iTank iPod cases

Designed to transport iPods on all your extreme adventures—whether snowboarding, skateboarding, rock climbing or merely braving the subway—YoTank iPod cases are machined from solid aluminum, thoroughly protecting iPods from dents and scratches. Ideal for people whose lifestyles mean they can't always be gentle with their gadgets, they're also a good way to protect iPods from harsh environments—we sourced them as a solution for security issues at an upcoming event. Featuring a screen protector made from machined lexan, the virtually unbreakable YoTanks come with a hex wrench for attaching and removing the front plate and an attachable carabiner. Currently offering the iTank Video ($75), the iTank Nano ($45) and ZenTank Vision:M ($75) for Creative's player, YoTank plans to expand into cases for cell phones and other electronics.

Added: September 2006

Barking Irons Shines

Borrowing the term "shines" from a 19th century slang term used by thieves for jewelry or precious items, our friends at Barking Irons recently introduced their first line of jewelry. Like their history-obsessed tees, the accessories—cast from 19th-century souvenir spoons from old New York—draw on the rich mythology of the locale. The pendants ($315), which are replicas of the bowl of the spoon, and rings ($295), made from the handles, are 100% sterling silver and come in two finishes: an oxidized matte black and an antiqued dirty silver finish. Barking Irons Shines are available online, as well as a number of specialty boutiques. More images here.

Added: September 2006

Kidrobot Apparel

We got a chance to preview the new Kidrobot apparel line last week at their New York offices. The line launches September 28th featuring unique collaborations with famous pop artists and graffiti writers, including TILT and Frank Kozik and draws inspiration from many of Kidrobot’s most popular characters including DUNNY and Smokin’ Rabbit. The line will include colorful track jackets, hoodies, knits, tees and accessories for men and women.

The 80/20 Cotton/Polyester blend brushed hoodies are soft and comfortable with waist ribbing and a slim silhouette. My favorite feature is a pocket designed to hold an mp3 player on the inside with a slot to thread your earphones through. Each item is limited with the edition number embroidered on the piece. A weather-proof jacket, laptop messenger bag and wallet should be released in time for the holiday season.

All products will be available this fall exclusively at Kidrobot stores and select retailers including Barney’s New York. Some designs will also be available online.

Added: September 2006

The Ecopod E1

An appliance that cleans up recycling and makes it easy to be green has arrived. The Ecopad E1 works similarly to a trash compactor and can hold up to 60 crushed containers. By replacing ad-hoc recycling methods the Ecopod E1 makes recycling more efficient at home, in the office and in schools.

The Ecopod E1 is a self-contained unit with storage capacity for bottles, newspapers, plastic bags and other recyclables. Once the container is compacted using the foot-activated lever it is stowed in a bin and ready for curbside disposal. As added incentive, filled pods are redeemable at certain recycling centers for up to $5 depending on the state.

The Ecopod was designed in partnership with BMW Designworks USA, and is available online from Ecopod in black or white for $328, and starting in December 2006 also at Williams-Sonoma.

By Maya Melenchuk

Added: September 2006

John Austin: Prank University

John Austin is a 27 year old toy designer and self-proclaimed master in the tradition of the college prank. So much so that he's written a book called Prank University: The Ultimate Guide to College's Greatest Tradition to share his favorite tricks.

The site and book are well designed and feature great illustrations of the pranks, which are ranked by difficulty and have step-by-step instructions for optimal results.

Hey Ami, have fun in London at the Design Festival. We're not bitter that you drew the lucky straw. Really. We'll take good care of your desk while you're gone…

Prank University is available at the book's site and from Amazon.

via Core77

Added: September 2006

Ear Drops

Like the iDiamond Earphones we featured in May, Ear Drops add personality to the standard-issue white earbud. Available in three bejeweled models—heart-shaped, round with pearls and the traditional in-ear bud shape—they come in either black or white and with a variety of rhinestone colors. Like the charming copy reads, " As stylish accessories and dresses, don't you want to have fashionable headphones? …The beautiful rhinestones shine casually beside your ears which make your music life glamorous." In other words, starting at just $31, you can get a pair to match every outfit.

Added: September 2006

Frog Dissection Kit from Jack Spade

The clever lads at Jack Spade have obviously been reminiscing about middle school science class days gone by. One of their newest products includes this Frog Dissection Kit, complete with all the tools you need to dissect the vacuum-sealed formaldehyde treated frog, a tray and a guide to help you identify your handiwork.

Available in-store only from Jack Spade's New York store, +1 212 625 1820.

Added: September 2006

Griffin iKaraoke

Though likely already in the works before the mini-scandal back in April prompted by Apple's corporate form letter reply to a Northern California 3rd-grader who suggested a karaoke feature for iPods, Griffin's upcoming iKaraoke accessory should at least be validating for the young correspondent. Due out this coming Winter, the new microphone-based device plugs directly into iPod's universal dock, transmitting instrumentals and backup vocals (minus lead vocals) to your stereo using an in-line connection or an FM transmitter. With a switch to toggle lead vocals off and on and three levels of reverb—now all you'll need are lyrics.

Added: September 2006

Yoshitomo Nara Glassware for Cerealart

Made by Cerealart, the Philadelphia producer of contemporary art multiples, these new drinking glasses feature designs by renowned Japanese artist, Yoshitomo Nara. Known for his "kawaii" or cute style that adopts the look of animated cartoons, the tumblers are made in Japan and—like his other pastel, sad-eyed characters—are sure to find fans among adults and kids alike. Available from Cerealart in three different sizes, each features a different colored dress in blue, green, or red and are priced between $18-24.

Also on Cool Hunting: Yoshitomo Nara

Added: September 2006

Jeff Zimmerman: Soft Explosion

Inspired by Harold Edgerton's famous "Milk-Drop Coronet" image Jeff Zimmerman's Soft Explosion collection for Steuben Glass evokes the random beauty of natural phenomena. Zimmerman's coveted sculptures employ the techniques of advanced glassmaking and the defining properties of glass itself to create narratives of the explosive patterns that occur in nature that he calls "soft explosions." The artist's first work in lead crystal, the collection is comprised of six designs including bowls that describe splashing water (perhaps the most literal rendering of Edgerton's work), vases that evoke growing trees, sprouting seeds and a limited-edition monumental centerpiece of fallen forms that appear to redirect a path in the forest. Starting at $1,900, Soft Explosion will be available in October online or by calling 1-800-steuben.

Added: September 2006

Seven Samurai: The Criterion Collection

Known for impeccable production values and extensive supplements, the Criterion Collection’s new reissue of Akira Kurosawa’s masterpiece Seven Samurai is a case-in-point example of what makes an essential addition to any DVD collection. With its epic narrative and spectacular swordplay, the film is both a staple of any film school education and a favorite of the Tarantino-generation alike.

Possibly their most in-depth release in the collection so far, this three-disc set contains not only a beautifully restored version of the 207-minute film, but enough scholarly commentaries, additional documentaries, and lengthy essays to leave you prepared to teach a course on the film. Best of all, the exquisitely designed packging by Neil Kellerhouse makes this a smart-looking addition to any living room. Pick it up from Amazon.

by Michael Talbott

Added: September 2006

Lomography Sidekick Bag

With Lomo's reintroduction of their popular Sidekick camera bag today, the quest for the perfect unisex photo bag may in fact be over. Available in two sizes and two color variations, charcoal with purple lining or khaki with blue lining, the updated model is a slightly slimmer version of the all-time classic, done in natural and timeless cotton canvas. Both bags are comprised of two separate components that can be worn together or separately, a large rear bag—big enough for large books or a 15-inch laptop—and a small camera case that holds two Lomo LC-A-sized cameras. More diminutive, the Sidekick "Lite" also features a two-in-one modular design. Its main bag is a bit more compact, but still large enough for a book and your choice daily necessities, while the camera case holds one Lomo LC-A-sized camera and a cell phone or equivalent electro-gadget. Both bags feature an adjustable webbed canvas strap to keep it securely over your shoulders while leaning over a railing to get that perfect shot. Pick up the Lite ($50) and the large Sidekick ($65) from the Lomo Shop.

by Letizia Rossi

Added: August 2006

Tattooed Steel

Founded by a Los Angeles-based artist/engineer, Jared Van Orman, Tattooed Steel's line of artist-designed jewelry is a way for the tattoo-shy or wearable art-obsessed to get more images on their body. Designs by Rose Hardy are modern takes on more traditional designs (like those by her father, Ed) and range from angels to surreal images, like a flower and eye (pictured left). Other images include tribal designs and abstract tessellations, like Van Orman's "Mirage" (pictured right). Cuffs (available in different sizes) and dog tags start at $60 from Tattooed Steel.

Added: August 2006

Katana Series Knives by Calphalon

One lucky CH reader will win a set of these amazing Katana Series knives by Calphalon. These knives are a great example of design and technology used to improve a product that hasn't seen a lot of innovation, and are winners of the best consumer product design from ID Magazine's 2006 Design Review.

The Calphalon design team spent a year designing these knives, which blend classic European and Asian knife forms. Increasing performance was a challenge solved by using VG-1 steel, a limited production steel from Japan. Higher in carbon (and therefore stronger) than most other steel, it helps the knife achieve—and retain—its edge.

Inspired by the way katana (the swords used by Samurai) were made, the blades are formed from a VG-1 steel core; 16 layers of other steel alloys are then added to each side. This process (and the way it looks) is known as Damascus style. One of the key benefits it offers is an increased ability to prevent food from sticking to the knife's surface as it is being cut. This is further enhanced by the use of kullen (the oval indents) on the lower portion of the blade, which create air pockets when cutting.

Another great feature the design team came up with was an integrated bolster (where the blade meets the handle), which they patented. It makes the knife incredibly comfortable to hold, and helps it be more balanced.

Best yet, the knives are suprisingly well priced, ranging from $29 to $89. The Katana section of the Calphalon site is also well designed and has videos and details on the complete line.

The set (and individual pieces) are available online at Amazon.

CH Katana Series Knife Set Contest
We're giving away an 8-piece set (whch includes a 3.5" parer, 5" Santoku, 5.5" serrated utility, 6" utility, 8" chef's, kitchen shears, bamboo knife block and a 10" diamond steel, worth $299 and pictured above) to the CH reader who sends us the the funniest kitchen mishap story (keep it brief).

Please send your entries here by the end of the day on Thursday 3 August 2006. We'll announce the winner, and print their story, on Friday 4 August 2006.

Thanks to all of you readers who submitted your stories. The winner of the contest can be found here.

Added: July 2006

Matchstick Garden

Making gardening (or at least the planting part) easier than lighting a match, Matchstick Garden is a matchbook that holds 10 cardboard matches loaded with seeds ready for planting. Available in wildflower (Cornflower, Shasta Daisy, Corn Marigold, and Field Poppy) or herb (Basil, Chives, Parsley, and Thyme), simply insert a seeded matchstick into soil, add water and sunlight, and watch your garden grow. The packaging can also be customized (minimum orders of 5,000) by contacting Noted. Though still on backorder, Matchstick Gardens will be available from several retailers, including Exit9, Orange County Museum of Art, and the J Paul Getty Museum Bookshop.

Added: July 2006

urbanyetti

Apparently, mythological creatures aren't only found in forests and lakes these days. Urbanyetti has been sited in cities worldwide, on t-shirts, and on this (suitably scared-looking) baby's onesie. The brainchild of San Francisco-based artist and one-time Nickolodeon prop designer Aaron Terry, adult sizes come in either black or baby blue, onesies are on soft white, and they're all silkscreened on 100% cotton American Apparel. The urbanyetti also comes in three dimensions as a limited edition toy that Terry handmade from wood. Part of Project Spera, an organization that works with youth to increase global awareness.

Added: July 2006

Füri Tech Edge Pro Knife Sharpening System

Whether you cook once a day or once a month, sharp knives are essential to get the job done right. Even if you haven’t mastered using a “stone and steel,†you can hone your tools to near perfection without going to a professional with Füri's Tech Edge Pro Knife Sharpening System.

Designed for both home users and professionals, the Tech Edge Pro Knife Sharpening System is dummy-proof. It comes with an edge restorer and a two-part system—just a few quick swipes through its “fingers†restores all non-serrated knives. Designed to adjust easily for different cutting edge angles, the Füri eliminates human error and minimizes the removal of metal, unlike other sharpeners. Available through Amazon.

by Amy Sherman

Added: July 2006

Warhol Watches

Taking inspiration from the king of pop art's "resourceful imagination, restless curiosity, and skewed sense of humor," Andy Warhol 15, a collection of new Seiko watches, draw on Warhol imagery to create a wristwear series that's as vivid as the original artworks—and maybe even slightly more ironic . Most innovative are packs of three that, as a whole, make a single image (either a Campbell's soup can (pictured) or a daisy), but also function as colorful abstractions on their own. Others include glow-in-the-dark details, bold, chunky shapes to match the pop graphics, and many are water-resistant. From $75 at Andy Warhol 15.

Also on Cool Hunting: Watchismo, Any Warhol "Giant" Size, Denim Hokusai, Blow Job Puzzle Card, S2A Belts

Added: July 2006

Sweet Meats Plushies

Looking for a gift for your favorite butcher? Sweet Meats makes plushies of meat, providing comfort to carnivores outside of meal times. Steaks, ribs, sausages and ham are all represented.

Added: July 2006

Thinking of You Pillow

Like artist Barbara Kruger’s more traditional work, this canvas pillow makes an oblique pairing of a dramatic black and white image with a cliché phrase. The characteristic Kruger effect—canceling out any heavy-handedness with humor before it even begins to feel pedantic—is a wry comment on domesticity and family. Available exclusively from the Whitney
for $30, as a gift, it’s the most artful guilt trip out there.

Added: July 2006

Double Balloon Whisk

While fancy electric mixers costing hundreds show up on many a bride-to-be's registry, cream whipped by hand has a more velvety texture and just tastes better. Any cook with an overdeveloped forearm will appreciate the ingenious design of these 12" sizes from Amazon.

Added: July 2006

Monogrammed Steak Brand

What better way to celebrate the 4th of July than with a branded meal? Hand forged in Texas, these personalized irons are for any cook whose cuisine is so good that it deserves a name of its own. Available with two or three initials, each 11-1/2" brander comes with its own mounting rack for display. Order one to celebrate Independence Day next year from Williams-Sonoma for $40.

Added: July 2006

Atypyk

Like a cross between Duchamp and Archie McPhee, the French company Atypyk makes witty, conceptual gifts that play on everyday objects. My personal history with the company dates back to 2003 when I visited their Paris studio and Ivan Duval (one-half of the Atypyk team) regaled me with stories and sent me home with a Cowstick, a sticker kit that transforms a refrigerator into a cow.

Founded in 1999, the company has a trove of products worth checking out, but Kill Time book, full of doodle-like "exercises" (images Daily 2.3.5 (tel. (212)-334-9728).

Added: June 2006

Skull Sponge

Yeah, I hate washing-up too, but at least now we can indulge our skull-fetish while doing the dishes. $6 from Scandinavian Details. They also have heart-shaped ones, if you're a lover and not a fighter.

via Crib Candy

Added: June 2006

Mimobot Hoodie

Our friends at Mimoco have come up with a fun and useful accessory for their Mimobot line of USB storage devices. The Mimobot Hoodie is a soft case for your Mimobot that protects the paint job and adds a key loop.

They'll begin shipping next week for $9.95 each or $5 if purchased with a Mimobot. Pre-order here.

Added: June 2006