stationery – Et Cetera

Norma Andreu; Montreal, Quebec, Canada

When it comes to truly unique one-of-a-kind goods, Cara Carmina’s got it covered. The creative and quirky artist behind the Cara Carmina collection, Norma Andreu is the epitome of why I love the handmade-with-love movement. Sure, you can get quirky cards and home goods at big-box retailers, but Norma is the reason not to.

Cara Carmina is all about spreading the love and showing gratitude in truly unique ways. When I attended the latest One-of-a-Kind Show in Toronto, I was clearly just one person in a hoard of thousands. Yet when I stopped by Cara Carmina’s little booth and started rifling through kitty cards, Norma popped up from behind the display and thanked me for my smiles. How crazy cool and adorable is that? To have someone actually thank you for being happy by looking at their labours of love is something I’ve never experienced before. Just as memorable as her bubbly personality, though, are Norma’s works.

I’m absolutely in love with her paper cut diorama cards featuring cats with fish-filled thought bubbles and illustrated kitty postcards. but this is just a small fraction of the world that is Cara Carmina. In her Etsy store, Norma also offers Frida Kahlo-inspired dolls, printed clothing, illustrations, collages, pillows, calendars, prints, and wall decals.

Here I’ve included just a small sampling of it all; head on over to Norma’s Etsy shop to see all of Cara Carmina’s offerings and learn more about Norma—and be sure to spread some Et Cetera love while you’re there!

Paper cut diorama card by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Paper cut diorama card by Cara Carmina; image copyright Erin Torrance

Illustrated postcard by Cara Carmina; image copyright Erin Torrance

Wall decal by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Paper cut diorama card by Cara Carmina; image copyright Erin Torrance

Calendar by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Paper cut diorama print by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Cushion by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Frida Kahlo print by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Paper cut diorama by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Wall decal by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Paper cut diorama art print by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Frida Kahlo fit and flare dress by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Paper cut diorama card by Cara Carmina; image copyright Cara Carmina

Purchasing information: Check out Cara Carmina’s Etsy shop or visit www.caracarmina.com.

Dayna Langlois; Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

Bows, polka dots, and hand-written lettering get me every time! Add hearts and inspirational vibes to that list and you’ve got me hooked, Dayna Lee Collection.

Last month, I stopped by the One-of-a-Kind Spring Show in Toronto and I picked up an art print for my underdressed kitchen: a Dayna Lee Collection original motivating me to be a macaron in a cookie-cutter world. I feel like an idiot a lot for being just a little different (what some may call “weird”); it’s natural. But my New Year’s resolution for 2015 was to strive to write one positive line each day. Accepting who I am is part of that and if that means I stand out, then I’ll be the macaron!

The talent behind the shop, Dayna Langlois’ works feature art prints, notebooks, pillow covers, and accessories aimed at inspiring and empowering women. (Can I get an amen?)

Dayna, you’ve got me hooked and I’m loving everything you do. Dayna’s Etsy shop is a must-browse. Tonight’s plan: set aside some time to snuggle up with some tea, dig into all her offerings, and pick up a little gift just for you, because you deserve it! (Hint: Dayna’s pillow covers and prints also make great housewarming and graduation gifts for her.)