Fancy vibes

March 20, 2024 2:16 PM

Where would you purchase an especially nice kaleidoscope and/or sun catcher? Brands, stores, or specific products appreciated.
posted by umwelt to Shopping (11 answers total)

I have one of these fancy solar rainbow makers in my kitchen and have given one to just about everyone I love.
posted by picopebbles at 2:34 PM on March 20 [1 favorite]

There is a kaleidoscope store in Jerome, AZ called Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes.
posted by Juniper Toast at 2:37 PM on March 20

Seconding Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes - they work directly with artisan kaleidoscope makers and have some really amazing stuff. You can buy from Nellie Bly's online kaleidoscope store too.
posted by LobsterMitten at 2:39 PM on March 20

I love Hank Barnes's work at Heirloom Stained Glass Studio and have been saving up my pennies for one of his hanging panels. I feel like they would look especially good in a Craftsman home.

I'd also suggest that you check out local art schools/community centers near you that have stained glass classes. They often have items for sale that are quite beautiful.
posted by zoetrope at 2:51 PM on March 20

I have another recommendation! Lumie Glass, expensive but gorgeous.
posted by zoetrope at 2:55 PM on March 20 [2 favorites]

I came to recommend Salamandra Glass from Portsmouth, NH, only to find via internet that they are no longer in business. You can still find nice pieces on eBay though.
posted by Daily Alice at 3:34 PM on March 20

Not as fancy, but the hanging suncatchers (Axicon and Crystal Rainbow Window Suncatcher) from Rainbow Symphony are top notch. They throw crazy amounts of light and color. I've had mine for over 5 years at least and they've fallen a few times from failing suction cups and held up just fine. https://www.rainbowsymphony.com/collections/sun-catchers-solar-rainbow-makers
posted by purple_bird at 5:19 PM on March 20

Here’s another option: Cape Kaleidoscopes
posted by Sukey Says at 7:10 PM on March 20

This kaleidoscope with feathers and a perfume poofer is tremendous. Expensive and out of stock at this retailer, but perhaps you could find it elsewhere, and i think you will like the website
posted by wowenthusiast at 10:27 AM on March 21

I have one from Roy Cohen which is really lovely.
posted by taltalim at 1:29 PM on March 21

Response by poster: Great links! Thank you all.
posted by umwelt at 10:26 AM on March 22