These days, it can be very tough for a superhero series to stand out. And there’s also the growing opinion that there aren’t enough reader-friendly stories out there that don’t require knowledge of years of continuity. With this in mind, BOOM! Studios is releasing a welcome addition to the stands this week: Supurbia #1, a new spin on familiar territory, fueled by an obvious enthusiasm from its creators.

On the surface, it seems to be another typical superhero team, a group of heroes called the Meta-Legion. But the idea behind this book is that it seem less like the Justice League and more like a superhero version of TMZ or a Real Housewives reality show. The focus of Supurbia is the drama behind the masks, the problems that rise in families with secret identities are known and superhuman careers invite all sorts of arguments and misunderstandings, as well as unexpected secrets.

The book’s storytellers are writer Grace Randolph, known for her work at Marvel’s Nation X and Her-Oes, and new artist Russell Dauterman. The two introduce a quirky and inviting cast of characters, and Dauterman’s designs are very effective in quickly letting you know what kind of folks the Meta-Legion members are.

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Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last time I had a little something for everyone by showcasing an item for each member of the new Justice League but I’m going in a different direction this week. Princess Peach used to be relegated to the end of each Super Mario Bros. level but she’s come a long way since then, even starring in her own titles. Here’s a few fun items I found on the craft website.

Princess Peach is known for her trademark pink dress, bouncy hair and of course, her crown. Here’s an 8-Bit Princess Gold Mirror Laser Cut Necklace from user neighborhoodstory. It’s almost big enough to wear on your head and sells for $12.

The famous Princess has had a starring role in video games but none quite like this. It’s a piece of art titled “Princess Peach escapes the Castle” by user ArtbyMcKenzie. The piece was created for a Nintendo-themed art show and is being sold for $315.

Need to light some torches to see your way in that grubby castle? Why not use this Princess Peach Perler Bead Lighter Case/Sleeve on your favorite lighter and scare all the ghosts away? From user J3S13, $5.

Princesses Peach and Daisy are looking absolutely fabu in this print from user the Gorgonist, except here, they are Princes! Also check out the Mario Monster Girls, both $7 each.

And just because I can’t resist a puppster in a costume, here is a PRINCESS PEACH NINTENDO Dress Dog Costume. User YoungUrbanPuppy has will make it custom to fit your pup for $24.50. And yes, Mario, Luigi, Daisy and Bowzer costumes are also available should you wish to inflict them on your best friend.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

DragonCon.

As a native Atlantian and connoisseur of geek culture, there is almost nothing I look forward to more than DragonCon. There’s costumes on parade. Great comic creators. And quite frankly, it’s ruined every other con for me. Everything else seems so tame by comparison. Not dull, but not as exciting. Though, I will say WonderCon this past year and NYCC 09 stand out as really good times. Though DragonCon continues to top itself every year.

I’ve had this discussion before about good ole D*C: it is NOT simply a comics convention, it is an across-the-board-genre convention. Once a year, Anime, Dr. Who, horror, and comic fans all converge into downtown Atlanta. That being said, I do tend to concentrate on the comics area. Probably the highlight for me each year it just to hang out with the slew of talent Atlanta has. For almost 20 years, Gaijin Studios was the studio to belong to. It produced such alumni as Adam Hughes, Cully Hamner, Georges Jeanty, Jason Pearson, Dave Johnson, etc. Early last year, it closed its doors, but rumor has it, there is a Gaijin 2.0 in the works.

So what is it about Atlanta that attracts such top talent? It doesn’t have a huge studio presence of the big two that say New York or Los Angeles has, yet the creators that call Atlanta home is astounding. At DragonCon this past week, I sat down with some of comics’ top names, and some up and comers about Atlanta and what makes the city such a hub bub for comics and comic professionals.

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Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. As a special treat for the start of a brand-new era at DC Comics and the release of Justice League #1, I’ve found one item for each new member of the team. Or at least the members on the cover.

First up, Superman! You’d definitely stand out toting around this Superman Comic Bag. User RebelDowntown created this with comic fabric as the exterior and lined it with red silk on the interior. $35.

l’m kinda in love with this Flash Handmade Felt Bird. “Member of the Justice Flock,” writers user TweetandTweed, “the Flash Bird (a.k.a. The Scarlet Speedster) has superspeed, which allows him to run and move extremely fast, use superhuman reflexes and seemingly violate laws of physics.” Also $35.

The last place you expect to find a Green Lantern is in the kitchen but if they were taking a break from intergalactic law enforcement to cook, I’d like to think they’d be wearing this Green Lantern Apron from user Jordandene. $50.

Who needs a utility belt when you can wear a regular belt? This brown leather and hemp Batman logo belt buckle is $30 from user GettingWeddy.

Ahh Aquaman. There wasn’t too much on Etsy for him but I thought this Recycled Comic ID holder was pretty cute. Just $4 from user Japip, with a different image on the opposite side.

On the other hand, there’s an abundance of Wonder Woman stuff on the crafting website. This Wonder Woman tissue box caught my eye as something different. From user buckaroosmercantile for $14.95.

Pickings were rather slim when it came to the newest member of the new Justice League, Cyborg. I found this Cyborg Mini Plushie from user snowtigra for $5 and this Smallville-era Cyborg t-shirt from JamesLinckeCreations for $17. Hopefully we’ll see a lot more items once the new series gets going.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week it was all about Vampire Hunting but this week we return to an old friend – The Doctor. A few months ago, at the start of Doctor Who Season 6, I did a special extended edition of Etsy Made Me Do It to celebrate one of my favorite shows. Well, the season being split in two (besides giving me an appropriate title) and starting this weekend gave me a fantastic excuse to show off more Doctor Who items! Enjoy!

I’m a big fan of the minimalist-poster-of-pop-culture-items movement so I was delighted to find this collection of Minimalist Doctor Who Canvas Posters. User geekasms has the set available for $100 or you can buy your favorite Doctor individually for $10 a piece.

The episode “Vincent and the Doctor” from season 5 was surely a memorable one, enough to inspire user horcruxesunlimited to create this Doctor Who Van Gogh Ornament. The hand-painted glass item depicts an image we see later in that same season of the TARDIS exploding, Van Gogh style. $10.

“The Fires of Pompeii” gave us our first look at Amy Pond, or should I say, actress Karen Gillan. It was her original appearance on the sci-fi series. Now you can recreate the look of her and her fellow sisters with these Doctor Who Sybilline Sisterhood eyes knit fingerless gloves. From user tinybully for $20.

One of the scariest villains to ever appear (or not appear) on Doctor Who were the Silence. With the Doctor Who Silence Amigurumi you can always keep your eye on one. This one’s from user SherbertLemonCrochet for $20 but there’s also slightly different version available from user AmyLDice for $25.

And finally, a piece of art I think is particularly beautiful, a Stained Glass Mini TARDIS. User GeekyGlass created this one and it can be yours for $25.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. I showcased some fancy Catwoman art last week in honor of the reveal of Anne Hathaway in The Dark Knight Rises. This week the remake of Fright Night hits theaters and instead of using this as an excuse to search for David Tennant related items on Etsy, I chose to stick with the film’s theme of hunting vampires.

You won’t see the Boys and Girl Scouts of America handing out this merit badge. And that’s exactly why you need it. User StoriedThreads will help you inform everyone of your accomplishment with this Vampire Hunter Patch. Measures three inches and runs $7.  (more…)

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week it was geeky jewelry by starbrightsilver, this week, it’s the cat’s meow. I’m talking of course about Catwoman. She’s been buzzing the last week thanks to the reveal of Anne Hathaway’s costume in The Dark Knight Rises so I thought I’d take a look around Etsy and see what Selina was up to. Catwoman has inspired a lot of people through the years and Etsy sellers were no different. I decided to focus squarely on art inspired by the character this time around.

The current Catwoman costume gets some love from user TimmyK. Titled “The CatWoman,” you can get this print for $12. He’s got some other great Gotham characters in his store too.

Lots of people have played Catwoman through the years but this lady is a favorite of a lot of fans. The Julie Newmar as Catwoman print is by user LauraGuzzo and sells for just $5. This artist also contributed a fantastic piece for Wonder Woman Day last year which she’s also selling as a print.

You probably know that Adam Hughes took a lot of inspiration from actress Audrey Hepburn while illustrating Catwoman through the years, well he’s not the only one. User Nude Squid (who admits inspiration from Hughes) created this Audrey Hepburn styled Catwoman print selling for $40.

User SilviaHKitty15 titles this one simply, “Catwoman,” but it’s of course a rendition of the animated Selina Kyle. This one is the actual original painting and is going for $75.

And finally, my favorite of the bunch, “Toxic Love.” By user ToxicAppleStudios, the print comes on gator board, ready to hang. $41.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I harkened back to my childhood with the Princess of Power herself, She-Ra. This time I’ve decided to focus on one particular Etsy user, as I’ve done in the past, starbrightsilver (Megan).

Never before did I think to myself, “You know what I need? I need a Bat’leth necklace.” I can’t say that any longer. Starbrightsilver has recreated the famous Klingon weapon in tiny form for $37.

I cannot even begin to tell you how much I love Jurassic Park. I thought I was a total weirdo until I became friends with a girl that was equally obsessed with the dinosaur film. Needless to say, we share a special bond and I know she’ll love this “Clever Girl” necklace as much as I do. In Jurassic Park font of course, $20.

Two words. My. Precious. $50

As soon as I looked at this A-Team pin I got the television theme song stuck in my head. And now, so do you. Starbrightsilver has this one for $12.

And last but not least, prove to everyone you’re a Goonie by wearing their motto for everyone to see. This “Goonies never say die!” pendant is made from black perspex/acrylic and sells for $19.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

Because YOU demanded it! My initial videos with fashion authority Tim Gunn is what gave us the idea to start the Agent of S.T.Y.L.E. column. If you missed them, check out Part 1 and Part 2 already! Anyway, we had such fun that we had to reunite! This time, we’re joined by my partner-in-crime Jennifer Ewing.

Last week, we discussed the Green Lanterns Alan Scott, Hal Jordan and Guy Gardner. This week, we take a look at John Stewart and Kyle Rayner. Enough talk, though! Play the video and enjoy for yourselves!

Alan Kistler writes the comic book history/fashion column Agent of S.T.Y.L.E. He is an actor and freelance writer living in New York who has been recognized by Warner Bros. Films and major media/news outlets as a comic book historian. He is also a creator/host of the web-show and podcast “Crazy Sexy Geeks: The Series.” He knows entirely too much about the history of comics, Star Trek, Doctor Who, time travel, and vampires that don’t sparkle.

You can find him on Twitter: @SizzlerKistler

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I found items pertaining to the First Avenger, Captain America. This week I’m going with one of my childhood favorites. That’s right kids, I’m talking about the Princess of Power herself, She-Ra.

Well we’ve got Lego Star Wars, Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, etc. I say it’s about time we get a Lego She-Ra. Until then there’s these custom made She-Ra and Swift Wing Legos! User littleRaccoonMama created this one and is selling the set for $40.

Just the other day a girl friend of mine needed a flask. Too bad this one isn’t sold in stores. It’s the She-Ra Princess of Power Flask from user stellarcustominages. This one features most of the cast and something tells me you’ll think you’re the Princess of Power after drinking from it. There’s also one available with just She-Ra’s face, both $32 each.

I still own all my She-Ra dolls and for obvious reasons the redheads were always my favorite. That’s why I’m in love with this Castaspella Light Switch Plate. User goblinhut is selling it as well as a Catra, She-Ra and a Entrapta one for $6 each!

Catra comes from Hordak’s Evil Horde, that doesn’t mean she can’t be associated with hearts. Check out this Catra hologram necklace from user HeadlessTessDIY. $16.99 for this one or $8.99 for a simpler version sans heart.

Created from an old comic book, these She-Ra earrings are simply delightful. From user ZacharyPryor, these go for $35 and there’s also a matching cuff available for $29.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

Like some of the other crew at Newsarama, I am currently running around like a madman at Comic-Con International. As such, between attending panels, interviews and the occasional live-blogging, there just wasn’t time for a full-blown Agent of S.T.Y.L.E. piece this week.

But for those of you who need a quick superhero fashion fix, here’s something you might like in the interim. A video where I and Jennifer Ewing, one of the co-hosts of my web-series Crazy Sexy Geeks, reunite with Tim Gunn, fashion authority, host of Project Runway, and one of the leading minds at Liz Claiborne, Inc.

In the first of this two-part video segment, we bring the fashion of the Green Lantern to Tim’s eyes. Particularly, the major costumes of Alan Scott, Hal Jordan and Guy Gardner.

Enjoy, everyone! And if you see me wandering the halls of the San Diego Convention Center, please feel free to come up and say hi!

Alan Kistler writes the comic book history/fashion column Agent of S.T.Y.L.E. He is an actor and freelance writer living in New York who has been recognized by Warner Bros. Films and major media/news outlets as a comic book historian. He is also a creator/host of the web-show and podcast “Crazy Sexy Geeks: The Series.” He knows entirely too much about the history of comics, Star Trek, Doctor Who, time travel, and vampires that don’t sparkle.

You can find him on Twitter: @SizzlerKistler

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week was a killer for me because I did a special extended edition in honor of the end of Harry Potter (Can you believe I didn’t buy ONE thing?!). Regardless, another big movie event is happening this week and therefore Captain America is getting his time in the spotlight. Here’s a few things you could sport to make you feel like the First Avenger.

If you were watching Captain America on television this week instead of a movie theater I’d suggest this Comic Slate Coaster. Made by user BlameItOnBadLuck, the coaster is waterproof and 4 inches by 4 inches. $6.

Most of the items I found for Cap surrounded around his shield. Go figure. Here’s an awesome set of Captain America Shield Cufflinks from user funkygiftshop for a frugal $1. Or, if you’d prefer to see Cap running out of your sleeve, try these cufflinks from user ivcreations55 for $25.

I know someone who’s going to go absolutely wild for this Captain America Shield Bag. User CreoNodo writes, “Please don’t throw this bag at people (unless absolutely necessary).” Sure, take ALL the fun out of it! A pretty sweet creation, albeit a bit pricey, at $95.

I see these fun voodoo doll type keychains at conventions all the time but I’ve never come across a Captain America String Doll. User Stringdollworld handcrafted this mini-Cap from a single piece of flax rope and says it can be used as a keychain, a mobile phone strap, added to jewelry or any other similar use. $6.99.

Heading to a Renaissance Fair this year? Going LARPing with friends soon? How can you pass up this Captain America Chainmail Shirt?? I may have one reason, user BladeAvenger is selling it for $1,000. But you cannot deny the craftsmanship here. The user says the shirt fits a man who can wear up to a large t-shirt size in the broadness of shoulders and about a 36″ waist and designed it down to a point to be reminiscent of Cap’s original shield.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

In a few months, DC Comics will evidently have a new origin and backstory for Hawkman. But for the moment, this is where his history and continuity stand.

It began when the planet Thanagar, a humanoid culture that worshiped birds and the power of flight, sent out scout ships. One such ship crashed on Earth during the days of Ancient Egypt and its power source, the gravity-defying Nth metal, was discovered by Prince Khufu Kha-Taar. Khufu discovered that this metal allowed him to fly and believed the scout ship had been a chariot belonging to Horus, the hawk-god of light. Later, Khufu and his love Chay-Ara was killed by a knife made of Nth metal. It’s unique psycho-reactive properties bonded their souls together and so Khufu and Chay-Ara were reborn time and time again, always finding each other, always fighting for justice in some way while wearing the symbol of the hawk.

In the early 20th century, they were reborn as Carter Hall and Shiera Sanders. Upon discovering the Nth metal knife of old, Carter now remembered his first life on Earth and was driven to become a warrior again. With the Nth metal and a wing harness, he became the superhero Hawkman. Shiera (who also became his wife later on) took on the identity of Hawkgirl. Carter became a founding member of the Justice Society of America and later served as its chairman for many years until he, along with most other costumed heroes, finally retired in the 1950s.

During his career as Hawkman, Carter met a man named Paran Katar from the planet Thanagar, a scientist who had traced the journey of the lost scout ship that had crashed in Egypt centuries before. Inspired by Carter’s exploits, Paran returned to Thanagar with his half-human son Katar Hol and he started a new police force known as the wingmen, each member being armed with wing-harnesses, hawk helmets and Nth metal. Eventually, the wingmen became a militaristic arm of an increasing corrupt, totalitarian government. Katar Hol became a wingman but learned the truth of how far his planet had fallen. After coming to Earth with his partner Shayera Thal, Katar decided to remain on Earth and was hailed as the new Hawkman while Shayera was labeled Hawkwoman. (more…)

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I gave you a Grab Bag assortment of geeky items from the crafting website but this week is something closer to my heart – Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling’s über-successful book series has already come to a close but this week sees the final installment of the film franchise. And boy am I bringing tissues with me to the theater. Even though the end will be sad, Harry Potter will remain awesome in my eyes forever. Here is a special extended edition of Etsy Made Me Do It. Accio crafts!

One of the biggest parts of going to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry is getting sorted into one of the four Houses. User TheTrendySparrow lets you choose for yourself! (Something Harry was able to do) Here is a Slytherin Keepsake Trinket box measuring 6 1/4″ x 3″ x 3 1/2″ with Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff also available for $17 each. A larger Gryffindor box is also for sale for $27 or a Golden Snitch box for $22.

The crazy words Rowling created for her magical spells have become imbedded in my brain. Why not wear them? These Harry Potter Custom Word or Charm Necklace Silver or Gold are certainly one way to do it! User chloe24k will send you one of your choice for $24.

Although each House has their own crest, Hogwarts itself has one that combines all four. You can show your school pride with this Harry Potter Antiqued Looking Crest Wall Art Print. User pixturethis created a collage of 8.5″ x 11″ prints, 9 of them making a minimum size of 25.5″ x 33″ wall hanging overall. The collection comes framed, $45.

The films have spawned countless amounts of fan art through the years but some of my favorites have been fan-made posters. These Vintage Harry Potter Movie Poster Collection are some of the best I’ve seen. But then again, I’m a sucker for the minimalist approach. The posters are 11×17 and user balancedpersonality has a set of 7 for $90. He also has them each sold separately in his shop for $15.  (more…)

Some have said that corrupting a life is worse than simply ending it. Harleen Quinzel entered was a young woman with a genius level I.Q. who entered college on a gymnastics scholarship. After graduating and becoming a psychiatrist, she went to Arkham Asylum and began having private sessions and interviews with the Joker, claiming she intended to publish a book on the subject of serial killers and mass murderers. To gain the Joker’s trust, she consented that he could call her “Harley Quinn” rather than Dr. Quinzel, as  reference to the term “harlequin.” But as time went on, the Clown Prince of Killers pushed and manipulated the psychiatrist further and further, convincing her that she loved him.

Over the years, Dr. Quinzel helped the Joker escape Arkham Asylum many times until she was discovered and became a patient herself, her license revoked. Some time later, she was able to escape and decided that now she would publicly join her beloved “Mr. J” as a costumed aide. After her first adventure as Harley Quinn, the Joker left her for dead and she only survived thanks to treatment from the toxic criminal Poison Ivy. Ivy’s chemicals had a curious effect on Harley, enhancing her strength and agility greatly, enough so that she was now able to provide quite a fight for heroes such as Batman. Seeing the advantage of having such muscle around, the Joker apologized for his actions and recruited Harley to his side.

Despite her strong feelings for Gotham’s most notorious murderer, Harley has attempted to live a life that does not involve him, spending more time with folks such as Poison Ivy and Catwoman. And in DC’s newly relaunched Suicide Squad title, coming soon, she’ll evidently find a new role in the near future.

Originally introduced in Batman: The Animated Series, Harley has graced not only comics and cartoons but also video games. Let’s take a gander at all her different interpretations, eh? As usual, we’ll be sticking mainly with mainstream reality (and the aforementioned other media), so there won’t be any pics here of how Harley may have looked in a parallel universe or Elseworlds story. (more…)

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. With the arrival of a new Transformers film last week I decided I’d see what Etsy had to offer in the way of Autobots and Decepticons. This week I thought I’d mix it up. When I do my searches for the column I tend to come across a lot of other really neat items that don’t fit into that week’s theme. But I do bookmark them for later and instead of waiting to bunch them together with other similar items, I’m going to show you a few of them now. I’ll probably wind up doing this now and again because honestly, there’s way too many cool things on Etsy.

It’s safe to say I can never get enough Doctor Who, so when I came across this Empty Child Mini-Print I exploded with glee. User myarmcanfly will sell you this 3.5×5 inch print for $4. I almost did an artist highlight on this seller but I recently did a very large Doctor Who-centric post and didn’t want to overdo it. That being said, please do check out the other Doctor Who prints this user has to offer. Particularly the Ood.

I’m almost purely paying lip service to myself (The Nerdy Bird) with this one. It’s a set of Superhero Wine Charms where the superheroes are made to look like birds. User spiffycool has The Punisher, Superman, The Joker, Batman, The Hulk, Spider-Man and Harlequinn in the set for $39.95. If you don’t drink wine or don’t have use for all of them, spiffycool can make any of them into a pendant, keychain, bookmark or tie tack. Nerdy Bird Fact: I have the Batman-bird charm as a necklace.

And well, if you ARE a wine drinker or a drinker of liquids of any type, might I suggest picking up a set of 4 Mario Themed Coasters to rest them on? User toasterovens has a wide selection of Mario imagery to choose from and they come in a Nintendo controller shaped holder to keep them in when not in use. Though it it were me, I’d keep these out all the time. $25.

There are a lot of fun geek aprons out there these days but these Made to Order Totally 80s Half-Aprons really caught my eye. It says 80s but as user razorbloom points out, she has 70s and 90s options available for you as well. For $53 you can choose from X-Men, Ghostbusters, Roger Rabbit, ALF and loads more.

And now for something I can’t figure out if I think is genius or way too awkward. It’s a Spider-Man Wrist Clutch made from a pair of boys underwear. User…wait for it…crotchtalk…has this one made fully lined with recycled white cotton fabric, sturdy nylon wrist strap and zipper closure for $20.

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

Let’s just get this out of the way. I’m a Voltron girl. All the way. Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers and last time I showcased some Game of Thrones items from the crafting website. Since yet another Transformers movie is being released this week I figured it was only appropriate I find some Autobot and Decepticon crafty bits.

Why not start off with the basics? This Transformer Stainless Steel Pendant is simple and classy. User Youyousupply has this for just $3, not including the chain.

I find this Transformers DIY tube top dress absolutely adorable. Created by user cupcakeninja69 out of two different shirts for $25. Do yourself a favor and take a peek at her other dresses/tops as well. If you’re looking for something more casual, try this Decepticon Halter Top from user FishnetApparel for $24.

For the Transformer pimp in you, I suggest this Transformer Gold Brass Ring (which is actually just brass). It’s a size small/medium, whatever that could mean, from user Vampclothingct for $26.

I bet you never thought you’d see a Autobot Warpath Pendant. Neither did I but here it is and I have to say, I think it’s pretty snazzy. From user hlconrad for just $5. Make sure to check out all their other Transformers necklaces in their shop, including Nightbeat and Hound.

This is kind of a throw away entry into the column because I’m pretty sure none of you could actually buy this for yourselves but how could I not include an actual Transformer? It’s a gigantic Optimus Prime statue from user Kreatworks. And it’s going for $6,990. Optimus is made out of recycled metal, auto and machine parts. Shipping isn’t listed by maybe he can just walk to your house…

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

We’re doing something a little different here. Sometimes you get ideas that just need to get out there.

First, it seemed that DC Comics was basically starting over, replacing many of their titles with new #1 issues. Then we were told it was a reLAUNCH, not a reBOOT, since only a few characters are being redefined from scratch. Now we’re being told that most of the DC Universe history will remain intact, it’s just getting tweaked here and there and that the new wardrobe should not frighten us away.

I’ve discussed what I think about many of the new fashion trends from the forth-coming DC relaunch. You can feel free to check out Part 1 and Part 2 elsewhere on this site. But with all this in mind, I started wondering what would happen if this were a reboot? What kind of changes would I like to see in the DC Universe? I posted some of those ideas on Twitter and some folks asked me to expand on them, so here we go. This is just my own personal collection of ideas, posted purely for fun. In other words, if you hate them all, that’s cool. Instead of freaking out, just remind yourself that this isn’t “real” and I have no power or effect on DC Comics at all. (more…)

What I really wanted to title this column was, Etsy Made Me Do It: Game of Mother F’n Thrones. Because, well, that’s how good it is. Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week, in honor of the film, I shined the Emerald light on you with Green Lantern crafts. This week I’m busting with Game of Thrones giddyness post-finale (don’t worry,  no spoilers). In all honesty, for a show/book series with such a devoted following I thought I’d find a lot more items then I did. Anyway, I still found some fun ones, here they are for your sword-wielding, armor-wearing pleasure.

What girl wouldn’t want to be Khaleesi after watching Game of Thrones Jason Momoa for more than five minutes? Unfortunately that title belongs to Daenerys Targaryen and not myself but I can fantasize all I want while wearing this Khaleesi Copper Pendant. Also available in aluminum or brass from user spiffingjewelry for $24.

So, I’ve yet to read the George. R.R. Martin books the HBO series is based on but…apparently winter is coming…sometime…eventually. That’s why I got a kick out of this Winter Is Coming shirt from user CutItUp. Available in several colors and sizes, $15. Or perhaps you are ready to swear your loyalty to the Night’s Watch. In that case, you might want this seller’s Night’s Watch Oath shirt for $20.

Show your house allegiance by flying the House Targaryen banner! User valchiria created this gorgeous piece with brocades and red gems. Other houses to come but this one will cost you a pretty penny, $150.

Somehow I always manage to find these. It’s a Daenerys Targaryan fleece doll! Eight inches tall from user SKULLbunz for $25. A perfect likeness to actress Emilia Clarke, don’t you think?

I can’t even believe this exists. It’s a Severed Horse Head Catnip Toy. I love cats and I love horses, this is hysterical but I couldn’t bring myself to buy it. User bixbies writes, “Your cat will love waking up next to this horse head.” One of my top 5 least favorite parts of the HBO series thankyouverymuch! If you’re so inclined, it’s $7.

In all fairness, while these were fun to find and look at, HBO has done a pretty good job at creating merchandise for the show themselves. Check it out. I’ll take one dragon egg necklace, please. (Seriously Etsy users, get crackin’ on more GoT stuff!)

As always, bear in mind, since Etsy is a craft website and not a commercial, mass-market dealer, items are almost always one-of-a-kind or in very limited availability. When you see something you like, buy it. It may not be there the next time you surf round. (Yes, it’s a very dangerous site for your wallet.) Also, since most items are created individually, many sellers are willing to customize something specifically to suit your needs. Just ask!

So many of you have been asking for my thoughts on the new costumes we’ve been seeing in some superhero films. Well, Grace Randolph of Beyond the Trailer and Marvel.com’s The Watcher wanted to discuss that very same topic with me. Witness as we team-up to discuss the Green Lantern movie, the upcoming Captain America: The First Avenger, and what we know of the Avengers film.