Who does not love to attend local craft sales, especially this time of year? I know I certainly do! And this year I decided to approach these craft sales in a totally different way. I wasn’t simply looking for treasures (although that was at the top of my list ;) I was looking for inspiration, I wanted to immerse myself in other peoples creativity, I wanted it to rub off on me.
At the top of my list of craft sales to attend this year was the Indie Handmade in St. Albert.
Because the sale wasn’t too busy when I arrived, I took the time to talk to the artisans. I simply asked a few questions about their product and they took it from there. Little did they know I wanted to hear not so much about the product, but how they felt about it. They couldn’t know I was soaking up their enthusiasm and joy … their passion.
I was soaking up some of their passion (sounds almost evil doesn’t it … but I assure you I am not evil ;)
Here are a few tips for navigating craft sales like a boss so that you can find what you want … whether it be treasures, or inspiration!
9 Tips for Navigating Craft Sales Like a Boss
- Do a little research ahead of time: check out parking, admission, and hours of operation.
- Go alone or with like-minded friends, people who don’t mind if you disappear and do your own thing. Keep in touch via texts as in “let’s go for coffee or a bite to eat.”
- Attend opening day since it will likely get busier as the weekend progresses. I’m retired so I have that choice.
- Arrive early.
- Wear a light coat, comfortable footwear, and perhaps a scarf to keep neck and shoulders warm.
- Carry a purse that isn’t too large or bulky. Consider using a backpack.
- If the show isn’t too large, plan to walk around at least twice. If its really huge, make small purchases as you go, or make note of the booth and go back later. Many vendors will gladly hold your purchases until you are ready to pick them up.
- Scan booths and stop only at the ones that most interest you. You literally don’t have all day … exhaustion will set in sooner rather than later.
- Use cash as much as possible to help the vendor reduce their costs.
I almost passed by this young woman’s booth, thinking I was much too old for anything she was selling. But her sweet face and obvious talent drew me in … she reminded me of Kelly Rae Roberts and her “Wear Your Joy” series.
Meet Leonie of Maple and Oak Designs
So here are three vendors that inspired me enough to make a purchase:
Maple and Oak Designs
Funky fashion accessories.
Handmade from vintage, reclaimed and retro fabrics in Calgary, Canada.
Definitely unique and mostly one of a kind.
Yes, I bought a triangle scarf from Leonie; a young woman whose style is at least 40 years younger than mine! You just never know! Truly, keep your mind open people!
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The Collective Scribble
Create books that others are excited and proud to art journal, scribble, write, hope and dream in.
I not only purchased a journal from The Collective Scribble, I’m taking a book binding class from them in January.
*****
Shadowpots
Ruby is an Edmonton based Potter who is passionate about carbon-trapped Shino glazes, pushing the boundaries of firing in a gas kiln. Shino is one of the oldest glazes and demands diligence and patience to perfect.
Ruby’s pottery was exactly what I was looking for: unique, one-of-a-kind pieces made with love.
Next weekend: The Butterdome!
#NaBloPoMo
I took a bookbinding class several years ago – well, more like a book making class, though that sounds wrong, doesn’t it? Not THAT kind of book making! Anyway, I loved the class. It was so much fun and I thought I’d like to do more of it, though I never have. I hope we’ll get to see what you create! As for fashion, I’ve always been pretty conservative, but am becoming less so as I get older. I figure if I like it and feel happy in it, who cares if someone else thinks it’s “age inappropriate”?
I’m really looking forward to the class León, but in the meantime I already have a little journal to love ;) I’m always grateful when you stop by … thank you!
Barb,
I love love this. You should write the nine tips of going to the antique stores while traveling. Starting with, Are they open, find your husband something to do. We have stopped at every antique store from Denver to Albuquerque sometimes twice. But David is a trooper. Ann💕💕
Oh so funny Ann! I can just imagine the list! Thank you for stopping by my friend and enjoy the rest of your trip.
You sound inspired, and what an amazing collection of talent gathered together. My cousin lives nearby and she has mentioned this show before, sounds like a wonderful time.
I’m looking forward to seeing your finished projects after you take the class.
Jen
Thank you Jen! I am feeling inspired :)
I can imagine this very thing Barb. I love handmade one-of-a-kinds, but I don’t like the business or the crowds that can make me feel rushed. I should look for some of these shows in the area. I hope I’m not too late.
The Book Binding class sounds fabulous. I can’t wait to see yours and hear more about it.
Enjoy the Butterdome. Rest up, it’s a big one. 😊
Thank you Celine! I so appreciate you stopping by xo
Awwwww I wish we were a bit closer to be able to go to these together! I loved it when we visited Spruce Meadows together last year!
Oh me too Jo! I was just thinking the same thing … xo
I haven’t been to a craft show in years…I must correct that real soon. Thanks for providing the links to the crafty people you met. I was checking them out and got so involved in Leoni’s how-to videos that I almost forgot to stop back and leave a comment here.