Pine on the Decline: The Mountain Pine Beetle Epidemic

ine on the Decline: The Mountain Pine Beetle Epidemic

Though they are only one-eighth to one-third inch long—the length of a grain of rice—mountain pine beetles have made a devastating impact on our nation’s forests. A multiple-year outbreak of the small but mighty insects (Dendroctonus ponderosae) and other bark dwelling beetles has compromised thousands of acres of trees, and there’s no sign of them […]

How To Share The Road – The Ultimate Guide to Bike Safety

Bike use is on the rise — the number of trips made by bicycle more than doubled from 1.7 billion in 2001 to 4 billion in 2009 and many major cities are responding with bike-friendly communities. Hopping on a two-wheeler is great for you, the environment, and your wallet. But before you strap on your […]

Frank’s World Class Antique Shakespeare Fishing Tackle and Lure Collection

Over the last 20 years, Frank has quietly built the most comprehensive collection of antique fishing tackle by The Shakespeare Company ever assembled. When we set out to re-do the CustomMade blog, I really wanted to set a different tone.  We used to create posts that featured interesting things someone could get custom made (like […]

James Colgan’s Perfect Mirror

Custom Made Salon Mirror

The perfect mirror for a dream salon Here’s a story sent to us from a Buyer in San Francisco, California, who teamed up with CustomMade to solve a unique need in his salon. We’ll let James tell the rest. My name is James Colgan. I started my Hairdressing career in 1989 in Dublin, Ireland. I […]

CustomMade gift guide: Valentine’s Day gifts for him

Tired of giving him the same gift year after year? It is often said that men can be difficult to buy for on Valentine’s Day. That’s why we’ve collected these five CustomMade projects to help point you in the right direction. Meaningful money clip Maker: Britta Ambauen Give him a present that is thoughtful, and timeless, with […]

CustomMade gift guide: Unique Valentine’s Day gifts

While it is customary to give gifts such as chocolates, flowers, and jewelry on Valentine’s Day, CustomMade is giving you a fresh, new way to express your love. From home decor, to keepsakes, there’s something for everyone on this lovely list: Kirkaldy camera bag Maker: Victoria R. Is your valentine the adventurous type who loves to capture […]

New year, new home office

Do you have a home office, but struggle to figure out how to make it work for you? It’s important that your workspace is comfortable, functional, and inspiring. From accessories to furniture, each item can be created just for you on CustomMade: Custom office desk A desk is often the main statement in a home office, and acts […]

10 projects we loved in 2013

Take a look at these ten amazing projects, each of which exemplify exactly why it means more when it’s made for you. R2-D2 engagement ring by Paul Bierker When Joe decided to propose to his girlfriend, no ordinary ring would do. With a shared love of Star Wars, this client turned to CustomMade to seek […]

We choose custom

At CustomMade, we are fortunate to work with extraordinarily talented Makers, and trust them to create some of our most special gifts and projects. Check out a few of our staff’s favorite pieces and learn the stories behind them: CustomMade staff: Emily C. Maker: Sophy Tuttle Project: Black and white pet portrait What inspired you to have this portrait created? My cat, Sully, […]

Gifts for pets

The pets in our family bring us joy all year long. Why not create a personalized gift just for them this holiday? Put your best paw… foot forward starting with these one-of-a-kind projects: Pet bed Let your furry friend lounge in this pet bed made from vintage luggage. Maker Laura Hale takes antique suitcases and turns […]