Tidal-Basin

Summer in the Air!

2008-06-23T10:36:00.010-04:00

Summer is here and there are many ways to celebrate the joys of warm and sunny days. We think this card is a great icon of summer with its shimmering spinnaker sails. The card can be customized with whatever text you want -- this version is a "thank you note." Cards may be purchased as blanks for you to keep on hand for those times when a special card may be required. There are other wonderful cards with matching postage available at BlarneyCards -- here's a preview of some other beautiful BlarneyCards. You select the quantity!

make custom gifts at Zazzle

Cool Coupon for Summer Tees

2008-05-22T13:57:00.002-04:00

Stock up on summer tee shirts, barbecue aprons or those customized special gifts you need. We are promoting a service called ZAZZLE.COM which offers hats, mugs, tee shirts, key rings and many other items -- what is unique is that the items can be customized by you! Add a name, a funny saying, a birthdate, graduation class number or whatever! See the item onscreen, right before your eyes, as you personalize it. Check out the greeting and notecards which can be customized to be invitations. You can also find very unique postage stamps to add that bit of pizazz to special mailed greetings!

Of course you can always purchase items without additional personalization and there are some wonderfully creative products at Zazzle.

Here's a coupon to help you get started between now and Memorial Day. Personalize your t-shirts, mugs, hats and more, or purchase a design as is -- use this limited time savings. Every creation will be shipped within 24 hours. Starting May 23 at 10:30am PST enjoy 15% off on orders of $65 or more. Simply enter the code MEMORIALSALE when ordering. Offer ends on May 25 at 11:59pm PST. Enjoy!!

Lehane

The Perfect Barbecue Apron

2008-05-21T14:00:00.002-04:00

Part of the fun of barbecue is the silly aprons worn by those cooking! You can jazz up your "cook" and help protect skin and clothing with an apron. We offer an assortment of aprons with images and words fit for that special time. And many of the designs are available in a size for children. These work well for arts and crafts projects and kitchen helping chores.

create & buy custom products at Zazzle

Pick Your Politics and Wear It Proudly!

2008-04-10T10:12:00.003-04:00

Dreaming up a vacation

2008-03-26T10:15:00.027-04:00

So a few warm days have you daydreaming of vacation and sunshine and beaches and those gorgeous swaying palm trees. You can kick off the summer season with one of these "life-saving" shirts! They feature an artistically rendered shore scene with palm trees and it is all framed with a life ring! This could be a life saver for you or someone you know! If you can't get away for vacation, make one up for yourself with this perfect art shop t-shirt!

Commodore

Batter Up! Play Ball!

2008-03-25T09:52:00.008-04:00

That time of year is here again when the crack of a well-hit baseball splits the air and brings back memories of the ballpark! Check out this wonderful assortment of vintage baseball prints right from the Library of Congress! Are you thinking about something special for Father's Day?? Perhaps here you can find exactly the unique item you seek! Choose from prints and posters in many sizes as well as real postage stamps!

make custom gifts at Zazzle

Commodore Lehane

Hat for an Irish Prince! Tis True!

2008-02-18T15:17:00.004-05:00

Here's a hat for that special person who has descended from Irish princes or who dreams of being Irish at least on St. Patrick's day. We have matching shirts, too!

Check out THESE HATS there is a perfect lid for St. Paddy's day for you here and you can change the hat color to suit your fancy!

Commodore

Heart of my heart!

2008-01-17T14:00:00.000-05:00

This heart appears to be beating with its warm reds, oranges and yellows. Pick one up for someone special or for yourself. Watch for matching travel mugs, caps and keychains, too.

Check out THIS GROUP OF HEARTS, there must be one that speaks to you!

Commodore

Hearts for Sweeties and Valentines

2008-01-01T11:03:00.000-05:00

Oodles of hearts like you've never seen! We found this and think you will like it ... These unusual hearts are eye-catching and colorful! But what is really wonderful is that you can pick a heart design, then choose the color and kind of shirt to put it on. You can change the design size, add your text and create a unique custom design! Wow! Someone is sure to be impressed with a personalized gift like that. And there is not much more fun than playing with fonts and seeing the results right in front of your face!!!

Scroll down and on the right you can sort products by "product type" to find a matching hat or keychain for your creation.

Commodore

Gifts with Disney Characters!

2007-11-28T11:36:00.000-05:00

Is there someone on your gift list that will not be happy without a certain beloved Disney character on a present? Is this a test of your hunting ability or love, finding that very exacting item???

You could go all through the malls and never find that specificaly "ordered" gift! We have a better idea. LOOK HERE. What is really nice about this Zazzle online store is that there are so many Disney characters from dozens of stories. You can pick the character you want as well as the kind, size and color of the shirt you want to create. There are also mugs. Doesn't that sound fantastic!?!?!

And in case that is not enough to make you rarin' to shop, you can also add a bit of text--in your choice of font, size and color--and move it around on the shirt! You can "make" unique gift items for the person who is so exacting and hard to please! We won't let on how you did it either....this website can be our secret!

Everyone love a "homemade" gift and something unique. You can make your gifts, too!

Commodore

Those Special Hard-to-Find Gifts

2007-11-26T10:20:00.000-05:00

Where can you find a unique gift that is useful, beautiful and does not break the bank?? That may be a tall order, but we think there is a way. We found a website with a large selection of items in just two product categories—that makes deciding a bit easier we discovered. LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THIS WEBSITE.

Here you will find small wire-bound books which can make perfect notebooks, sketchbooks or journals. They have gorgeous cover art and have been created by many different artists. The images tend to be nautical and include boats, sailing, beaches, sunsets, bridges, lighthouses, and some shore birds. Here's an inexpensive gift most anyone would enjoy!

Also, take a look at the page of tiled wooden boxes. HERE THEY ARE. There is really no way to describe the beauty of these wooden boxes, lined in velvet, and with gorgeous colorful tile inserts. You can select either a mahogany or black finish and see what they look like online, too. These boxes have been used as gift holders, gifts in themselves, keepsake boxes, jewelry boxes, you name it!

The items at EdgewaterGallery are created by many artists. What they have in common is that they are all printed by Cafepress. You can save $5 off a $50 order through 12/24 by using a coupon code of SAVEGAS.

Commodore

Gifts for Military Moms, Dads, Kids, Wives, and more

2007-11-26T09:22:00.000-05:00

What a gift that shows your support for military families? For the kids, sweethearts, moms, dads, spouses? Here's web site that has oodles of shirts, bags, bumper stickers, hats, mugs and more! LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THIS WEBSITE. You can find items neatly sorted into categories for marines, army, navy and air force as well as sorted by relatives such as: mom, dad, wife, daughter, son, girlfriend, husband, wife.

Many of the items sold on this website have been created by military families to honor their loved ones and also to earn some extra money. So a purchase here can help those families and show your good taste.

The items at Support4Military are created by many artists. What they have in common is that they are all printed by Cafepress. You can save $5 off a $50 order through 12/24 by using a coupon code of SAVEGAS.

Commodore

Gifts for Nurses and Nursing Students

2007-11-26T09:15:00.000-05:00

Need a gift for a nurse? a nursing student? a male nurse, a medic?? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THIS WEBSITEYou can find all sorts of shirts, keepsakes, ornaments, cards and much more.

The items at Tees4Nurses are created by many artists. What they have in common is that they are all printed by Cafepress. You can save $5 off a $50 order through 12/24 by using a coupon code of SAVEGAS.

Commodore

Merry Holiday Hippo

2007-11-20T15:01:00.000-05:00

This hippo says it all! Merry, merry, merry is the holiday frame of mind, but weary, weary, weary is the body after all the shopping and celebrating.

Here's a perfect card for someone who understands the holiday madness. You can save $5 off a $50 order through 12/24 by using a coupon code of SAVEGAS.

Lehane

Man and Dog Fishing

2007-11-20T14:48:00.000-05:00

Featured art is Man and Dog Fishing by Kurt Lischka

Here's an image for someone who loves fishing in the surf, perhaps with a four-legged companion. The soothing colors are offset by the somewhat turbulent waters. But none of that means much to this happy pair who are not bothered by a thing.

Commodore Lehane

Man and Dog Fishing by Kurt Lischka — View Larger

New art featured weekly, courtesy of the artists at Imagekind. Choose prints or framed art and select your own framing and matting.

Three Boats Waiting

2007-11-20T14:29:00.000-05:00

Featured art, Three Boats Waiting by Michael Bond

There is no need to love fishing to appreciate the upbeat mood created by these stunningly colorful fishing boats. They seem so enthusiatic and that is amplified with their equally colorful reflections. There is a childlike honestly and sense of security these boats convey; there is no storm they fear!

Commodore Lehane

Three Boats Waiting by Michael Bond — View Larger

New art featured regularly, courtesy of the artists at Imagekind. Choose prints or framed art and select your own framing and matting.

Schooner Views Landscape Rockport Harbor

2007-11-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

Today's featured art is Schooner Views landscape Rockport Harbor by Jennifer Hakkarainen

Whatever the season, this scene of the docks and schooner will probably change very little. Seeing the rigging, I can almost hear the creaking of the old masts and the squeaking of the old tire squeezed between the dock and ship. This image captures to pull we feel toward the sea and sailing but also the reality of our land-based lives as the red buildings attest.

Commodore Lehane

Schooner Views landscape Rockport Harbor by Jennifer Hakkarainen — View Larger

Choose prints or framed art and select your own framing and matting.

shelter

2007-11-20T13:49:00.000-05:00

This week's featured art is shelter by Peter Blottman

There is something calm and reassuring in this image of small boats waiting patiently for their next time to fish. The deep reflections and little shack seem to echo the lapping sound of the waves. This image brings some calm to me when I look at it.

Commodore Lehane

shelter by Peter Blottman — View Larger

Artwork and Images of Note

2007-11-20T13:26:00.000-05:00

This week's featured art is Abstract Sunset by Lehane Corley McCourt

Abstract Sunset is an image that speaks to me in its chaos. There is the possiblity of dark clouds and storms as well as bright sunshine and light color. In its ambiguity one can ponder whether the storm clouds are moving away or closing in. The movement, change and uncertainty shown here reflect the reality of every day.

Commodore Lehane

Abstract Sunset by Lehane Corley McCourt — View Larger

Finding those special gifts

2007-11-19T14:24:00.000-05:00

Where do you start to look for those special gifts for the people who enrich your life? Tidal-basin continues to find interesting things online and bring you a preview right here. The items shown below caught our eye because in addition to the images on them, you can add a name or other text to really personalize a speical gift.

make custom gifts at Zazzle

Magic Hat Magnets

2007-10-03T13:21:00.000-04:00

We found this interesting Magnet recently. It lets you share the magic and mystery that you know by spreading around these magic-hat magnets. They come in ten or hundred packs, depending on how much you need to share.

This hat is known to be worn by wizards and witches but it works perfectly on a refrigerator magnet or file cabinet magnet, too. It sure is better than distributing candy to the goblins of halloween.

Commodore Lehane

Cool Witch Cap for Halloween and Beyond!

2007-10-03T12:59:00.000-04:00

Need to make that perfect statement but not the type to put it on a shirt/ Here's exactly what you need, a white cap featuring a witch on her broomstick. The design is a mix of reds and blues and although the image is quickly recognized, the coloring is quite nice and very unique.

This may just make your point and it will work for halloween and beyond!

Commodore Lehane

Black Cat and Halloween Pumpkin

2007-09-17T13:11:00.000-04:00

Fall, halloween, cool weather. These go together and you can show your fall colors with this shirt depicting a halloween jack-o-lantern and black cat. This cat looks a bit scary as it snuggles up to the pumpkin. A few bats join the scene, too. If you need a special shirt for halloween, this one will be the job nicely!

Commodore Lehane

"Boo!" Halloween Is Coming

2007-09-07T13:47:00.000-04:00

Everyone loves the fun of halloween: the ghosts and scary things that really aren't so frightening at all.

Here a great group of shimmering ghosts to parade across a t-shirt and make your celebration just a bit humorous.

Commodore Lehane

Rainbow Witch

2007-08-21T15:43:00.000-04:00

Everyone loves witches! Especially as halloween comes near. We found this rainbow witch online — she is a swirl of happy colors rather than the drab usual halloween witch.

This popular design was already selling months before most people even thought about pumpkins, goblins, black cats and witches with their broomsticks! With a design so colorful and happy, there is no limit on the season for wearing a rainbow witch shirt.

Perhaps you know just the right witch to wear this shirt . . .

Commodore Lehane

Goblins and Black Cats

2007-08-03T14:31:00.000-04:00

It is never too soon to plan for Halloween! It sure is more fun than studying or watching the news on TV. We found some fun and some traditional trick-or-treat shirts and small trickets like this cool halloween cat design.

This HALLOWEEN SHOP has the best assortment of colorful and fun witches we have seen. There are also black cats, pumpkins, a couple of ghosts, bats and more being added all the time. Did you know there is an environmentally aware witch? how about a lavender witch or a rainbow witch?

Brighten you day with one of these great designs. We also know of people who use the small magnets and buttons as trick or tret handouts in place of candy.

Commodore Lehane

Sale on Shirts for Military Families

2007-07-28T10:34:00.000-04:00

We now have a huge sale on most shirts for military wives, dads, moms, kids, sisters, brothers and everyone else.

Most of these shirts are priced so you can buy three and get one free. This is the perfect time for grab up t-shirts in support of the army, navy, marines and air force. Our "Mom" shirts and "Wife" shirts as well as those naming other familiy members are quite popular. Many of the designs are made by actual military family members.

Lehane

RN T-Shirt

2007-07-19T16:05:00.001-04:00

This is a design for registered nurses. The shirt shown here can be worn by men or women and comes in a range of sizes from small up to 3X.

Click on the shirt and you will see there are many different shirts styles with this design which are listed right below the shirt. You know who would love a shirt like this! Why not grab one now that there is a coupon available right on the web page, too.

We didn't create these designs, but we thought the tees4nurses.com website was very nice.

Lehane

Nurses and Student Nurses

2007-07-19T15:56:00.000-04:00

Here's a colorful design for a nurse's t-shirt. This particular shirt is designed for a woman, but the website also has the same design on a variety of shirt styles, carry bags, a clock, mousepad and much more. Take a look! Grab one for a nurse you know and make a great impression. Click on the shirt here to see all the products with this design.

Nurses ARE good for your health. And we have a shortage of them in the US today. So, doesn't it make sense to befriend your favorite nurse??

Lehane

Nurses, Nursing Students!

2007-07-16T12:40:00.000-04:00

We found this interesting website with many dozens of t-shirts, ornaments and other great casual wear for nurses and nursing students. TEES4NURSES.com is created from the artwork of many artists. The range of shirt styles is vast, from the hooded sweatshirt and the t-shirt to scoop neck styles.

If you know a nurse or an aspiring nurse this is a great place to look for a gift. If you want something unique, think about using one of these hung around a wine bottle or from a lamp!

Commodore Lehane

Military Wives, Sons, Moms, Dads and More

2007-06-12T21:57:00.000-04:00

Carrying around your love for someone far away in the military is difficult. Those Moms, Dads, Sons, Daughters, Babies, Girlfriends and Sweethearts are not easy to recognize. They are you and me and the people across the street.

But wait! We found thousands of caps, mugs, t-shirts and other gear designed just for the army moms, the navy daughters, the marine wife, and more. All the products are customized for the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine family. You can find something for yourself, a family member or friend at SUPPORT4MILITARY.CO M. Many of the designs were created by military families, too!

Commodore Lehane

Your Presidential Candidate?

2007-06-12T21:46:00.000-04:00

Have you settled on a candidate for the 2008 presidential election? Are you showing your support for that person with a t-shirt, cap, bumper sticker, or something else?

If your candidate is one of the top 5 democrats or top 5 republicans, you are in luck. You can find all sorts of great designs and products at CANDIDATESTUFF.COM there is a huge a range of products and designs to choose from if you support Al Gore, Hillary Clinton, Mitt Romney, Barack Obama, Rudy Giuliani, John McCain, Chuck Hagel, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, or Fred Thompson.

Commodore Lehane

Sunset Sails

2007-05-15T11:56:00.000-04:00

Simplicity and sunshine as well as sails. What could be more summery than an image of sails at sunset on a great t-shirt. You can check out this design and try it on a variety of shirt styles and colors. There is bound to be one that is just what you want! These also make good gifts for Father's Day!

If you want to see more of this artistic series, Click here. Remember to view the images enlarged, click on a product and then click the tab called "detailed images." This will give you a good idea of the artistry in the design.

Commodore Lehane

New artistic designs

2007-04-24T21:53:00.000-04:00

Here's something very new and attractive, too. This design is one of a group of artistic designs which are actual works of art. This design is also interesting in that you can see it and try it with different color shirts, right on your computer screen. We think the navy shirt looks best, what do you think?

If you want to see more of this artistic series, Click here. Remember to view the images enlarged, click on a product and then click the tab called "detailed images." This will give you a good idea of the artistry in the design.

Commodore Lehane

See many new summer designs

2007-04-24T21:37:00.000-04:00

We have been creating some great new designs for spring and summer. Whether you like rainbow fish, kayaks, anchors, scuba diving, canoes, windsurfers or cool palm trees—whatever your favorite design, we have it in unique colors on dark and light shirts as well as hats, bags and some keepsakes. Check out a design online! This windsurfer shirt is especially popular, in fact we think people purchase it as a conversation starter. It is very colorful and available in size from infant to plus size.

Commodore Lehane

Mommy's an Easter Chick

2007-03-30T20:41:00.000-04:00

This cute Easter shirt with a picture of a baby chick and colorful Easter egg is perfect for Easter for those with a sense of humor. Is your Mommy an Easter Chick? What IS an Easter Chick?

Easter eggs, chicks, and mommies are part of many of our memories. And my mom WAS an Easter chick. She was born right around Easter.

If Mommy's an Easter chick — what does that make me??

Commodore Lehane

I'm Cute as a Bunny!

2007-03-19T10:25:00.001-04:00

Admit it, someone you know is "cute as a bunny." It could be grandma, grandpa, baby, a pal, or perhaps yourself!

Here is the perfect t-shirt for that cutie! We have t-shirts for infants, kids, adults and also plus sizes. You are bound to find a shirt with just the right look. Take a look all the colors and types of shirts with this design by clicking on the title of this entry.

More Easter fun t-shirts Don't miss the "Easter Chick!"

Commodore Lehane

Seashells for Spring!

2007-03-19T10:02:00.000-04:00

Spring is a great time to perk up that summer t-shirt wardrobe with a few new ideas! We created a wonderful glowing aqua nautilus shell design for t-shirts from infant to plus size--kids' size shown here. To see them all click on the title of this entry.

Whether your taste in t-shirts are for the light colors or the dark blues and black, this design will make you stand out. Grab on today and get your spring wardrobe started!

Commodore Lehane

Easter Bunnies, Eggs, Lot of Fun

2007-03-12T09:25:00.000-04:00

Just because a design uses "traditional" elements does not mean it can't be cute! Take this Easter chicken and egg design on our t-shirts and keepsakes ... it is cute enough and yet the chicken and the egg are traditional symbols of Easter signifying renewal and new beginnings. We put this design on all kinds of t-shirts from infant size to adult. There is sure to be one to fit your Easter Bunny!

Not sure if this is the right look for you? TRY THESE! It is not too early to think about your Easter t-shirt finery!

Commodore Lehane

Best Selling St. Patrick's Day Design

2007-03-02T11:12:00.000-05:00

What is the best selling of my St. Patrick's Day designs? Check out the title/link above -- "Daddy is a leprechaun and so am I" that is the best seller. There are also a few pictures further down in this blog.

Several people have purchased more than one of these, as if they are outfitting a group or family. There have even been a few sales to individuals in Ireland, so that is a pretty good seal of approval as far as I am concerned!

All my design for shirts, hats, and other keepsakes for St. Patrick's Day try to convey the magic of the Irish spirit and avoid stereotypes of spirits from the bottle!

See all the designs!

Commodore Lehane

Presidential Candidates?!?

2007-02-20T14:59:00.000-05:00

Sure, the presidential election is way off in the future. But the primaries are moving closer and closer. Is it time to promote your candidate? After all, they might not be around this time next year!

We pulled together a custom set of candidate hats for each of these folks: Al Gore, Hillary Clinton, Mitt Romney, Dick Cheney, Barack Obama, Rudy Giuliani, John McCain and Bill Richardson. If your choice is listed here, why not get a cap and announce it to the world or use it as a conversation piece. The selections are from many different artists and there is surely something in the right candidate and the right design for all tastes!

Commodore Lehane

Chase the Winter Away!

2007-02-08T09:37:00.002-05:00

So winter is getting a little bit weary now?...We all remember asking for a touch of snow and cold but enough is enough!

One sure way to chase away winter is to think of the warm weather. That could be summer, easter, sunsets, or whatever makes you happy! Now, to hold that happy-warm thought how about a t-shirt or other item imprinted with an image to help hold that idea! Check out the CommodoresLocker.com for a good place to start brightening your wardrobe and disposition!

Commodore Lehane

Easter Is Time for the Bunny and Chocolate

2007-01-27T16:09:00.000-05:00

From Easter bunnies to chocolate and chickens, the religious symbols of Easter often are celebrated as if they are as important as Easter itself.

This cute Easter chicken and the decorated Easter egg are symbolic or rebirth, renewal, new starts and hope. Who wouldn't want to celebrate those things!! And Easter is the religious source of such positive ideas.

This Easter you can promote positive and hopeful thoughts and also look very tuned in to the season with one of these Easter shirts.

Commodore Lehane

Bust Out the Shamrocks

2007-01-20T14:31:00.000-05:00

One of the reasons people enjoy celebrating St. Patrick's Day is that it is a signal that spring is coming and winter is soon to be a memory. It is no coincidence that green is the color associated with St. Patrick's Day! Or that we also refer to the day as a time of "wearin' of the green."

So come celebrate the coming of spring, the wearing of the green, and St. Patrick's day with this shamrock adorned SHIRT. We also have matching HATS, MAGNETS and OTHER KEEPSAKES with this earthy shamrock design. If you prefer another kind or color of shirt with this design, CHECK THIS OUT.

"Designated" Leprechaun

2007-01-20T14:03:00.001-05:00

It is not too early to find that "designated" leprechaun for your St. Patrick's Day festivities. Bestowing this shirt on someone invokes their inner leprechaun and makes them officially a designated leprechaun for as long as they wear the shirt!

A designated leprechaun can be a designated driver, a designated mischief maker, a designated pal or party goer. We do know that everyone loves knowing there is a little bit of leprechaun in their bones! So grab one of these nifty leprechaun SHIRTS or a designated leprechaun KEEPSAKE for yourself or a special someone who needs to be officially designated for St. Patrick's Day. It is not too early to begin the planning!

Commodore Lehane (Leprechaun)

Daddy Is a Leprechaun

2007-01-16T10:04:00.000-05:00

Everyone loves knowing there is a little bit of leprechaun in their bones! How else can we explain some of the behavior that we exhibit but cannot explain.

After years of research we have found one explanation for unreasonable behavior! And the answer is simply that "Daddy's a leprechaun and I am too." With this excuse it seems anything is possible. The Commodore's research staff has discovered there is a genetic aspect to behavior that can be traced back to leprechaun genes which appear in the DNA of those afflicted with leprechaun syndrome. One key finding of recent studies is that the leprechaun gene appears in all nationalities and ethnic groups currently on earth.

We await St. Patrick's day and the wearin' of the green this year with our new-found knowledge proclaiming that "Daddy is a leprechaun and I am too!" join in the fun and celebrate your leprechaun genes this St. Patrick's day by snatching up a SHIRT or KEEPSAKE proclaiming your green leprechaun heritage.

Commodore Lehane (Leprechaun)

Valentine's & St. Patrick's Day Coming!

2007-01-10T13:56:00.000-05:00

The is no need to feel overwhelmed with desolation just because it is winter, the leaves are gone from the trees, the singing birds have departed, your vehicle is filthy. Cheer yourself up with a nifty new t-shirt for Valentine's Day or for St. Patrick's Day! And while you are at it, get one for your favorite sweetheart ofr leprechaun, too! These bright shirts, caps, totes and other gift items will bring smiles to everyone who sees them.

Heart and warm sayings adorn the Valentine's items, while shamrocks, leprechauns, pots of gold and loads of blarney make St. Patrick's Day a celebration for Irish and non-Irish everywhere. Celebrate your settie or celebrate your roots in Ireland or the contributions the Irish have made to our world by "wearin' of the green" -- but do take time to enjoy yourself!

Yes, it is true that gramps used to say he and his pals took a few non-Irish folks to city hall on St. Patrick's Day. Supposedly they became honorary Irish with a swish of green paint added to their posteriors! These days we can do all that with a t-shirt, how nice!

Commodore Lehane

Surprise Best Seller, "Do the Needful" Mousepad

2006-12-08T16:02:00.000-05:00

There is often a big surprise when something unexpected sells well. And this year is no exception to that! We were asked to create a mug with the saying "Do the Needful" for a workgroup whose jobs are slowing bleeding to another unnamed country. This fun mug was a rallying point for those workers and added a bit of fun to their shakey job prospects.

They bought some mugs. Other people saw the mugs online and asked for mousepads with the same phrase. We made mousepads. Then t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, tote bags and heck, even baby bibs and outfits.

There are serious "Do the Needful" designs and humorous ones. Some are silly and colorful like this one and others are sedate. But "Do the Needful" is striking a note with people from many different places and this is an indication of what is on the minds of many people at their workplaces.

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: do the needful, Commodores Locker, mousepad, mug, do the needful baby outfit, CafePress

Baby, infant and toddler gift ideas

2006-12-05T13:30:00.000-05:00

Is there any easy way to buy a holiday gift for a baby? What if the baby is the neighbor, a boss's kid, the extended-family toddler? One way to get that child to start looking "cool" is to give a colorful bib and matching t-shirt or creeper! Colorful toys, sailboats, windsurfers, and lighthouses are not your typical baby designs! But they will bring smiles all who see them on that little one. The t-shirts and one-piece outfits come in white, blue or pink. The Only think you need to know is that pink is for girls and blue is for boys. But you already knew that!

Of course you can browse our products and find other designs for baby gear, too. How about a "Do the Needful" t-shirt for baby?? Isn't that perfect?!?!
Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: baby bib, Commodores Locker, baby t-shirt, baby gift, baby outfit, CafePress

Shopping Places and Ideas

2006-11-30T10:28:00.000-05:00

There is still time to beat the rush and worry about shipping online purchases for the holidays. Here are some ideas for you weary shoppers.

For small items you can use for most anyone, check out Edgewater Gallery -- it is a site with nautical themed items like cards, small note books, posters and more. Many artists and photographers are featured and all were selected by Commodore Lehane for their great nautical artwork which covers several media. Who wouldn't like a sunset image or lighthouse picture on cards or a notebook??

For an upscale gift for home or office consider a custom framed print. You can select an image of a favorite place or pastime or perhaps something more abstract. The Commodore's own gallery is one place to start. This very cool site lets you choose mats and frames and see the actual result before you order. How cool is that for a very personal gift!!

Need something for that hard-to-buy-for Aunt? Check out the floral designs which include flowers on mugs, pillows, gift boxes, cards, carry bags, etc. She'll think you were so thoughtful!!

So those were the easy ones! What do you get a baby? An inlaw, a relative, the neighbor kid, or the child of the boss? We've got you covered there, too! How about a very cool infant or toddler t-shirt?!? Baby shirts can be cute or serious and they can also be pink, blue or white. So perhaps a few of these onhand will glide you safely through the holidays as long as you keep pink for the gals and blue for the little dudes! Or, buy white and be safe no matter what!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: gift ideas, Commodores Locker, baby t-shirts, custom framed print, floral gift, CafePress

Merry! Merry? Merry . . .

2006-11-17T11:03:00.000-05:00

Merry Merry Merry!
These cool cards have a blank inside and so can be used for whatever holiday or special time you wish! They have served at holiday party invitations, too! The photogenic hippo is retired and lives, of course, in Florida. Show your unique attitude about the holidays in jest or in sincerity. No one will ever know the actual point you intend! Perfect? Many would agree!

Of course all of our images are available on a many types of shirts, some hats, mugs, ceramics, magnets, cards and more!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: holiday card, Commodores Locker, hippo, merry, silly card, CafePress

Boston's Aura, Future City

2006-10-28T13:55:00.000-04:00

Eerie and yet familiar buildings puncture the bubbling sky in this futuristic image depicting Boston. The buildings are familiar and yet different. The sky is a combination of swirling winds and menacing clouds. Is this the current or future Boston? Is it just the aura of the city? Who knows. We love the stark crisp lines of the buildings in contrast with the prominent hefty clouds. Who knew Boston' waterfront could be the stuff of science fiction!

This image is available with hundreds of mat and frame combinations in a range of sizes and print media. If you love art, check this out!

Commodore Lehane
Technorati Tages: Boston, sky, seascape art, Edgewater Gallery.Imagekind.com, waterfront, harbor, edgewatergallery.com

Sunset in the City

2006-10-28T13:38:00.000-04:00

Sweeping bold strokes of sunset contrast with the solid shapes of the city at twilight. Boston's distinctive waterfront was a perfect setting for this image. The artwork began with a photograph of a marvelous sunset and then computer art tools were used to smooth and create a paint-like effect in the sky. We love the contrast between the freeform and colorful sky and the dark and structured look of the buildings. The original photograph was taken from a boat in Boston harbor at 7:30 pm on a July night.

Click on the print to try it with hundreds of different mats and frames. Or you can purchase it as a print or even have it printed on canvas. Any way you want, we know you will enjoy "Sunset in the City."

Commodore Lehane
Technorati Tages: Boston, sunset, seascape art, Edgewater Gallery.Imagekind.com, waterfront, harbor, CafePress

Nubble Light

2006-10-28T10:54:00.000-04:00

Here's one example of how photography and computer art can work together to create a wonderful framed print. The frame and mat contribute to the sense of enduring steadfastness witnessed by the lighthouse at Cape Neddick in Maine. The image began as a photograph and was enhanced to stress the ruggedness of the rocks and the simplicity of the lighthouse itself. There is an aura of Americana about this print which seems to have aspects of pen and ink and paint in its heritage.

Click on the print to try it with hundreds of different mats and frames. Or you can purchase it as a print or even have it printed on canvas. Any way you want, we know you will enjoy Nubble Light! Everyone loves lighthouses and lighthouse prints make fantastic gifts!

Commodore Lehane
Technorati Tages: Nubble Light, Cape Neddick, lighthouse art, Edgewater Gallery.Imagekind.com, seascape, harbor, CafePress

The Perfect Print!

2006-10-24T14:34:00.000-04:00

So you LOVE those nautical prints of ours...but the frames are not exactly your idea of beauty. Well, the commodore can help you there, too.

Many of our photo-artwork pieces are available through EdgewaterGallery on Imagekind.com. At this fantastic website you can pick you artwork and crop it if you like. You can then experiment with various mats colors and framing options until you are sure to find the perfect combination for your decor!

Take a stroll over to our virtual galleries and experiment with artwork size, cropping, frame and matting options. If you like art, you will be amazed with the creations you can make on EdgwaterGallery at Imagekind.

For posters, prints, journals, gift boxes and cards, please look at Edgewater Gallery.com

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: lighthouse prints, Edgewater Gallery, harbor,
seascapes, skyline, tall ship, CafePress

Edgewater Gallery

2006-10-13T16:03:00.000-04:00

Fall is a time to think of planning holiday gifts and perhaps putting away t-shirts if you live in a cold place. So what can you do for a nautical fix when the boats are being hauled out, the boating adventures curtailed, and those cool t-shirts put away?

We have searched for visually stunning images from a variety of artists and limited their products to prints, posters, cards, wooden gift boxes and small writing tablets. The result is a a wonderful assortment of eyeball treats! And a great place to look for special holiday gifts for special people -- including yourself!

Visit Edgewater Gallery and you are sure to find something to smile about. http://www.edgewatergallery.com

Oh, do you want more choices in framing and matting and custom sizes? Well check this out http://www.edgewatergallery.imagekind.com

Commodore Lehane
Technorati Tages: lighthouse prints, Edgewater Gallery, schooner,
seascape posters, gift box, wooden box, CafePress

Schooner by the Sea

2006-10-03T15:48:00.000-04:00

Graceful schooners are symbols of our seafaring heritage. How many of our ancestors arrived on schooners? How many labored to unload the freight carried in these hulls? This grand schooner is Ernestina and she is over a hundred years old. After an amazing career covering fishing, research, immigration, and education -- she now graces the port of New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Of course all of our images are available on a many types of shirts, some hats, mugs, ceramics, magnets, cards and more!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: schooner, Commodores Locker, tall ship, Ernestina, gift, New Bedford, CafePress

Hang on to Summer Memories!!

2006-07-26T14:23:00.000-04:00

Now is the perfect time to time about storing those precious summer magical moments! Our memory boxes are just the thing to store favorite photos, mementos, shells, and other special keepsake treasures. The laquered alderwood box is 5.25 inches square and slightly more than 2 inches high. An imprinted ceramic tile is set in the hinged lid. The ceramic inset's incredible glossy detail makes it a work of art itself! There is no better place to store those personal treasures! Your only problem is selecting just one! Oh! What a wonderfully unique gift idea! Click on the boxes shown here and choose to browse "tile boxes."

Of course all of our artwork is available on a many types of shirts, some hats, mugs, ceramics, magnets and more!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: keepsake, Commodores Locker, memory box, ceramic tile, gift box, wooden box, CafePress

New Summer T-Shirt Designs from Commodore's Locker

2006-06-12T10:49:00.000-04:00

Are you ready for bright, simple and colorful t-shirts? It must be summer! Getting ready for summer is fun! The Commodore thinks of summer as a time for lots of bright colors and happy, carefree designs! So a whole new series of fantastic fish and seashells in striking colors has been created to capture the feeling of summer. So, if you are ready for simple and colorful images, take a look at these new items and you may just find something to make your summer brighter!

Of course all of our designs are available on a many types of shirts, some hats, mugs, ceramics, magnets and more!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: rainbow, Commodores Locker, t-shirts, fish, seashell, gifts, CafePress

Lastest thing

2006-05-26T12:16:00.000-04:00

The Commodore has been asea lately, in a haze of work, but Commodore's Locker has a new item today which is a variation on the popular "Commodore sayings" -- in the light of the news of phone companies and government spying, "Don't Spy on Me!" is something we can all relate to and proclaim loudly.

Of course all of our designs are available on a many types of shirts, some hats, mugs, ceramics, magnets and more!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: spy, Commodores Locker, t-shirts, don't spy on me!

EarthyPhoto and CommodoresLocker updated!

2006-05-12T10:12:00.000-04:00

In the past few days Commodore's Locker and Earthy Photo have been updated. Some images have been modified and text descriptions added to each one so they can be easily found by search engines! Have you looked for gifts for grads, moms, dads, birthday celebrants and for yourself?? Check out all the goodies we have online!

Oh, take a look at the "Vote for Me" check mark in the left column...we'd love it if you clicked over there and voted for our stuff!

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages: Earthy Photo, Commodores Locker, t-shirts, gifts

Updates all around!

2006-05-05T14:27:00.000-04:00

We have some new images online at Commodore's Locker and also at Earthy Photo. This hip hippo is one of the new images now available on t-shirts, aprons, tote bags, hats and more.

Commodore Lehane

Technorati Tages:
hippo, Commodores Locker, EarthyPhoto, t-shirt

EarthyPhoto is now online

2006-05-02T14:35:00.000-04:00

Check out these beauties!

EarthyPhoto is now online and features images from the natural world: trees, flowers, birds and critters. These images are imprinted on t-shirts, mugs, aprons, hats, bags, and all sorts of interesting items which are perfect for gift-giving.

All of the images we use are based on our photos—some have been altered to make an interesting graphic. If you are looking for a special gift, something from this collection is sure to be just right! To make gift selection easier, we have some items grouped in sets—pick two items with the same design and your gift looks spectacular!!

Commodore

Technorati Tages: azalea, flowers, Great Blue Heron, Pelican

Don't Ask, Don't SMELL!!, e-r-r- TELL!

2006-04-24T12:09:00.000-04:00

Spring is the perfect time to dust off the funny bone and add some humor to your world. How about the image of an old fisherman with the saying: "Don't Ask...Don't Smell..." Wear it if you dare--shirt! Check out our magnets, ceramincs, mugs, bags and other cool stuff, too!

Join the ranks of those who make a statement with humor and a touch of attitude! Are you a person who enjoys fishing, hates the smells, or do you just want to head off any odors...say it with one of the Commodore's shirts. And if you have a favorite saying that the Commodore may like, we can probably put it on an item for you.

We have "Don't Ask Don"t Tell" as well as "Don't Ask Don't Smell" and several other funny nautical phrases.

Commodore

Technorati Tages: humor, nautical, Don't Ask

Say it if you mean it!

2006-04-21T11:01:00.000-04:00

Are you tired of beling pushed around at the BBQ or the kitchen or by life itself!! Here's the "Say it if you mean it apron!" We have more than aprons, too!

The Commodore embodies the spirit of weather-beaten survival tempered with a sense of humor and a touch of attitude! With a few cracks and dents, like all of us, this character shouts loudly, "Why? because I said so . . ." Do you dare to wear this image on an apron or t-shirt?? If you are a person who loves to fish but hates those followup questions, you may appreciate the Commodore's words" "It didn't get away, I released it!!" Check the sayings of the Commodore now available on aprons, magnets, t-shirts and buttons!! And if you have a favorite saying that the Commodore may like, we can probably put it on an item for you.

Commodore

Technorati Tages: humor, nautical, BBQ Aprons, Shirts

Older, Faster, Prettier -- The Old Fore River Bridge

2006-04-13T11:49:00.000-04:00

Now that the old Fore River Bridge is gone and the new one is diligently working to make bigger traffic lines than ever. Perhaps some humor can help us endure those long waiting periods while the huge chains crank up the bridge roadway. If you have a sense of humor and a bit of nostalgia, as do I, you may like this t-shirt! To see it larger or view other Fore River Bridge items, Click here.

In the interest of full disclosure, you should know the earliest plaything I remember was a model of the Fore River Bridge! And, more importantly, my father, Bernard McCourt, was one of the bridge operators for four decades! From bridge operators, sea captains and crews, there is more than a bit of salt in these veins!

Commodore

Technorati Tages: Fore River Bridge, McCourt, Bridge

Coming soon . . .

2006-03-31T10:47:00.000-05:00

Now that the images in CommodoresLocker.com are spanning nautical themes and "natural world" themes like flowers, trees, and critters it seems appropriate that the two sections should be divided to become two unique shopping places. Watch for details coming soon!

Commodore

New Images in Nautical Series

2006-03-29T09:49:00.000-05:00

New images in the NAUTICAL SERIES include: Schooner Ernestina, Butler Flats lighthouse, Old Scituate Lighthouse, Nauset Light, Nobska Light, Palmer Island Light, Massachusetts Lighthouses, Great Hill, Fishing Shack, Palms, Sunset Boating, Dinghies, Marblehead Light, Waves and Ned's Point Light.

Commodore

Technorati Tages: Lighthouse, nautical, Ocean

New Images, Natural World Series

2006-03-29T09:46:00.000-05:00

New images in the NATURAL WORLD SERIES section include: Spring in the Woods, Cranberry Harvest, Mums, Woodland Flowers, Lady Slippers, Azalea, Wildflowers.

Commodore

Technorati Tages: azalea, flowers, Lady Slipper

update: additions, changes, reorganization

2006-03-27T08:53:00.000-05:00

CommodoresLocker.com has some new images and products added this weekend!

New images include several florals displayed in grouped sets of items. Mugs, mousepads, aprons, clocks and light-switch plates are now available. See here for new floral images and products.

The new arrangement of grouping— one design/image per line of item—really seemed nice to me! I was not happy with the arrangement of shirts, tiles, hats, etc. all thrown on one page!

So many hours were spent also setting up nautical items in similar groupings of 4 per line. The new nautical groupings include the "seascapes" and "lighthouses" themes. More will follow! New products, new images, new pages to see it all! Mugs are now part of the nautical designs, too. More images will be reorganized this way soon and additional images will be added.

"Subscribe" on the left, to keep automatically informed of the newest information and coupons!

Commodore

stats

2006-03-23T11:57:00.000-05:00

Is google working?? Of the last 40 recent visitors to one of my image pages, 10 came from Google adwords and 24 are from "unknown" -- so Google is bring people in. Now the challenge is to get them to buy...

Commodore

Sorting it all out....

2006-03-23T11:15:00.000-05:00

There are many different items from CafePress on which images can be placed. Some items just do not appeal to me or fit with the particular images I use.

But I do find the images work well on ceramics and shirts and probably also on prints. So far I have not created any prints with CafePress since it seems to me that they do not belong in the same grouping as t-shirts. I'm pondering either a new section in the online CommodoresLocker.com or a new store for prints, ceramics and cards.

Commodore

Google, MY Google!

2006-03-16T15:26:00.000-05:00

Wondering how to get people to see www.CommodoresLocker.com , I decided to take a small group of images which are quite location-specific and historic and purchase some adwords ads from Google relating to them. This is always frightening, the wrong settings and you could be paying a fortune!! One of my recent keywords for another project was generating 10,000 clicks a month!! Fortunately I had an online budget which saved me hundreds of dollars! In the last few days about half my visitors are coming from Google's adwords. Now I just have to get them to purchase something . . .

Getting traffic

2006-03-10T09:11:00.000-05:00

Getting traffic to come to MY online store is not easy. Swapping links and joining groups of others selling similar items does help everyone get traffic but also to compete for the same buying dollars. And when presented with dozens of people selling hundreds of designs on multiple kinds of items, who wouldn't get overwhelmed...

A niche, that seems like a good idea. Focus on one audience type and products for them. Then go find those people. A lot to consider here but I do have some ideas which remain top secret at the moment!

Commodore

Marketing on the web

2006-03-09T09:38:00.000-05:00

The online store is neither complete nor exactly as I wish — but the marketing of the it has begun in earnest. Google AdWords is being used to send searchers for certain terms to part of the online shop. This blog is listed with a few "blog tracking" services. The actual online store has a counter so traffic can be monitored and results attributed to specific sources.

Question of the day: why do we reach knowledge plateaus, remain there for weeks or months and then get hurled into a sea of unknowns requiring intense learning? Hmmm

Commodore

Using images on items

2006-03-08T22:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some items created with the CafePress system: shirts, a wooden box with printed ceramic tile insert and great-looking cards. All these items use the bridge image and all are remarkably clear. People who have purchased the ceramic tile, either alone or on a box, always remark at the clarity of the imprint. These are just a few of the items available. If you look at www.ForeRiver Bridge.com . you will see plenty of other items with large, clear previews. If you know anyone from the south of Boston they wold love an image of this wonderful landmark which no longer stands.

Commodore

Fore River Bridge

2006-03-08T21:50:00.000-05:00

Here she is! And what a story to tell. This little drawer bridge connected Quincy and Weymouth, Massachusetts from 1934 until it was replaced with a temporary bridge in 2004. Just beyond the bridge was the Fore River Shipyard which began in 1884 and grew to be the second-largest shipyard in the US. The "yard" constructed hundreds of ships from freighters and sailing ships to aircraft carriers and tankers. All passed under the open bridge, some with very little clearance. The location of the bridge—which itself had replaced an earlier bridge—on busy Route 3A south of Boston made it very well known to people headed to Nantasket or Cape Cod. Nearly every driver south of Boston has been detained for a bridge opening for an oil tanker or a tall sailboat! This picture was taken from the "Weymouth side" near the old Edison building — long a little park and fishing area but closed many years ago for removal of the old Edison building.

Commodore

Technorati Tages: drawer bridge, Fore River Bridge, shipyard

Looking good, what is it??

2006-03-08T21:11:00.000-05:00

Now that there is an online store the next thing is to get people to see it. And when they see it they should find it interesting and worthwhile. CafePress provides many details and templates so you can design your images in the correct proportions or adjust them to be right. But you don't have to do it. You can have a square image automatically plopped on every type of merchandise, even circular items. Or you can put a square image on a rectangular product with the result of some extra white space on one side.

These type things make for a terrible impression, thankfully customers see a very good representation of what it is they are purchasing. Well, that is my opinion. I have lots of opinions.

I organized my store with all the items I would like to sell with a particular image on one page, or in one section. Now I think it would have been better to show one item with many images on it on each page. So there may be a lot of reorganizing to be done. Oh, yes, the software does let you do those kind of things! Thankfully. But you need to be careful not to delete something by mistake.

One of the first images I put online is the oldest in my collection. See www.ForeRiver Bridge.com . More on that shortly!

Commodore

Are you interested?

2006-03-08T21:04:00.000-05:00

Would you like to see what I have done with www.CommodoresLocker.com ?? Use the coupon code in the left column for a nice little discount!

Commodore

Starting up with CafePress

2006-03-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

Cafepress seemed like something too good to be true. And what I am saying is intended for those who seriously want to work with it. I had a difficult time getting started with the system--ok, climbng the learning curve. On the one hand I had my images and on the other hand I had the printed dimensional specs (in pixels) required for each item that can be ordered from CafePress. So, for instance, my photo of a bridge was rectangular but needed to be square for certain items. For other items I needed rectangluar or round images. I dutifully perfected the dimensions for several items with a couple of my images. Phew!!

Now to get this info into CafePress. There were many error messages when trying to upload.I learned to ignore most of them. Some naming convention was needed so I could remember what image was what and in which size.

Hmmm...now was this "section" stuff I read about in all the message groups? It took me a while to figure out it was a "page' which could hold whatever I wanted—a group of items with one image, several different images on one kind of item, or more. Once the structure was figured out it was very easy to work with. After uploading and creating many items, shortcuts were found. Dozens of items later more shortcuts became very obvious. And the www.CommodoresLocker.com — with nautical and lighthouse gifts and gear was a reality.

Commodore

Technorati Tages: lighthouse, nautical, T-Shirts

In the beginning ...

2006-03-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

Photos and camera have always been important to me. Using a camera trains the eye to look at the world in a new and wonderful way. When showing my photos to others they frequently have asked for prints and often I see several of my images nicely framed and hanging in people's homes.

Images of oceans, canals, skylines, cityscapes as well as all manner of ships and boats are most fascinating to me. And I wanted to put those images on items that people could use or wear.

After a few attempts at printing shirt transfers and applying them to shirts with an expensive heat press I was discouaged. This was after months of extensive research and reading and the purchase of approximately 30 dozen cotton shirts of various colors and sizes. However, the technology for printing as I wanted on fabric demanded white polyester and those shirts were too hot to wear. Then the thought of inventory and sizes and storage made the whole concept of selling images on shirts fade from my horizon. There were "transfers" which consisted of a layer of plastic adhered to shirts, I could have used those. They could be used on any color shirt but wearing a plastic patch on a shirt did not work well with my image of what I wanted to create or wear. I wouldn't sell something I wouldn't wear.

Time passed. My barely used, and probably retired, heat press moved hundred of miles with me and it was time for new distractions. Technology marched on. Recently I once again check out a service called CafePress (see www.CommodoresLocker.com ) and not only did they have new technology and printing processes, they also manage inventory, printing and shipping for people and business just like me.

Commodore