Sandy Chilewich does it again. I am a huge fan of her work. Chilewich does such an amazing job transforming industrial materials into stylish, affordable, hardworking textiles for tabletops, floors, mobile phone covers and now - Pet Mats!

Made in the signature basketweave design, these mats are great to go under those pesky pet food bowls; keeping your floors nice and clean. Just so that your four legged friend doesn’t feel left out, there is also a doggy cut out in the center of the mat.

Available in USA and Canada on-line. www.chilewich.com

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider

*Related Articles: Dressing My iPhone

Have you had the chance to visit David’s Tea on West 4th Avenue? If you haven’t you must, especially if you are a tea connoisseur.  This aromatic store lured me in and I fell in love with their pressed “Pu’erh” tea.

These little, precious nuggets are slightly oxidized green tea, pressed and interwoven with fragrant Chrysanthemum petals. The mix is perfect for your Spring season tea parties. 50 gram bag for $6.50.

2199 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver, 604.734.3440 www.davidstea.com

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider

I recently switched to an iPhone and have been on the hunt for a unique cover to protect the new toy. I am not a fan of glossy covers, or bright colors and I sure didn’t want some swirly pattern on it either.

As I casted my eyes along the Apple store wall, I came across the Griffin+Chilewich collection and immediately fell in love. Designer Sandy Chilewich collaborated with Griffin Technology to develop a trademarked basketweave woven textile cover for the iPhone 3G and 3GS. It reminds me so much of linen and the play with texture gives it a luxurious feel. Together, they have seamlessly married function and design.

It’s available exclusively at the Griffin website, the Apple store and the MoMA Design Store. $44.95 CDN ($39.99 USD).

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I’m the type of person that buys cards all the time and I store them for a rainy day. If you’re not like me and tend to scramble for birthday, anniversary or Valentine cards often, perhaps you need the help of Jack Cards.

They are a savvy greeting card service with an array of cool cards for every recipient and all occasions. To become a member is free, you pick your cards and then your dates and when the time comes, Jack Cards will mail you the card to sign and send off! It comes addressed, stamped and ready for the a mail.

Easy peasy. No more forgotten special occasions.

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider

If you’re stuck on what to get your man for the holidays this year, let me give you a hand. Want Essentials has a list of beautifully crafted leather goods that could enhance any man’s style status.

Number one: He’ll love the Kansai Computer portfolio ($450 CDN). This sleek computer portfolio has been carefully designed, making sure it has all the functional features and compartments to carry a laptop and all other travel needs. It fits up to a 14″ laptop and zips all around for security.

Number two: Every gentleman needs a set of collar pins. The Gatwick Leather Encased Collar Pins ($75 CDN) come in one silver plated and one gold plated safety pin. This classy set is a necessity in every sartorial Gentleman’s wardrobe.

Visit their on-line store (Canadian … more …