Sustainably grown American species such as maple, cherry and walnut often turn up in children’s toys. Papa Don’s Toys, based in Walton, uses hardwoods finished with lead-free paint and food-grade oil. They’re available at Babyworks in Portland.

Earnest Efforts in Eugene specializes in handmade wooden baby rattles made from sustainably harvested wood. They’re found at Portland Saturday Market, Made in Oregon shops and many other toy shops in the metro area.

Ultra-modern is definitely not a trend. It’s here to stay. Over the last decade it has increased in popularity with the exposure it’s received from TV shows like “Mad Men” and “MTV Cribs.”

“Futuristic is nothing more than a term people might use to describe contemporary or modern furniture,” says Greg Dolnick, owner of Dolnick’s Contemporary Furniture, 10725 Page Avenue. Essentially it denotes cleaner, more simplistic lines. “Some might say it’s a more sleek or fresh look,” adds Dolnick.

Fishels 5 S.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 503-235-8941 Tanasbourne, 17305 N.W. Corridor Court, Suite 100 503-439-1193 fishels.com/home  Hammer & Hand Retail Studio (in Bright Designlab) 404 N.W. 10th Ave. 503-575-4868 hammerandhand.com 

Finally, don’t forget the finish. Water-based is always better than common varnishes, lacquers and shellacs, which can contain toxic petroleum or synthetic-based solvents. For anything that touches food, or a toddler’s mouth, the finish should be guaranteed food-safe and nontoxic. When you shop, don’t be afraid to ask.