This month, try something new. Craftadian Spring Market, a curated space with 40 local artisans, designers and food purveyors takes place at First United Church on Saturday, April 28, where participants can shop locally made goods, learn new skills and go home with something handmade.   

Earlier this year, 40 out of 200 applicants were accepted into Craftadian, focusing on local area makers that represent modern design across diverse mediums including art, ceramics, textiles, clothing, stationery, skincare, food and jewellery. The jury, consists of, designers and crafters, of varying experience in order to stay current with trends in the art and craft event space. Each market is produced with an emphasis on keeping the environment fresh, connecting buyers with makers while elevating the shopping 'small' experience.

For many of these artisans and small business owners, it's the only time they are able to interact with customers face to face.  It's a great opportunity to shop small, and support the local community instead of shopping big box retailers or online. Everything from clothing, handbags, to home décor will be on offer, as well as:

·        Indoor food purveyors including Andrzejewski Perogies, Soup Girl, The Chocolate Lab, Peter Piper's Pastry Shop, and Fantasy Cookies

·        Free swag bags filled with handmade goodies for the first 50 people in line at 10 a.m., plus gift giveaways at 2 p.m.

Below is a roundup of the new experiential DIY workshops. *Each workshop comes with a swag bag, valued at $25, filled with handmade goodies from Oakville based, Dove + Arrow Boutique:

·        10.30 p.m.: Hand-stamped Cuff Bracelet Workshop hosted by Dream Willow Studio, $19.99*

Learn how to custom stamp your own mantra cuff, and take home your own aluminium cuff.  For all levels.

·        11.30 a.m.: Mala Bracelet Workshop hosted by Up Close & Personal, $19.99*

Join designer Kate in this workshop to learn how to create and take home a custom beaded mala bracelet. For all levels. 

·        1 p.m.: Create Your Own Wooden Sign hosted by Dove + Arrow Boutique, $19.99*

Learn the importance of layout as you transfer and paint a custom design onto a wooden plank. For all levels.

  What's more, a portion of the proceeds go towards Crafting for a Cure,  a not-for-profit registered charity that looks for opportunities to ensure children are having a positive experience when a hospital visit is necessary. 

Visit www.craftadian.ca for full maker listing.

What: Craftadian Spring Market (formerly Made by Hand Show)
Where: First United Church 151 Lakeshore Road West, Mississauga, ON, L5H 1G3
When: Saturday, April 28 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost:  Admission: $3 (Under 16 years of age free)
*Free Swag bags to the first 50 families in line at 10 a.m. and special giveaways at 2 p.m.
Free Parking

About Craftadian
Since 2011, Craftadian (formerly Made by Hand Show) has been a destination to shop for locally handmade products made and designed by Canadian artists, artisans and designers.  The show features quality handmade exhibitors carefully selected by a jury. From original artwork, body products, candles, clothing, ceramics, fashion accessories, jewellery, photography, pottery, paper goods, toys, wood and a range of gourmet goodies, there is something for everyone. Craftadian produces unique events across Ontario.  For more information, please visit www.craftadian.ca. 

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