The One of a Kind Show returns to the Ex this week, marking the start of spring with a five-day shopping fest full of seasonal essentials. This year, the show is a crafters paradise, with free DIY workshops on paper-flower making and calligraphy. But the main attraction is still the vendors—450 of them—selling cool handcrafted goods (hello, artisanal freezies) that you won’t find at the mall. It can get a little crazy inside, so here are 15 of our favourite products and where to find them.
The Pop Stand’s all-natural gourmet freezies come in refreshing flavour combos like blueberry lavender or grapefruit mint. (Shoppers can also join the “Pop of the Month” club to get the goods delivered to their door every month.) $16 for six. Booth B23.
Toronto jewellery designer Michelle Ross crafts her pieces using semi-precious stones and metals mixed with vintage finds, glass and ceramics. This statement necklace is made with pink rhodonite and knitted brass. $242. Booth H52.
This cute ceramic planter, handcrafted in Toronto by Etsy maker Hinkleville, will add personality to your succulents. $35. Booth P44L.
According to this Fashion Week street style star: “Yellow is major this season.” Hop on the trend with this sunny bucket tote from Guelph brand Celia MMXIV. $286. Booth 022.
This portable speaker, from new Montreal-based vendor FM300 s.e.n.c., is high-tech without looking the part. It was a collaboration between a musician and an upholsterer. $80. Booth CO4H.
Soy wax candles from Salt Spring Island Candle Company are fashioned inside of old milk bottles and come in cozy scents like chai and peppermint mocha. $25 each. Booth J08.
Toronto Etsy maker La Jolee designs these aww-inducing greeting cards. $5 each. Booth P44N.
This paper holder, from Toronto textile artist Alexia Bilyk, can be used to hold anything (not just plants) and is completely washable (in case you do use it to hold plants). $25. Booth H35.
Made from recycled and salvaged materials, this cap from Winnipeg maker Oldhat will provide sun protection for this summer’s Trinity Bellwoods hangs. (Goes great with moustaches of all kinds.) $50. Booth E43.
Toronto label Tinsel and Sawdust makes this two-tone trivet from corian and cork (Montreal bagels and artisanal honey sold separately). $75. Booth G34.
Calligraphers and doodlers alike will swoon over these handcrafted fountain pens made in Montreal by Richard Boucher. They come in ebonite with 10-karat gold ($550) or sterling silver ($400) accents. Booth L13.
This artisanal, wildberry-infused bar from Newfoundland Chocolate Company has a distinctly summery, cottage-dessert feel. $4.25 each. Booth C48.
Beautifully psychedelic pillows from Toronto’s Crush Works are made from artist Adrienne Jackson’s original paintings. $120. Booth L31.
This concrete stool, from Etsy maker Your Pal, Al, is perfect for teeny condo dwellers. It can be used for its original purpose or piled high with artsy magazines. $75. Booth P19.
$13. Wednesday, March 23—Sunday, March 27. Enercare Centre, 100 Princes’ Blvd., oneofakindshow.com.
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