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This is one of the coolest gifts I've discovered this year. A flower growing kit that comes in a tube, and it requires zero skills to grow! That's a nice, safe gifts for anyone. I particularly like the fact it can be given as a great business gift, as well as a personal one. Biotech Blooms does not need attention, except to be admired. No water necessary because the biotechnology does the work for you. When the plant reaches the top of the tube, simply transfer to potting soil. $30

I've always been a fan of these glass teapots, ever since I've seen them introduced at the MOMA more than a decade ago. I'm glad they've come down in price (back then they were $150 for one). They are especially perfect for flowering teas (next post). $23

Also one of my favorites,the Regal Owl-Style Paper Clips can hold more than most of the smaller paper clips. I like the simple geometrical shape. I must admit, I never noticed they looked like owls before. They're $1.38 for a box of 100. They look a lot more expensive, don't you think?

These gorgeous John Derian plates are handmade in New York by Derian, with assistance from a small group of artisans.  Derian uses decoupage, the art of cutting and gluing paper to surfaces, to create designs of antique images and letters. Single plates can be given as a great collectible or sets of plates can be given as highly functional dinnerware. The $44-$48 cost is quite reasonable for their artisan quality and unique designs. The Red Letter Plates are 5-3/4" and go for $44-$48. They can be purchased at at JohnDerian or ShopatGood.

My other favorite Derian picks...

5-3/4" Plates $48

 

 

 

 

 

Dome Paperweights $60

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reader Comments (1)

 

November 17, 2007 | Chief Elfen

I think I'll add these to my wishlist. I got one for Greg and Melissa and had a really hard time sending it to them.

I never did get over my pyromaniac years. Something about fire that gets me giddy. I suppose it is also one of the most romantic settings imaginable. Beautifully designed, this modern piece is made of glass and lacquered wood over a steel base. Inside the glass hurricane are stone lava rocks, which surrounds the flame. Uses bio-ethanol fuel that is safe for indoors. How to keep my giant dogs from crashing into it is another matter. Available at Chiasso for $998.

More down-to-earth than hippie, these red Peace Mugs make a great gift for the less confrontational friends. The set of four is $38 at Sundance.

Gone are the days of unattractive soap rocks. These soap rocks are great gemstone replicas, a surprisingly beautiful upgrade to the old soap-by-the-slice versions.  At $14.95, they make great gifts for Secret Santa exchanges under $15, hostess gift or small thank you gift.  Add an unused jewelry box as packaging to create a fun presentation. (green=jade, purple=amethyst, yellow=citrine, blue=opal)

I've always been a fan of these glass teapots, ever since I've seen them introduced at the MOMA more than a decade ago. I'm glad they've come down in price (back then they were $150 for one). They are especially perfect for flowering teas (next post). $23

Unfortunately, these fabulous Pantone mugs are only available in the U.K. right now. I don't think you have to be a designer to appreciate the clever concept. Approximately $15 each.

 

 
Does this hit you at the heart or what? One of my all-time favorite childhood memories - watching A Charlie Brown Christmas.

You, too, can have your own pathetic tree, with one single red ornament included, for $24 at Urban Outfitters. (I highly recommend buying early. Last year they sold out by the end of November.)

 

 

Other notable Charlie Brown gifts...

 

           

         

A Charlie Brown Christmas        A Charlie Brown Christmas            Charlie Brown Zig Zag T-Shirt

Book + Tree, $8.95                   Original Soundtrack, $7-$8             Adult + Youth, $17.95

Amazon                                    Amazon                                        Amazon