what Stockholm studio Afteroom intended when developing this first chair for Menu. The flexible back support extends beyond the back of the seat, giving the chair an airy, open appearance. Quality materials and Afteroom’s minimalist nod to functionalism make this chair a particularly smart choice for any dining or office environment.
(more…)

You may or may not need a leather bound notepad, but, nevertheless, let’s all admire the mosaic detail on Postalco’s Snap Pad. Choose between small and large, with a variety of colors for the squares-within-a-square design.

(more…)

Now, I’m no expert on kids, but I do know blocks are a mighty fine toy to have on hand when little ones are around. Wooden blocks are the best, of course, and if you add in magnets, well, then you’re set for time-consuming activities until they’re teenagers. Right?

Tegu Blocks have magnets embedded within their surfaces to make building easy and enjoyable. Each piece is built around a 30mm unit (that’s around 1″), so all blocks are compatible with the next. Start out with small kit or go big with the large 42-piece Set shown above, and have fun building cars and all sorts of architectural wonders with your kids, nieces, and/or nephews.
(more…)

Why are you seeing the image of an artfully messy room? Because of the table, of course. As you can probably tell with your keen eyes, the Keep Table from Muuto is made from pieces of wood held together with metal bands. You’ll be happy to hear that those pieces of are leftovers from wood furniture production, and because of this, each table is unique. Winner of Muuto’s 2009 Talent Award, the Keep Table was a senior project of design students Petter Thörne and Anders Johnsson from Konstfack School of Design in Stockholm.

(more…)

While you’re sweeping up whatever debris that hides around your desk, you might as well assess whether you need some serious organizers like this Petal Cup and Tray from Dino Sanchez. They’re made of powder coated steel, so they’ll last a very long time, and are available in three colors: avocado green, powder blue, and cream. So, now, go on and get to it: organize, corral, and conquer that disorganized stack of stuff!
(more…)

It’s not often that we actually admire the shape of a dustpan. Ole Jensen was inspired to create this particular set when cleaning his studio with a folded newspaper in one hand and a broom in the other. This version has a dustpan made of a thin, flat sheet of polypropylene with a natural bristle brush and beechwood handle. Simply slip the brush handle through the grommet to hang the set after you sweep up.
(more…)

If you’re not embarrassed of your LPs and magazines, this wire rack might just be the ticket to clear off that clutter from your coffee or side table. The Coverboy holds and displays whatever you decide to put in it, making it a versatile sort of shelving option for any prized miscellany. Use just one or combine multiples for a bigger statement.
(more…)

Sadly, the retailer (spoonsisters.com) we originally linked to when we posted this Swoop Storage Bag back in 2011 has closed its virtual doors. Not to worry, we found another place that carries it, with other colors and sizes, no less.

With the thirtysomethings now having kids en masse, the complaint of toys taking over an entire home is more often heard than not. How in the world to curb this crazy emesis of plastic mess? Perhaps this storage bag/play mat could help. You simply ‘swoop’ up everything into the bag by pulling the nylon cords and store it away. Also, if you’re thinking you need a larger version, it should be noted that the Knapsack by Fatboy could work. Just be careful to remove the kids before tying it up.
(more…)

Kiel Mead has the right idea of making the “mundane more precious.” If you’re not afraid to go bold with brass coasters, then these four hand-sanded graphic coasters might be a subtle upgrade to whatever you’re currently resting your cold drink upon (if you don’t have coasters, then you either better not have nice furniture and/or be under the age of 30.)
(more…)

The stopper on this carafe looks like it could double as a spinning top, though I suppose you would want to be rather careful about suggesting that to (childish) guests, as you’d not want it lost or damaged. That said, it’d be a lovely serving vessel for lemonade or juice for these last few days of summer.
(more…)

Who wants a cute yet sturdy concrete clock? Designed by the Netherlands-based Studio PS, the Moak Clock has its base and hands made of concrete. The minute hand has just a touch of bright orange on its tip to set it apart from the hour. An oak dial finishes off the material mix.
(more…)