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More art! Just ran across The Working Proof, which donates 15% of each print’s sale to a charity of the artist’s choice. The Working Proof was founded by Anna Corpron and Sean Auyeung, also known as Sub-Studio.

Two Dahlias (left), by Frances Pelzman Liscio, $100.00
11 in. x 17 in. (image is 10.25 in. x 14 in.)

Bleuités (right), by Irwin Barbé, $30.00
8.5 in. x 11 in. (image is 6 in. x 9 in.)

Similar in nature to the TO:CA ‘wood’ LED clock ($150), this clock’s LED time display shows through its wood veneer face. Two speakers at each end ensure you’ll hear your tunes (mp3 player) loud and clear.

If you’re lucky enough to not bat an eyelid at the price of this Nap Sleeping Bag, good for you. For the rest of us, we’ll take note of the wonderful idea of having a sleeping bag specifically for taking naps or picnicking on, especially one with stripes and plaids such as this one, and file it away for a future DIY project.

Rubber bands beautiful? As unlikely as that sounds, this test-tube vase seems to be so by the contrast and function of simple elastic bands that hold its three parts together.

If you’re looking to add some new textiles to your home, FunQuilts has a nice selection of modern designs to choose from. Whether you’re wanting a smaller wall hanging (38″ x 46″) or a quilt big enough for a bed, know that they’ve got several sizes to fit and even a custom order option should you need it. Also, be sure to note their smaller reversible 30″ x 40″ Many Hands Blankies ($75.00, shown below) made by developmentally disabled adults.

Shown: Sparkler Quilt, $1,900.00 – $5,600.00
More quilts below.

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This origami-inspired bin is made from a single sheet of plastic. You might decide that bin liners are unnecessary, as it’s simple to unfold for cleaning with a quick wipe down.

If you’d like to try your hand at growing some greens but lack the motivation to get all the supplies yourself, take a look at this kit from Star Apple Edible Gardens in Oakland, CA. Each kit has organic potting soil, organic mixed heirloom salad green seeds and organic fertilizer, all in a salvaged wine crate with drainage holes.

Add another website to your list of (somewhat) affordable art. Art+Culture Editions features artists such as Nick Cave, Chuck Close, Vik Muniz, Eric Fischl, Sally Mann and more, with some prints starting around $50 for a 12″ x17″. I picked a more expensive one to feature above (sorry), but there’s more below that are priced at a lower range. Right now they’ve got a promotion going on that if you spend $100+, you get a free Gursky print. Not a bad deal.

Shown above:
Bathers Under Bridge by Youngsuk Suh, $2,400.00

Some more favorites shown below, with links and prices.
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If the beauty of this floor lamp doesn’t impress you enough, absorb the fact that it’s IP-rated for outdoor use. That’s right, you can use it outdoors. Accommodates a low-energy bulb.
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If you’ve ever stood in the aisle of your local hardware store and been disappointed with their doormat selection, you’re certainly not alone. While fake stones and scrolly ‘Welcome’ signs work for some, it’s better to find something unassuming and utilitarian (or maybe even opt for something like Come In/Go Away). While this rubber doormat is a little higher in price than your local big box hardware store offerings, it certainly won’t offend anyone’s design sensibilities.

27.6″L X 15.7″W.

Camera-geek joy, indeed. This mug looks just like a 24-105mm lens. Buy several and call it a day, because this would be just about the best gift (ever) for anyone who likes photography. A lens-cap lid and rubber-grip focus and zoom rings completes the picture.

Plastic mug with stainless steel lining.
Holds 16oz of liquid
3.3″ diameter, 4″ tall
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Take a look at this alternative to the binder clip. It simply slides on nice and tight with no extraneous arms.

Made of stainless steel.
Made in Japan.

Large, holds up to 60 pages, qty. 20 – $14
XLarge, holds up to 90 pages, qty. 10 – $12

I know I posted the Optical Mixer by Naef Toys last week, but I can’t help but feature these varnished blackboard paint cubes as well. 5 water-soluable chalk crayons enable kids (or yourself) to decorate the cubes with imaginative artwork, with only a quick wipe of a wet sponge to make them ready for another memory game or masterpiece.

12 piece set: $59.99
25 piece set: $99.44

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It’s easy to be a sucker for a map graphics, and we’ve certainly featured a few items —Land Carpet, Haptic Lab Quilts, Magnetic Future Map, Places on Earth — on the blog before that would go well in any well traveled or geography nerd’s household. I’d like to add this new Atlas Tapestry from Urban Outfitters to this list, not because it’s particularly unique, but because it’s both incredibly affordable and versatile. Hang it on the wall, use it as a bedsheet, or use it for pretty much any fabric-related project you can think of.  Material is 100 percent cotton and is available in orange or blue.

Dimensions: 90″w, 108″l (Fits a Full/Queen)
Material: Cotton

Mypressi, Mypressi, Mypressi! Not only do I love the concept of a handheld espresso maker, but as you can tell, I love the name too. Just put in your coffee, add hot water, and press. And it now ships with a free Mypressi Milk Frother!

-produces single or double shots from either fresh ground coffee or ESE pods
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