mercurius

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

Watercolour print on a large quality paper card.

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

There is something magical about a chalkboard drawing.  Because of the black background, you not only apply color when you start drawing, but also light.  Chalk as a material is vulnerable but also very flexible, you can make quick impressions with it, but you can also work with it in detail.  The board drawings are transient, and eventually become again.  However, this also creates space for a new drawing.

Geertje uses Mercurius chalkboard chalk for all her chalkboard drawings

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Print of a chalkboard drawing on a large quality paper card.

Printed in the Netherlands.

These scissors are TOP quality, stainless steel with adjustable screw.  They do not bend or break with normal use.

Stainless steel, length: 13 cm (5 inches).  Sharp tip.

Made in the European Union.

This is a high quality compass with automatic adjustment lever and jointed legs.  Fast estimated adjustment is made by adjusting a lever found on either side of the leg.  Finer adjustment is made by using the strong center spindle.

The extension bar can be attached to allow for circles up to 600 mm in diameter.  The pencil adapter also takes pencils, coloured leads or Indian ink refills up to 11 mm in diameter.  Comes ready to go loaded with 1 lead, and with a small plastic vial with 2 spare leads.

This compass would be appropriate for an older child studying geometry, a teenager or an adult.

Made in Germany.

Red Anemone Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

The Red Anemone postcard looks beautiful in a frame. The striking and bold colours are joyful and moving.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Red Easter Egg Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl.

Delightful for display in the home or to send in the post.

10.7 x 15 cm

This is our 'preferred' sharpener with canister for pencil shavings.  It's durable and contains shavings neatly.  This sharpener is suitable for safe sharpening both thick and thin (colour) pencils with a triangular and hexagonal shape.  For pencils with diameter up to 0.39 inches.

Made in Germany.

A Rockerboard is a curved beech wood board intended for equilibrium and balance exercises.

We have durable Rockerboards that are suitable for children from 3 years old for balance standing, with the convex side of the board facing down.

The “Moon” model is also suitable for balancing with the convex side up (the other direction), however these specific exercises are intended for children from 6 years of age.

The boards invite multiple forms of play and use.

Adult supervision is necessary.

Made entirely of beechwood.

This paper can be used for drawing or folding, as well as many craft projects.

250 sheets. Heavy weight, 140 gsm. 10 assorted colours.

• Extra-Small: 10 cm diameter
• Small: 12 cm (4.72") diameter
• Medium: 16 cm (6.3 inch) diameter
• Large: 20 cm (7.87") diameter

Made in the EU.

This thin paper can be used for drawing as well as many craft projects.

500 sheets. Heavy weight, 60 gsm. 10 assorted colours.

• Extra-Small: 10 cm diameter
• Small: 12 cm (4.72") diameter
• Medium: 16 cm (6.3 inch) diameter
• Large: 20 cm (7.87") diameter

Made in the EU.

Using this loom with a diameter of 22 cm (8.66 inch), even young children can play to their hearts' content and easily master the ancient craft of weaving.  Suitable for children aged 4 and up.  Includes a needle, 52 mm (20.47 inch).

One would be surprised at the number of possibilities for handwork with a simple weaving loom such as this.

Lime (otherwise known as basswood) from Europe.  22 cm diameter.

A variety of threads and yarns may work with such a loom.  May we suggest a very thick thread or string, or embroidery floss for the weft (structure that forms the radii of the loom), and then one may also mix threads and yarns of varying textures and thicknesses even in the circular weaving work.

Made in Germany.

Sailing with my Boat Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

The Sailing with my Boat postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood. And a little inspiration for this special activity that we hope for children to experience.

A boat on a stick with a rope can help ensure your boat doesn't get away from you in a little river with a current, or maybe you might sail it in just a little or big puddle in your backyard or neighbourhood.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

In the words of the artist: "A chalkboard drawing of Martinus of Tours , also known as Saint Maarten.  According to tradition, as a young Roman soldier, he found a numb beggar at the city gate of Amiens.  He gave him half of his cloak; the other half belonged to Rome and he couldn't give away.  At night he dreamed that Jesus was wearing half of his cloak and he converted to Christianity.  Later he became bishop of Tours.

Annual celebration of Sint Maarten
In the kindergarten classes, we walk with our youngest children with beautiful lanterns made of natural materials on a magical walk, singing songs and keeping the candle burning.  The end is characterized by a tableau vivant performed by the highest grade class, especially performed for the toddlers.

These two elements together, the giving and sharing of the cloak and the magical lights of our youngest I have combined in this plate drawing.

A symbol of giving and receiving.  But also not giving everything away and taking care of ourselves in the same way; we can only give away what we have as surplus."

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

There is something magical about a chalkboard drawing.  Because of the black background, you not only apply color when you start drawing, but also light.  Chalk as a material is vulnerable but also very flexible, you can make quick impressions with it, but you can also work with it in detail.  The board drawings are transient, and eventually become again.  However, this also creates space for a new drawing.

Geertje uses Mercurius chalkboard chalk for all her chalkboard drawings

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Print of a chalkboard drawing on a large quality paper card.

Printed in the Netherlands.

A small compass with an adjustable leg, rounded lead insert and solid needle tip.  The compass comes in a plastic molded case which contains a lead holder.

Steel, circular arc diameter approx. 360 mm max., with spare leads.

Made in the EU.

This sharpener is suitable for the triangular Mercurius, Yorik and Lyra pencils and for Stockmar and other brand of wax crayons.

For this sharpener there are spare blades (item no.: 20590211).  Please contact us for special request for the replacement blades.

Comes in red or blue.

Made in the EU for Mercurius.

Beautiful extra thick bars with a large colour output in an assortment of six bright colours. Due to the thickness and strength of the chalk, it's very durable. Especially suitable for rough surfaces such as paving stones, etc.

Safety Data sheet, tested to conform to European Toy Safety Laws. They do not contain any other raw material but calcium sulphur, water, and colouring pigments, safe for children, and tested to be free of heavy metals and of a purity similar to food stuff.

They do not contain titanium dioxide or asbestos.

Cardboard box, 6 pieces assorted. White, red, yellow, green, blue, and orange.

Made in Europe.

The double-sided coloured cardstock has a beautiful sheen and is perfect for making folding stars.  The strips come in individual sheets or in packs of 24 and are available in gold or silver.

Ships 'slightly rolled'.

Each strip is 65 x 10 cm.

Made in Germany.

For Lyra, Mercurius, and Stockmar colouring pencils, and all (colour) pencils up to 10 mm (0.39 inch) in diameter and for regular pencils.

Made for Mercurius.

Rope jumping is healthy and keeps you fit. And it is also fun, especially if you have the right rope! These skipping ropes are made of the highest quality climbing rope (soft but very strong!) with an ergonomically designed beech wooden lacquered handle. Thanks to a special technology to attach these handles the ropes always turns easily and smoothly.

material: plastic - with beech wooden handle, rope length: 173 cm

Recommended for child of height 95 - 115 cm tall (37 - 45 inches tall). This is typically a 3-5 year old child. Many children are eager to begin learning to skip around 5 or 6 years of age (in junior or senior kindergarten), although it can also happen that others take an interest in grades 1 or 2, at 6 or 7 years old.

Colours may vary.  Please let us know if you have a preference in Notes at checkout.

Made in Germany.

Rope jumping is healthy and keeps you fit. And it is also fun, especially if you have the right rope!  These skipping ropes are made of the highest quality climbing rope (soft but very strong!) with an ergonomically designed beech wooden lacquered handle.  Thanks to a special technology to attach these handles the ropes always turns easily and smoothly.

Material: nylon rope with beech wooden handle, rope length: 198 cm

Recommended for child of height 115 - 135 cm tall (45 - 53 inches tall).

Colours may vary.  Please let us know if you have a preference in Notes at checkout.

Made in Germany.

Rope jumping is healthy and keeps you fit. And it is also fun, especially if you have the right rope! These skipping ropes are made of the highest quality climbing rope (soft but very strong!) with an ergonomically designed beech wooden lacquered handle. Thanks to a special technology to attach these handles the ropes always turns easily and smoothly.

Material: nylon rope with beech wooden handles, rope length: 239 cm

Recommended for child of height 135 - 155 cm tall (53 - 61 inches tall).

Colours may vary.  Please let us know if you have a preference in Notes at checkout.

Made in Germany.

Rope jumping is healthy and keeps you fit. And it is also fun, especially if you have the right rope! These skipping ropes are made of the highest quality climbing rope (soft but very strong!) with an ergonomically designed beech wooden lacquered handle. Thanks to a special technology to attach these handles the ropes always turns easily and smoothly.

High quality, robust for classroom use. Stands up to many years of play.

This rope is extra long for group activities. Two people can hold a handle each and another person can skip in the middle.

Material: nylon rope with beech wooden handles, rope length: 600 cm

Made in Germany.

Skipping rope Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

The Skipping rope postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Sleigh ride Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl from the assortment 'Children'.  2 children on a sled (toboggan).

10.7 x 15 cm

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

This book is easy-to-use and a solid choice for practicing charcoal, ink and other drawings.

32 pages, portrait format, 6.3 x 8.27 inches (16x21 cm), blank, with onion skin in between the pages so as to help prevent colour transfer of crayon, ink, etc. from page to page.

Made in the EU for Mercurius.

The curved holders are made of beechwood and can hold photos, postcards and any heavy cardstock paper. Use this to enrich the seasonal table or display something in a beautiful way. It also doubles well for young children who are unable to hold playing cards in their hands.

Postcard holder - Small, beechwood, 25 x 3 x 1.5 cm.

Made in the Netherlands.

These books are made with a lighter weight 150 gsm card stock cover.  They are filled with high quality 80 gsm paper, and are chlorine-free.

Lined.

These books are not available with onion skin page separators.

16 x 21 cm (6.3 x 8.27").

Printed in Belgium.

'Snowdrops' postcard by Marjan van Zeyl.  Van Zeyl's postcards bring the beauty of nature, fairytales, and celebrations into a moment of reflection.  They capture joyful moments from childhood.

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year.  Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season.  Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

Inspired from her own childhood, these postcards remind us of the richness of the world and our imagination.

10.7 x 15 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Soap Bubbles Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

The Soap Bubbles postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

A soft eraser for coloured and graphite pencils. A nice size for a child's hand.

Sold individually.

30 x 22 x 8 mm (1.18 x 0.87 x 0.31 inches).

Made in the EU for Mercurius.

These stainless-steel school scissors have a soft comfortable grip, sharp pointed tip and measure 17 cm. The pointed tip allows for more precision when cutting. The soft grip provides time to comfortably craft and enjoy creative projects.

Stainless-steel scissors, soft grip, pointed tip, length 17 cm.

Please note: the blades are quite sharp.  Take note of the overall length.  Recommended for children ~10 years and up.

Made in the Netherlands.

After a lot of use, pencil sharpener blades may become dull and worn down, and they can use replacement.  Spare steel blades for item Dual Pencil Sharpener (lid pictured) with product code 2059025-.

Made in Germany by Dahle.

Springtime is Back Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

10.5 x 15 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

In the words of the artist: "the germinating plant is central, with the roots in brown-green earth tones.  In the warm yellow the stem grows with first leaves, reaching for the sky in blue-pink hues.  Germination fits in nicely with the spring season.  The beginning of spring and the start of a new cycle of nature appeals to the imagination.  After the cold and dark months, we are all ready for a new beginning, light and warmth."

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

Watercolour print on a large quality paper card.

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

This paper can be used for drawing or folding, as well as many craft projects. 

250 sheets in a pack.  10 assorted colours.

Heavy weight, 140 gsm.

Made in Germany for Mercurius.

This paper can be used for drawing or folding, as well as many craft projects.  The lightweight paper in particular is perfect for paper airplanes and also works quite well for simple origami.

500 sheets in a pack. 10 assorted colours.

Light weight, 60 gsm.

Made in Germany for Mercurius.

Squirrel Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Child with lantern in St. Martin's lantern walk postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

The lantern march is traditional in the late fall. In different cultures, it has different significance. The time when autumn wheat seeding was complete, the celebration of Old Hallowe'en, many others. For many with children in Waldorf schools, the magic of the lantern march is a special time to shine our lights in the darkness, and share some warm freshly baked bread and hot drinks together on an evening with the sun's setting noticabley sooner in the sky.

10.7 x 15 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Watercolour print on a large quality paper card.  Please note, other postcard pictured is called ‘Fish in the Water’ and is sold separately.

Printed in the Netherlands.

Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl from the assortment "Flowers".

11.7 x 17.3 cm

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Sunset postcard by Marjan van Zeyl.  A place to rest one's gaze and exhale, conjuring impressions on the senses.

10.7 x 15 cm

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Watercolour print on a large quality paper card.

Printed in the Netherlands.

Swinging under the Apple Tree Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

The Swinging under the Apple Tree postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood. And a little inspiration for this special activity that we hope for children to experience.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

'Sylphs help with the Flowers' postcard by Marjan van Zeyl. Warm hues for summer.

A postcard like this is both a lovely surprise to receive in the mail from a friend, or makes for a beautiful visual on display in a home in one of our wooden postcard holders.

10.7 x 15 cm

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Price is per one glass tealight holder.   These tall tealight holders are a great option for a small regular 'tealight', or for our 'party lights', with the diameter of a tealight, but much taller, and for hours of burntime, for a party that lasts the day and into the evening.

4.5 cm diameter at outer base.  3.6 cm diameter inner base (fits tealight up to 3.6 cm in diameter).

6.2 cm diameter overall at top lip of glass.  4.8 cm (1 7/8") overall height.

Made in Germany.

In the words of the artist: "Based on the story of Saint George and the Dragon.  Taming the Dragon is inspired by Michael's Feast as celebrated in the fall season.  This is also called the Dragon Age, a time for courage and willpower to go to war against our inner dragons.  The story of Saint George and the dragon is often told during this time.  I chose a combination between Michael and Saint George, a strong and courageous attitude, a dragon that is tamed and not killed, because inner dragons will always be there."

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

There is something magical about a chalkboard drawing.  Because of the black background, you not only apply color when you start drawing, but also light.  Chalk as a material is vulnerable but also very flexible, you can make quick impressions with it, but you can also work with it in detail.  The board drawings are transient, and eventually become again.  However, this also creates space for a new drawing.

Geertje uses Mercurius chalkboard chalk for all her chalkboard drawings

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Print of a chalkboard drawing on a large quality paper card.

Printed in the Netherlands.

The Bear by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

The Largest Egg by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

10.5 x 15 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

In the words of artist, Geertje Kapteijns: "Candlemas is the festival of lights that closes the great Christmas season.  Where we literally and figuratively take over the carrying of light from nature with Saint Martin and the lighting the first candle, and then on February 2, we welcome natural light and the start of a new growth cycle in nature with Candlemas.   In the kindergarten classes, empty walnut halves are filled with leftover candle wax to make new candles.  These walnut boats are launched by the toddlers to say goodbye to the artificial light of winter days indoors.  Snowdrops stick their heads above the ground at this time, marking the start of another full year."

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

There is something magical about a chalkboard drawing.  Because of the black background, you not only apply color when you start drawing, but also light.  Chalk as a material is vulnerable but also very flexible, you can make quick impressions with it, but you can also work with it in detail.  The board drawings are transient, and eventually become again.  However, this also creates space for a new drawing.

Geertje uses Mercurius chalkboard chalk for all her chalkboard drawings

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Print of a chalkboard drawing on a large quality paper card.

Printed in the Netherlands.

A lovely postcard by Marjan van Zeyl.

10.7 x 15 cm

Printed in the Netherlands.

The chalkboard drawing of Traditional Crafts links up with the crafts period.  In the third grade of the Waldorf school, the children are introduced to various crafts such as the miller, fisherman, carpenter or farmer.

Geertje Kapteijns (1980) is a visual artist, living in Dordrecht, Netherlands.  When her children went to a Waldorf school, she was introduced to the way in which the seasons and annual festivals are celebrated and how children are able to be children during childhood.  This has proved to be a huge source of inspiration.  She started making chalkboard drawings and over time, she released them as cards, as well as her watercolour paintings as cards.  The cards are small works of art that encourage a conscious reflection on a certain time of the year or a certain event and the feeling that goes with that.  Drawings that make you look forward to remembering a beautiful moment.  

There is something magical about a chalkboard drawing.  Because of the black background, you not only apply color when you start drawing, but also light.  Chalk as a material is vulnerable but also very flexible, you can make quick impressions with it, but you can also work with it in detail.  The board drawings are transient, and eventually become again.  However, this also creates space for a new drawing.

Geertje uses Mercurius chalkboard chalk for all her chalkboard drawings

10.5 x 14.8 cm.

Print of a chalkboard drawing on a large quality paper card.

Printed in the Netherlands.

Under Mother's Umbrella Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

Under Mother's Umbrella postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun and sweetness. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood. 11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

The blank vocabulary notebook has two columns, and hence can be used for the word on the left and definition on the right; or word in one language in the left and translation in another language on the right.

These books are made with a lighter weight 150 gsm card stock cover.  They are filled with high quality 80 gsm paper, and are chlorine-free.

These books are not available with onion skin page separators.

16 x 21 cm (6.3 x 8.27").

Printed in Belgium.

Watching a Seagull Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

Watching a Seagull postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Waterlily Postcard by Marjan van Zeyl

Postcards like these are of course nice to receive in the mail, but they are quite popular for displaying on a little cardholder in a chosen spot in the home to create a little corner that changes with the seasons and holidays... The lovely illustrations can be a gentle and reliable companion with our inner and outer worlds as we travel through our year. Also as part of a display, some people chose little treasures found outdoors during a walk, or small scenes they set up to represent certain celebrations or traditions of the season. Some fresh flowers, some found rocks or berries or leaves, pinecones, all sorts of simple items can come together to create a 'nature table'.

Along with the Seagulls postcard in particular captures the essence of childhood fun. Nice to create a protective mood and to celebrate the wonder and play of childhood.

11.7 x 17.3 cm.

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

Weaving is an ancient craft, but it is easy to learn with this loom.  The maximum width of the woven cloth is 30 cm (11.81 inch).  From scarves to oven cloths, from single colours to complicated patterns; the possibilities are endless with this loom.  The loom has a moveable shed and is supplied with 2 shuttles, a comb and instructions.

This is a reliable and basic loom distributed for years by Mercurius internationally for use in Waldorf schools.

Lime/basswood, 45 x 31 cm, set includes loom, 2 shuttles 31 cm (12.2 inch) and shed.

Made in Germany.

Winter Robin & Dwarf postcard by Marjan van Zeyl from the assortment 'Seasons'.

Lovely to display around the home, during the winter to spread some cheer.

10.7 x 15 cm

Printed in the Netherlands.

More information at www.marjanvanzeyl.nl

This beautiful hardwood box is perfect for storing 16 x 16 cm origami paper.  It is the same wooden box that comes with the Mercurius japanese silk paper, but here we sell the box alone, as an option for filling with your own 16 x 16 paper - be it the Mercurius 'square folding paper' that we sell, which in the lightweight version is perfectly suited for origami creations, or your own origami paper you have at home. 

A lovely way to keep origami sheets at hand, ready to go.

Made in Europe by Mercurius.

One side of this chalkboard is made of a very high quality sprayed lacquer coating of true black schoolboard lacquer.  This ensures that it retains its lacquer and guarantees a longevity of the blackboard.  This chalkboard can be erased endlessly, brushed or be cleaned with water, without the risk that chalk, colour or even drawings will remain visible.  Just like our “regular” wooden painting boards, our chalkboards are waterproof with lacquered plywood and have rounded corners. 

The sizes are the same as our most sold painting boards (which also fits in our painting board drying rack), 30 x 40 cm and 40 x 55 cm.

Waterproof glued and lacquered plywood.  Coated on 1 side with black schoolboard lacquer.  Rounded corners.

Seasoning before 1st Use:  Please note that before using a chalkboard for the first time, one should take a piece of chalk on its side and brush the chalk across the board from top to bottom, bottom to top back again, covering the entire surface.  Next, repeat this, but going from side to side.  Then erase the chalk, using a dry chalkboard eraser or dry soft cleaning cloth.  Your chalkboard is now ready for use. 

Made in the Netherlands.

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Nest tips:  The joy of working with a chalkboard is well known shared by those who employ them in their schooling.  Also for children, it can be a wonderful medium.  And if habits are well established, children can also be part of the wiping down and chalkboard clean up at the end of the lesson. 

For homeschooling, in our home, our children both like having their own small size chalkboards to do some math practice at their desks, and then we have one large size chalkboard that we use for doing math practice together at times.  To decide which size to go with, we could suggest to think about the tabletop surface where the board will be used, and then as well where it will be stored when not in use.  The chalkdust can be a tad messy, although the chalk from Mercurius is our favourite in terms of minimal dust, and dust that is easy to clean.  However, it's still nice to reduce worries and mess by keeping it away from carpeting or cloth furniture.  Once the location the board will be worked with and stored is established, then one might think about the intimacy and cozyness of working with the smaller size, vs the room to write more at a time or to collaborate on writings on the larger size.

We then have another extra board for chalkboard drawings that is propped up as a scene for daily viewing.  These chalkboard drawings are pictures, images, usually linked to a story that create an impression.  Here is a lovely relating from a Waldorf teacher on her experience with chalkboard drawings found on Chalkboarddrawing.org. In their words: "After a few years of doing these drawings with and for my students, I began to have a deeper understanding of why we do these chalkboard drawings.  The stories and accompanying artwork settle so deeply in the students that the pulse in the classroom is palpable.  The students can’t help but glance toward the front of the room upon entering to see if anything has changed on the board."  Likewise, in a homeschooling environment, it can help establish and be a part of a wonderful energy and rhythm.

We then *also* have yet 2 more small size boards (yes, I know, I hear myself, I know how I sound, but there is just something about these boards that is functional, keeps us on track, and is very nice to work with and on the eyes), and I use these myself before our children are awake in the morning to draw a simple image with letter for my younger child, and phrase for my older child, to copy into their notebooks during their literacy worktime later in the morning.

For our chalk, we find keeping them in the 'bowled' stainless steel plates we sell at Nest works well to contain the mess, and washes up well.  We also have found to our surprise that we do like to use a cotton chalkboard cleaning cloth sometimes as opposed to a block style eraser, although sometimes the block eraser is nice in the hand to swipe the whole board clean too.  Every now and then we'll wipe down the board with a cloth with warm water, but normally just a dry cloth cleaning suffices.  

These modelling spatulas are made of sanded palm wood, a wood that clay does not easily stick to.  The spatulas come in a set of 15 pieces with different modelling heads at both ends.  With this very complete kit you have 30 different heads that allow you to make all possible designs and details on your ceramic pieces.

Available in 3 different lengths (10, 15 or 20 cm).