Futon Blog

I think that I really begin to think about nature when spring rolls in and the birds really start to sing, the flowers start to bud, and the forest seems to come alive with activity. I happen to drink my morning coffee from a mug I purchased at a local crafts fair. The reason I like the mug so much is because the potters who made it actually use nutshells, fiddle head ferns, and leaves (just to name a few items they use) to texture their pottery. I must say each morning that in some crazy way I do feel more connected to the outdoors. In this fast paced technological world we all live in, it’s nice to take a moment and be reminded of nature.

Last year I decided that it was time to invest a little cash into some nice business cards. So, I took the time to head over to my local print shop, check out paper card stock, and come up with a logo (note the favicon at Goodnight Moon Futon). So, I spent a good amount on the cards from my local print shop and I must admit that I was underwhelmed. The paper was thinner than I thought it would be and gave off a flimsy impression. But, at least I had cards in time for my trip to the Futon Expo in Las Vegas!

But wait, later I found out that my uncle wanted to meet me in Vegas during my trip. I didn’t have time to order from the local shop and he couldn’t come with me if he didn’t have cards. I checked out Vista Print and ordered him a rush batch of cards. They were awesome, much heftier than the local cards and gave a great impression. If you need cards, return address labels or any other business materials check out Vista Print to see what they have to offer. You might be surprised at how much you get for the price.

-Enjoy

I try to feature some eco-friendly and/or socially responsible products on the site. So, when I see things in these categories I have to squeeze them in. My wife and I have always wanted to build our own home with the environment in mind. Though they are now more alternatives than there used to be I thought the use of recycled denim for insulation was pretty cool concept. Though the denim isn’t coming from old used jeans, it still does a good job of incorporating 85% post-industrial cotton fiber from denim manufacturers. This product is also 100% recyclable, voc-free, and formaldehyde free. Definitely something to consider if trying to be more eco-friendly when building a new home.

I know what most of you are thinking right now, “Matt’s referring to the ‘08 elections”. But, you’re wrong, I’m actually talking about the Renuzit TriScents semi-finalist gallery! Here’s the deal, if you visit the link provided you can vote for your favorite entry for the Renuzit TriScents twenty thousand dollar home make over! I checked it out and my favorite was definitely Tommy, Judd, and Ed Silver. There house was totally trashed and in need of a make over. Their house was full of all of the clutter that most people can store away and forget.

So, they are totally in need and don’t forget that the winner with the most votes will receive a $20,000 home makeover with Tayna Memme! So head over to the site and vote for your favorite today, I know who I’m voting for.

-Enjoy

I’m not sure how many of you have heard of the 127 Corridor Sale (the tag sale that runs from Ohio to Alabama) but it sounds pretty interesting. With everything from antiques to collectibles there is something for everyone. I like the idea of people from all over the country, looking for all different things, crossing paths while traveling through places many of us didn’t even know were out there.

I know when I hear that question I automatically think of the Camp North Star Kids Chorus.

Then I think about what I have planned for the summer, and I try to find the best deal possible for my travel plans. Now, this summer I have a few aikido related plans that require me to travel in order to attend seminars. So I checked out DialAFlight to see if there were any deals on flights to USA or within the US. Normally I don’t fly to seminars, but one of my most hassle free seminars in the past ten years involved flying instead of driving. No fighting traffic, gassing up the car, or paying tolls on that trip. And I was fairly well rested for the rigorous practice I was about to partake in. Much better.

Check out DialAFlight to see if they can make you next travel a little easier.

-Enjoy

Peoples imaginations are incredible, when I see creativity like this I get a little jealous. How does one take a look at a simple old beat up bowling alley lane and decide “hey I’m going to make a counter top, work bench & table” out of it? If we all thought outside the box and decided to put a little elbow grease into things the possibilities are endless. In this day & age we should all be thinking about making a trip to the local re-store / salvage yard and open our minds to the potential of what could be.

Often the thought of a computer rental seem far removed from the norm for most people. What with the cost and availability of modern computers. But, for those who can’t swing $400 to $1000 a rental is a great option. If you happen to be in that boat, head over to ICCRents to see what options fit your budget.

Can you say funky meets functionality? I really feel in love with this piece when I first saw it. A true artisan was behind this creation. You can’t help but smile when you see it. The texture on this solid ash piece makes me wonder how they even did it. And the water based dyes are the perfect color for the wow factor on this one. When I think of blanket chests I think of the traditional plain maple colored rectangle with legs sitting at the end of my grandmothers bed. Can you imagine this piece of art sitting at the end of your bed?

Via Studio Cochineal:

Keep your blankets in the chest and your sheets in the drawers below. Designed to sit at the end of a bed, this chest is textured and colored on all sides. The top lifts effortlessly thanks to gas shocks - which prevent any fingers from being crushed as well.

-Enjoy

I know it can be hard to envision, or spend a lot on baby clothing that will get worn out by growing children. That’s why I wanted to share Polka Dot Patch Boutique with you. They carry some very nice looking clothes at very reasonable prices. Now your little one can be dressed stylishly on any budget. Check out their site if you’re not ready for the summer!