Funny Boxes

These whimsical porcelain cookie or candy boxes are hand-painted by artist Sharon Kuo and her team of designers. Kuo studied with her father, Ming Chaio Kuo, a well-known Chinese painter and cloisonne designer. She offers a wide variety of designs and colors.

Chinese porcelain box, $28, from Noteworthy, the Beverly Center and Santa Monica, and from Nordstrom stores; or call (323) 780-8181.

Going to the Mat

These eye-catching place mats are 100% cotton sewn with strips of bamboo. The mats are shown in black, cocoa and eggshell colors, and coordinating napkins (without bamboo) are available.

Place mats, $5 to $6, and napkins, $3 to $4, from Gibson’s, Fountain Valley.