PA Guild Fine Craft Fair

The largest premier fine craft fair in the Brandywine Valley returns for its 8th year with more craftsmen than ever before. The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen will host 192 creators at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, July 26 & 27. This indoor shopping experience is unique forthe array of beautiful items that are all handmade in America, ranging from one-of-a-kind clothing, jewelry, ceramics, glass, sculpture, artisan furniture, and more.   Patrons, collectors, and craft appreciators know that authentic, handmade style is not only thoughtfully designed, it sometimes comes with surprises like those in woodworker Jim Shott’s wall hangings. The most eye-catching are his colorful daisies, dragonflies, and clover with secret honeycomb compartments behind leaves and petals.  Another favorite is the acorn-shaped corner cabinet that inspired his current aesthetic. One day, while making  traditional wall-hung corner cabinets, he decided that a hike would clear his mind. Almost as soon as he stepped onto the trail, he picked up an acorn, and before he finished the nine-mile hike, he had the image and the complete construction process for an acorn-shaped, contemporary corner cabinet.   Shott’s pieces are finely made, using traditional woodworking techniques honed through 40 years of making clocks and traditionally patterned American furniture, including a tall-case clock for Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. “I’ve been called many a name,” says Shott, “woodworker, cabinetmaker, craftsman, furniture-maker. Today I am just fine with being called Jim. For nearly 40 years, I pursued the perfection of the hand-cut dovetail. Today I’m happiest when I see my customers smile.”   “Handmade craft items are as unique as the stories and inspiration behind them. We bring patrons more than just a coffee cup or a cabinet; we bring them the rich history behind each piece,” says executive director Brandi Clark. “The Guild’s fine craft fairs allow people to connect with the makers as they find unique items that express their equally unique personalities. We are honored to be able to share that experience with people!”   With this event, the Guild continues to unite an astute audience with exceptional handmade objects.  The Fine Craft Fair is open Saturday from 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm.  Admission is $8, children 16 and under are free.  Free parking is plentiful.

Price: $8 for adults; children 16 and under, free