RADAR
Canada Gets Crafty
Discover the passion and artistry behind the thriving community of Canadian makers.
By Claudia Laroye
Handmade ceramic mugs can be found at Alexis Ceramic Studio in Halifax. | IMAGE: COURTESY OF ALEXIS CERAMIC STUDIO
THERE'S NOTHING ELSE LIKE IT. What you’re holding is one-of-a-kind. It was hand-made with inspiration, passion and skill. Maybe you’ve long sought this object, or perhaps it’s an unexpected find that speaks to you. You’ve likely met its creator and learned a little about their process — and now this wondrous creation is yours to treasure.
Experiences like this can happen at any good makers’ market. And just as magical moments like these can transcend mere transactional shopping, these markets also have a deeper resonance rooted in sustainability.
Consumers increasingly value unique, high-quality, handcrafted items from local artisans and small businesses. They appreciate the human connection and stories behind them that are unique to individual pieces. As creative collectives of artists and craftspeople, Canadian makers’ markets are thriving in community centres and neighbourhood halls from coast to coast to coast.
Vibrant spaces of local artistry and entrepreneurship, makers’ markets can also have a positive environmental impact. Maker fairs encourage sustainable practices by valuing quality over mass production. Artists and craftspeople often use upcycled materials (thereby reducing waste), create and transport goods locally, resulting in a lower carbon footprint, and produce items with a meaningful origin story that encourages thoughtful purchases.
Pure joy is discovering a unique handcrafted treasure with a story at a makers' market. | PHOTO: KOSTIANTYNVOITENKO/ENVATO
What’s in store? Curious shoppers can find adorable crocheted animal keepsakes for the littles from Maxi Moo Handmade at MRKT© in Saskatoon; heavenly honey-infused Sleepy Time Lotion from Just Ezzy Bee, which can typically be found at one of four locations of The Makers Keep in and around Edmonton; hand-turned exotic-wood pens designed by Northern InkWorks at Maker’s Market in Toronto; or colourful ceramic bowls, cups and mugs from Alexis Ceramic Studio at the Halifax Crafters Society Market. Mindful consumers will find countless ways to support local and score that perfect something for that special someone at a Canadian makers’ market.
It’s never been easier or more fun to find one-of-a-kind treasures and support artists and craftspeople, notes Katrina Dwulit, co-founder of Victoria’s Market Collective. “If you make it easy to shop local and handmade, customers will buy local and handmade.” CAA
Here is just a glimpse of makers’ markets in the region:
The Mom Market Collective (Niagara): Hosts multiple markets throughout the year at different locations in the Niagara region, connecting makers with the community.
Magnificent Women’s Market (Niagara Falls): A community-driven market celebrating women entrepreneurs and showcasing local talent.
Looking for other markets near you? Find unique, handcrafted goods from Niagara makers at our Pen Centre branch's community retail space. Or, explore local arts arts councils, tourism sites and event platforms like Eventbrite. Search social media with regional maker hashtags and check “shop local” initiatives for market listings.
