100 mile finds

Strattons Farm CSA initiative 2012

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Strattons Farm is an ecologically sound small farm, based in the rolling hills of Stirling-Rawdon, in Hastings County. We provide "nutritionally dense food" to our customers throughout the season from our fields. Whether it be heirloom vegetables, heritage Berkshire pork, fresh farm gate eggs, honey from our bees to pasture raised poultry.

The farm was created out of a love of good food and a need to know where our food was coming from. After watching such movies as Food Inc, Fresh, The World According to Monsanto, and reading The Raw Milk Revolution, Omnivores Dilemma and Food Inc we decided to take our passion for food and sustainable living and share it with our local community.

Our vegetable boxes are sold via the CSA initiative.

What is a CSA?

The CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm on an annual basis where the grower and shareholders share the risk and benefits of food production. This then connects the shareholder to fresh, local, sustainably grown, herbicide and pesticide free food in their area.

Why join a CSA?

Keeps food local rather than it being picked unripe, then being gassed in a storage container to ripen while it travels thousands of kilometres to get to your table.

Stopping the large corporations taking over the food system.

Learning to explore the delights of eating seasonally.

Supporting a local farm helps to stimulate the local economy.

Giving you the security of knowing where your food has been grown and that it has been grown in an environmentally sustainable way using as little fossil fuels as possible.

Having a relationship with the farmer that grows your food. Rather than heading into a food store, picking up food that has been handled by many hands, wrapped in plastic, that has already been cleaned and prepared for you and may have already spent several weeks sitting on a shelf.

New at our farm for 2012: This year we will have an exchange basket if there is a vegetable that you don't particularly enjoy or you need some extra garlic you will be able to exchange one of your weekly items out with something else in the basket. For example: For the kale lovers you could have more kale and for the kale loathers you could exchange it for extra carrots or cabbage.

If you are interested in joining our garden, then please see the following link to read more about the programme and some of the feedback we have received from our members.

http://strattonsfarm.blogspot.com/p/csa-veggie-baskets.html

Boxes are limited as our aim is to be able to manage everything here at the farm between Michael and I (with a lot of help from our Suffolk Punch Draft horses May & Lily) and also to produce high quality naturally grown vegetables for you all.

If you would like more information or are interested in joining this years CSA then please contact us at the farm and we can e-mail or post your brochure and application form to you.

For those who are not close to our farm and would like to support a local farmer this season and receive seasonal fresh food then search through CSA Ontario's database to find your local CSA. On http://csafarms.ca/index.html

"Look to the past for a greener future"

Sally & Michael

Silk Design by Jane

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Jane first discovered 100 Mile Finds at a show in St. Catharines Ontario. She has recently updated her Silk Design by Jane 100 Mile Finds store to include a larger variety of her hand painted silk scarves. We love that she connects her designs to the Niagara region - her gorgeous blue rowing themed scarves highlight this activity that is often seen on Niagara rivers.

This pic at left features her 'work in progress'. The scarves are held by a frame and then thoughtfully painted by Jane.

Jane's uses salt to bring 'an explosion in colour and shape'. The sugar softens the colours. The scarves are made from Habotai silk and range in size from 8x54" to 11x60".

We are happy to feature Silk Design by Jane at 100 Mile Finds this month - her work brings a shot of colour to a sometimes grey season.

Designed by Craig Ewing

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Designed by Craig Ewing is a new vendor at 100 Mile Finds that is on board just in time for Valentines Day. Sparkly trinkets are always appreciated - and Craig's designs include that artisanal touch that so many 100 Mile Finds customers are looking for.

One of my favourites is this gorgeous Crystal Tile bracelet, featured in aquamarine and garnet , but available in hundreds of colours that Craig can customize for you. I think the garnet version is pretty 'Valentiny', but what fun to pick your favourite colour.

And this Spring Garden bracelet is a breath of fresh air - February is a long month (ironically). Maybe a little sparkle will perk you up.

Cash Mobs

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Whenever we here of another way to support the local movement, we get a little bit excited here at 100 Mile Finds. I have seen a bit of press lately about the 'Cash Mob'. These are events orchestrated via social media during which a crowd descends upon a local business armed with $20 bills. I can' t imagine how amazing that must feel for the business owner. Not only do sales for the day triple at some businesses, but it must feel great to have that reinforcement that your efforts matter to the community. I mean, isn't that what most of us want?
Anyway, if you are interested in more info, here's an article about some US Cash Mob activity in the Wall Street Journal. I am pretty sure there was an article in the Globe and Mail recently but I can't find it online. If you are looking for a 'How-To', here's some suggested guidelines. Let us know if you hear any more about local cash mob activity - we would like to get the word out. After all, it's a very 100 mile thing to-do.

It's important to take good care of yourself!

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Some days are more valuable than other days. Sometimes you just need someone to remind you about what’s important. Yesterday I received one such reminder and I wanted to share it with you.

I’ve learned to think of life as an adventure, comprised of many different journeys. In September of this year, my Mom was diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer’s and a new journey started for us. As you can imagine a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is both devastating and terrifying.

There is not a lot of hope involved and it seemed, at least in the beginning that every time something wasn’t wrong, it was tempered with the words “not yet”. Every time the patient forgets something, you can’t help but think it’s the next step in a downward spiral. Thank God one can’t maintain that level of anxiety and you soon start to appreciate what you have now and not what is to be lost.

Having had some time to absorb the information I now like to think of my Mom’s issue as one of memory loss, it just sounds so much better than the “A” word. I’m relieved that she isn’t in any pain, and that is something we don’t have to worry about it. As many times with a catastrophic diagnosis you start to realize how lucky you are. It gives you a new perspective on life. I now thank God that my Mom was diagnosed so early so that we have been able to get her affairs in order, rally her friends and family to support her, and most of all, we are able to enjoy this time with her instead of taking it for granted. The greatest gift of an early diagnosis is time.

This week our journey took us to the “First Step” program with The Alzheimer’s Society in Hamilton. What an amazing group of people, both the staff and the members of the group. Instead of focusing on what is lost, the whole point of the program is to figure out where the brain has been compromised and how to deal with it, both as an Alzheimer’s patient and a care giver. There is a constant theme of being good to yourself, being patient with yourself and not being too hard on yourself.

The thing that really struck me in this meeting, the 2^nd of four, is the number of things that we can do to protect ourselves from a future diagnosis of our own, and help strengthen the compromised memory of the patients suffering from memory loss. It’s amazing, although it shouldn’t be, how important it is, to treat ourselves right, right now!

The number one, most important way to keep your memory strong now and in the future is to keep moving. Who knew? People need to be exercising every day, walking, yoga; you name it, just get moving.

2. Eating right. Limit your salt, alcohol and caffeine intake and drink plenty of fluids. You should eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables. Next week the session is going to focus on organics and supplements and what really makes a difference.

3. Stay connected. It is really important as humans for us to be connected, whether it’s keeping up with family and friends or with a larger community like a church or association.

4. Work your brain! Word searches, reading, hobbies, cultural events it’s all good. Learning something new is really important too! It’s all about stretching your brain. Take a class, read the newspaper upside down, brush your teeth with the other hand, try a new food, it all gets your brain activated.

5. Take charge of your health. Have regular check-ups with your doctor and dentist. Make sure your eyes have been tested. Know your numbers! Your blood pressure, your cholesterol level, all that kind of stuff.

6. Reduce stress. I know it’s easier said than done. It’s really all about coping with the stress that we have in our lives, and reducing it where we can. Breathing exercises, taking a break, physical activity are all ways to reduce stress. Find out what works for you and take care of yourself.

Take good care of yourself, you deserve it.

Shirley

Clinical Luxury by Nature

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Clinical Luxury by Nature is our newest vendor at 100 Mile Finds - we are so pleased to have you on board! Clinical Luxury by Nature makes amazing skin care products featuring natural ingredients. Graydon Moffat has developed this line after being inspired by both yoga and the aromas of the herbs and flowers of France.
With names like 'Green Cream' and 'Putty', they must be great for you. Green Cream is made with a nutrient rich blend of antioxidant rich ingredients (such cold pressed broccoli seed oil) will help 'wake up' your skin. It is infused with an essential oil blend of parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, and a hint of lemon. The Putty contains aloe vera juice and rosewater, the oils in this formulation deliver much need liquid moisture deep down into the skin. And the Lip Stuff is good enough to eat featuring avocado, sunflower, hemp and best of all cold pressed red raspberry seed oil (which gives you SPF protection).
Since January is resolution month, get healthy on the inside and outside with Clinical Luxury by Nature.

Why We Like January

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Just got back from walking the dog in the park and it is sunny and not as cold as the weekend. Perhaps this has me in an optimistic frame of mind, so today is the day to appreciate a winter month that some of us (OK, sometimes me) wishes away. Here's my list to laud January:

1) Resolutions are still fresh and, even if broken, are still salvageable
2) VISA bills are paid and hopefully are on a downward trend after December
3) Having a fire on a cold night and sitting on the couch watching a movie is de rigeur
4) Shinny, skiing, snow shoeing and all the other 's' winter activities ... are fun ;)
5) There are only 5 months 'til the longest day of the year

Winter months can be long and dark - which is probably why spring is so amazing. If you can think of any other 'what's to love about January' ideas, post them here. I will keep them in the bank 'til next year.

Leikey Designs

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Leikey Designs is the love child between artist Keiley Stewart and her ever-growing pile of fabrics, fibres and projects. Leikey Designs joined 100 Mile Finds in December 2011 and we are thrilled to have her on board!
A small one of a kind textiles based company, Leikey lovingly produces handmade goods from accessories and apparel to kitchenwares and notions ranging in functionality and decorativ-ality.
Her whimsical take on design is lots of fun. These featured 'Bear Feet' would be a huge hit and make the upcoming winter months of toddler hibernation comfy and cosy. Made from natural Shetland sheep's wool, processed, felted and stitched by hand. Featuring a hand stitched, vinyl bear paw sole to prevent slipping when worn and provides a stable grip for children learning to walk.
For the older child (and yes, that means anyone from 8-80+), this Fox Knot ring is needle felted by hand and has an embedded wire structure so you can easily adjust it to fit on your finger.

All goods are handmade and designed in Canada, in house, by Keiley. And custom orders are welcome.

Ginger Art Lamps

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Ginger Art Lamps joined 100 Mile Finds in December 2011 - Welcome!!
Gail and Inger of Ginger Art Lamps met in 2007 while studying for their MFA in Documentary Media at Ryerson University. Inger discovered that Gail had made a beautiful lampshade made of Japanese paper and printed with one of her own photographs. They decided that lampshade making would be the perfect next step to take after graduation. After some research, they and found a wonderful lampshade making workshop in Vermont. From that weekend has come Ginger Art Lamps.
Their lampshades are made entirely by hand using our own photographs which are printed onto cotton fabric, environmentally friendly Bamboo photo paper and fine art photo paper. As all of their lampshades are custom-made, please expect from 4-6 weeks delivery time. What a perfect way to add a custom touch to your home.

I AM by Tom Shadyac

noreply@blogger.com (100 mile finds) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I just finished watching I AM the documentary by Tom Shadyac and it's really got me thinking. I've often struggled with, and I believe Susan has to, with the idea of consumption and that buying something can make you feel better. We all know that doesn't work, at least not for long. Life has got to be about more than that.

Susan and I have joked, about how weird it is that two "non-shoppers" like ourselves have somehow developed a local shopping website. It really just started with us trying to bring local artisans together with local customers.

What we've learned in our journey so far, is that by shopping locally you are not only supporting your local community, which in and of itself is really important, but it is about so much more. It's about living a sustainable lifestyle and how important that is to our environment.

Using less fossil fuels by not having stuff shipped from far away to recycling and upcycling, to creating products that don't have harmful chemicals and toxins in them can have a huge impact on keeping our planet alive and vibrant.
Buying goods that are created by people who are being paid a fair wage is the right thing to do. Often paying less than something it valued at means that someone else is paying that price for you.
Supporting your local community gives you a chance to connect with the people that nourish you and that have a passion for what they do.

After watching "I AM" I realize we didn't actually develop a local shopping website. What we've created, or at the very least, what we are trying to create, is a place where artisans, local businesses and customers can come together and work as a community, and this is going to sound a bit dramatic and holier than thou, to make the world a better place. Seriously!

100 mile finds is really about:

making it easier to make shopping decisions with a conscience.

creating a community that supports one another.

making it easier to buy products that are respectful to the environment.

to support fair trade both here and abroad.
bringing artisans, farmers a local businesses together to create stronger, more involved communities.

Both Susan and myself have been described as 'connectors' we're all about introducing people to one another. We, as many of you are, are concerned about the environment, we want to lead a life that is responsible and caring to others and we want to set a good example for our own children and for the children of the future.

I hope that approaching the 100 mile finds with these objectives more clearly defined brings great success to all of us in the 100 mile finds community.

All the best to you and yours in 2012.

Happy 2012

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I don't care what was going on in ancient Mayan times, I think we have a little more time on this planet than 360 days (at least I am planning on it). When you think back on the last year there were always surprises - hopefully most were OK for all of you. I always like to come up with a few goals (or dare I say 'resolutions') at the beginning of the year, so I will spend the next day or two dreaming up how I would like this year to look.
One of our 100 Mile Finds goals is to continue to increase our audience and connect our talented vendors with local folks looking for something 'outside of the big box'. We will continue to search for local entrepreneurs who want to get their message out. And we have some new ideas up our sleeves, so stay tuned.
We also wanted to say THANKS to all of our supporters, vendors and friends who have made 2011 a year of growth and encouragement. Here's to y'all and HAPPY 2012!

A Little Local under our Tree

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 17:41:00 +0000

A few local items were under our tree this year - chocolate Santas by COCO Crafted Organic Chocolates were probably the favourite sweet thing we consumed. However COCO's truffles were also a big hit.
I was lucky enough to receive a Kaleidescope pendant by Biko jewellery. I can't wait to wear it - and take a colourful break in the day. I also unwrapped a beautiful pottery bowl by Carol McGarr y. Will have to find a special spot for that. Thanks Brian!
Hope you all had a great holiday with family and friends and enjoyed a few 100 Mile things - whether it was a locally raised turkey or just got together with some 'local' friends. Enjoy the rest of the holidays,
Susan and Shirley

Rasko diamonds

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Through an interesting series of events my husband and I were invited to the Rasko diamonds showroom last Sunday. The showroom is invitation only. It is in an unassuming building at Yonge and the 401, in an office that you would never guess carried the unimaginable treasures inside.

Talk about one of Toronto's best kept secrets, I thought that was us!!

First the Abraham's just let us peruse the 3 showcases at our leisure. Of course I had questions, and like any true artisan Mr. Abraham couldn't help himself from regaling us with the history of each of the pieces we asked about and then he was gracious enough to pull out some of his own favourites. The pieces were spectacular, every detail is a fantastic work of art. I realized early on that we were in the presence of a true artisan, who possessed an expertise that only decades of experience will grant. We had so much fun as the couple bantered back and forth, by the end of our visit I felt like we had made new friends.

The Abraham's travel the world handpicking exquisite gems and then transforming them into artistic masterpieces. We were lucky enough to get a peek at some gems that hadn't been set yet. Weitzman knew exactly what each gem was going to be transformed into. It reminded me of hearing a wood carver once say that the wood knew what it was going to be, it was up to the carver to listen. Honestly some of the pieces literally took my breath away. Apparently pink diamonds are all the rage! Black ones too! Weitzman educated us about which gem came from where, only get your emeralds from Columbia... I got to hold a necklace that Goldie Hawn wore!

Honestly diamonds and emeralds aren't in our budget right now, but one day... What I didn't know is that Rasko diamonds does a booming business in resetting customers own gems and smaller works. If you are looking for an exquisite yet affordable jeweller, look no further! I have to warn you, up until Sunday I wasn't really into fine jewellery, those days are behind me, that is for sure!

thunderpeep designs

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

You may not have time to use thunderpeep designs holiday cards for the overseas relatives at this point, but keep them in mind for that special card you may need to give. Michelle Reaney is the designer of thunderpeep, and Michelle is a 'designer of fun'. According to Michelle, "I have a passion for traditions and quirky stories. I started thunderpeep designs because I love doodling designs for everyday consumption. Whether it’s a simple note card to make someone giggle, or an everyday tote to keep you organized, I'm here to make sure you can do it with a style that is unique and you".
Michell is inspired by inspired by the bold colours and strong lines of Scandinavian design and art. She merges these inspirations with her artistic background and love of 'strange folk tale'. Michelle offers custom card services and wedding invites as well as her stock of original designs.

COCO Chocolates

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

You may not be too late to get some incredible artisanal chocolates by COCO Crafted Organic Chocolates. This 100 Mile Finds vendor knows how to endear herself to me - Deborah had me at the thought of Chai squares and Maple Cream Truffles. I am looking forward to picking up my quota on the 23rd - as a hostess gift of course........And Deborah's Xtra Dark is dairy free.
And the kids will be thrilled with the gorgeous 'vintage' Santas (the chocoloate is not vintage, but the look of the Santas does take you back). I am opting for the personalized note that can be enclosed. Nothing like keeping the magic a little longer.
Thanks goodness the holidays are coming - great chocolate has something for everyone!

Beaulance Natural Skin Care

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Margaret Mackintosh is the founder and sole proprietor of Beaulance Natural Skin Care. In 2000, Margaret decided to start off the new millenium with a new business in Natural and Organic skin care featuring wildcrafted herbs, oils and botanicals.
According to Margaret, "It really started with an article about pure essential oils that I happened to read in a health journal. I had a strong instinctive feeling that I should pursue a study of them and so I did. One course led to another and from there, I established my own line of really clean, chemical-free products to address the concerns and interests of so many people (myself included) with sensitive skin, but also those who choose to be pro-active in protecting the environment as well as their own health."

Products available on-line include unscented Hand and Body lotion, Belleza organic body butter, natural sunscreen and a range of facial oils.
Start the new year with a natural skin care regimen, and Welcome to 100 Mile Finds Beaulance Natural Skin Care!

Simply Sustainable

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Leah of Simply Sustainable is a woman of many talents. According to Leah, "I was first exposed to the Artisans in Central America when I spent time there in 2006. Observing what two hands are capable of eventually led to picking up some pliers and wire. I held my breath – twisted, turned, tightened and there it was – my first pendant. I have been learning and practicing new techniques ever since". Leah's unique macrame accessories featuring Guatemalan Jade and Amber from Mexico, are hand made and gorgeous.

Leah's photography was inspired by her travels and reflects her love of the natural world.
Welcome to 100 Mile Finds!

From the Fridge Door

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Once again we are amazed by the great ideas folks me up with here at 100 Mile Finds.
From the Fridge Door is a new vendor here on the site that creates one-of-a-kind dolls/stuffies inspired by your children's artwork!
Nicola Maguire is the artist behind the work. She first became interested in children's artwork while working as as Early Childhood Educator. Since leaving the field of ECE to raise two sons she has been teaching art classes in her community. From the Fridge Door is Nicola's answer to the question of what to do with all those masterpieces that are just a little too awesome for the fridge door.

Think how thrilled your child would be to get their own custom figure based on their creation. Nicola also makes custom accent pillows embellished with a fabric facsimile of your supplied artwork - what a great way to preserve a memory. From the Fridge Door will be at Lazy Daisy's Cafe from 6-8 pm on Dec 13 where she will have samples of her work and will take custom orders (click here for details). Welcome to 100 Mile Finds!

Soap Utopia Naturals

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Every bar of Soap Utopia Naturals soapy perfection consists of a blend of 100% biodegradable olive oil, coconut oil, palm (sustainably farmed), soy/canola, heaps of fair trade shea butter, and castor bean oil. Choose from a wide variety of scents: coconut lime - cucumber/melon - lavender - muskoka boathouse (woodsy spice blend) - oatmeal milk & honey - pomegranate - sweet bee (honey floral) - tea rose - or vanilla. Pick any 4, and they will be shipped in a sweet cotton drawstring bag making a great gift.
Their all natural lip balm (no petroleum products) is inspired by the iconic WWII poster - the tube wisely advises to "Keep Calm and Carry Balm.". Lots of delicious flavours to choose from.

DeniMural

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Another new vendor has joined us recently at 100 Mile Finds - DeniMural. We met Annis of DeniMural at the Made by Hand show in early November.
Annis Thompson has been an artist all her life, with art now becoming her primary occupation and passion. Annis works with a variety of subject matter, including portraits, landscapes, city scenes and wildlife. As an artist, Annis is particulary inspired by the iconic symbol represented by the denim jacket and considers it a living canvas. She has created unique designs, under the working title, "DeniMural". Vintage denim jackets are recycled, reworked and painted by her in brilliant acrylics.

DeniMural is available online and will be at the Artisan Gift Show, Saturday December 10th (click here for details)

From These Roots

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

New vendor From These Roots embodies the 100 Mile concept. A local Ontario preserving company situated within the Niagara Escarpment Green Belt where locally grown produce is combined with herbs and edible flowers from the kitchen garden. Created by Krista Harrington, the head jammer and recipe writer, her culinary adventures began with an early interest in sustainable and urban agriculture when in her early teens she started an organic market garden called "This Little Piggie Market Garden". Sales did not reflect her enthusiasm & she was left with an abundance of produce at the end of the summer so she took to preserving her efforts instead of letting the produce rot in the field. That's turning a lemon into lemonade (literally).

From Salsa to jams and preserves these original recipes have their own unique twists, such as Chili Peach Jam or Black Currant & Wild Violet Jam. Perfect for a holiday brunch, hostess gift or just a treat.
Welcome "From These Roots"!!

Butterfly Tree

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Butterfly Tree recently joined us on 100 Mile Finds - just in time to feature their great felted decoration kits. A perfect craft for the kids during the long holiday season that will be treasured for years. According to Ginny, "It all started when I inherited my grandparents' linens. Every bit of those fabrics feels special. So I used them to make that year's Christmas presents. Not one scrap was wasted. I found that I was more inspired by the odd shapes than the large sheet, and then I started seeing possibilities everywhere!"

Ginny tries to incorporate rescued materials in her kits and puts in effort to guarantee that every item in each kit is as eco-responsible as possible.

Join Ginny at Beadle tomorrow (Dec. 3) at Beadle for a Christmas Decoration making workshop.

hana

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 +0000

hana's slogan is "lets eat jujubes and wear pretty dresses" - I think that makes a lot of us feel pretty good. You may remember Hannah Richardson, the dynamic creative force behind hana, as the owner of Foundlings. Her new spring 2012 line features limited run art print textiles that are eco-friendly and chemical free. All products are made locally in Toronto.
hana's limited run gillyflower cotton/silk scarf is available in 6 designs 1. dolls 2. books 3. roboto 4. deer & owl 5. paint by number and 6. gummy bears. You won't find these whimsical and vibrant prints anywhere else. Available online and at different retail locations throughout the GTA.

Congratulations on your newest venture, Hannah - we hope it is a huge success!

401 Artisan Marketplace

noreply@blogger.com (100 mile finds) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

This year the 401 Artisans Marketplace is returning for its 19th year. As part of FROLIC, the marketplace will be celebrating the art, culture and community that make the 401 marketplace so unique. An Artist Open Studio, Galleries + Shops, Tours and a Frolic Soiree are among the events that will be running from December 8 -11th. With the shops, tenants and local artisans offering unique gifts for sale this is the perfect time to discover this amazing space while getting some holiday shopping done too.

You can get fresh made soup and salads, sandwiches and fabulous baked breads from the Roastery Coffee House, they are a wireless hotspot too!

This year the market will showcase an amazing array of vendors. Including the fantastic creations of Chocosal Trader, artisanal chocolate with a soul. There will be everything from books, fair trade body products, hand knit accessories to hats and handbags. 100 mile finds will be there too! We will be holding a raffle and letting you know all about our website supporting local artisans.

The 401 Artisans Marketplace is located at Richmond just east of Spadina in the heart of Toronto's design district in the old tinware manufacturing factory originally occupied the MacDonald Manufacturing Co. Saved by the wrecker's ball in 1994 by the Zeidler family, the building was transformed from a rundown factory into thriving arts centre. Today the site is 200,000 square feet, housing over 140 artists and entrepreneurs, a vibrant urban community of fine artists, designers, milliners, architects, filmmakers, galleries, musicians, arts organizations, and magazines. The site also houses beautiful rooftop gardens and a courtyard, featuring eco-restored elements from tree planting to vertical gardens, biowalls, plants and vines. Year round there are tours offering a closer look at the architecture and the gardens but FROLIC is your only chance to get a peek inside the artists studios.

401 Artisans Marketplace (401 Richmond St. W. just east of Spadina)

Thursday 11am - 8pm
Friday 11am - 9pm
Saturday 11am - 6pm
Sunday 11am - 4pm

Recycled and Re-Sewn

noreply@blogger.com (100MileFinds) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:00:00 +0000

100 Mile Finds is excited to be heading north with new vendor Teresa of Recycled and Re-Sewn. Teresa makes her wooly creations in Sault St. Marie Ontario so she has first hand experience in what it takes to keep warm!
Her hand made mittens have their origins in your old favourite sweater with the irreparable elbow. Re-purposed they find a new life in cozy mittens or scarves.

And Teresa makes these cool accent pillows out of re-purposed denim and wool. Great decor accent for a family room or a child's bedroom.

Welcome to 100 Mile Finds!