Shopper & Attendee Guides Articles

How to Care for Handmade Items After Purchase

Pottery, candles, jewelry, soap, textiles — each needs a little different care. Here's a quick guide to keeping your handmade finds in great shape.

How to Talk to a Craft Vendor

What to ask, what not to say, and how to have a great conversation with the maker behind the booth without overstaying your welcome.

How to Pay Vendors at Craft Shows

Cash, Venmo, card readers: what to expect when it's time to pay at a craft fair booth, how much cash to bring and what to do if a vendor is cash-only.

How to Plan a Craft Show Weekend Trip

Turn a craft fair into a full weekend getaway. Here's how to pick destinations, find hotels near show venues, and map multiple events.

How to Find Craft Shows Near You

Step-by-step guide to discovering local craft fairs using online listings, community groups, event calendars, and good old-fashioned flyers.

Bringing Kids to Craft Fairs

How to make a craft fair fun with kids: picking a family-friendly show, strollers and snacks, timing, the look-don't-touch rule, small budgets and kid-favorite booths.

Finding Free Craft Events to Visit

Many craft shows have free admission. Here's how to find them, when shows do charge, and how parking and suggested donations often work.

Holiday Craft Market Shopping Guide

November and December craft markets are the best gift-hunting grounds of the year. Here's how to shop them strategically.

What Makes a Great Craft Show?

Not all craft shows are equal. Here's what separates a memorable market from a mediocre one — variety, curation, atmosphere, and more.

Finding Unique Handmade Gifts at Craft Shows

Craft shows are the best places to find one-of-a-kind gifts. Here's a gift-shopping framework by occasion and price point.

How to Shop a Craft Fair Like a Pro

Walk the whole show first, bring cash, ask makers the right questions and know when to buy. Practical tips for shopping craft fairs smarter.

What to Expect at Your First Craft Show

First craft show? What to check before you go, what to bring, how shows are laid out, typical prices, how long to stay, and how to talk with makers.