Why buying handmade ?

Buying handmade can become a total lifestyle choice. Choosing to buy handmade is just like choosing to buy local produce. You simply cannot compare mass produced products to artisan created goods in terms of inspiration, quality, and attention to detail.

 

Chocolate Chip Buttercream Cookie-wich by Tookies on Etsy

The raw materials are better, the workmanship is superior, and the finished product is truly something to be treasured and enjoyed. 

There is also an undeniable, irreplaceable element of the designer or producer in every handcrafted item – a spirit and soul that stamps each item in a way that mainstream production cannot replicate.

In addition, many artisans welcome the opportunity to use their creativity and skill to create items that are custom, one of a kind, and uniquely personalized.

 

 

mini credit card cases 100% Merino Wool Felt by Simple Beauty available on Etsy

Buying handmade is also a tremendous boost to small business and to the economy as a whole. It’s small businesses that are the backbone of our economy. We need thriving small businesses in order for everyone to prosper. This certainly plays into our local markets, but in this day and age of global integration, the world economy can benefit as well.

With global, online marketplaces, the sky is the limit for sellers desiring to reach new audiences and for buyers wanting to purchase quality handmade items outside of their local markets.

 

Felted handbag in burnt orange on Etsy

If you are interested in buying handmade, summer is a great time to start with all of the craft and community festivals, art shows, farmer’s markets, and open air events. Make sure to check out activities in your area.

There are also some great online venues for buying handmade items. Here are just a few:

Deviant Art is a great place to browse and purchase art and artisan crafts
Etsy is a global online marketplace where you can buy  and sell handmade and vintage items
Artfire is another premier artisan marketplace for buying and selling handmade
Made It Myself is a smaller site, but full of great talent
I Shop Indie is a fantastic site where your will find more terrific items