Are there times in life when you wish you had said exactly what was on your mind?

Well, if you can't muster up the cojones to express yourself, let ScotiaMade do it for you!

See a coupla' cuties at the pub on St. Paddy's Day and need an excuse to get a little frisky?

These St. Patrick's Day mini notes give you a free pass to get your flirt on.

Did that guy at the office park in your spot – again?! Slip one of these Mature Mini Notes on his windshield.

He won't dare to do it again, unless he wants a smackdown! 

ScotiaMade has a slew of other mildly-risqué-yet-totally-hilarious notecards, including these ones that show the Truth About Easter Eggs.

You'll never look at the Easter Bunny the same way again! 

Popularity: unranked [?]

When it comes time to dress up their abode, there are some people who want to get in, get out, and be done with it. But sometimes, it pays to be a little particular about what you put on your walls.

Bode22 has a fresh take on the classic timekeeper with their plate clocks. This Black Flower Clock combines the stark contrast of black & white, yet it still has a fresh and delightful look with its curving vines and flourishing buds.

If you are the type of person who likes to savour every moment while searching for that home accent that suits your taste just so, let Bode22 show why taking time to find that perfect bright, bold design is totally worth it.

Photo: courtesy of Bode22 

Popularity: 5% [?]

There's something about the smooth pages and the sleek look of the Moleskine that screams sexy.

So, I knew I needed an equally sexy cover that would also keep my precious journal safe when I toss it into my bag and head out about town. 

And while I've seen some pretty cool fabric ones here and there, there was no way I could pass up one of Artisan Graham's undeniably fetching handcrafted creations.

I first fell in love with the Monk Journals, with their leather straps and silvertone embellishments, while browsing Etsy. So, I knew exactly who to turn for to when I was looking for a snazzy cover that would keep my memories safe.

Artisan Graham was a great designer to work with. I gave him my ideas, and he turned them into a gorgeous item that I will cherish for years to come.

Plus, the smell of leather makes me weak in the knees! 

Popularity: unranked [?]

While I may have come to the Moleskine a little late in the game, I am quickly making up for lost time. With my first one well on its way to becoming half-full, and the purchase of a snazzy custom leather journal cover to keep my scribblings safe and secure, I am already looking for my next indulgence in the Moleskine family.

Now Moleskine lovers can go for something a little more modern with one of these cool engraved versions by Engrave Your Book. This Take Time journal in their artist series shows off the Victorian charm of beautiful clockhands, and is lasered onto a pocket Moleskine.

The coolest thing is you can even have your own artwork custom engraved on your choice of most Moleskine versions: ruled, squared, plain, address book, storyboard, music and reporter – all in either pocket or large sizes. The possibilities are endless! 

The only problem you (or I) will have is deciding what to get engraved first! 

Photo: courtesy of Engrave Your Book 

Popularity: unranked [?]

I'm not sure if I fell in love with these Quick Snap card holders from The Lonely Octopus simply because it is fun to say "QuickSnap!" over and over again.

Or if it is because designer Kristy is a fellow Torontonian.

Or if it is because Kristy makes them in so many cool patterns, like this sweet pink Whale, that there is sure to be something to suit even the choosiest fashionista out there. 

Or if it is because Kristy made me a completely custom wallet with argyle paper – my favorite pattern, judging from my sock drawer – which I love to pieces.

All of the above, I suppose! 

Photo: courtesy of The Lonely Octopus 

Popularity: unranked [?]

If you long to revive the lost art of letter writing, you must, must, MUST indulge with one of the swoon-worthy glass pen sets from Botanical Paperworks.

This gorgeous writing instrument comes with a matching glass pen rest, and is available in gorgeous shades of purple, turquoise, black, burgundy and blue – all with matching ink! 

I literally had to stop myself from snatching up one of these pen & ink sets – but that doesn't mean I didn't add one to my online wishlist (as well as the Silver Quill Pen Set, and the Silver Pen Rest).

These would be lovely, romantic Valentine's Day gifts!

Hint, hint…

Popularity: 5% [?]

They say that pets are one of the worst gifts to give, since it can be difficult to match owner & pet personalities. 

Well, designer Meowy has the perfect pair of paw-made Pinch Kitties that you can adopt or give to your best friend without the fuss of late-night jaunts to the store for catfood, and no messy litter boxes!

Zippy & Zoey (which also happens to be the name of my cat!) measure in at only 3cm tall, and are made from polymer clay. 

They come with a certificate that details their familial heritage, along with their 'date of creation', parents and family line.  

The Meowy shop apparently has kept track of all their Pinch Kitties, so you will know which generation of clay cats your new pet has come from.

Pretty unique and fun, in my book!  Sort of like Cabbage Patch Kids for the indie set.

Popularity: 5% [?]

There is something about autumn and the changing of the leaves that makes me want to brew a big mug of chocolate almond coffee, curl up under a big, wooly blanket and scribble in my journal.

I literally let out an, "Ooh!" when I first saw Artisan Graham's Monk Journals.  The craftsmanship is spectacular, and I absolutely love the detailing – buckles, leather straps, brass & silver-tone ornaments and industrial-inspired metal brads.

Artisan Graham gives writing a new air of sex appeal with his handcrafted books and journals.

Check out Artisan Graham's shop for other items , including the (ingenious) mini books that hang off your keychain, sleek portfolios, jewelry & other accessories.

Photo: courtesy Artisan Graham 

Popularity: unranked [?]

In the world of graphic design, sometimes "going big" makes a louder statement than some people would like to hear.  Lexie Sullivan's line of modern stationery has found the perfect balance of bright colors and sassy shapes without being overly flashy.

My favorite of the bunch is Lexie's Starlite greeting cards, which come in a set of 6 with white envelopes.  The layered floral motifs are perfectly lovely, and the palette is fresh & inviting, the ideal mix of femininity & style.  

Don't forget to check out Lexie's other cards, including some wonderful Daisies, Spring Leaves, Orchids & Willows.  Each one is a wonderfully carefree tribute to plant life & organic forms.

Photo: courtesy Lexie Sullivan 

Popularity: 3% [?]

Canadian Geographic recently aired an episode on the Canadian Beaver and how they are impacting not only Canada, but waterways around the world.  Even though they may disrupt ecosystems and annoy residents, they also helped to benefit the other species in Alberta's Elk Island National Park.

So, I think the beaver deserves some props – and what better way than to be immortalized – adorably, no less! – by Toronto's Flavour Design in a vibrant & playful greeting card?! I could not resist featuring this delightfully spirited beaver card.  How pleased does he look with his performance?!

Flavour Design's Animal Collection features an entire family of woodland creatures – including a squirrel, a skunk, and a family of quizzical owls (which are all the rage right now) – and brings me back to one of my favorite childhood shows, Fables of the Green Forest.

But the fun doesn't stop there.  Whether it is the adorable smiling tofu on the Miso Happy To Have You card from the Sushi Collection, or the equally sweet Happy Collection complete with a Banana inviting you to go bananas, it is clear that Flavour Design's illustrator Élan Falvai had her tongue planted squarely in cheek when designing this whimsical line of notecards & card sets.

All items in Flavour Design's stationery line are printed on recycled paper and with soya based ink.  Sink your teeth into THAT!

Flavour Design also has a small collection of housewares.To see my other post featuring their ingenious designs, go HERE. 

Photos: Courtesy Flavour Design 

Popularity: 11% [?]