10 Things You Should Always Buy at a Craft Fair, According to the People Who Run Them

Natural Skincare

Handmade soap, lip balm, hand cream, and even face serums and toners are increasingly sought-after at craft fairs, according to Cathy Zwicker, co-owner of the Crafty Wonderland fair. “At a craft fair, these items are usually much more natural," she says. "They don't have all the chemicals and additives that big-box store items do."

Pottery and Ceramics

Handmade pottery is a great find at a craft fair, especially if it's one-of-a-kind. “Years ago, I chose a mug that was not only beautiful, but also fit perfectly in my hand," says Brandy Bourne, co-founder of the Big Crafty fair. "It quickly became an essential part of my morning coffee ritual."

“Handmade ceramics often have a thoughtfulness that you can't get from machine-made dishes—like a hand-carved design, interesting glaze work, or an indentation where you can rest your thumb on a mug," says Torie Nguyen, who works alongside Zwicker as co-owner of Crafty Wonderland.

Custom Pieces

Craft fairs are a great opportunity to not only meet artisans but to also help create something yourself. “Many artists are happy to collaborate on meaningful designs, such as custom embroidery on a beloved jacket or a heartfelt quote stitched onto a baby blanket," says Bourne. "Jewelers often offer to adjust the size or length of a piece, and can even work with you to design something entirely unique."

Art

Original artwork is always a must-buy. “Prices are often more affordable than at a gallery, and your money goes directly to support the artist,” says Zwicker. If funds are tight, then Nyugen recommends picking up a print: “It's a great way to grow your art collection on a budget and to personalize your living space."

Handmade Cards

Shannon Green, co-founder of the Indie Craft Experience fair, loves the special details you can find in handmade birthday cards at fairs—from block-printed designs to hand-painted words. Nguyen suggests stocking up at a craft fair, so you have cards on hand all year long—after all, sending a unique letter via snail mail can be a real novelty in our digital age.

Jewelry

Jewelry made by an individual craftsperson and infused with their time and story makes for a truly special purchase. Bourne loves the personal connection that she's forged with these makers over the years. “When a piece has needed repair or alteration, the creators have always been happy to help," she says. "It’s that personal touch and the shared appreciation of their work that makes these pieces so much more than just accessories."

Seasonal Gifts

Green loves to pick up one-of-a-kind stocking stuffers at craft fairs, like local chocolates, crocheted animals, quirky keychains, phone charms, handcrafted leather bag tassels, and handmade knits. Bourne, meanwhile, is a fan of wildcrafted herb bundles, handmade soaps, and quilted stockings. These craft fair favorites “carry a deep sense of place... and are tried-and-true gifts,” she says.

Eco-Friendly Buys

Green likes to pick up functional, sustainable items at craft fairs, like beeswax wraps, hand-poured soy candles, sponges, and reusable paper towels and snack bags. “Buying items that promote sustainability from a local maker feels like a double win,” adds Nguyen.

Hostess Gifts

Craft fairs are a great place for hostess gifts, particularly if you're looking for something different from the usual wine bottle or flowers. Green and Zwicker love picking up treats for a dinner party, including homemade jam, chutney, pickles, or a local coffee. Green suggests packaging these delicious treats with a screen-printed tea towel.

Specialty Foods

Craft fairs are a great source for foodie finds like candy, tea, hot sauce, cocktail syrups, peanut butter, and more, says Zwicker. Even better, most makers generally offer samples before you buy—something you won't always find at your local market or grocery store.