Weekend Market Picks October 12-13, 2013: M. N. Davis & Son Feedsack Inspired Designs

Yup, I said “feedsack inspired design.” Growing up in Ohio, I used to love going to the farm supply store with my dad to get gigantic 50 lb. bags of dog chow for Fiana, our bouncy Irish setter. The store had tall red and white Purina checked silos of feed outside and smelled of fertilizer and hay inside. (Purina makes some interesting chows, FYI.) We would wander through the isles looking at all the farm supplies and implements. And then we’d go out for an ice cream. It was always a good day for me and for my dog.

So when I saw the agricultural themed tote bags by designer Mariko of M.N. Davis & Son, at the Greenpointers Valentine’s Day Market earlier this year, all those memories came back to me. And of course, I fell in love with the beautiful graphics of bunnies, pigs, calves and buffalos, as well as the vintage, agricultural feel of her entire line.

Interestingly, Mariko is originally from Japan and yet manage to captures such a strong sense of Americana in her designs. She has been inspired by feed feedsacks, with their distinct font types and beautiful graphics of animals and brands. All her designs are original. The totes are made and printed in Brooklyn.

Mariko has another line of bags and pouches called Milltown, which are beautiful hand cut and sewn pouches, totes, coin purses, luggage tags and more. These designs are simple in appearance, yet carefully made with durable and beautiful fabrics and hardware.

I’ve been carrying my piggy tote in lieu of a purse on a regular basis. I love the design, and it also has a very useful pocket. I also have the bunny tote, which I use to carry peaches, tomatoes and leafy greens from the farmers market (as opposed to the more hearty potatoes and onions who tumble around in their own bag.)

Find Mariko and M.N. Davis & Son on Saturday at the Greenpointers Fall Market!

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Greenpointers Fall Market: This indoor market is absolutely charming. They gather a wonderful and unique collection of local designers and crafters, as well as tasty artisanal food vendors. The setting inside From the Source is beautiful. 12PM – 6PM, at From The Source, 69 West St., Greenpoint, Brooklyn
East Side Community High School Flea Market: Proceeds from this flea market are going to send a group of students on an art history study trip. I cannot think of a better cause! It runs this weekend and next. 11AM – 6PM, in the Schoolyard, 420 East 12th Street, Manhattan.

Saturday & Sunday, October 12 & 13, 2013

Autumn Crafts at Lincoln Center: This weekend is the second and final one for this national juried craft show, sponsored by the American Concern for Art and Craftsmanship. It is a more of a traditional, high end craft show beneath tents on the Lincoln Center plaza. Saturday 11AM – 8:30PM, Sunday 10AM-6:30PM at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, 64th St at Columbus Ave., Manhattan
Crafts on Columbus: This semi-annual event runs for its second of three weekends. Many of the designers and crafters are local, while others come from different parts of the country. Enjoy the wonderful range and variety of craft and design! 10AM – 5:30PM, Columbus Avenue from 77th to 81st Street, Manhattan
Real Designer Market: Real Designer has just announced that they are now open Saturdays and Sundays. Also, they have a new temporary home at 233 Mott Street. Check it out for some of NYC’s finest independent designers of fashion and accessories! 11AM – 7PM, 233 Mott Street, Manhattan

Sunday, October 13, 2013

El Boar-rio at Flea Marqueta: Looking for a fun place to shop, eat and visit? Then head up to East Harlem for another El Boar-rio pig roast! The word is getting out about this market, and every weekend the crowd is getting bigger. So stop by for some of the best pulled pork I’ve ever had! 12PM – 6PM, 1640 Park Avenue at 116th Street, Manhattan
Greenflea: Once again, while the two Upper West Side craft markets are happening, take the opportunity to visit or re-visit this classic New York institution. The flea features vintage and antique dealers, as well as handmade crafts and snacks to enjoy as you stroll. They are also hosting the 79th Street Greenmarket through next weekend. 10AM to 5:30PM, Columbus Avenue between W. 76th and W. 77th Streets, Manhattan

Happy Fall!