Disney's The Little Mermaid first introduced us to alternative uses for silverware in 1989 with the "dinglehopper". "Just a little twirl here and a yank there and voila. You've got an aesthetically pleasing configuration of hair that humans go nuts over." I mean, what a technological break through! For years following that, little pig-tailed disney princess fans all over the world cried in frustration after a failed attempt to brush their hair with their mother's Oneida forks. One bad-haircut later, we finally learned our lesson and stuck with utensils for eating purposes and props in extreme sleepover games.

Then, recently, I was introduced to SpoonFedArt.com, a much less painful, much more fashionable use for utensils.

Los Angeles based designer Karin Collins began fashioning spoons into pendants as a way to deal with an eating disorder. What started as a small collage project grew into what became SpoonFed Art in 2004.

The necklaces featured on the website are exquisitely designed. My favorite is the Lady Madonna painted with a variety of shimmery blues and greens in the background and layered with a classic cameo. I also love the ones featuring the Eiffel Tower, but not surprisingly, they have already been sold. Each pendant is unique and beautifully handmade using a variety of colors, sparkles, and accents. They range in price from $85 to $110.

These necklaces are growing in popularity in the L.A. area. You can order yours online at SpoonFedArt.com or visit the various Los Angeles. locations where Collins' jewelry is being sold.

Because making these pendants has been a form of therapy for Collins throughout her struggle with an eating disorder, SpoonFed Art supports the National Eating Disorder Association.

So, wear a spoon around your neck (trust me, your mom has NEVER seen beautiful silverware like this!) comb your hair with a fork ( a dinglehopper, for old time's sake), support a cause, and be GORGEOUS!