ferdinand ::: portland maine

when jena asked me to guest blog this week, i immediately started thinking about all of the local portland talent that i wanted to share here. perhaps one of the best-known local indie/handmade pioneers (plus an all-around excellent gal,) diane toepfer of ferdinand is one of my favorite people and a wonderful artist and craftsperson to boot. at her storefront on munjoy hill in portland's east end, she makes a wide range of fun and eclectic handmade goodies - pretty much anything that strikes her fancy.

she carries a terrific selection of new + refashioned vintage items, such as these fabulous feather barrettes:

and vintage clothing and shoes, too.

many of you may recognize her famous drum-playing squirrel, which adorns adult and childrens tees.

she also makes a wide selection of gocco and screenprinted cards, totebags, notebooks and journals, jewelery, patches, potholders and accessories,   and features many other local and nationally known crafters as well.

here are some diane's own hot-off-the-press screenprinted valentines - aren't they great?

some of diane's favorite art-y/crafty peeps:
local maine stuff:
pinecone and chickadee
(here are some p+c valentine cards i spied at ferdinand today):

morris + essex
strong arm bindery

and goodies from elsewhere:
dog and pony show
lisa jones cards
nineteen seventy three
motel deluxe

ferdinand is located at 243 congress street, portland, me 04101, and is a must-visit next time you're in town.

Comments

[Stefani Austin]

I can see already that by the end of the week I'm going to be scheming to get to Portland!

[abbyjane]

I'm adding it to my must-see in Portland list.

[Elle]

That shop looks great! Next time I'm in portland I'm stopping by for sure!

[modish]

in love with the open sign and the pom pom necklace- I wish I could visit in person to see all the goodies!

[jane bennett]

Hi just a line to say i love you site.Wish i could visit in public.We have so few lovely shops like yours in UK
navigatingbystars.typepad.co.uk

[Prêt à Voyager]

That OPEN sign is the best!

Anne