Lately, there are many discussions and stories written regarding how the handcrafted industry is booming during Covid. Why is that? What shift happened during the pandemic that caused a renewed appreciation for handmade?

One answer could be that the consumer is more aware and wants to do better when it comes to their purchases. Maybe spending so much time at home during the pandemic gave many people a new perspective and appreciation for how and what they spend their money on.

As one article states, “buying handmade is better for people. Better for the environment, because mass production is a major cause of global warming, among other things.”

When you see a handcrafted hat, you know each knot was made by hand, the beading in a necklace was painstakingly put together one bead at a time, or that ceramic bowl you love is meticulously molded by hand. This is what makes handmade special and cannot be replicated with mass-produced items. When you have a unique piece made by an artist you know there is a story that you can share with others. No longer do we want to drink our coffee or tea in just any mug, we value the beautifully designed mug worthy of social media post. Many ceramic artists are selling out of their items so fast they can no longer take orders for the rest of 2021. It is a good problem to have and it is exciting for the handcrafted industry.

When you shop handmade you not only support the artists but you are supporting your local store or gallery that sells it. Shop local and support the makers.