Brushing Up
Make a sweeping statement with brooms handcrafted by Jeff Green of Irvine.
Green, 18, who began Greensweeps a few months ago, weaves brooms that are not only functional but also decorative.
The wood handles, which Green carves by hand, are sanded, carved, then dipped in a thin varnish to highlight the grain. The bristles are made of uncut, raw broom corn from central Mexico.
Green became interested in becoming a broom squire after a family vacation near Nelson, Canada. On the trip, Green and his parents drove by a cabin that had several brooms on display.
Once home, Green wanted to learn to make the brooms and called the owner of the cabin, who referred him to an expert maker in Alpine, Texas. Green did an apprenticeship at Country Broom Works.
“I’ve always been interested in art, especially American Indian crafts,” says Green, who attended University High School in Irvine. “John [at Country Broom Works] showed me the basics, and now I have brought in my own ideas.”
Green’s ideas include several designs for the handles, such as the spiral, for a candy-cane effect, and a dot pattern. He is adding floral designs to his collection of brooms ($17 to $35).
Call (714) 854-6560.
Take Cover
Roses won’t be a thorn in your side--or your hand--when you wear Wells Lamont’s Rose Tender gloves for protection.
The gloves (about $17) have a ventilated back for improved flexibility and breathability and a heavy-weight palm that keeps thorns from penetrating when you’re pruning.
The gloves of lightweight goatskin have a nylon coating so they won’t snag.
They are available at home centers, supermarkets and garden centers throughout Orange County.
For Openers
Take it over the top with the SafetyCan can opener by Telebrand.
The opener (about $20) completely removes the metal from the can, so cutting yourself on the rim is nearly impossible.
The opener is dishwasher safe and has an easy-to-grip, ergonomic handle. The blade is set in to glide effortlessly around the can.
SafetyCan is available at Kmart.