What's new in the craft world for 2005?
I've been researching some of the new crafts we will all see at craft fairs all around the U.S. this year. It wasn't surprisng to me that many of last years favorites are still around this year.
Of course some of the favorites that are back from last year are handmade afghans, customized bracelets and beaded jewelry, and wooden items(you've all seen all the wooden crafts at craft shows), and handmade purses.
A few weeks ago I was at my first craft show for this year and saw some interesting rocks that were imbedded with a special plant that needs little care. It was really an interesting idea. The large rocks were various shapes and sizes, but would all look beautiful on a mantel or table. Also new, was large flat rocks that had a wick coming up from the middle of it. These wicks led to a small container of kerosene underneath the flat rock so it could not be seen. Once the wick was lit, you had a beautiful flame coming out of the rock and would look great around your landscaping at night while you were outside w/ guests, etc.
One word of advice: Be aware of what you are buying at craft shows, no matter what the craft is. Because of my expertise in jewelry making and designing, I paid particular attention to the jewelry booths. Nearly every booth had very low prices on their jewelry, in which at that case I decided to investigate why because I know the going rate for "good, quality jewelry". I discovered that these booths were not using sterling silver, but plated beads. Also, glass beads (the kind you see at your regular craft stores or department stores)were being used in the bracelets and necklaces, NOT crystals. Crystals will maintain their shine and luster, glass won't. Crystals are also heavier than glass and just not in the same class as glass beads.
So, just be aware and ask the vendor many questions before your next craft show purchase. You deserve to know what your product is made of and how to take care of it!
Kim Wedding
Family Bracelets Direct
www.familybraceletsdirect.com
Customized mother bracelets, child bracelets,
grandmother bracelets, and more! FREE SHIPPING
on all U.S. and Canada orders. Receive your
order in 5-7 business days!
Of course some of the favorites that are back from last year are handmade afghans, customized bracelets and beaded jewelry, and wooden items(you've all seen all the wooden crafts at craft shows), and handmade purses.
A few weeks ago I was at my first craft show for this year and saw some interesting rocks that were imbedded with a special plant that needs little care. It was really an interesting idea. The large rocks were various shapes and sizes, but would all look beautiful on a mantel or table. Also new, was large flat rocks that had a wick coming up from the middle of it. These wicks led to a small container of kerosene underneath the flat rock so it could not be seen. Once the wick was lit, you had a beautiful flame coming out of the rock and would look great around your landscaping at night while you were outside w/ guests, etc.
One word of advice: Be aware of what you are buying at craft shows, no matter what the craft is. Because of my expertise in jewelry making and designing, I paid particular attention to the jewelry booths. Nearly every booth had very low prices on their jewelry, in which at that case I decided to investigate why because I know the going rate for "good, quality jewelry". I discovered that these booths were not using sterling silver, but plated beads. Also, glass beads (the kind you see at your regular craft stores or department stores)were being used in the bracelets and necklaces, NOT crystals. Crystals will maintain their shine and luster, glass won't. Crystals are also heavier than glass and just not in the same class as glass beads.
So, just be aware and ask the vendor many questions before your next craft show purchase. You deserve to know what your product is made of and how to take care of it!
Kim Wedding
Family Bracelets Direct
www.familybraceletsdirect.com
Customized mother bracelets, child bracelets,
grandmother bracelets, and more! FREE SHIPPING
on all U.S. and Canada orders. Receive your
order in 5-7 business days!
posted by Family Bracelets Direct at 5:42 AM
