Friday, March 6, 2009

The Handmade Connection

In these days of mass production and big box stores, handmade items are like an oasis of design, colour and style. 

The tradition of handmade is gathering increasing respect, as buyers search for original designs created with quality supplies and top-notch craftmanship.

Buying a handmade item creates a connection between the buyer and creator that is not found in large stores. If the item is a gift, it creates a special connection between the giver and the recipient. In short, handmade connects. Buyers connect with artisans, artisans connect with their craft, their craft connects with tradition, quality and the surrounding environment. The creative energy spreads and connects with other aspects of our lives.

Supporting independent artisans helps prevent a cookie-cutter mentality in the furnishing of our homes, our dress and our lives. It's a bit of spice and spark in a culture that is increasingly promoting uniformity.

Celebrate handmade by visiting communities like ArtFire, where artisans from around the world display and sell original handcrafted items. Foster creativity by visiting sites like IndiePublic , Madebyhand, and BuyHandmade, among others.

Make the handmade connection!




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