apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

I usually have a calendar made with the kids' photos. It's practical, the grandparents can cut the photos out later if they want to keep them, and it's not something that will be out of place with what they already have. I've also been thinking about having their photos printed onto a tote bag.

Beautiful books can be made with the software at www.blurb.com .... you need a lot of photos, though, and some time to learn. Note: the print quality of the hardcover is much better than that of the softcover which, even with 36 pages, is a bit flimsy.

Tip: order one copy for yourself before getting one for you parents/in-laws .

We've done three books so far -- to grat success.

Shutterfly has some wonderful gifts-I've done the books and the calendar, and I'm thinking about doing a totebag for the holidays. Their jewelry uses photos as well, and could make a very unique gift for a grandparent.

MeArt.com does some beautiful work turning photos into art and it's not all that Warhol-esque thing. Kikiandpolly.com does art more isnpired by the photo that's amazing.

There are also jewelry artists who do things that aren't heinous. Totallyoutofhand.com takes actual kids art and turns it into pins or pendants. The results are uncanny.

Also there are quite a few sites that work with silhouettes if that's more your style.

Thanks for the great ideas - there are so many products out there that its great to get some feedback on the quality at certain websites! Thank you!