This annual event, held on the west side and affiliated with a Catholic institution, showcases handcrafted goods. It provides a platform for artisans to display and sell their creations, typically occurring towards the end of the year. The 2024 iteration promises a diverse array of handmade items, ranging from holiday decorations to unique gifts.
Such events are vital for supporting local artists and fostering community engagement. They offer a direct link between creators and consumers, allowing for personalized transactions and the preservation of traditional crafts. Historically, these gatherings have served as important fundraising avenues for the associated Catholic organizations, contributing to their operational budgets and charitable initiatives. The year noted highlights a specific instance within this established tradition.
The following sections will detail the application process for vendors, available parking and admission information, a list of participating artists, and anticipated attendance for the upcoming occasion. These details aim to provide a comprehensive overview for prospective vendors, attendees, and community members.
1. Handcrafted Excellence
The West Catholic Craft Show of 2024 stands as a testament to skill and dedication. Each booth represents countless hours spent honing techniques and perfecting designs. Its a story etched in wood, woven into fabric, and fired into clay. The event highlights a devotion to quality rarely seen in mass-produced goods. Handcrafted excellence becomes the invisible thread that weaves throughout the venue.
-
Artisan Skill and Dedication
The level of expertise on display is a direct reflection of the commitment of the artisans. These arent hobbyists; they are skilled craftspeople pouring their lives into their work. Their mastery results from years of practice, experimentation, and an unwavering pursuit of perfection. At the show, this dedication manifests in the flawless seams of a quilt, the intricate carvings on a wooden sculpture, or the consistent glaze of hand-thrown pottery.
-
Uniqueness and Originality
Every item presented at the show bears the mark of its creators individuality. Unlike the uniformity of factory-made products, handcrafted items possess character. Each piece is distinct, a one-of-a-kind creation. This uniqueness is not merely aesthetic; it represents a connection between the artist and the consumer, a tangible link to a person and their passion. In 2024, visitors could appreciate this singularity.
-
Materials and Craftsmanship
The selection of materials and the quality of construction are hallmarks of handcrafted excellence. Artisans often source local, sustainable materials, prioritizing quality over cost. The craftsmanship is evident in the meticulous attention to detail, the durable construction, and the commitment to creating pieces that will endure for generations. This dedication to quality is apparent at the Show.
-
The Story Behind the Object
Each item is a narrative. The weaver who painstakingly threaded each loom, the potter who carefully shaped the clay on the wheel, and the woodworker who patiently carved each detail into a piece of wood have stories to tell. At the 2024 West Catholic Craft Show, the visitor can become part of the tale of ingenuity.
The pursuit of handcrafted excellence transforms the West Catholic Craft Show into more than just a marketplace. It elevates it into a celebration of human creativity, skill, and dedication. It’s a place where the value of handmade goods is not simply measured in dollars and cents, but in the time, care, and passion that goes into each and every piece. The year 2024 further cemented that tradition.
2. Community Support
The narrative of the West Catholic Craft Show, particularly in its 2024 iteration, is intrinsically woven with the threads of community support. This is not merely a craft fair; it is a reflection of a shared commitment to local artisans, charitable endeavors, and the preservation of cultural traditions. The event’s very existence depends on the active participation and patronage of the surrounding community, highlighting a reciprocal relationship of support and benefit.
-
Empowering Local Artisans
For many local artisans, the Show represents a crucial economic opportunity. It provides a platform to showcase their work, reach a broader audience, and generate income. Without this venue, many would struggle to gain exposure and sustain their craft. The financial success of these individuals translates into a more vibrant and economically resilient community. The West Catholic Craft Show 2024 became a pivotal moment for numerous artisans to thrive in a competitive market.
-
Fundraising for Charitable Initiatives
A significant portion of the proceeds generated contributes directly to charitable initiatives supported by the affiliated Catholic institution. These funds enable the organization to provide essential services, such as food banks, educational programs, and community outreach. Attending the event becomes a tangible way for community members to contribute to these vital services, transforming a simple purchase into an act of collective generosity. The 2024 show, like its predecessors, served as a powerful fundraising tool.
-
Fostering Social Connections
Beyond the economic and charitable aspects, the gathering serves as a social hub, fostering connections between neighbors and creating a sense of shared identity. It provides an opportunity for individuals to interact, share stories, and celebrate the unique talents within their community. This social cohesion is vital for building a strong and resilient local culture. The air buzzes with laughter, and conversations at the Craft Show. In 2024 it was a space where relationships were forged.
-
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Many of the crafts displayed at the function represent traditional skills and techniques passed down through generations. By supporting these artisans, the community is actively preserving its cultural heritage, ensuring that these valuable skills are not lost to time. The event becomes a living museum, showcasing the artistic legacy of the region. West Catholic Craft Show 2024, thus, acts as a cultural time capsule.
The West Catholic Craft Show 2024 transcends the typical craft fair experience. It embodies the spirit of community support, demonstrating how a simple event can have a profound impact on the lives of local artisans, charitable organizations, and the overall well-being of the community. The story is one of shared commitment, collective generosity, and the enduring power of human connection.
3. Holiday Shopping
As the calendar edges toward year’s end, a subtle shift occurs. Anticipation hangs in the air, fueled by the impending holidays. It is during this period that the function gains heightened significance, becoming more than just a showcase of crafts, transforming into a pivotal hub for holiday shopping, offering an alternative to the commercial rush that often defines the season.
-
The Quest for the Unique Gift
Each year, families begin the search for presents. An item that transcends mere functionality and reflects personal connection to its recipient. A handcrafted ornament, a skillfully woven scarf, a piece of pottery imbued with character – all offer this distinctiveness. At the event of 2024, these unique offerings stand in stark contrast to mass-produced goods, providing shoppers with the opportunity to find a present with genuine meaning and sentimental value. It becomes a quest for the rare and unforgettable.
-
Avoiding the Commercial Rush
The holiday season is often synonymous with crowded malls and frantic online shopping. The west-side craft show offers a sanctuary from this chaos. Here, one can browse leisurely, engaging directly with the artisans and understanding the story behind each creation. This alternative shopping experience emphasizes mindful consumption and supports small businesses, providing a refreshing change from the impersonal nature of large retail chains. In 2024, this escape becomes even more appealing.
-
Supporting Local Artisans During a Crucial Season
For many artisans, the holiday season represents a significant portion of their annual income. The show provides a direct route to market, allowing them to sell their goods without the overhead costs associated with traditional retail spaces. By choosing to shop at the craft event, patrons contribute directly to the livelihoods of these local creators, fostering a sense of community support and economic empowerment. Each purchase made strengthens the foundation of the local arts community, providing vital financial support during a crucial period.
-
Creating Family Traditions and Memories
Attending the event can become a cherished family tradition. Parents bring their children, sharing the joy of discovering unique crafts and supporting local artists. The experience creates lasting memories, fostering an appreciation for handmade goods and the value of community engagement. In the future, these children may bring their own families, perpetuating the tradition and ensuring that the spirit of craftsmanship and community endures. It is more than shopping; it is an investment in shared experiences.
The intertwining of the holiday season and the annual show creates a symbiosis of sorts. As shoppers seek meaningful gifts and escape commercialism, artisans find a vital marketplace for their creations. The West Catholic Craft Show 2024 therefore, is not simply an event but a tradition. A beacon in the holiday season.
4. Local Artisans
The identity of the West Catholic Craft Show 2024 is inseparable from the local artisans who breathe life into its aisles. These individuals, often working in quiet studios and home workshops, represent the heart and soul of the event. Their skills, passed down through generations or honed through years of dedicated practice, are the foundation upon which the craft show is built. The year 2024 would be another chapter in their shared history.
-
The Forge of Creativity
For local artisans, the West Catholic Craft Show serves as a crucible. Here, they test their mettle, showcasing new designs and gauging public response. It’s an opportunity to refine their craft, to see their creations through the eyes of potential buyers. A potter might unveil a new line of hand-painted mugs, a woodworker a meticulously carved chess set. The show is a proving ground, a place to experiment and evolve, and gain invaluable insights from direct customer feedback. Their wares become a reflection of their inner selves.
-
Economic Lifeline
Beyond artistic expression, the function offers a crucial economic lifeline. Many artisans rely on events like these to supplement their income or even sustain their craft entirely. The sale of a single quilt, a hand-knit sweater, or a piece of jewelry can make a significant difference, covering the cost of materials, studio rent, or even basic living expenses. The show empowers them to maintain independence and pursue their artistic passions without compromising on their livelihood. It becomes a celebration and source of hope for prosperity.
-
Guardians of Tradition
Within the ranks of local artisans are those who safeguard traditional crafts, skills that have been passed down through families and communities for generations. Weavers continue to create intricate tapestries, blacksmiths forge tools and decorative ironwork, and quilters stitch together vibrant fabrics. These artisans are not merely replicating old patterns; they are preserving cultural heritage, ensuring that these time-honored skills continue to thrive in a modern world. Their talent becomes a beacon.
-
Building Community
The connection between artisans and the craft show extends beyond the economic and artistic. They create a sense of community. They know each other. They support each other. West Catholic Craft Show becomes a celebration of their talent. For visitors, it is a direct exchange with the hand which has created the art. This fosters a sense of belonging that extends beyond the day of the show, creating lasting relationships between the creators and their patrons.
The story of the West Catholic Craft Show 2024 is, in essence, the story of its local artisans. Their creativity, resilience, and dedication form the bedrock of the event. It is a testament to the power of community, the enduring value of handmade goods, and the importance of supporting local talent. The year 2024 solidifies this symbiosis.
5. Catholic Tradition
The West Catholic Craft Show, particularly its 2024 manifestation, is not merely a marketplace for handcrafted goods; it is an event deeply intertwined with Catholic tradition. This tradition provides a framework of values, practices, and community that shapes the atmosphere and purpose of the show, imbuing it with a character distinct from secular craft fairs.
-
Faith and Community
Catholicism places a strong emphasis on community, and the craft show serves as a gathering point for parishioners, alumni, and community members. It fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose, reflecting the Catholic ideal of unity and mutual support. The act of gathering itself becomes a testament to this shared faith, reinforcing bonds within the community. The 2024 iteration only solidifies that notion.
-
Charity and Service
A core tenet of Catholic tradition is the call to serve others, particularly the less fortunate. The craft show often incorporates a fundraising component, with proceeds benefiting local charities or supporting the school’s programs. This charitable aspect transforms the act of shopping into an act of service, aligning the event with Catholic teachings on compassion and social justice. Each purchase becomes a contribution to the betterment of society.
-
Celebrating Creativity as a Gift
Catholic tradition views creativity and artistic expression as gifts from God, meant to be cultivated and shared. The craft show provides a platform for artisans to showcase their talents, celebrating human ingenuity and reflecting the divine spark within each individual. The handiwork on display, from intricate quilts to handcrafted jewelry, becomes a visual testament to this belief, transforming the venue into a celebration of human potential.
-
Ethical Consumption and Stewardship
The emphasis on handcrafted goods aligns with Catholic values of ethical consumption and stewardship. By supporting local artisans and purchasing handmade items, attendees are choosing to prioritize quality, sustainability, and fair labor practices. This conscious consumption reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship of resources and a rejection of wasteful consumerism, aligning with Catholic teachings on social responsibility. As always, 2024 would continue to highlight these values.
These interconnected facets of Catholic tradition transform the West Catholic Craft Show 2024 into more than just a shopping experience. It’s an opportunity to engage with one’s faith, support the community, celebrate creativity, and practice ethical consumption, all within a single event. The event is a microcosm of Catholic values in action, demonstrating how faith can be integrated into everyday life and contribute to the common good.
6. Annual Event
Each year, as autumn’s chill deepens, a familiar anticipation settles over the west side. It’s not merely the approach of the holidays, but also the knowledge that the West Catholic Craft Show, with the year 2024 on the horizon, is drawing near. This yearly ritual is more than a tradition; its a cornerstone of community life, a marker of time itself.
-
A Calendar Staple
The West Catholic Craft Show’s recurrence on the calendar lends it a unique significance. Families plan around it, artisans prepare for it months in advance, and the community anticipates it with a familiarity that breeds comfort and excitement. Its presence each year is a reassurance of continuity, a dependable event in a changing world. Like the turning of leaves, its arrival is both predictable and eagerly awaited. In 2024 it continues to stand for tradition.
-
Evolution and Adaptation
While the essence of the event remains constanta showcase of local talent and a celebration of communityeach year brings subtle changes. New artisans emerge, fresh crafts appear, and innovative techniques are displayed. The Annual West Catholic Craft Show is not static; it adapts to the evolving tastes and creative energies of its participants. The year 2024 inevitably brings its own distinct flavor, reflecting the current trends and artistic innovations. The event evolves without losing the core purpose.
-
Generational Connection
The yearly nature of the occasion fosters a generational connection. Grandparents who attended in their youth now bring their grandchildren, sharing stories and traditions. Children who once helped their parents at the show now return as vendors themselves. The show becomes a vessel for shared memories and family history, passing down a love of craft and community from one generation to the next. Each year is a story written with various forms of art.
-
Community Identity
Over time, the Annual West Catholic Craft Show has become an integral part of the community’s identity. It is a symbol of local pride, a testament to the creativity and resilience of its residents. Its a place where neighbors connect, friendships are forged, and the spirit of collaboration thrives. The year 2024 is a continuation of this narrative. It is another chapter in the ongoing story of a community that values art, craftsmanship, and connection. A tradition of unity written in art.
The West Catholic Craft Show 2024 is not simply an event that occurs each year; it’s a living, breathing entity that reflects the passage of time, the evolution of artistic expression, and the enduring strength of community bonds. Like the rings of a tree, each year adds another layer to its history, solidifying its place as an annual treasure.
7. Fundraising Opportunity
The West Catholic Craft Show 2024, beyond its showcase of artisanal skill and community spirit, stands as a significant fundraising opportunity. Its ability to generate revenue for associated causes is integral to its existence, shaping its planning, execution, and overall impact on the community it serves. The event becomes a vehicle for channeling creativity and commerce into tangible support for essential initiatives.
-
Direct Revenue Generation
Booth fees collected from participating artisans form a core source of revenue. These fees, strategically priced to balance accessibility and profitability, directly contribute to the fundraising goals. Additionally, a portion of the artisans’ sales may be designated for the cause, aligning their success with the overall financial objectives of the event. The collective impact of these individual contributions culminates in a substantial sum allocated to designated initiatives.
-
Community Engagement and Sponsorships
The scale of fundraising effort extends beyond vendor contributions. Local businesses and community members are invited to participate through sponsorships, donations, and promotional partnerships. These collaborations not only provide financial support but also raise awareness for both the event and the beneficiaries of its fundraising efforts. The community’s willingness to invest in the cause reflects the deep roots the show has established and the value it provides.
-
The Ripple Effect of Charitable Allocations
The funds raised from the craft show are strategically allocated to specific charitable projects, creating a measurable impact within the community. These projects may include scholarships for students, support for local food banks, or funding for community outreach programs. By directly linking the event’s success to tangible outcomes, attendees and participants alike are further incentivized to contribute, knowing that their involvement directly improves the lives of others.
-
Sustainability and Long-Term Impact
The annual fundraising efforts contribute to the long-term sustainability of the associated charitable organizations. By providing a consistent source of funding, the craft show helps to ensure the continuation of vital programs and services. This sustainable model fosters a sense of stability and allows the organizations to plan for the future, expanding their reach and impact on the community. The effort transforms into an enduring legacy of community support.
Ultimately, the West Catholic Craft Show 2024 represents a confluence of creativity, commerce, and community spirit, all channeled toward a common goal of fundraising for worthy causes. Its success depends not only on the talent of the artisans but also on the collective commitment of attendees, sponsors, and volunteers who recognize the power of a community united in support of a shared purpose. Thus, what appears to be a craft show becomes something even more powerful.
8. Unique Gifts
The West Catholic Craft Show 2024, a yearly ritual, possesses a distinct allure. It offers something increasingly rare in a world saturated with mass-produced commodities: unique gifts. These are not merely items purchased to fulfill an obligation; they are objects imbued with character, reflecting the skill and dedication of the artisan who crafted them. The effect of this offering is profound. It transforms the act of gift-giving from a transaction into an expression of thoughtfulness and appreciation. Consider the hand-knit scarf, its stitches telling a silent story of hours spent in focused creation, or the intricately carved wooden box, each line a testament to the artisan’s patience and precision. These gifts carry a weight of meaning that transcends their monetary value.
The importance of unique gifts within the framework of the West Catholic Craft Show cannot be overstated. They are the primary draw, attracting attendees seeking an alternative to generic retail offerings. They are the reason artisans dedicate months to perfecting their craft, knowing that the show provides a platform to connect with discerning buyers. These one-of-a-kind items contribute significantly to the financial success of the artisans, supporting their livelihoods and ensuring the continuation of their craft. Think of the potter who relies on the show to sell a significant portion of their annual inventory, or the jewelry maker who uses the income to purchase new tools and materials. Their success hinges, in many ways, on the desire for these unique items.
The significance is practical. Understanding the draw of these gifts allows the organizers to curate the event effectively, ensuring a diverse range of handcrafted items that appeal to a broad audience. It empowers artisans to showcase their most creative and meticulously crafted pieces, confident that they will find appreciation. Ultimately, it strengthens the bond between the community and its local artists, fostering a culture of support and appreciation for handmade goods. The absence of such items would leave a void. The absence, a consequence no one wants to witness.
9. Artisan Showcase
The term “Artisan Showcase,” when uttered in conjunction with the “West Catholic Craft Show 2024,” does not merely denote a collection of booths. It signifies a curated exhibition, a carefully constructed narrative where the skill, passion, and heritage of local creators take center stage. It is a deliberate act of highlighting individual talents within the broader context of a community gathering. The name speaks volumes.
-
The Stage for Emerging Talent
The 2024 Show becomes a launchpad for artisans just beginning their journey. For many, it is the first time their work is presented to a public audience. This opportunity is vital, offering exposure, feedback, and a crucial step toward establishing a sustainable craft. Consider the young woodworker displaying their initial collection of hand-carved toys, or the aspiring jeweler showcasing their first foray into silversmithing. The West Catholic Craft Show offers them the chance to connect with the community that helps them take flight.
-
A Celebration of Established Masters
Alongside emerging talent, the Showcase also provides a platform for seasoned artisans, masters of their craft who have dedicated years to perfecting their skills. Their presence lends credibility and prestige to the event. These are the weavers whose tapestries tell stories of generations, the potters whose hands coax life from clay. For the West Catholic Craft Show, the presence of masters attracts collectors and enthusiasts, elevating the overall experience. Their presence creates something like a legacy.
-
A Microcosm of Regional Culture
The artisans featured at the 2024 iteration collectively embody the cultural identity of the region. Their crafts reflect local traditions, materials, and artistic sensibilities. The showcase provides a tangible representation of the region’s heritage. Quilts depicting local landscapes, wooden carvings inspired by native flora and fauna, and pottery adorned with regional motifs. The Artisan Showcase becomes a cultural mirror, reflecting the unique character of the community it serves. It connects the visitor with the place through art.
-
Direct Interaction and Patronage
The power of the Showcase lies in its ability to foster direct interaction between artisans and patrons. Attendees have the opportunity to meet the creators, learn about their process, and understand the inspiration behind their work. This direct connection transforms the act of purchasing a handcrafted item into a more meaningful experience, fostering a sense of appreciation and supporting local talent. This is the most authentic experience one can have with the creation of art.
Therefore, the Artisan Showcase is not merely a collection of booths; it is the very essence of the West Catholic Craft Show 2024. Its a carefully constructed stage to view artistic talents. It serves as a celebration of community, culture, and the enduring power of human creativity. Without this spotlight, the event would lose its soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Behind every annual event, lie unanswered questions, whispers in the community, and practical concerns. This section addresses the most pressing inquiries surrounding the West Catholic Craft Show 2024, providing clarity and dispelling uncertainties.
Question 1: What distinguishes the West Catholic Craft Show 2024 from other craft fairs?
The distinction is twofold: a commitment to showcasing exclusively handcrafted items and its deep roots in the Catholic community. Every item offered is produced by the hands of the artisan present, and funds raised support various initiatives with that institution. It is an event woven with faith and craftsmanship.
Question 2: How does one become a vendor at the West Catholic Craft Show 2024?
The selection process is competitive. Interested artisans must submit an application, including images of their work and a description of their crafting process. A jury then reviews all submissions, selecting those that best represent the quality and diversity sought. Securing a spot is a testament to an artisan’s skill and originality.
Question 3: Are there admission fees for the West Catholic Craft Show 2024?
Often, but this varies. Details regarding admission fees are typically released closer to the event date. This information can be found on the associated organization’s website or through local media outlets. Planning involves consulting these sources for the most up-to-date information.
Question 4: What types of payment are accepted at the West Catholic Craft Show 2024?
Payment methods vary by vendor. While some may accept credit cards, cash is generally preferred. It is wise to come prepared with cash to ensure a smooth transaction and to support the artisans directly.
Question 5: Is parking available at the West Catholic Craft Show 2024?
Parking availability depends on the venue. Limited parking is often available on-site, but overflow parking may be located nearby, with shuttle services provided. Consulting the event website for parking details ensures convenient access.
Question 6: What measures are taken to ensure the authenticity of the handcrafted items sold at the West Catholic Craft Show 2024?
The jury process plays a crucial role in maintaining authenticity. The jury, comprised of experienced craftspeople and art enthusiasts, carefully reviews applications. The Show maintains the integrity of the Craft Fair.
These answers provide insight into the West Catholic Craft Show 2024, addressing common queries and illuminating its unique character.
The following section shifts focus to exploring volunteer opportunities associated with the event.
Navigating the West Catholic Craft Show 2024
The annual West Catholic Craft Show is more than just a date on the calendar. Its an immersive experience with preparation beforehand and mindful navigation on the day can significantly enhance the visit. This is not about casual browsing; it’s about appreciating the artistry and engaging with the community.
Tip 1: Research Participating Artisans
The artisan lineup is often published beforehand. Delve into the profiles of those who will be showcasing their wares. Identify specific artisans whose work resonates. Prioritization maximizes engagement with the most relevant creations and guarantees focus during the event, especially when time is short and there are too many items to view.
Tip 2: Arrive Early, Observe Closely
The atmosphere shifts throughout the day. Arriving early means navigating the show with greater ease, unburdened by crowds. It also permits more intimate conversations with the artisans themselves, enriching the appreciation of their craft. Careful observation is also important. Take note of the quality of materials, the intricacies of design, and the unique story each piece conveys. This attention elevates the experience from simple shopping to informed appreciation.
Tip 3: Engage Directly with the Artisans
The West Catholic Craft Show is not merely a retail space; it is a forum for dialogue. Take the opportunity to converse with the artisans, asking about their inspiration, their techniques, and the stories behind their creations. These interactions will deepen the connection to their work. They also acknowledge the value of their dedication. These exchanges transform an inanimate object into a personal connection.
Tip 4: Inquire About the Materials and Process
The true value of a handcrafted item lies in the care and expertise invested in its creation. Asking about the origins of the materials and the steps involved in the crafting process. This is not only polite, but it also demonstrates a genuine interest in the artisan’s work. It also provides insight into the sustainability and ethical considerations. The knowledge enhances long-term appreciation of the item. Ask a question to show you are engaged in the product.
Tip 5: Budget Strategically, Support Deliberately
Entering with a predetermined budget prevents impulse purchases and promotes mindful consumption. Allocate resources to pieces that truly resonate, recognizing the hard work and dedication that went into their creation. Supporting deliberately means prioritizing artisans whose stories, techniques, or values align with personal beliefs. Let the heart guide the wallet.
Tip 6: Document the Experience Thoughtfully
Capture memories with a camera, but do so with respect. Seek permission from artisans before photographing their work or themselves. Consider purchasing a small, meaningful item as a tangible reminder of the event. Preserve the experience not just as a shopping trip, but as an encounter with artistry and community.
The West Catholic Craft Show 2024 offers more than just shopping opportunities. It presents an opportunity to engage thoughtfully with art, community, and tradition. With mindful preparation and attentive participation, the experience can be transformative.
Next, we consider volunteer contributions. A discussion that offers yet another level of participation.
The Enduring Thread
The West Catholic Craft Show 2024, as revealed through this exploration, exists as more than an event marked on a calendar. The items showcased were not merely commodities, but artifacts rich with stories. The artisans, beyond vendors, were guardians of tradition, their hands shaping memories and community. Every aspect held a meaning that extended to the show.
The echo of hammers, the scent of beeswax, the texture of woven thread – all these elements culminated in the 2024 show. This show, a testament to the enduring power of human creativity. As attendees departed, purchases in hand, they carried more than just objects; they carried a piece of a legacy. The West Catholic Craft Show will continue. The show is a beacon. A reminder that community, craft, and tradition can still thrive in the modern world, one handcrafted item at a time.
