Every Handmade Arcade veteran knows the feeling: the thrill of the hunt. You can attend year after year and still find something you never expected.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or the person who has everything, you’ll want to check out some of this year’s most original items, like …
Cyndi Lauper earrings: For the folks who just wanna have fun, show your true colors with punk and 80’s-inspired jewelry and accessories by AANiMALL. Local maker Eva Stulc combines high-quality epoxy resin, glitter, textiles, and neon paint with lots of love for Siouxsie Sioux, Motörhead, Miss She Bop herself, and more. (Virtual and in-person markets)
Fashion-Forward Steelers gear: If you’re the type to show up to a tailgate party with a bottle of champagne and a wheel of brie, may we introduce you to Kiya Tomlin? Her last name may sound familiar. She designs glamourous yet functional clothing, including a line of officially-licensed Steelers apparel that complements your favorite pair of heels as well as your Terrible Towel. (In-person market only)
Wallet made from a vintage baseball glove: If you’re shopping for baseball fans, Yurko Sports brings your chance to hit a holiday homerun. They craft wallets, coasters, phone holders, earrings, magnets, and keychains from vintage baseball gloves and footballs. They deconstruct, stitch, and create everything by hand to make one-of-a-kind goods for fans of all ages. (Virtual and in-person markets)
A terrarium turned coaster: For your favorite plant parent, Vi Re of Raw Resins makes beautiful coasters, bookmarks, and trays that suspend dried leaves and flowers in watery, translucent resin. Her designs are minimalistic with a deep appreciation for nature. With flecks of mica and gold foil, you’ll find yourself gazing deep into her unique designs. (Virtual and in-person markets)
An adventure kit: Born to be wild? Then head outside with The Daggerfish Gear Company and your American-made wilderness gear, made by the son of a national park ranger. The Magnum Foraging and Feasting kit makes a deluxe gift and includes premium foraging, food storage, and cooking accessories for dining on all that nature has to offer. (Virtual and in-person markets)
Adopt a Rot: If Halloween decorations are your favorite type of home décor, you’ll want to meet The Rots. These quirky characters are inspired by cute monsters, cranky cats, and creepy clowns, with a dash of disturbing nightmares. According to artist Nora Thompson, “The Rots thrive on materials that most people would consider trash and discard” – like paint-spattered cabinet doors. Pick up an original art piece on wood, canvas, or paper, or grab a print. (Virtual and in-person markets)
Thank you to Una Biologicals – sponsor of the Friday Night Happy Hour on Friday, December 3 from 5 to 7:30 PM. The first 400 people through the door to receive a mini-gift made with love by the Una team. Get your tickets before they are sold out.