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Thursday, June 20

Etsy Made Me Do It: Doctor Who

April 19th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

The sixth season of the longest running sci-fi show on television is premiering Saturday on BBC America (concurrent with the UK!). I’m speaking of course about Doctor Who. Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. And I’ve been waiting patiently to do this one. Last week I found some wacky Portal related objects on the crafting site but this time around, it’s all about the Doctor. And his companions. And his enemies. And the TARDIS. Yes, it’s a special extended edition of Etsy Made Me Do It. (I apologize to your wallets in advance.)

Without further ado…ALLONS-Y!

There’s been a lot of Doctor Who novelization over the last 47 years, not to mention a good number of DVD releases. Well how would you like to hold them up in style with these Doctor Who bookends? They’re pretty epic if you ask me. User TheophilusSaxe made them out of hard engineering-grade plaster with a resin TARDIS and felt bottom. Just $49.99. Or, if you’d prefer just to stare at something awesome that serves no other purpose, check out his Doctor Who dioramas: Ice Box, Knock knock who’s there, and Boxed Lunch, $19.99 each. (more…)

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Portal

April 13th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last time, I welcomed our new robot overlords, this week…I can’t wait to play against them. I’m talking about the video game Portal. The sequel is just days away from jumping into my XBOX and I can’t wait to play it. It’s for this reason I found some of the best Aperture Science had to offer on Etsy.

Who are you? What is that? Oh, What’s that? What’s THAT? What is THAT? That, my friends, is a stuffed Talking Curiosity Sphere. One of the best parts of Portal was the insane voiceovers from these guys, now user Penguinotic can send you one for $45. No promises it will talk to you. Or, if you’d prefer something smaller, there’s the Portal Pendant Bundle from sweetgeek which includes 4 spheres, two turrets and a cake. $21.

The Enrichment Center reminds you that the Weighted Companion Cube will never threaten to stab you and, in fact, cannot speak. Unlike the Curiosity Spheres, the Companion Cubes were your trusty companion throughout Portal. Even when you had to incinerate them. There are lots of Companion Cube products on Etsy but I found this Aperture Weighted Companion Cube keychain/zipper pull from user geekoutlet for $12 to be quite swell.

Aperture Science knows your safety is their first priority. Why else would they post these signs to warn you what’s ahead? The Aperture Lab Warning Signs are 3″ x 3″ and can be stuck on your laptop or just about anywhere else you need warning. From user lovesickrobotdesigns, $13 for the batch. Or, if you’d like just one, check out the Portal Safety Sign Laptop Decal from GlueJunkie for $9.

What would Portal be without portals? A person stuck in a room. So it’s a good thing Aperture Science invented them. Now, you can wear one around your neck with this Portal necklace from user AngelElements for $14.20. But wait! It’s reversible! Flip the necklace over and your exit portal is ready and waiting.

Cake, and grief counseling, will be available at the end of the testing period. I beat Portal and all I got was this lousy t-shirt? Well you may not have gotten any cake when you finally finished the game but you can warn others with this Cake Is A Lie t-shirt from user TheAardvark for $20. Bring your own snacks next time.

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Robots

April 5th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

I, for one, welcome our new robot overlords. As should you. Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers and last week I focused on the delightful, yet scarce, Batgirl finds from the site. This time around I’m giving our metal brothers and sisters a chance to shine. Why? Because this past weekend I was served alcoholic beverages by a few at BarBot in San Francisco and I wish to keep them happy.

I purposely steered clear of movie or television robots because that’s a whole other category for another day. Here’s some great robot finds from Etsy.

Now here’s an item name that roles right off your tongue, Anti Boredom Flat Pack Puzzle Robots in Deployment Pod. It may sound complicated but it isn’t. User Tinkeringproductions created this set of puzzle robots for $10 out of laser cut hardboard. Tinkeringproductions says they can do boring tasks for you like distribute business cards, hold other small stiff pieces of paper, hold pens, and pen like objects as well. You’ll never be bored at work again.

Meet Billy the Robot. He’s part of a family of robots. As you can see, he enjoys:
figure skating, pudding pops, epic fantasy and dislikes: insult comics, turnips and cigarette smoke. Sounds like my kind of guy. User sweetmealine has created this robot in a frame out of tiny bits of watch pieces, cogs, gears, electronics, jewelry findings, and other found objects for $20. And make sure to check out the rest of the family.

This one should have creeped me out but it’s too darn cute to be scared of. It’s a MilliBOT Sculpture from user JunkBOT. Measuring just 2.5″ long, this little robot bug was made out of 20 electrical components and capacitors. It stands on a small wooden base with a hand stamped nameplate. $12.

You’ll be able to clean a lot with Mr. Robotic Clean Fun set of 8 soaps. User Melsfunsuds recommends giving them out as party favors. For $14.75, each robot soap also comes with its own key. Various colors and scents are available.

If you’re nice enough, maybe this guy will let you wear him around your neck and even help you with directions. It’s an antique bronze robot with compass and clock from user fashionjewel. It’s only $4.99 and yes, batteries are included. :)

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Batgirl

March 29th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I tried something new by focusing on just one Etsy user and her delightful Gotham Chic prints. I’m going back to basics this week though and showing some love to one of my favorite characters – Batgirl. Surprisingly, there really wasn’t that much Batgirl product on Etsy, so here’s my call to all you craftsters out there: MAKE MORE. Thank you.

Goodness gracious. I almost fell over from the cuteness of this one. It’s the Cupcake Eatin’ Batgirl bottle cap necklace from user anilineblack. For $16 you can gaze at Barbara Gordon really enjoying some cupcakes. And let’s face it, who doesn’t? Also available, Cupcake Eatin’ Batman. Hehe!

Holy glitter Batgirl! (I know, I’m just luring the guys in this week, aren’t I?) This pin-up style Batgirl Glitter Art will definitely brighten up any living space. User tigergalindo has this for $35. There’s also a Wonder Woman piece and several other comic characters from both DC and Marvel available.

Comic book decoupage is a popular craft on Etsy. One day, my whole house will be filled with it. Until then, perhaps you’d like this Batgirl Plate by erindara for $35? Or, if you’d prefer to wear Barbara, a Batgirl bracelet from Customcomix for $17.

Also falling in the adorable category this week, a set of four Super Gals Magnets. User greenbeanbaby also includes Spider Woman, Smurfette, Wonder Woman in the set for $6.25.

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Prints by ambird

March 22nd, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I celebrated the Irish by highlighting green comic book characters, this week I’m focusing on prints. Not only is Etsy fantastic for craft items, there’s a lot of really amazing art there as well. From time to time I’ll showcase one users artwork that really jumps out at me. For my first go-around, it’s artist Amber Lynn Seegmiller, known on Etsy as ambird.

Ambird has a series of Gotham Chic artwork that plays off Batman and his Rogues Gallery. The first that caught my eye was this one of “Batman.” She also has the other half of the Dynamic Duo, Robin. All prints are $10. (more…)

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Go Green!

March 15th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I showcased poor, neglected Luigi. This week it’s all about the St. Patrick’s Day spirit! And what better way to celebrate than going green with shamrock shaded comic book characters?

For the Emerald Archer fans out there, heres some Green Arrow Comic Tags for gift-giving, bookmarks, etc. User ZombiepieceTheater has put these together for you out of recycled comics and kraft cardstock, $3 for a set of 5. You can also check out the other characters s/he has available.

Looking to share a highball with Highball? Why not do it out of these Green Arrow/Green Lantern Glasses? Just $12 for the set from user erindara, who has lots of other decoupage comic items for sale as well.

Show off your Green Lantern pride with this set of seven Green Lantern Corps buttons! User mutantcactus has button-fied Sinestro, Hal Jordan, Kyle Rayner, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, Kiliwog and the Green Lantern Symbol all for $5.

Granted, this is not a handmade craft but a vintage item, I just couldn’t pass showing this one off. It’s a full deck of Original 1966 GREEN HORNET Playing Cards w/Action Pics. User GreatOldStuff has these for $28.50 and they’re pretty sweet if you ask me.

You think Jen Walters would wear a bracelet of herself? My thought is, yes, she most certainly would. This is a Vintage She-Hulk Comic Book Bracelet from user Customcomix for $17. Lots of other cool, less green, characters from this user as well.

I’d be remiss in leaving out the largest green guy out there. How’d you like to look at the Hulk every time you turn on the lights? The Hulk Wall Place Light Switchplate Cover is just $5 from user savagejesse. Interesting placement for the screw hole…

(I know, I left out the Green Goblin. I fully intended on including him but there weren’t too many items on Etsy for him. Unless you’re interested in a Green Goblin Ball Macbook Decal…yeah, didn’t think so.)

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!

Have a happy and safe St. Patrick’s Day everyone!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Mario

March 1st, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I focused on video game daydreamer Scott Pilgrim, this week it’s all about the man, the myth, the legend…Mario.

When I first saw this, I thought it was a gigantic wall hanging. Turns out, they’re much easier to display. User Aristomatic created these Super Mario Brothers Sprite Magnets out of birch wood. A steal at $45 I say, especially since you can arrange them however you see fit.

We’ve already got Mario on the brain, why not have him on our head? Check out these adorable Super Mario 3 Tanooki barrettes from pixelparty. Or if you prefer, he’s also got Froggy Mario bobbypins, both sets, $14 each.

Mario’s Overalls, your Nintendo DS is naked without them. User ellesroom created this truly original case for your DS Lite for $19. Complete with two back pockets to hold games!

I love all of Mario’s power-up outfits but by far, Kuribo’s Shoe has to be my favorite. Also known as Goomba’s Shoe and called Kuribo’s Boot by myself, the first and only appearance of this delightful ensemble was in Super Mario 3, World 5-3 and user gamerpaige liked it enough to make this nifty Kuribo’s Shoe Perler Bead Magnet. Also available, Statue, Raccoon and several other Mario outfits, all for $4 each.

For the extra fancy gamer out there, how about a Swarovski Crystal Super Mario cover for Apple iphone 4? User IcyIcyBlingCouture did this one, which can be yours for a mere $169.99.

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Scott Pilgrim

February 22nd, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

I was a little late to the Scott Pilgrim party. I started reading the books by Brian Lee O’Malley last year, just finished the sixth one and watched the movie starring Michael Cera this past weekend. And well, I’m a fan. 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 some wicked Dungeons & Dragons items for your raiding parties, this week I’m going to show you some handmade items worthy of a power up.

Well here’s something you don’t see every day. A Scott Pilgrim vs. the Day of the Dead statue. User comradecalacas has created this unique item featuring Scott and his Power of Self-Respect sword and it could be yours for $68. Confused skeleton and all.

You won’t find this in just any campus shop but if you partake not in the meat, nor the breastmilk, nor the ovum, of any creature with a face, well then, you’re in luck. Pick up this Vegan Academy t-shirt for $18 from timeandspaceclothing. Todd Ingram would wear it proudly…and then get arrested in it by the Vegan Police. Wanna be the one to do the arresting? Grab this Vegan Police patch for $3.75 from PaladinAnderson.

Want to wear your awesomeness on your head instead? Try this 1Up headband, it will give you that extra edge. User janinebasil will make you one of your own for $20.

Professions of love can be big or small but in Scott Pilgrim’s world they’re always as big as billboards. If you’re one for such expressions something like this Scott Pilgrim Kissing Ramona Flowers Giant Wall Decal might be the way to go. $47.99 from user FixerUp. If you prefer smaller details, perhaps this Scott Pilgrim Initials decal or the Gideon Triforce Symbol if you’re the evil type. Both $5 each from user GlueJunkie.

Totally awesome. Who wouldn’t want this Knives Chau ne0xel? User ne0xel created this 24×30 inch masterpiece of Knives’ depiction in the Scott Pilgrim game out of 1 centimeter wooden “pixels.” This art cost $320 but you have to admit, it is pretty sweet.

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Dungeons & Dragons

February 15th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I showcased some sweet geek hats to keep you warm this brisk winter, today I’m shifting gears to something specific – Dungeons & Dragons. I got to discussing it this past weekend with some geek gal pals and it reminded me how much I miss playing. So, without further ado, here are some nifty D&D related products I found on Etsy.

As if you didn’t have enough reason to be scared of what your d20 might do, user Geeklore created this vicious Chomp’d20. For $55 you can squeeze the back of the d20/Chain Chompie amalgamation and eat whichever player is annoying you the most. Or some potato chips.

If you live and breathe Dungeons & Dragons, I’m thinking you might need these RPG Dice Wall Decals to decorate your abode. User seanhexed created six decals, approximately eight-inches in diameter each. Yours for $29.50.

Sometimes you need a place to put…stuff. In game it’s very handy to have a bag of holding, which can hold anything from your lunch to your party’s halfling rogue. Well in real life you can have your very own Die of Holding. $120 from user SmartPencilDesigns, the die is a handcrafted leather d20 and measures a decent eight-inches. No guarantees on being able to hold anything larger than it’s size though. Shucks.

For the little gamer-to-be in your household, I highly suggest this set of My First Gaming Dice for $30. User geekyandcheeky has created fantastic soft replicas of the usual gaming dice, safer when thrown and I’d assume digestible if accidentally swallowed.

And finally, for the distinguished gaming party, how about a Gamer Ready Tea Set? User OlBlueHairsOddities includes a dice bag tray, d8 teapot and six d6 cups with the set for $60.

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Hats

February 8th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I sift through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Last week I devoted the column to Valentine’s Day to give you time to buy something worthy of your sweetheart/friend/yourself. It’s freaking cold here in New Jersey so this week I decided to think warm by searching for some epic nerd hats. And I think you’ll agree, they are epic.

IT’S A TRAP! Stay warm on your favorite ice planets (or New York City) with this delightfully realistic Admiral Ackbar crocheted hat for $20. User karenjcreations also has a more subtle, yet equally cool, Stormtrooper hat for $18. She also carries a Wicket-inspired hat for $23 that I’m slightly scared of. Perhaps you’re a bigger Star Trek fan. How about a Command Colors hat for $20 from user CutieHats?

You didn’t think Norse Gods wore their helmets all the time, did you? User bettyhess has created this amazing Thor helmet hat for the viking deep inside. It’s a little pricey at $75 but for the worthy, worth every penny. And if you really want to think warm thoughts, perhaps this Hellboy inspired hat from user QueenViktoria for $30 might do the trick. Complete with mutton chops.

Speaking of mythological creatures, how’d you like to scare the crap out of everyone with this delightful Cthulu ski hat/mask? For just $20 it could be yours. User CraftyPA was nice enough to create a mouth hole underneath the tentacles so you can still enjoy some cocoa on the slopes. Maybe you’d prefer something sweeter and less…evil, try this adorable Nerdy Hello Kitty hat for $30 from Motherofthree7515.

You’ll easily show where your brand loyalties lie if you wear this highly realistic Mario hat from user theheadsaid. For $35 you’ll be saving Princesses in no time! Or go for a Ninja Turtle for $23.

Only a certain breed of fans will get the significance of my last (and favorite hat) of the bunch. User knitsbysarah has created a beautful Doctor Who Seal of Rassilon beret for $36. And seriously, if I didn’t already own like six winter hats I’d be picking this one up for myself. For the more outspoken Whovian, a TARDIS hat by amlowi for $14.99.

A few of these hats are specified as children’s but almost all of the sellers say they can make them in any size you need.

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!

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Valentine’s Day

February 1st, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Once a week I’ll be sifting through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Since Valentine’s Day is almost upon us I figured this week I’d pick some items you could buy for your sweetheart or friend to celebrate the day. Trust me, these are much better than going the generic chocolate and flower route.

“I love you more than a zombie loves brains.” And that’s a lot so consider this Valentine’s Zombie for just $14. User razzystar also has a Moody Bunny for $9  in case you need to send a slightly different message this holiday.

Check out my other amazing V-Day finds after the jump! (more…)

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Laptop Skins

January 25th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

In last week’s Etsy Made Me Do It, I bought you an array of geeky cufflinks. Once a week I’ll be sifting through the millions of Etsy listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. This week I’m highlighting some of the most unique laptop skins to nerdify your computer. I’ve actually never bought a skin for my MacBook simply because there are so many great ones out there. It’s just too hard to decide. But here are a few to tempt you.

From user MacSkins, this Darth Vader MacBook skin shows the villain choking the life out of the Mac apple. Something I’ve certainly never wanted to do…Retails for $8.99. If you’re a Star Wars fan you may also appreciate this Bounty Hunter skin for $9.99 by macappeal.

(more…)

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Etsy Made Me Do It: Cufflinks

January 18th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

Last week I introduced a new feature here on Blog@ called Etsy Made Me Do It. I needed to give my wallet a bit of a rest, so this time around I decided to focus strictly on the fellas.

Once a week I’ll be sifting through the millions of listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. Now, being the girly girl that I am, I personally don’t have much use for cufflinks (although I know a few gals who would rock them) but I think they make a gentleman look quite dapper. Here are some ultra-cool geek cufflinks I found. (more…)

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Etsy Made Me Do It

January 11th, 2011
Author Jill Pantozzi

In my introduction post yesterday I mentioned I got my DC superhero dress from Etsy. In case you’ve never heard of it, Etsy is the greatest/worst website in the world. It’s a place devoted to handmade crafts, art and vintage items people all over the world have decided to sell. And I buy pretty much all of it. It’s a sickness.

Besides shopping for yourself, Etsy is a great place for finding gifts. I bought more than my fair share for friends and family there this holiday season. No matter what you or your loved ones interests are, you can bet there’s an item for it on Etsy. There’s even a whole section of the site devoted to “geekery.”

Once a week I’ll be sifting through the millions of listings to find the best in geek chic for Blog@ readers. I’ll probably stick with certain themes usually but to start us off today, here’s a sampling of just some of the great finds you can score on Etsy.

(more…)

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