Monday, September 5, 2011

All that comes with fall...

The busy time for crafters is beginning! This weekend in Springfield is one of my favorite shows from last year, Mattoon Street Arts Festival. This show has been going on for a long time and has a great reputation. The website touts that "The Mattoon Street Arts Festival features 90+ exhibitors, food vendors, and strolling musicians. This is the longest running arts and crafts fair in Western Massachusetts, and one of the best in New England.Parking and admission are free. We are only three blocks from I-91. Come join us at this family-friendly event. Great for holiday shopping, seeing new craft ideas, or just walking on a beautiful Victorian street."



As you start to have thoughts about holiday shopping, remember to not only visit handmade shows, but also support those businesses who carry local artists' work. You can find my work in a variety of places throughout the area- Northampton Beadery, Red Lion Inn, North Adams Artist Co-op Gallery, Petersham Craft Center, Bridgewater Art and the Wandering Peacock. Coming soon you will also be able to find my work at Salmon Falls Gallery in Shelburne Falls and Happy Valley Gifts in Northampton. If you do go shopping at one of these galleries, thank them for supporting their local makers and let them know that you care.

Artisans of WMASS is excited to announce that we are now officially a non-profit, and we have a beautiful new website, thanks to Vicki of Weyakin Designs. AWM is always a great source to find local handmade goods, and now you can search by types of products, or by artist. You can also find out where which shows we'll be at by looking at the shows and events page.

And finally, if you are still dying to take a beadmaking class, I have one coming up in Northampton on October 22. Contact Northampton Beadery to sign up. Limit 5 students so call quickly if you are interested. My new studio in Hadley will be up and running by the winter, so if that date doesn't work for you, you can also contact me to make other arrangements.

Enjoy the beautiful New England Fall!