Crafty Bastards is like a real-life Etsy, a fair that brings together more than 170 independent artists who make jewelry, accessories, clothing, ceramics, home goods, and many other pretty things. This year’s lineup has a bunch of new names–including one who makes hand-drawn rubber stamps… of your face. (Seriously, one vendor sells portrait stamps.) Project Runway season one winner Jay McCarroll returns this year; here are six other artists you shouldn’t miss.
Fourty-four bucks may sound outrageous for a cup, but think of all of the amazing things you could do with one of Benotti’s gorgeous herringbone ceramic pieces–it could be a toothbrush holder, a fancy salt box, or even your designated water cup. Benotti makes them in her studio in New Hamphshire, where she hand paints each piece and inlays her drawings using a Japanese mishima technique. (Bonus: She also sells flasks.)
You could try making your very own terrarium, or you could stop by the Zen Succulent for a very cool hanging one. Plus, they’re super low maintenance. All you have to do is mist them once a week.
This family-run, Annapolis-based woodshop makes home goods, most notably, succulent planters that are like little works of art. This geometric cedar planter ($48) is charred to a beautiful matte black.
Local designer Sarah Bayot creates earthy jewelry with touches of quartz and cord. Kicheko sales benefit a primary school in Uvira, Democratic Republic of Congo by providing students with scholarships.
Earth Cadets sells totes, scarves, wall art, baby bodysuits, and home decor pieces made from organic, recycled materials. The brand’s hand-printed kitchen towels, napkin sets, and pillows are sold in vibrant colors and patterns–including these nifty polka dots ($16).
Stop by this vendor’s booth for functional bags in clean, classic designs. Everything, including this petite green shoulder bag ($148), is handmade in Virginia–usually with leather that’s a byproduct of the food industry. This one doubles as a backpack and bucket bag ($235).
Crafty Bastards takes place at Union Market on September 26 and 27 from 10 AM to 5 PM. Tickets are available online for $5.
