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Buying guide: Pillows, sheets and duvets
Buying guide: Pillows, sheets and duvets of
Sheets and duvets Fall's chill makes us appreciate all things warm: hot chocolate, a fireplace and curling up in bed under a giant duvet. If your bed has ever seen a bag, you're not getting the full experience. Your sheets, linens and pillows are what you allow next to your skin eight hours a day (hopefully), so they need to be comfortable, practical, and personal. Designer Kimberley Seldon shares how to find that perfect combination and what to look for. Like most decor options, the most important consideration when choosing bedding is personal preference. The second-most important? Read on.Between the sheetsBuying good sheets is like investing in a fantastic shirt. They should feel good against your skin and be made from natural fabrics: synthetics don't breathe or wash well. “The problem most people make is that they go by the thread count,” says Kimberley. “Buy Egyptian cotton and think about where it's woven.” Italy, Sweden and France are good bets; pass on anything woven in China, since it's more likely to be of a lower quality. Also, think about stiffness, although this is a matter of personal preference. Sateen cotton is a satin blend that feels like silk. Percale cotton, Kimberley explains, “is more crisp, like a man's work shirt.”Bundle upThe most important thing to consider when purchasing a duvet is the fill. Unless you're allergic to down, it's your best bet. It's more durable than synthetic fills (a high quality down duvet can last as long as 30 years, while synthetics rarely make it past 10). Down is also warmer, making for lighter covers. Down responds to your body temperature, keeping you comfy. But be warned: Kimberley says there's no getting around price. “You get what you pay for. If it's a ridiculously inexpensive price, there are probably more quills than feathers.”After you've dealt with the filling, the next questions are: Is there enough down in the duvet to fill it? Does it have a wrap around it (a layer of feathers only) to protect you from quills? And is it baffled (stitched) so the down doesn't fall to one corner? Yes to those, and you have a high quality duvet that will keep you warm through the coldest nights. Pillows PillowsFollow the rules of duvets and buy down and feather combination pillows, which will shape to your head. If you want a firm pillow, choose one with a high proportion of feathers; for a soft fill, look for one with more down. Pay attention to whether it's baffled, and the wrap is especially important, so you don't wake up with a quill in your ear. Buy a cotton pillow protector, which zips over your pillows, and you'll be able to keep your pillows for as long as they're comfortable -- at least a few years. Take careYou can keep a down duvet for 15 years if you treat it right. Avoid the dryer by dry cleaning, or at least minimize the damage by putting your duvet or sheets in the drier for only 15 minutes before hanging them to dry. “Think of a good quality Italian shirt,” says Kimberley. “You would never put it in the dryer every other day.” After that, the only other worry is colour, which will fade. Buy classic white so it's not a problem in a few years.
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- Vanessa Milne
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8 gifts for under $50 8 gifts for under $50
8 gifts for under $50 ofpage 1 As everyone knows, the hardest renovation is a low-budget renovation. Likewise, the hardest decor gifts to find are lovely low-cost ones. But, good news! It can be done. Here are 10 fabulous finds that clock in at under $50 each.1 Print charmingWe love e-tailer Three Potato Four for its beautifully shot images of original, one-of-a-kind vintage finds. Unfortunately, if you move too slowly, you (or your intended giftee) can miss out on this mom ‘n' pop shop's best collector's items. Luckily, they recently commissioned a series of prints by illustrator Matt Cipov, including Gnatcatcher With Nest Eggs, printed on archival cardstock and ready for your frame. $30 USD (frame not included), threepotatofourshop.com 2 White hotThese pretty ceramic pieces with their elegant bisque finish are just the thing for host and hostess gifts this holiday season. Tuck a set of tea lights into the lattice votives, or fresh blooms into the vase for bonus points! Grill votives, $9.99/pair; leaf plates from $14.99; short slate vase, $19.99; tall slate cylinder vase, $24.99; all available at Chapters and Indigo stores or online at chapters.indigo.ca. 3 Scents & sensibilityUnlike lesser products using petroleum-based waxes, heavy perfumes and synthetic wicks (some of which contain lead!), Crabtree & Evelyn's Aromatherapy Distillations votives are crafted from natural vegetable oils and feature pure essential oil blends and clean-burning cotton wicks. Three scent blends promote relaxation, revitalization or purification. Each votive has 40 hours of burn time and the sturdy metal lids double as stylish paperweights (each is engraved with an inspirational message.) $29.50 each, Crabtree & Evelyn stores or online at crabtree-evelyn.com 4 Earthly goodEco-conscious design lovers will thank you daily for this superbly sustainable 2009 desk calendar. Designed by San Francisco artist Cat Seto, the 100% recycled paper rests on a stand made from reclaimed lumber. If you send your pages back next year, the artist will recycle them and send you a coupon for 2010 refill pages. $23 US, seejanework.com page 2 5 Hold it!This Adler-esque jewelry stand is a quirky accent for any bright young thing's bedroom or bath. The painted-aluminum owls put your favourite bling on display, so you can enjoy gazing at it even when you're not wearing it. $14 US, urbanoutfitters.com 7 Old world viewVintage maps and globes are perennially hot design memorabilia. If you know someone who loves mid-century design or who's a big traveler, get them started on the road to collecting with a petite globe. This circa-1950s model features countries that have disappeared and political lines that have shifted in the decades since it was manufactured, offering a glimpse of an era long past. Scour online for finds, or hit the flea market circuit. This beauty came from the Etsy shop (etsy.com) White Elephant, which recently opened a sticks and bricks shop in Hamilton, Ont. $45, etsy.com. 6 FlybraryAvid readers and (ahem) avid coffee-table-book browsers alike will adore Umbra's Flybrary shelf. It fits anywhere a sleek floating look is desired: by the bed, in the living room, or in the kitchen where it can hold heavy-rotation cookbooks. $31.50, umbra.com 8 Jolt of styleGive the gift of caffeine to the die-hard java hound. President's Choice Home's digital 10-cup coffeemaker combines can't-live-without-it utilitarian virtue with oodles of contemporary style. The sleek "open" design and black-and-stainless-steel finish make it an artful addition to a kitchen island. It looks designer-y, but can be had for a mere $40, and -- best part -- you can pick it up while grocery shopping, rather than trekking out to the mall during the holiday rush! $39.99, Real Canadian Superstores across Canada. For locations, visit pc.ca- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Buying guide: Chaise longue Buying guide: Chaise longue
Buying guide: Chaise longue ofHow to buy a chaise longue While walking to the corner store, Matthew Ireland came across something you don't normally find in a snow bank -- a chaise longue. Since he and his wife had always wanted the classic piece of furniture, he took a closer look at why it was being thrown out, decided he could refinish it and brought it home. "It needed more work than I intended,” Ireland says now that the 30 hours of labour is over. "I had never done it before so it was a learning process." The chaise is now a central part of Ireland's living room and enjoyed by all. "Our chaise is wide enough that we can sit on it to read books to our son, my wife loves it for breastfeeding our newborn, and we have it situated so it's good for having conversations, watching television and talking to people in the dining room." Chaise longue definedA combination of chair and daybed, the chaise longue originated in the 17th century rococo period of Louis XV, which was characterized by asymmetrical design and delicate lines, to fill the need for more intimate furnishings. The simple long chair with canted back, armrests and leg support flourished in the modern era as home architecture saw more open plans and inhabitants enjoyed more outdoor living, with some of the most famous architects of the time reinterpreting the original design -- Le Corbusier, for example, removed the arms. The chaise longue remains a sought after piece for indoors and out, for the most traditional of homes to the most modern in decor. So, just how do you select the right chaise longue for your home -- if you aren't fortunate enough to find one in a snow back and to have the talent to restore it? "It's all about personal taste and preference," says Amy Offman of The Art Shoppe, a high-end furniture store in Toronto. "There are no set rules."Chaise longue buying tipsAsk yourself the following questions to determine what's right for you: 1 Where will the chaise be placed? Typically, you'll find one in a living room as extra seating or in a bedroom for relaxing. In either scenario, the type of material - be it leather, fabric or microfiber - is up to you. You may also want to situate one or several in the backyard, in which case you're options will range from teak to stainless steel, aluminum strap to canvas webbing, and an array of weather-resistant fabric cushions. 2 What will it be used for? For reading and relaxing, look into back pillow support, arms and generous upholstery. For multiple uses, consider one with varying recline positions. 3 What is your decor? For a contemporary design, consider no arms, chrome base, tight back and lower seat height. For more traditional decor, opt for arms, wood frame, tufted or fuller upholstery and higher seat height. 4 How many people will be using it at once? Wider models are best for sharing (to read to your kids, for example, as Ireland does). Offman has seen some people buy two chaises with one arm each on opposite sides and sliding them together. "That's quite nice," she says. "Another option is to put a little table between them so you can still lie next to each other." The most important thing to remember when shopping is to try the chaise longue. Sit, lie, lounge. Test it the way you plan to use it. Says Offman: "Comfort is always key."Image courtesy Pottery Barn- Credit
- Heather Camlot
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Buying guide: Coffee tables Buying guide: Coffee tables
Buying guide: Coffee tables ofpage 1 FUNCTIONThe way you use a coffee table will help inform your selection. For some, it's a canvas for artful arrangements of objets, while for others, it's made a proper dining table redundant. For the latter, ease of clean is an important consideration, making glass-tops and heavy-duty veneers and laminates ideal, and unsealed wood out of the question. A tabletop decked out in weighty vases and sleek statuary requires rock-solid construction, which - depending on your DIY savvy - may rule out tables that require some self-assembly. Solid construction is also recommended for those whose living room must withstand the rigours of the under-six-set. A coffee table can also function as storage in cramped quarters, but don't necessarily limit your search to models with built-in shelving under the tabletop if this double-duty is a must-have feature. Tables with an open and airy base can still accommodate attractive stacks of books, filling the negative space between floor and tabletop.SCALEThe proportion of the coffee table needs to be in keeping with both the size of the living room and the scale of the surrounding furnishings. A generally accepted rule of thumb when pairing a classic rectangular coffee table with a sofa is that the table should run from one-half to two-thirds the length of the sofa. What's more, the height of the tabletop should run level - within a few inches, that is - to the top of the seat cushions of the surrounding furnishings. Size also has a huge impact on the traffic flow of the living room, so you must consider ease of movement around the coffee table. Be sure to factor in about three feet in between the coffee table and the closest adjacent furnishings.STYLESquare, rectangular, circular, ovular... There are as many coffee table shapes as there are materials and finishes, but remember that you're not decorating in a vacuum. Pick out shapes from patterned textiles, art and objets in the living room, and let these pre-existing geometrics inform this decision. If the safety of tiny tots is a particular concern, a rounded table with gentle edges may be a wise selection. Stylistically, you may choose a table that either counterpoints or conforms - juxtaposing or mirroring the shape and style of the other furnishings in the living room. Pairing a traditional, curved-back sofa with a crisp and contemporary Parsons table can be an invigorating study in contrast; while on the other hand, pairing that Parsons table with a similarly clean-lined, low-back sectional could make a dramatic impact. Take some snapshots of your existing living room furniture with you on your hunt to help you visualize the possible combinations.SUBSTITUTESThink outside the box for stunning coffee table substitutes. An upholstered ottoman topped with a tray is an ever-popular swap-out, and a great way to bump up the textile quotient in a room that's feeling chilly. Also consider repurposing antique trunks and low chests for a unique interpretation of this functional piece of furniture. Image courtesy of CB2.com- Credit
- Brett Walther
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10 gifts for food lovers 10 gifts for food lovers
10 gifts for food lovers ofpage 1 Foodies are often the easiest-to-please giftees on your holiday shopping list. They're open to trying new things, they're sure to enjoy your gift instead of stashing it in the garage and, best of all, they usually love to share! Here are 10 holiday gift ideas that will whet the appetites of the fabulous food lovers in your circle.1 SaltsAvid chefs will adore a jar of fine sea salt from Artisan Sea Salts. Whether you opt for plain fleur de sel from the Mediterranean or Hawaiian red sea salt (perfect for roast pork! The red hue comes from red clay), or Salish (Northwest alder-smoked salt that adds a smokehouse flavour to meats, fish or tofu), your foodie will love it! In the mood to splurge? Pick the 12-jar sampler. The Ultimate Salt Collection, $138.50 US/12 jar set; individual jars from $10.99 US, saltworks.us 2 Metal winnerIf that special someone in your life has recently developed a yen for cooking, use positive reinforcement to keep the table filled with moules mariniere or whatever else makes you happy. A starter set of copper-plated pots and pans will keep your aspiring chef motivated. Mauviel Cookware is renowned for its quality construction and longstanding roots in Villedieu-les-Poeles, Normandy, France. The pans are constructed of 2mm copper lined with stainless steel. The cast iron handles are riveted on for strength and a rustic finish. $774 per seven piece set, kitchenniche.ca 3 Good to goGet the eco-conscious chowhound on your list a set of organically grown bamboo cutlery, so she can eat on the go without wasteful plastic cutlery. Bamboo is heat- and stain-resistant, won't absorb or impart odour and lasts for years. This set stashes neatly in a fabric holder handmade by a Thai/Burmese women's cooperative, making it perfect for desk, purse or briefcase. Organic bamboo utensil set, $24.95 per four-piece set and cloth holder, grassrootsstore.com 4 Rise & shineNovice and expert bakers alike swear by silicone bakeware. It's easy to keep clean, stores nicely without any loud banging and clanging, offers even heat distribution and, of course, in fun colours channels a "Yay, it's baking day!" vibe. Shown, $7.99 each, available at Real Canadian Superstores across Canada; pc.ca for locations. 5 Fake paper cupEco-consciousness goes to work with this stylish and eco-friendly faux-takeout cup. Cleverly designed from white porcelain, with a silicone lid, it may not be sturdy enough to take on the road, but it's certainly perfect for the office coffee shop or a nearby Starbucks run. $20, mortimersnodgrass.com page 2 6 Haute tea Upgrade tea from stocking-stuffer to feature-gift status with a coveted coffret of Dammann Freres loose teas. The ne plus ultra of premium teas, this new-to-Canada tea collection is the same one served at Paris' Hotel Ritz and Versailles' Trianon Palace. It's a splurge, but one guaranteed to please the most discerning of afternoon-tea aficionados. Toronto gourmet shop Pusateri's will ship Dammann to tea lovers from coast to coast. Loose Tea Sampler Coffret 1825 (featuring 18 30-gram tins of teas), $200, (or try individual 100-gram tea canisters, $18 each), pusateris.com 7 Salty & sweetChampagne taste on a prosecco budget? No problem. Enjoy a sophisticatedly luxe but affordable confection with these luscious dark-chocolate covered caramels. The hottest bonbon in Italy, they're coated in dark chocolate and sprinkled with -- surprise! -- Sicilian sea salt. Unusual sounding, yes, but trust us: you'll be reaching for seconds and thirds. Dark Chocolate Covered Caramels With Sea Salts, $5.99 per package of 24, at Loblaws and affiliated stores across Canada; pc.ca for locations. 8 Liquid assetsAs Nova Scotia condiment meisters par excellence Tangled Garden say, "A good supply of herb vinegars is like having a gourmet shop in your kitchen." Use them to perk up everything from sautéed veggies to homemade mayonnaise, sauces, marinades and salad dressings. Or just swirl them with olive oil for an easy bread dip. From the delicately aromatic Rose Petal & Lavender Vinegar to fiery Hot Lemon or Hearty Spice, these vinegars will delight anyone on your list. Handcrafted in the Annapolis Valley. $12 per 500 mL bottle, $25 as shown with wooden gift box, tangledgarden.ns.ca 9 Water as artEven municipal tap water takes on a hedonistic quality when it's decanted from a beautiful glass-and-stainless-steel pitcher boasting a filter of Japanese louseki stones and Binchotan charcoal. Classier and more eco-friendly than disposable water filters, the insert will remove odours while creating pristine, mineral-rich drinking water. Created by Design Within Reach, it's the perfect fridge-to-table conversation piece for design-loving water boys (and girls). After six months of service, the spent stones can go into your garden and the charcoal can join your compost bin. $85 US water pitcher (includes one set of stones and charcoal), $25 US per extra set of stones and charcoal, dwr.com 10 Feast for the eyesWhether your foodie is into what's hot or what's haute, a great cookbook's always a keeper. Gwyneth Paltrow and Chef Mario Batali team up in the extra-yummy Spain: A Culinary Road Trip. Who knew that the renowned yoga and macrobiotic fan was also a lover of jamòn and paella? And for the more esoterically minded lover of "molecular gastronomy," A Day At elBulli: Best Chef in the World: Ferran Adria, Best Restaurant in the World: elBulli will provide hours of glee. Caramelized trout roe, anyone? $37.95 (Spain) and $49.95 (A Day at ElBulli), available at Chapters and Indigo stores or online at chapters.indigo.ca.- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Shopping in Ontario: Elliott & Ward Shopping in Ontario: Elliott & Ward
Shopping in Ontario: Elliott & Ward ofElliott & Ward Click to download: Elliott & Ward- Credit
- Helen Racanelli
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Hot vacation decor finds Hot vacation decor finds
Hot vacation decor finds ofpage 1 On your next vacation, skip the Mexican sombrero or, just make some room next to it in your carry-on – and score one of these great global decor finds from these hot, anything-but-cookie-cutter global destinations. If you’re heading to: HondurasBe sure to bring home: Earthy, geometrically patterned Lenca pottery. Why: Lenca pottery is the original eco-friendly art form. Even today, it’s made the same way it was hundreds of years ago, with natural clay and without chemicals or dangerous toxic runoff. The bold graphic patterns and high-contrast dark-brown-and-cream or black-and-cream colourways make for a dramatic accessory for home or office.Armchair travelers can score the find at: LencaArtStore.com, sells Lenca pieces handmade by women’s cooperatives in the Copan region of Western Honduras.If you’re heading to: South AfricaBe sure to bring home: An old-meets-new hand-woven telephone-wire basket or animal figurines made by Zulu craftsmen or women.Why: Recycled materials make for uniquely one-of-a-kind products, plus they redirect waste that would otherwise end up in garbage dumps. The myriad colours telephone wire comes in mean you can go neutral (tan, brown, cream) or flat-out Pop Art (bubblegum pink, cobalt, lime green, etc). Armchair travelers can score the find at: Do-gooder cupcake purveyors Eat My Words, who now distribute the Monkey Biz collection of similarly stylish, colourful and fair-trade hand-beaded animals and dolls.If you’re heading to: ChinaBe sure to bring home: A pair of bronze Qilin. These mythical creatures (with the head of a dragon, body of a horse and scales of a carp) are reputed to bring knowledge and maybe even wealth. Why: They’re less common than the trendy Fu Dogs and given their symbolic connection to knowledge, they’re a natural fit as bookends. Armchair travelers can score the find at: Any one of numerous online vendors. Just do a search ‘til you find a pair you like. The characteristics of Qilin (along with regional spelling variants) vary depending on the historical period and region of East Asia the reproduction is based on. If you’re heading to: The NetherlandsBe sure to bring home: Some stellar modern Dutch decor objects. Find cool, quirky objets in Amsterdam shops. Pick up some Tord Boontje (he of the famed Midsummer and Garland pendant lights) Thinking of You vase covers if you’re traveling light. The laser-cut metal pieces pack flat but unfurl to cover a plain glass vase (or humble pickle jar!), turning it into a conversation piece.Why: What better way to get more use from a humble food jar?Armchair travelers can score the find at: Purveyors of cool, dutchbydesign.com. page 2 If you’re heading to: BelizeBe sure to bring home: A hand-lathed, kiln-dried hardwood salad bowl and hand-carved salad tongs.Why: You’re going to get accosted by peddlers anyway (on your way to the more popular Mayan ruins) so you may as well pass on the shell keychain and support local artisans with something useful and also beautiful. And great salad gear means you’d be more inclined to whip up a healthy salad more often than usual.Armchair travelers can score the find at: fair-trade importers like Ten Thousand Villages.If you’re heading to: ThailandBe sure to bring home: They’re a bit cumbersome, but consider toting home (or shipping separately), a Thai spirit house. TIP: See our article How to score decorating finds while traveling. These intricate, hand-carved objects resemble bird houses in scale and can be placed indoors or out. Why: Spirit houses are believed to shelter spirits who will protect your home and bring you prosperity and good luck. Besides that, they’re beautiful to look at. Show your respect by placing yours on a pedestal or high shelf.Armchair travelers can score the find at: Vancouver e-tail (and retail) shop spirithouse.ca, which tries to buy direct from artisans rather than middlemen, to help ensure fairer trade practices.If you’re heading to: CroatiaBe sure to bring home: Lacework from the island of PagWhy: This isn’t your grandmother’s lace. Actually – wait a minute – it might be, but lace is a hot fashion ticket this season, so there’s never been a better time to pretty up an outfit with something so feminine and flirty. (Plus, you won’t be able to get any of the famed Croatian liqueurs into your carry-on, anyway).Armchair travelers can score the find at: Sorry, we couldn’t find any online retailers carrying it. Better book that trip and open your own online lacework shop!- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Score great finds on vacation Score great finds on vacation
Score great finds on vacation ofpage 1 One of the perks of traveling is finding wonderful keepsakes that can't be purchased back home. Getting them home, though? That can be another story altogether! Between rapidly shrinking overall baggage allotments and restrictions on what can go into your carry-on bags, toting home post-vacay trinkets is not the easy task it once was. Fortunately, it can be done: it just requires a bit more finesse and advance planning. Here are some of our tips.1 Start with smart shoppingThe first step, and path of least resistance is to shop smart. Avoid things that:• Are hard to wrap (breakables or awkwardly shaped items• Take up too much space (big house wares, furniture)• Can't go in your carry-on due to security restrictions (liqueurs over 3 oz*/90 mL* in size)• May contravene the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), an international treaty created to crack down on the trafficking of endangered flora and fauna. Avoid reptile leathers, shell products, fur and other items unless you know for a fact they come from species not prohibited under CITES; 2 Pack like a proOnce you've snagged some great gifts to bring home, make sure you've got enough room in your luggage to transport them. Here are some tips and tricks for accomplishing this feat: • Pack lightly so your second suitcase can be almost empty.• Bring some old clothes you don't mind leaving behind. Wear them, then leave them by the trash in your hotel room to indicate they've been left behind intentionally; they may be of use to someone else. • Cut back on extraneous packing materials. Use your clothing to cushion items. For instance, protect a wooden salad bowl from scratching by wrapping it inside a T-shirt; reclaim some of the space it displaces in your bag by cradling other garments inside the bowl itself.• Remember that liquids exceeding three fluid ounces (approximately 90 mL) aren't permitted in your carry-on bag, so stash them in your checked baggage. Even if you buy liquor in the airport departure lounge gift shop or duty-free shop, àpres security checkpoint, you'll lose it if you need to pass through security again at a connecting airport. • Don't be afraid to jam-pack your “personal” bag (this is the one bag in addition to your carry-on case). On a recent trip to Belize, I was able to fit my purse, laptop and a carved wooden platter into a LuluLemon shopping bag. In consideration to other patrons, this bag should go under the seat in front of you, not in the overhead bin where it's a cumbersome fit.) page 2 3 Consider shipping itEven the most cautious of shoppers can find themselves in a bind at times: you went looking for a ceramic vase and fell in love with a wooden stool. Or you went to a market in search of cushion covers and saw the area rug of your dreams. Now what?Shipping internationally carries certain inherent risks. • Your product could arrive damaged;• A shady vendor could agree to ship an item – and, banking on your never being able to track him down again – simply not ship it;• In places where the postal system isn't as heavily scrutinized as in North America, your parcel may simply disappear in transit If your package is manageable and easily shippable, simply wrap it securely yourself (your hotel can help you), and get it couriered from your closest FedEx or UPS office. This is usually a safer and more efficient method than using the post office.If the item is too big for you to package, you should pay the vendor to ship it to your home address via freight. Feel free to oversee him as he wraps it up: Hey, it's your new ceramic stool – you have the right to know it's properly cushioned against any possible damage. Also make sure both your phone number and email address are on the air bill. P.S.: Insurance averages 50 cents to $1.50 per $100 of value, so you have no excuse not to opt in.But if your vendor is giving off fly-by-night vibes and you still really, really want the item in question, go DIY on the delivery. Contact your embassy or the local tourism bureau for their recommended freight carriers and proceed from there. Again, buy insurance.Don't forget to declare your purchases on a Form E24 Personal Exemption CBSA Declaration when you return to Canada. And keep a copy: without one you'll have to pay duty again when you claim your parcel.You can bring home up to $750 worth of goods after being out of the country for seven days or more. After that, you may be charged GST, PST (in some cases), as well as duties, which vary by product and its country of manufacture. Luxury items may be hit with additional excise duties and tax.4 Surprise: you may want to just buy it in CanadaIt may sound disingenuous, but in big cities with great shopping (and even nationally via e-tail), there are a great many importers who may carry what you're looking to bring home. Due to their wholesale partnerships and ability to buy in quantity, in many cases it may cost you the same or less to simply buy certain mementoes in Canada after your trip. It's not unlike what many sport fishermen and -women have been doing for years in the name of conservation: recording their catch, releasing it, then having a reproduction trophy made from composite, thus protecting fish stocks. For larger souvenirs like furniture, this may be the way to souvenir shop.*Airport security regulations in the US dictate the 3-ounce rule (which is roughly 90 mL). Canadian law says 100 mL (3.4 ounces), but if traveling through an American gateway city, adhere to the US regulations.- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Buying guide: Home office chairs Buying guide: Home office chairs
Buying guide: Home office chairs ofBuying a home office chair My first chair was too big. The enormous leather monstrosity offered no back support and I had to stretch my arms flat to reach the armrests. It was too low for my desk and couldn't be adjusted properly so I sat on my feet or crossed my legs for height. Besides, it swiveled too easily, leaving me unstable. My second chair was too small. Cute and covered in a cowprint material, it was adjustable but offered no lumbar support or armrests. If I leaned back, I was in danger of falling over. But my third chair is just right. It's a $500 ergonomically designed, fully adjustable model -- the first two chairs cost less than $100 each. In my quest to find suitable seating, I learned that a great chair quickly pays for itself in increased productivity and decreased downtime. My bad chairs gave me headaches, muscle tension and wrist-strain. Now, I have a renewed love of work, improved quality of life and I save the costs of physiotherapy, Aspirin and sick days.What to look for:FeelMany people test chairs by sitting in an awkward position, with their backs ramrod straight or slouched. Test it by sitting the way you want to sit after adjusting it to your size. If your back naturally presses against the back of the chair and you feel comfortable and supported, then it is probably the chair for you.FlexibilityYou should be able to customize your chair, adjusting it so that your feet are flat on the floor and your knees make an angle of about 100 degrees. Your armrests should move independently -- position them so your forearms are supported and your shoulders are relaxed.ControlThe chair's mobility should vary in degree and optionally lock, so that it will not roll away at the slightest push. You should be able to swivel to the side gradually and stay there without making a full rotation, and lean back slightly without danger of falling over backwards.MaterialLeather may look prestigious but it can be slippery or sticky in hot weather. This material also tends to lose its shape and rips easily. Opt for a chair that has an absorbent, breathable material cover with soft -- but firm -- padding, a steel spine, beveled plastic armrests and solid footing. Top-of-the-line chairs may be expensive, generally ranging anywhere from $300 to $700. But a good chair will last longer, decrease your likelihood of acquiring stress- and strain-related ailments, and increase your productivity. It's a good investment. Creating an ergonomically-sound work environment• Your monitor should be directly in front of your face and you shouldn't have to incline your neck to get a good view.• Your work room should be well ventilated and lit, ensuring that no light source (including sunlight) causes glare. • Your keyboard should be level to - or slightly below - your armrests so your hands fall gently and your wrists are flat while typing. Clean or replace sticky keyboards. • A plastic mat provides mobility and stability on a slippery or thickly carpeted floor. • Make sure your mouse fits your hand – bigger is not always better. • If you talk on the phone while working, try using a headset.Image courtesy of Crate & Barrel- Credit
- Caryn Mladen
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Shopping in Ontario: Kreiss Shopping in Ontario: Kreiss
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Shopping in Ontario: Crate & Barrel Shopping in Ontario: Crate & Barrel
Shopping in Ontario: Crate & Barrel ofCrate & Barrel Click to download: Crate & Barrel- Credit
- Helen Racanelli
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Buying guide: Sofas Buying guide: Sofas
Buying guide: Sofas ofIt's what's on the inside that counts Some people have the luxury of replacing their sofas as often as they paint. But if you're not one of those people, this is an investment that requires not just some savings, but some planning as well. What size sofa are you looking for? Do you need a large sectional to accommodate kids, dogs and movie night in the den? Are you looking for something more demure, a two-seater to fit a cozy corner of the living room? And then there's the fabric -- from delicate (and high-maintenance) silks to rugged polyester blends, what's going to serve you best and for the longest period of time? To help you get a handle on it all, we spoke to Amy Archer, a consumer behaviourist with Rowe Furniture who also spent 10 years as a furniture designer. She knows her stuff and she's prepared to share. The inner truthA lot of what separates the good from the best in a sofa is happening inside. It's the things you can't see that really affect how well your furniture takes a beating (jumping, bouncing, being moved around). The starting point here is the suspension system. These systems are modelled after the ones found in car seats, and the Cadillac of sofa spring systems used to be the "eight-way," something Amy describes as "a slinky with attitude": eight metal coils attached to each other and then to the frame with two metal ties. "Everyone used to say, if you want a great couch, you need an eight-way suspension system," says Amy. Not anymore.Some great sofas still use this system, but when Mercedes introduced an "S system" for their car seats, this model made its way to the furniture showroom as well. (Think S-shaped coils running through the inside of the sofa and attached to the frame.) The latest incarnation comes courtesy of Ferrari, which introduced a webbing system in its seats. "Henridone and other high-end sofas come with this new system," says Amy. "It's like super memory elastic, and the great thing is it never hurts the cushions, because whatever the spring system is made of, it pushes against the cushions." Any of these systems will give you longevity and durability. How to find quality frames and cushions Structure is keyThe next thing you need to ask your salesperson about is the frame. Look for kiln-dried hardwoods (kiln drying can prevent warping and cracking). Some sofas are made with new pine and plywood, and they won't last as long as hardwood. In most cases, says Amy, the back legs should be part of the frame, as they are integral to its strength. (Only the front legs should come off.) When you're in the store, some experts suggest wiggling the arm of the sofa you're considering -- the more it moves, the weaker the frame. The joinery is all the bits and pieces inside the frame that hold it together. The words you're looking for here are "double dowel" and "corner blocked." Double dowels ensure the frame is perfectly square; corner blocks, triangular pieces of wood affixed to each right angle, prevent the piece from twisting out of shape. How to ensure qualitySince all of this architecture is hidden, how do you check it? If your salesperson doesn't know all the particulars, ask to see the manufacturer's catalogue. These specifications should all be there. "But what really matters is the warranty," says Amy. Make sure it's a lifetime warranty on the spring system. "There's no way you know how well they did what they did inside, but you do know by how well they stand by it. That means for as long as you own the furniture. We've taken back pieces that are 30 years old that have sprung a spring." Choosing the best cushionsWhat goes over all these intricate innards -- the cushions and upholstery -- is also important. Most options are 1.8-density foam core, or foam with a down wrap. The 1.8 figure isn't the key. "I could sit you on 30 cushions that were all 1.8 density and they'd feel completely different," says Amy. So you'll do a lot of sitting and standing to find what suits you best. But no matter what, Amy says, “it must be high-resiliency foam." Remember seeing yellow fluff come out of your grandma's sofa cushions? That was not high-resiliency stuff. High-resiliency foam returns to its normal shape when subjected to pressure and doesn't disintegrate over time. "It can be the difference between a $700 and a $1,500 couch," says Amy. You can't tell the difference by sitting on the sofa, but after a year or so, you'll start to sink in the sofa if the cushions are breaking down. Choosing the fabric is possibly the most exciting part of buying a sofa. "One cloth changed how everyone saw upholstery for the past three years," says Amy. She's talking about microfibre, of course. "Technically, it's freakishly tiny fibre, 100 times smaller than a hair, and it's almost always polyester." It's woven and the top is sanded, giving it that suede look with no visible weave. "This makes it impenetrable and the fineness gives it a much sexier hand," says Amy. Today there are "performance fabrics" that compete with microfibres, but don't look like suede. "We have apparel-looking lines that resist stains, and beautiful almost-velvets that you could spill ragout on," says Amy. If you get the best quality, your sofa should feel cozy for seven to 10 years. "The couch will last a lot longer than your love for it," says Amy. As well it should.- Credit
- Carmen Taylor
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Get the goods on customer service Get the goods on customer service
Get the goods on customer service ofFrom The Bay to Jysk Bed-Bath-Home The Bay, Designer Depot, Home Outfitters, ZellersContact hbc.com for storesReturn Policy Exchange or refund with receipt; exchange or HBC gift card in amount of last sale price without receiptDesign & Delivery Services Delivery at select stores Additional Services Gift cards available. National gift registry (The Bay and Home Outfitters stores only). Items will be shipped free of charge to requested Bay or Home Outfitters storeBombayContact 888-226-6229 for stores and to order; bombay.caReturn Policy Exchange, gift card or refund within 30 days with receipt; gift card without receiptDesign & Delivery Services Delivery on select large items only Costco Contact 800-463-3783 for stores; costco.caReturn Policy Within 30 days, refund or exchange with or without receipt (returns accepted after that time, too) Design & Delivery Services In-home designer available for window coverings and wall-to-wall carpetingAdditional Services Special orders (with home delivery) available for variety of items, including custom leather furniture, mattresses, linens, high-end cedar garden sheds, plumbing fixtures, custom blinds and area rugs. Also, in-home custom program available with California Closets at select Costco locationsEQ3 Contact eq3.com for storesReturn Policy Within 14 days, refund or exchange with receipt. No cancellation, return or exchange on custom upholstery and special ordersDesign & Delivery Services Both available; contact stores for detailsThe Home DepotContact 800-668-2266 for stores; homedepot.caReturn Policy In-store Within 90 days, refund with receipt; after 90 days, store credit or credit to The Home Depot commercial credit accounts may be issued with or without receipt. Online Call 800-628-0525 for free pickup (no in-store return). Within 90 days, refund with receipt, packing slip and return authorization number issued by call centre. Items that use flammable liquids or gases can't be returned once used because they create a safety hazard Design & Delivery Services Free in-home service by in-store design consultants when using products purchased at The Home Depot. Installation and delivery also available HomeSense Contact 866-466-3707 for stores; homesense.caReturn Policy Within 10 days, refund or exchange with receipt; after 10 days, HomeSense gift card issued (which can be used at Winners locations and vice versa)IKEAContact ikea.ca for storesReturn Policy Within 45 days, refund or exchange with receiptDesign & Delivery Services In-store interior design and kitchen advisors, 3-D kitchen planner (download from website or use in-store), and online office planner. Delivery availableAdditional Services For non-DIYers, recommendations for in-home assembly and installation services. Gift cards available Jysk Bed-Bath-HomeContact jysk.ca for storesReturn Policy Within 10 days, refund or exchange with receipt; after 10 days and up to 30 days, in-store credit issued From Linens N Things to Winners Linens N Things Contact canada.lnt.com for storesReturn Policy Within 60 days, refund with receipt (in-store and online)Pier 1 Imports Contact 800-245-4595 for stores; pier1.comReturn Policy Refund or exchange with receipt; merchandise credit only without receiptDesign & Delivery Services Delivery upon request; rates varyAdditional Services In Touch e-mail program for info about sales, promotions, new products; Pier 1 Imports Preferred Customer Card offers 10 per cent discount upon sign-upPottery Barn Contact Toronto, 416-962-2276; Calgary, 403-259-2100; Vancouver, 604-678-9897; potterybarn.ca for more storesReturn Policy Furniture & upholstery Within 30 days, refund with receipt; after 30 days, refund or exchange against manufacturer defects for period of up to one year. All other items Up to one year, refund or exchange with receiptDesign & Delivery Services In-store design studio: Customers can sketch floor plans of their living space and tailor selection of items with help of skilled associate. Contact stores for more detailsAdditional Service Wedding and gift registry Restoration Hardware Contact 888-243-9720 for stores or catalogue; restorationhardware.comReturn Policy Refund or exchange with receipt. Furniture Within 30 days of delivery, refund or exchange with receipt; after 30 days, refund for manufacturer defects onlyDesign & Delivery Services Delivery availableAdditional Services Gift certificates; Design Your Own lighting onlineSearsContact Across Canada; sears.caReturn Policy Within 90 days, refund with receipt. Home electronics Within 30 days, refund or exchange with receipt Design & Delivery Services Ship-a-Gift Orders from current Sears catalogue or sears.ca delivered to requested Sears location, often at no extra charge (home delivery in most areas for a fee) William Ashley ChinaContact 800-268-1122; Toronto, 416-964-2900Return Policy Within 10 days, refund or exchange with receipt (restocking charge may apply in some cases); for all gifts, exchange or refund in form of credit noteDesign & Delivery Services Free delivery to postal codes beginning with L or M; charges for other areasAdditional Services Free bridal registry; The Gourmet Shoppe area specializing in kitchenware; free gift-boxingWilliams-SonomaContact Toronto, 416-962-9455; Calgary, 403-410-9191; williams-sonoma.ca for storesReturn Policy With receipt, exchange or merchandise credit; refund cheques for items purchased by cash only (doesn't apply to registry gifts). Without receipt, exchange or merchandise creditDesign & Delivery Services Contact stores for detailsAdditional Services Wedding and gift registry; cooking classes; book signings by well-known cookbook authorsWinnersContact 877-946-6877 for stores; winners.ca Return Policy Within 10 days, refund or exchange with receipt; after 10 days, Winners gift card issued (which can be used at HomeSense locations and vice versa) -
Shopping for antiques Shopping for antiques
Shopping for antiques ofShopping for antiques Officially, an antique is any object that is at least 100 years old, but today many sought-after pieces fall under the category of collectible, which can be antique or as modern as the 1980s.The best way to learn about antiques and collectibles is by reading. "Libraries and bookstores are full of good-quality reference books on just about every collectible known to man," says Potter. "If they made it there's somebody out there collecting it and there is undoubtedly a collectors' club promoting it."Another technique is shopping around. "The way to learn about things are at auctions where you can touch them," says Christopher Lewis, executive producer of Antiques Roadshow U.K. "The only way to know things is to handle them – and then you have to see thousands of them before you can pick out the valuable one."When you're ready to buy, find a dealer or auctioneer you trust and ask questions. If you're unsure about an object's authenticity, ask the dealer to guarantee it. If they won't, move on. You can also look for dealers approved by the Canadian Antique Dealers Association, an organization dedicated to safeguarding antique buyers.Other things to keep in mind include wear and tear and markings. If a book is valued at $250 but the spine is in bad shape, it may cost just as much to get it rebound. If something is used and not reproduced, it would have signs of aging, like scratches, and age, like the type of dovetailing, joints and ridging. Finally, objects bearing marks of the maker, and metal content for jewelry and silver, helps the appraisal.To determine whether the price is right, check out price guides for that field. "Keep in mind that they are just guides," says Potter. "Exposure to the market is important-look around for the same type of item in other shops and compare prices." When it comes to haggling, some dealers enjoy it, others don't. "These people have overhead costs like any other business," he adds. "Unlike the local furniture or electronics dealer, they can't replenish their stock by phone or fax."If you already own pieces and want to find out more, you can visit a museum for an evaluation, but unlikely a value. You can also log onto the Antiques Roadshow Web site, which has a database of over 5,000 pieces.Most important, however, is an antique or collectible's beauty. "I tell people to buy what you like," says Alistair Dickenson, a London, England, dealer and expert with Antiques Roadshow U.K. "You have to live with it."- Credit
- Heather Camlot
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How to: Shop at flea markets How to: Shop at flea markets
How to: Shop at flea markets of5 tips for what to bring When it comes to mastering the flea market experience, there are a few basic rules: Dress down, be unfashionably early and drive a clunker. Why? You'll be on your feet all day; you don't want other shoppers snagging your must-have items; and larger pieces might be tough on your leather interior. Kim Murray, owner of Ottawa-based online store anythinggoesonline.ca, scours flea markets for the vintage and antique furnishings available on her website. She follows more advanced rules for this kind of thrifty shopping. Here are Kim's tips for making the most of your experience.Before you go:Study -- If you're looking for antiques, learn all you can about the time period. "Investigate the era's construction methods, materials and design," says Kim. Train your eye to spot them quickly -- and from further away than the average shopper. You'll get the best deals and get them first. What to bring:Cash -- Not all flea market vendors take credit cards and most won't accept personal cheques. Small bills are best, especially if you want to haggle. A list -- It won't guarantee that you'll find what you're looking for, but you'll always be mindful of what you set out to get if you've got it written down. Tool kit -- If you're looking for a table or large piece of furniture, you might not be able to get it into your mini-van without taking off the legs or the doors first. You'll also want to measure pieces before you even try to haul them away (to make sure they'll fit your car and your home). A screwdriver and tape measure are good staples. Your own packing materials -- Bubble wrap for breakables; blankets for items that scratch and mar easily; plastic bags for small collectibles. Don't count on merchants providing these items for you. Photos and measured floor plans of your home; swatches of fabric; and paint chips as well -- That way you can spot items that weren't on your list, but that might work wonders in your space. 5 tips for at the market When you arrive:Be prepared to bargain -- "But be respectful," says Kim. Look past the obvious -- Items that are prominently displayed tend to be the most expensive.Pick up and feel everything you can -- The wear of an item can be an indication of how old it is. "If you're looking at a wooden chair that's supposed to be 100 years old," says Kim, "and there's no wear on the rungs, it's either refinished, a reproduction or was never used -- that's rare." Older wooden items often have subtle uneven hand-planed surfaces. They feel "wavy" when you pass your hand over them. When it comes to vintage cabinets, the backs usually are a darker-colour called "air burn," according to Kim. Inspect closely -- At most flea markets, you're buying "as-is." Plug in electrical items, pull up extra table leaves, open and close hutch doors...make sure everything is in working order before you leave. Ask for what you want -- Just because the seller doesn't have a 1950's crystal chandelier out on her display table, doesn't mean she won't have one in her truck.- Credit
- Jasmine Miller
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Flea market guide: 2008 Flea market guide: 2008
Flea market guide: 2008 ofWestern Canada There's no better time to freshen up your home décor than in the spring and summer. When the sun starts to shine people come out of woodwork and head to their favourite flea markets to dig for that perfect craft or antique. So roll up your sleeves, brush up on your bargaining skills and head outside this season for some great finds for great prices at one of these great flea markets:WESTERN CANADA21st Centry Flea MarketLocation: Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive at 16th AvenueVancouver, BC2008 Dates: January 20, March 16, June 22, September 21, November 16Contact: 21cpro@telus.netDescription: Not to be missed! A European-style collectors market offering 175 vendors selling 50's kitsch, shabby chic, collectibles, bottles and tins and so much more!Admission: General admission $3 at Door 10am - 3pm; Early-Bird admission $20 at the door 7am - 10am; Children under 13 free with adult; Free parkingThe Vancouver Flea MarketLocation: 703 Terminal Ave., Vancouver, BCTime: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am - 5pm, holidays 10am - 4pmContact: 604-685-0666, info@vancouverfleamarket.comDescription: Also called "The Big Red Barn", this all-season market features 360 vendors selling household items in addition to collectibles, memorabilia and more. Running for nearly 25 years, this market attracts 4000 visitors every weekend.Admission: 75 centsCrossroads MarketsLocation: 1235 26 Ave. SE, Calgary, ABTime: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am - 5pmContact: 403-291-5208, info@corssroadsmarket.caDescription: Crossroads market celebrated its 20th Anniversary just last year! Be sure to pop into Calgary's largest indoor and outdoor market with over 150 vendors within 100,000 square feet housed in a heritage building. Art, toys, travel tickets, collectibles and more are available, and it's a farmer's market during the week also open 9am - 5pm.Admission: Free!The Ruddell Flea MarketLocation: Highway 16, near Ruddell, SKTime: April 5th to September 30th, 8am - 8pm (weather permitting) except WednesdaysContact: 306-389-2174, info@ruddellfleamarket.comDescription: A flea market that provides antiques, collectibles, household goods and antiques. Find handmade quilts, fine china or antique radios. Also check out their online store.Admission: Free! Central Canada CENTRAL CANADAThe 400 MarketLocation: Hwy. 400 at Innisfil Beach Rd., Barrie, ONTime: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am - 5pmContact: 705-436-1010, Manager@400Market.comDescription: More than 400 vendors offer clothing, furniture, tools, toys and more. Contains an antique mall open all week from 10am - 5:30pm.Admission: $1 for parkingAberfoyle Antiques MarketLocation: 61 Brock Road South, Guelph, ON (1 km north of the 401)Time: Sundays 8 am to 4 pm, April 27 to October 26Contact: (519) 763-1077 (local) or toll-free: 1-877-763-1077, info@aberfoyle-antiques.comDescription: Located in picturesque Aberfoyle, their Antique and Flea Market is a cut above with log cabins, barns and rustic booths. Offering over 100 vendors selling antiques and collectibles including furniture, memorabilia, jewelry, glass, china, and much more.Admission: $2 per adult; children 12 and under are freeSt. Jacobs Market DistrictLocation: At Weber Street North and Farmers' Market Road, north of Waterloo, 3 km. south of Village of St. Jacobs.Time: Thursday & Saturday year around 7 am to 3:30 pm; Tuesday Summer Market: Mid-June to the end of August 8 am to 3 pm; Sunday Market 10 am - 4 pm (March – December)Contact: (519) 747-1830, markets@stjacobs.comDescription: You can browse over 600 vendors to shop for crafts, furniture, home décor, tools, meats, cheeses and local produce.Admission: Free!Antrim Flea MarketLocation: The old Antrim truck stop located on Old HWY 17, outside Ottawa, ONTime: Sundays 9am - 5pmContact: 613-832-4123 or 613-880-4775Description: A child of the old Stittville Flea Market, this indoor/outdoor shopping experience showcases native art, antique decor, custom furniture, antiques, stained glass and more.Admission: Free!Dr. Flea's Flea MarketLocation: Hwy 27 & Albion Rd at 8 Westmore Drive, Toronto, ONTime: Saturdays and Sundays, 10am - 5pmContact: 416-745-3532, info@drfleas.comDescription: Toronto's largest market hosts over 400 vendors with an international farmer's market outdoors.Admission: Free!The Pickering MarketsLocation: 1400 Squires Beach Rd., Pickering, ONTime: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am - 5pmContact: 905-426-3387, laurie@pickeringmarkets.comDescription: Celebrating its 30th year, over 500 booths feature unique finds including sports cards, memorabilia, home decor, music, jewellery and novelties, with a food court for when you get tired.Admission: Free! Eastern Canada EASTERN CANADAFinnegan's Antiques, Handcrafts & CollectablesLocation: 775 Main Rd. R.R.2 Hudson, QCTime: 9am - 4pm, First Saturday in May till the last Saturday in OctoberContact: 450-458-4377, finnegans@newsoft.caDescription: Find collectables, carpets, antiques and reproductions just west of Montreal.Admission: Free!Alderney LandingLocation: 2 Ochterloney, Dartmouth, NSTime: Mid-April to November 7 am - 1 pm; November to mid-April 8 am - 1 pmContact: Lisa at 902-461-4698Description: Offers jewellery, handmade crafts, antiques and more within a farmer's market.Admission: Free!MacCormack's Flea MarketLocation: 99 All Weather Hwy., Summerside, PEITime: Sundays, 7am - 3pm year roundContact: 902-436-5260Description: Woodworking, handmade crafts, household items and antiques are a few of the finds here. Refreshments available.Admission: Free!Magnetic Hill Flea MarketLocation: Magnetic Hill Concert Site, Moncton, NB (Hwy #2 & Hwy #126)Time: July 4 to 6, 8am – 8pm; July 7, 8am – 5pmContact: 506-386-1200, gregturner@rogers.comDescription: Over 800 vendors feature automotives, antiques, crafts and lots more!Admission: $3/dayAvalon Mall Flea MarketLocation: 48 Kenmount, St. John's, NLTime: Sundays 5:30pm – 10:30pmContact: Anne-Marie Barrington, 709-726-8459Description: This indoor market features handmade crafts, antiques, electronics and baked goods.Admission: Free!- Credit
- Name of the author
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Fabulous design and decor stores Fabulous design and decor stores
Fabulous design and decor stores ofShopping etc: Your best bets! Saltspring Island, B.C.The brainchild of four entrepreneurial female artists, Coastal Currents Home and Garden Gallery (133 Hereford Ave., 250-537-0070) offers an eclectic collection of art made by local artisans. Colourful glassware and fabrics pop against neutral walls inside the circa-1935 heritage-house-turned-showroom. Each room uniquely displays everything from gardening books, greeting cards and ribbon to top-quality kitchenware and wicker furniture. It's the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind gift. Toronto, Ont.Neutral fabrics and dark woods come together with panache at Cabinet (10 Birch Ave., 416-923-9234). The inviting furniture showroom features solid wood bedroom sets, dining tables, and upholstered sofas, all elegantly displayed. Cabinet's versatile wooden furniture pieces are designed and manufactured by owner Ron Briand, but what's great about the collection is that all the pieces are designed to work together and can be custom-made to fit your space. Aztec Furnishings (2392 Bloor St. W., 416-761-9611; aztecfurnishings.com) A little bit of Mexico in Bloor West Village. The store provides “unique alternatives to standard home furnishings,” says owner Kevin Jones, who travels to Mexico regularly to purchase items directly from the manufacturers. Along with rustic hand-crafted Mexican pine tables, desks and cabinetry, you'll find small pieces like colourful hand-blown glass, vibrant hand-painted Talavera pottery water jugs and bowls, and aromatic candles embedded with coffee beans or cinnamon sticks. Victoria, B.C.Named after owner Stewart Mills' favourite jazz musician, Ellington's Home Decor (1824 Government St., 250-385-5884) is overflowing with funky decor accessories. Mixed in with reproductions of mid-century modern designs by Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe are art deco-style lady lamps, framed prints and platform beds, plus a freestanding bar -- a bar cart with a half wall. Resin statues of famous cartoon characters will surely tickle your fancy. Since 1989, Charles Rupert: The Shop (2005 Oak Bay Ave., 250-592-4916; charles-rupert.com) has specialized in supplying historic tiles, fabrics, wallpapers and furnishings for the restoration of heritage houses. Today the shop is often the go-to place for museums, TV and movie productions when they need to recreate an old-fashioned period look. Whether you're restoring a Victorian house or just adding a touch of tradition to your home, the staff offer ample knowledge and expertise. IN STORE • For discount deals on teak cabinets, bamboo tables and other furnishings from Southeast Asia, check out The Bargain Room, a new space in Toronto's Kuda Interiors (388 Carlaw Ave., 416-463-4805; kudaimports.com). • Looking for luxury leather furniture? Hauser Company Stores and Natuzzileather company have teamed up to open Natuzzi Gallery in Burlington, Ont. (29 Plains Rd. W., 905-681-3355). ONLINE • bouclair.com soft stuff -- towels, sheets, fabric -- for bed, bath and beyond. • circlecraft.net An institution on Vancouver's Granville Island, this cooperative offers beautiful one-of-a-kind ceramics, textiles and more. • daniadown.com A West Coast retailer with a lovely selection of bedding and accessories; see site for store locations, too. • hillsburys.com An inspiring collection of wrought-iron pieces, from wall sconces to chandeliers. • ingearstore.com An eclectic mix of furniture, artwork and accessories. • leevalley.com Hardware heaven -- everything from garden tools to doorknobs; plus great handyman gifts.Illustration by Ashleigh Schouwerwou -
Awesome online shopping Awesome online shopping
Awesome online shopping ofGreat shopping Love to shop but can't get to the mall? Boot up your computer and get online for the best browsing in town (and beyond). Bonus: once you finish your power shop, missing car keys and crawling traffic won't diminish that elated feeling. saje.caGive your home a boost with beautiful products from Delta, B.C.-based saje.ca. This online store offers products that promote natural wellness, and you'll find everything from all-natural candles to refreshing room sprays, essential oils and intoxicating diffuser blends. GREAT GIFT GIVING: Looking for the perfect gift? saje.ca offers gift certificates in $10, $25 and $50 denominations, so you can give someone the gift of shopping.citychef.caThis Vancouver-based kitchenware site offers everything you need -- and didn't know existed -- to make food prep a snap. With such beautiful, high-quality items, you may prefer to order in and admire your new cookware. GLOBAL VILLAGE: Feed your hunger for exotic fare in the World Cuisine section. Pick up a tortilladora to make tortillas by hand, a Le Creuset Moroccan tagine for some savoury slow-cooking or Karansekake forms to bake a Norwegian wedding cake. gabrielross.comThe sharp sensibility of Herman Miller, the funky designs of Alessi and the artful simplicity of Knoll are only a fraction of the modernist shopping experience at this Victoria, B.C.-based store. From furniture to lighting, rugs to tableware, visiting gabrielross.com is like a trip through a design museum with a long stop at the gift shop.FREE FOR THE TAKING: Besides a phenomenal selection of desirable designs, Gabriel Ross offers free shipping across Canada. Ahhhh. More ebay.caYes, you know all about ebay.ca, but have you dared to take a look? The auction site is brimming with fantastic deals, top brands and rare finds. At press time, A Herman Miller Aeron chair was selling for $455 (retail price approximately $1060) and a Nigella Lawson Living Kitchen mortar and pestle set for $20 (retail price approximately $70). IT'S IN THE DETAILS: Be sure to thoroughly read the shipping policy before buying, otherwise your great deal may be no deal at all. Also beware of shipping and handling fees, which may be charged even if you pick up an item. rugman.comTreat your frozen toes to some cushiony warmth with a new area rug from rugman.com. The Markham, Ont.-based company offers both modern and traditional rugs and boasts over 1500 new arrivals each month. A HELPING HAND: Buying a rug is a tricky -- and expensive -- business, so make sure to use all the tools available to help with your decision. rugman.com offers a variety of views -- by size, by detail and even by flooring. It also offers a live chat option for real-time support and a Rugs 101 section to educate you on materials, techniques and buying. leevalley.comWhen the weather breaks, gardeners know to head to Ottawa-based Lee Valley Tools to stock up on top quality supplies for digging in the dirt. And if you're feeling generous, you can treat the woodworker in your life to a little something as well. HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW: Not sporting a green thumb? No worries. Get started in the Articles section, where you'll find helpful information like a month-by-month home garden schedule, tips on vegetable gardening in pots and tricks to controlling pests and weeds. indigo.caindigo.ca is more than just a book lover's haunt. The Canadian chain also offers a selection of goodies for the home, from frames and candles to stylish storage boxes and photo albums. SPRING HAS SPRUNG: Put together a gardener's gift bag with items from Indigo's new spring line. Toss together a pair of gardening gloves, Garden-In-A-Bag, lavender, garden incense and more in a beautiful floral-print tote. OK, you can throw in a gardening book, as well. -
Online shopping Online shopping
Online shopping ofHow has online shopping influenced you in your work? When eBay challenged eight designers to make over a Manhattan townhouse in seven weeks, everyone realized the possibilities were endless. Thanks to the enormous reach of the Internet, these eight savvy designers were able to put their shopping expertise to use without leaving their computer. eBay.ca was the perfect online destination to snag super finds from all over the world. So how does online shopping simplify a designer's life and where exactly do they like to shop to bag a bargain? We checked in with some of the designers and here's what they had to say.How has online shopping influenced you in your work?When we accessorize a home, eBay is a great source for finding items that are unusual and can round out a client's collections or interests. Recently, a client bought an old dairy farm and we found antique steel milk containers to decorate the kitchen. Matthew Patrick SmythShopping online is just a very convenient way of shopping. Being based in NY one has access to just about anything but one also runs out of time. Shopping at 2am for the vases you did not get to buy during the day is a plus. Isabelle BosquetOnline shopping saves time! Most recently, I had a two-hour conference call and ordered furniture for my whole office. By nature I am a multitasker and a hunter and gatherer so I love being able to hunt through the troves of eBay while talking on the phone. Every store has a web site now so instead of trekking all over New York for a particular item, you can simply navigate through their store and see if they have what you are looking for. Lulu deKwiatkowskiOnline shopping has been a great source for inspiration, ideas, and new resources. It enables an ease of shopping, allowing us to visit websites quickly, get detailed information on pieces of furniture and accessories, review entire lines, and for me, who does a lot of shopping during off-business hours, it's always open. Sheila Bridges What's the most interesting purchase you've made online? What's the most interesting purchase you've made online?I just found a paper grocery bag from Ireland dated 1880, with a drawing of a Smyth ancestor who was running for public office. I would never have found this without eBay, or even known it existed. Matthew Patrick SmythI literally fell in love with a very decorative marble bust on eBay France. The seller had inherited it from an aunt and was downsizing. I lost my head over this bust in an eBay fever moment but I am so glad he could be part of my garden for the eBay showhouse. Isabelle BosquetMy list is endless.....I'm a big furniture eBay buyer and have had great success. I have found a great lithograph that looks similar to an Elsworth Kelly and I love it. Fantastic chrome knoll Bruno chairs and a stool. Beautiful Murano glass ashtrays in multiple colors and a particular pair of bedside tables and painted high gloss red and think are the crème de la crème! Lulu deKwiatkowskiWhile I was working on the eBay Showhouse I was able to purchase saris from India, occasional tables and accessories from Morocco, antique carved Italian chairs - all from eBay. Interesting and unique products from around the world were easily found and purchased. Sheila Bridges What web sites do you love to shop at? What web sites do you love to shop at?homeportfolio.com is a great source of information for all construction and building needs. Matthew Patrick SmythI get things like books and CDs from barnesandnoble.com. I know what I want and I don't have to look for it on shelves, wait online to pay. If shopping includes buying plane tickets I am dedicated to Orbitz for it. Isabelle BosqueteBay.com: for everything and anything. luludk.com: for great fabrics and wallpapersbluefly.com's home section: for cashmere throwsnettocollection.com: for babieswallcandyarts.com: just becausespruceup.com: for flowers Lulu deKwiatkowskieBay.com, designwithinreach.com, vivre.com, target.com, amazon.com Sheila Bridges- Credit
- Natalie Bahadur
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Gift guide: We shopped till we dropped to find the best gifts for all the home lovers on your list; Going green: Make your home look freshly festive with do-it-yourself projects featuring lush greenery like moss, silver sage, myrtle and ferns; Decor... more -
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