Why Buy Handmade?

This is an oldie but a goodie from last year. I'm rather proud of this little article-maybe I should get that masters of local craft economics after all...hmm...

My brother brought home his girlfriend (now wife) for Christmas in 2003. My brother, parents, and I all gave her pretty much the exact same gift-a basket full of lotion, body spray, and soap. As she opened each one, I thought to myself, "Great..... What is she going to think about all these generic gifts?" After opening my Grandma's gift (just lotion), she asked us, "What, do I smell that badly?"

It was a humorous way to learn an important lesson.

If you're going to give a gift, why not make it as special as you can?

Giving a handmade gift is like giving two gifts in one. Yes, the recipient benefits, but the artist who created the work gets the validation and pride that comes with selling something they created. Even if they're not there when the package is unwrapped, the artist is still present in that moment.

It means a lot that the maker's efforts are going to someone who is going to appreciate their work. It means the giver has gone to special effort of their own to find a one-of-a-kind item for a one-of-a-kind person. It means the recipient is getting something unique in the world. And obviously, it also means the artist is able to pay bills, buy more supplies, and keep bringing new creations to the marketplace.

Buying handmade, directly from the artist or from small, independant retailers, means that fewer resources are spent in transportation, storage, and packaging. It also keeps down the possibility of sweatshop labor being a part of the production of the gift, as the artist can usually tell you where the materials have come from. Try asking a big-box retailer the same question, and you probably won't get an answer.

It takes a little more effort to make things yourself, or buy handmade, but it's part of the fun. Great options abound-local indie retailers, arts and crafts shows, websites like etsy.com-plus you don't have to fight the insane crowds on 'black friday'! If you're ready to take the pledge to buy handmade this holiday season, visit buyhandmade.org.

Craftsmas is Coming!

'Twas two months before Christmas, and all through the cities
People were searching for gifts that were handmade and pretty
The malls were over crowded, the internet a chore
Where could they find art, jewelry, clothing and more?
Why at the VFW, the first Sunday in December!
We'll give you more hints so you don't have to remember.
Check back to this website daily if you can,
We'll list artists to appeal to every child, woman and man
Who is on your list, both nice and naughty,
Shows at the VFW are always a party!
So mark you calendar, Dec 7th is coming soon,
Where else can you shop and enjoy a beer at noon!?!

Let's get ready to rummmmmmmmmmmble!

oh man a mere 4 days from now (sunday, the 12th of october) some of the most awesome craftiness i've ever seen will descend on the uptown VFW. we are seriously so pumped about this batch of crafters...i don't know if i'm gonna sleep at all between now and then!

anyway-a few more previews for ya, keep in mind, folks may bring other items than the ones i'm choosing to put up on the site. but it will give you an idea of what to expect!

space oddities are bringing frosting back with this super cute cupcake tote. removable cherries? brilliant!


sarah vonne has amazing jewelry on offer, including some seriously gorgeous earrings. i can't link photos, you'll have to go drool over her site.

speaking of gorgeous earrings, check out these lovelies from ModMargaret
she blends vintage and new jewelry components in a fresh and funky way.

and you have GOT to check out the awesomeness that is Tea Tree Designs, owner Erika recycles vintage pieces into something new and wonderful, and uses fair trade materials whenever possible.

yay! go vendors!

Xola arts and objects

Lisa Arnold creates amazing mosaics, like this piece of artwork, by using cut glass, beads, pebbles, and more.

I have drooled over her work at local stores in the Twin Cities, I can't wait to see what she brings to the sale in October! Look at these pieces as jewelry for your home!

What to expect?

Oh my goodness. If you've never been to a Handmaidens Craft show before, you're missing out on some of the coolest crafts in the Twin Cities. From soap to softies, jewelry to bags and everything in between, if you can't find it at our show, you probably don't need it.

Click on some of those vendors over there and you'll be amazed!

I'm looking forward to Lauren Welle's recycled art, like this popcorn bowl made out of tickets!