eco etsy finds

One of the great things about Etsy, crafty online marketplace, is that you get to deal directly with the artists who craft their wares. Many one-of-a-kind or limited edition items -- arts, crafts, jewelry, apparel, letterpress, even food -- are waiting to find a good home. You can also choose to buy locally, from artisans in your area.

Here's a little roundup of some of the eco-friendly goods available on Etsy.

Dollparts and Candy
Remade, Japanese-inspired clothing -- if you get one of their special garments, you can probably guarantee that you won't see anyone else wearing it.

Go West Prairie Cowgirl Shirt
$22


Superscoop Icecream Denim Skirt
$28



Toggle
Cool chain knit necklaces made from New Zealand wool (so it does have to travel all the way from Auckland, if you're not in that neck of the woods) are a more eco-friendly alternative to metal chains. As Esther and Shelley of Toggle say: Enjoy some gilt without the guilt!

Soft Rocks Woollen Chain in Black with Jewels
$78


Soft Rocks Woollen Chunky Chain in Deep Purple
$58


Soft Rocks Chunky Chain in Silver
$40




Greenstarstudio
Danamarie Hosler is known for her knitimals, unique creatures made from various textiles -- wool, yarn, felt, &c. But I especially like these felt masks, just in time for Halloween (of course the kids will want to wear them all-year round... I see plenty of little boys dressed up like Batman in the middle of the summer around here).

The masks are hand-stitched, adorable, and you can get one for your favorite little monster for only $12 each. (They fit most adults, too!)

Red bird knitimal mask
$12


Blue and yellow knitimal mask
$12




VKnO
One of VKnO's specialties is her "Windows of the Past - Pop Art Pendants." As she puts it in her profile: A unique and eye catching piece of art for you neck. The one-of-a-kind pendants are made from recycled aluminum cans and vintage magazine or newspaper clippings. Pretty clever stuff.

Just like the sun
$14.50


Who said it's a dog's life
$14.50


Map Greenwich London (of course I love this one, it's a map!)
$14.50




naturaleza al descubierto
The gorgeous natural wood and plant materials in the jewelry by Marlon and Amy Solano are sustainably collected in Nicaragua. They accept custom orders, so if you're looking for a unique gift or wedding ring, naturaleza's beautiful jewelry could be for you.

La Malinche
organic seed earrings
$20


Asi
nambaro wood ring with sterling silver inlay and band
$82


Ojo
coyol ring with tagua and jadeita inlay
$86