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Weekend Market Picks November 5-6 + Sohung Designs at ID Pop Shop

Markets of New York City is proud to support the Independent Designer Pop Shop, or ID Pop Shop, in Chelsea Market! One of my favorite designers, Tom Sohung of Sohung Designs, whose dress I wore to my book launch party last year, is participating in this treasure-filled market. The photo is yours truly falling in love with his spectacular wool overdress. It is asymmetrical, with a long cut-out sleeve on one side and a cape sleeve on the other. It buttons up in the most flattering, unusual way, the epitome of style and design. And it made me feel like a super rich 1 Percenter, only better because my finest wares are local and handmade.

The ID Pop Shop runs every day through November 27 and features 18 of New York’s fine emerging designers in fashion, jewelry, accessories, and bath and body products. They’re giving away American Express Gift Cards every weekend, so follow ID Pop Shop on Facebook and win!

And now for this weekend’s Market Picks!

Saturday and Sunday, November 5 & 6:

ID Pop Shop: As I mentioned above, this market is just lovely. It’s like walking into an amazing boutique full of amazing objects, from sumptuous creams and room sprays, to cool leather wallets, and some of the most riveting fashion designers on the scene. Runs through November 27, 2011 inside Chelsea Market, towards the 10th Avenue entrance.

Chelsea Market: While you’re heading to the Pop Shop, you must spend time strolling and noshing your way through Chelsea Market. The crowds get a little wild on the weekends, but you can stop for warm breads fresh out of the ovens at Amy’s Bread, or hot cocoa at Ronnybrook Farm Dairy’s Milk Bar, or a delicious fresh crepe from Bar Suzette.

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park: They’re open! I haven’t been there yet this year, but trust me – it is not too early to get into the holiday spirit once you’ve entered the holiday wonderland in beautiful Bryant Park. The crystal vendor shops, the fun ice rink, and the seasonal Celsius Wine Bar will jump start your season!

Saturday Only

Super!market: This market features a core selection of outstanding emerging designers. They’re hosting over 25 designers in the gym of the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Nolita. It’s warm and indoors, so you can browse at every single booth and try on the handmade designerclothing for men and women. Super!market is an exciting new addition to the market scene!

Good luck and fair weather to everyone running in the Marathon! That means you, Rachael Grygorcewicz! ♥ I’ll actually be cheering you on from the sidelines this year, rather than from my cozy warm bed like most years! So you’d better run fast!

Photo of the Day – September 20, 2011: Antique Locomotive Smoking Caddy ca. 1860

On weekdays, the cafeteria tables and benches at PS 87 are filled with kids eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. But on Sundays, when the Greenflea pitches its tents outside, the cafeteria tables become an antiques market, laden with vintage treasures.

Glittering in a corner of the cafeteria in aisle 4 is the antique silver collection from Slope Antiques. Proprietors Susan and Richard Kurtzman lay out a fine collection of urns, trays, serving items, baby items, and other objects. I first met them while writing Markets of New York City; a photo of a Gorham and Co. mesh bag is on page 47. Their collection of vintage Tiffany silver makes me quiver. And I am in love with their sugar spoons and tea service items.

This past Sunday, Mr. Kurtzman showed me one of his personal favorite pieces, a silver locomotive smoking caddy. Handmade in Germany circa 1860, this detailed, lovely piece has both artistic and practical and features. If you look at the photo, the little rings around the outside hold up to a dozen cigarettes for your guests to select from. The two larger pots in the center of the locomotive hold wooden matches, which can be lit by striking them along the wheels at the back. Alternatively, right in front of the miniature engineer is a tiny lamp with a wick that can be lit to fire up a cigarette, or even for ambiance. Mr. Kurtzman believes there used to be a blue glass plume of smoke coming out of the chimney, but it probably came off as this amazing piece of art and craftsmanship traveled through the past 150 years.

You really must go see this piece for yourself, including the tiny rivets, the axles, and the engineer at the back, with his jaunty hat and mustache. Slope Antiques is at the Greenflea every Sunday. Let me know if you would like to contact them directly, and I will make the introduction.

Photo of the Day – August 2, 2011: Devils May Care

Devils May Care is the confluence of the photography of Jamie Greenberg and a great idea for a design brand.

Jamie, a photographer trained at the International Center of Photography (ICP), began by creating a collection of solid belt buckles that really make a statement. Each buckle is a limited edition of 250 and engraved on the back with the Devils May Care logo, so you know it’s authentic and handmade. She later added a line of graphic T-shirts, thermals, and zip-ups with her images on them.

The flame belt buckle in this photo is called Perdition. (Yeah, I was going to say it’s “hot,” but I refrained because it’s so damn cool.) The image is printed on fine art canvas and protected with a waterproof sealant. It looks fantastic with a pair of jeans, and it’s a great gift for a guy, although it’s completely unisex.

Devils May Care’s design collection has a great vibe. Jamie puts it all out there, and her designs appeal to bikers, bad-asses, and anyone with an attitude.

You can meet Jamie in person every weekend at the Nolita Market, on Prince Street between Mulberry and Mott, or visit the Devils May Care website!

Photo of the Day: Birdhouse Jewelry

Birdhouse Jewelry’s tented boutique at the Brooklyn Flea has become a destination in and of itself within the flea. Designers Amy and Alen Lapierre create lovely, versatile, and unusual pieces that suit any taste. From dainty to edgy, sparkly crystals to headphone charms, the designs are so diverse that I could not choose just one photo to represent their lines. In fact, five photos barely scratches the surface of all that Birdhouse Jewelry has on their display tables.

Amy and Alen’s pieces are all handmade, and they incorporate beautiful crystals, quartz, pearls and more. One of my favorite aspects of their design is the subtle detail, like a teensy bird or a small crystal halfway up a necklace chain. And they are always coming out with new items, including mixed metals, which is definitely a favorite market trend. And even small animal figurines. You just have to go check it all out for yourself.

If you can’t make it to the Brooklyn Flea, check out Birdhouse Jewelry on Etsy!

Markets Picks This Weekend – May 21-22: So Many Markets, So Little Time!

WOW! This Saturday is chock full of market openings and events! I’m posting the Market Picks mid-week so you can prepare and plan your busy, hungry weekend. We’re hoping it turns out sunny and apocalypse-free.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Brooklyn Craft Central’s Shop the Archway: Markets of New York City is a proud sponsor of this wonderful artisan and food market! The location is worth seeing too. The photo above is a tote bag from Astor Knot, one of the clever artisan entrepreneurs you’ll meet under the Archway! (Brooklyn)

Agora Long Island City Market: The Agora Market in Long Island City is the second artisan and food market to open in Queens! This Saturday is their second event. I didn’t make it to the opening, but the photos look great! Where you there? (Queens)

Bedford Barrow Commerce (BBC) Block Association’s Ye Olde Village Fair: This neighborhood street fair is back for it’s 18th year! And for the first time, it is featuring only juried crafters and artists. (Manhattan)

Christopher Street Block & Merchant Association Affair: Lucky for us, this neighborhood fair coincides with the BBC event. Nothing better than strolling through the lovely streets of Greenwich Village this weekend! On Christopher St. between Seventh Ave. and Hudson St. (Manhattan)

Bust Craftacular: There’s no denying that the Bust Craftaculars are huge handmade shopping events! They are always wildly popular and loaded with fantastic artisans. This spring’s events will be no different, except for its new location at 82 Mercer Street between Broome and Spring! (Manhattan)

Smorgasburg – A Brooklyn Flea Food Market: The Brooklyn Flea is about to become an even bigger international foodie mecca! Smorgasburg launches on Saturday in the Williamsburg waterfront location between North 6th and North 7th St., at the East River. There will be over 100 food and food-related vendors, including a Greenmarket. Smorgasburg will be a weekly event. (Brooklyn)

Sunday, May 22, 2011:

Astoria Market: The Astoria artisan market is back for its second year at Bohemian Hall! Artisans, craft shopping, and beer – if that’s not the trifecta for a good afternoon, I don’t know what is! (Queens)

Fine Art and Designer Craft Fair on Bleeeker Street: This festival to raise funds for the Greenwich Village Youth Council is in its 16 year! The quality of the artwork and crafts will be very high, so definitely take a stroll through this market in the heart of the Village.

Greenflea and 79th Street/Columbus Avenue Greenmarket: This weekend, the Greenmarket is back on Columbus Avenue after three weekends of being hosted by the Greenflea during Crafts on Columbus, which ended last weekend. I just have to mention my good friend Carolyn of Wacky Magnets, whose funny magnets will crack you right up! Look for her bright yellow tent just inside the Columbus Avenue Entrance! (Manhattan)

All the ongoing weekend Markets are running full Swing! This week’s picks:

Artists & Fleas: The oldest Market 2.0 in the city, Artists & Fleas’ new location is spacious and filled with great talent and products! (Brooklyn)
Arthur Avenue Retail Market: It is Bronx Week! Go celebrate with some incredible Italian delicacies and a hand rolled cigar from La Casa Grande at this market! (Bronx)

I will definitely see you at Shop the Archway, and I’m figuring out how I can make it to the other great events as well! Let me know what markets you’ll be visiting! And welcome to the lovely Italian journalist who contacted me for market recommendations for her visit to our fair city.

My Newest Ornaments from Central Asia Craftspring

Last night, my husband and I went for a stroll through the Columbus Circle Holiday Market by Urban Space. Central Park is such a lovely setting for a market, and every time I go there, I find something new and wonderful. Tonight we sampled some delicious organic, fair trade chocolates from Raaka. We took home a lavender blueberry bar and a dark chocolate with hazelnuts. Raaka’s chocolate is incredibly rich, which is great because the bars last slightly longer than usual!

The items that struck me most this time at the market were the handmade felted holiday ornaments from Central Asia Craftspring. They are not only beautifully made, but they are very cleverly designed as well. The thick felt is fashioned and stitched into unusual shapes like ibexes and rams, and also chubby horses, sweet angels wearing scarves, colorful birds and even turtles. Each one has a slightly different expression, so it’s worth taking the time to select the exact ornament that is perfect for your tree. My ram has pale blue horns, a pink swirl on his side, and a look of erudition. The ornaments pictured are equally special.

What makes them even more wonderful to me is that they are all handmade by women artisan/entrepreneurs in Central Asia, “at the heart of the ancient Silk Road.” The felting techniques are actually part of their ancient traditions. These women are supporting their families and communities with their crafts, and the are also making sure that their design skills and felting methods are not lost to time. Central Asia Craftspring also has a booth at the Union Square Holiday Market by Urban Space.

Head over to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market and let me know what treasures you find!

Video of the Day: Clothing Designer Catherine Joseph at the One of a Kind Show

I went to the One of Kind Show and Sale in New York City this weekend and saw some fabulous design. I’m always enthusiastic about design and all things handmade, so trust me when I say that this show is a wealth of riches. I found my husband’s favorite clothing designer there, Catherine Joseph. She designs clothing for men in sumptuous, rich fabrics, including an updated, slimmer version of her very popular men’s shirt, which comes in check cashmere, Scottish lambswool, herringbone Donegal, and more. At the show, she is featuring her new one-of-a-kind women’s coats as well — warm, draping garments with extremely subtle, fine segments of small patches beautifully matched and masterfully stitched. Her wool and silk satin scarves are the perfect gift for men and women. Enjoy this video interview with Catherine as she shows us her designs and as I master my new video camera!

Check out Catherine Joseph and 200 others, all wonderful, all unique. Thursday through Sunday at the One of a Kind Show and Sale!

The Renegade Craft Fair Will Rock Your Crafty World

Well, folks, they’ve done it again! The craft fair wizards of Renegade are putting on an incredible event in McCarran Park this weekend. We spent a lovely afternoon strolling among the colorful tents, marveling at the beautiful, creative, witty, clever, and superlative designs. There are over 300 independent artisans from around the country, and I guarantee that you will be amazed by many-if not most-of the people you meet and the things you see.

Take a look at some of the creations that caught my eye, listed below and in the photo gallery above (all photos by James Wesolowski):

Delicate ceramic figures by Michiko Shimada, sharing a tent with ceramicist Beetle and Flor
Soft and funny handmade dolls with great expresses and even mustaches by Pinkypunk
Rustic birdhouses made from reclaimed wood by Eric Erf Wood Design out of Chicago
The Better Than Jam Co-Op features handmade fashion and accessories by local designers
Knitsybitsy works with Ecuadoran artisans to kit their hysterical sea creature toys
Ornamental Things brings her handmade jewelry all the way from Austin, TX (and the recent Renegade Craft Fair there)
Gold Teeth Brooklyn makes great and unusual gold teeth jewelry, and other cool things like pistachios, not to mention greeting cards featuring Peeps (and more)
Clay, Wood & Cotton has a collection of beautiful home decor items under their red tent, which they’re sharing with the super cute and clever KnitKnit Knits
Shara Porter prints lovely and familiar items, from hedgehogs and guinea pigs to bicycles and horseshoes, on leather handbags, wallets, and purses, many of them vintage
If you’re looking for chalkboard bedside tables to remind you of your To Do list every morning, check out Scraptones, who is also selling very cool decorative wooden blocks with architectural images printed on them
Illustrator Virginia Kraljevic’s “tent” is actually a small boutique full of wit and charm. She’s right next to the ever talented members of The {NewNew}
I picked up the cutest octopus necklace from Destroyed By Design. I may need to get that kiwi too. This artisan is sharing a tent with her fabulous sister and clothing designer AngelRox
Moth Written is selling really fun t-shirts with sayings like “I Love Brooklyn,” or “Kiss Me I’m Irish,” except written in Arabic, the idea being to foster a dialog between East and West. I almost got a “Peace” pin, but I opted for “Breakfast,” because nothing fosters dialog like toast and eggs (only not with your mouth full).

These are just a few of the thousands of handmade items at the Renegade this year. Put on your walking shoes, grab your sunblock and water bottles, and enjoy a day of inspirational shopping!

Sun, Sea, and Design at The {NewNew}’s Summer Home on Governors Island

This weekend marks the official opening of The {NewNew}’s Treasure Chest Boutique, their summer outpost on historic Governor’s Island. The {NewNew} is a group of New York area artisans who all sell their handmade items on Etsy.com, the world’s most vibrant online handmade marketplace.

Over 30 artists, designers, makers, and crafters have created a boutique that evokes the perfect seaside home filled with beautiful handmade wares, with attention to every corner and detail. It is the kind of place that will make you want to look at every detail and linger on the porch for a chat. You will find fashion designs, jewelry, ceramics, home decor, toys, stationery, and much more. I guarantee you will not leave without a treasure of your own, or the perfect gift for someone special.

It is a short and beautiful ride just across the harbor. Governors Island was a US Army and Coast Guard military base that was closed down in 1996. After years of consideration, the island is now a public space, managed by the Governors Island Preservation and Education Corporation and the National Park Service. There are concerts on the island, a huge picnic ground, bike rentals, and Water Taxi Beach.

This weekend, in addition to The {NewNew} Boutique, the 3-acre organic farm run by Added Value opens on Saturday, June 5. This farm is a wonderful education initiative and a great opportunity to volunteer and get your hands dirty.

You get to Governor’s Island via a free ferry from the Battery Maritime building at 10 South Street, leaving every 30 minutes on Fridays through Sundays. You can find The {NewNew} Treasure Chest Boutique bringing new life to Historic Home 6B in the heart of Nolan Park, a 5 minute walk from the ferry landing.

Opening Day of the Hester Street Fair

Today was Opening Day of the Hester Street Fair! I got there a little bit after it opened at 10 AM, and things were already in full swing. Everyone was commenting on the great vibe of the market and the lovely setting under a canopy of London Plane trees. By the end of the day, the total tally was over 11,000 visitors!

Vintage and flea market type vendors are there selling furniture, clothing, posters, decorative items, and much more. I saw a set of four Arts & Crafts style dining table chairs for $40. A wide array of artisans are also selling beautiful handmade items, from throw pillows and greeting cards to jewelery and clothing. The talented and diverse NewNew Etsy artisans group will have different members participating each weekend day. The Hester Street Fair has a balanced mix of vendors, and the quality level is outstanding.

The Hester Street Fair also has a delectable assortment of wonderful food, including breads, pastries, and other delicious things prepared on the spot, following the excellent example of the Brooklyn Flea. There will also be fresh produce vendors at the market each weekend. There was a lot of buzz around the omelettes from toogood Traders. I watched them fry up a huge toogood Greens omelet with “3 eggs, spring onions, kale, spinach, asparagus, fiddlehead ferns, and stinging nettles.” The line for Luke’s Lobster Rolls was impressive for 11 AM, although what could be better than a buttery lobster brunch? For me, the most amazing discovery was a S’Mores mini pie from First Prize Pies, with its graham cracker crust, delicious layer of chocolate, and golden brown top coating of marshmallow. A sweet mini slice of heaven.

One of my favorite aspects of the Hester Street Fair is its focus on the community. The founders of the market live right nearby, and they are committed not only to providing a great resource for the neighborhood, but also to bringing visitors and revenue to the area as well. Among their partners is the Lower East Side Ecology Center, which “works toward a more sustainable New York City by providing community-based recycling and composting programs, developing local stewardship of green space, and increasing community awareness, involvement and youth development through environmental education programs.”

So go check out the Hester Street Fair, and make sure you bring your market bag — and your appetite!