There's always unique and offbeat merchandise on display at the gift, home-furnishings and area-rug market held at AmericasMart twice a year, and the January shows did not disappoint.

Martha Stewart's new rug collection for Safavieh was one of the highlights at the market, a trade show open only to vendors, retailers, designers and buyers. The diva of domesticity even made a personal appearance to promote the line, which consists of more than 25 patterns and a variety of Wilton, Tibetan and Persian hand-weaves.

(ENLARGE)

Bridget Dobson Studios Bridget Dobson StudiosÕ Joyful Living collection includes ÒNancyÓ salad bowl ($20); pewter napkin rings ($65 each) and ceramic ÒDucky DomesÓ ($35 each). For more information: www.bridgetdobson.com.

RELATED • Photos of furnishings More home design Urban design excellence is rewarded  Designers find common cause with global artists  Latest design ideas jostle for attention at ICFF  Do-It-Yourself do's and don'ts  Bring balance to the home with Feng Shui  Homeowners face rising roofing costs  Chandelier lighting: A Southern style  Patios provide perfect setting  Art and Craft alive and well in American design  Tour displays modern living

Actress Jane Seymour featured a line of table lamps, home fragrances, comforters, quilts and accent pillows. And Bridget Dobson, a former writer and Hollywood producer ("Guiding Light, "General Hospital," "As the World Turns"), introduced an array of tabletop accessories she calls her Joyful Living brand.

Of course, the market attracts hundreds of lesser-known yet equally talented artisans pitching everything from upscale pet accessories to wall art and custom home accents.

Most merchandise will make it to retail stores this spring.

Take a look at some of the items you're likely to see in your neighborhood stores in months to come.

RELATED

• Photos of furnishings

More home design