misosouper, a shopping blog

Add a little whimsy to the washing-up. This distressed wire-frame dish rack looks like a beautiful vintage birdcage for your teacups.

From our friends at TheFind:

I’ve recently found lots of cool felt items from a German company called Parkhaus Berlin. They create and design modern home accessories in their Berlin studios. The collection includes cushions for design classic chairs, felt accessories and lighting.

This chicken egg cozy is one of my faves. I love bright colors like orange for my kitchen. Orange plays nicely in a modern kitchen against white, dark browns or various shades of greens, blues and even pairs well with magenta. Think Marimekko! The simplicity is wonderful as well. The ideal breakfast time accessory for friendly modernists!

All of Parkhaus’ products are made of 100% all-natural wool felt and are made in Germany. This cozy goes for $15 at Greenergrassdesign.com.

Save on your purchases with Coupon Codes from Design Within Reach from TheFind.com’s coupon site.

Crock pots not your thing?

Try making a casserole in this bright dishware.  No one can resist lasagna served in a happy yellow pan.

I’m no chef, but when push comes to shove, I can cook.  My secret weapon–not so secret as much as it is lazy–is the slow cooker.  Last night, I braised a whole chicken, then used its stock and shredded meat to make a wicked chipotle chicken chili.  All in one pot.

My criteria for a slow cooker are few:  it must have multiple settings (high, low, warm); it must look good sitting out on the counter; it must be big enough to evenly cook an entire meal (proteins and side dishes); and it must contain a dishwasher-safe insert.

So I’m picky.

This Hamilton version is only $40, and contains all these features, plus a handy lock-top (hence the Stay-or-Go name) and wraparound heating (usually only available in more expensive models).

And unless you’re Octomom, 6 quarts means you’ll have leftovers for ages.

On New Year’s Day, there will be 38 wine glasses in your sink.  Will you be prepared?