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crafts

Craft fairs can be a great source of entertainment, education and decor for your home or business. They can also by a great experience for the whole family, including the men!

Read on for info on some of the best arts and crafts fairs throughout the Pacific Northwest.

No Matter What, Make Sure You’re Prepared

Going to a craft fair of any kind is an adventure on its own. Going to one of the more popular craft fairs in the Pacific Northwest during autumn is another story itself.

This is a popular time of year for festivals. Especially if you plan to attend with your family, including young children, you need to be prepared. Make sure you pack everything you can think of in advance that might make your festival time easier.

For example, pack things like sunscreen, bottled water, and plenty of snacks. This is important, in particular, for young kids attending outdoor crafts fairs. Plus, make sure everyone in your party is geared up with the best shoes for an active day.

Oregon State Fair

Perhaps one of the most widely attended autumn fairs in the Pacific Northwest is the Oregon State Fair. This fair takes place in Salem, Oregon, and it’s a ton of fun for everyone who goes.

From August 23rd through September 3rd, the Oregon State Fair will have a variety of events and shows programmed. There are tons of other kinds of attractions, too. No one will get bored even after a few days at this event.

For specific interest in arts and crafts, don’t worry. There are all different kinds of craft contests and displays. You need to make sure to do your research ahead of time to know where to go.

The Oregon State Fair is a huge event. It can be overwhelming for larger families, so it’s fair to want something a little bit smaller. Consider the following option for a calmer time at an arts and crafts fair.

Downtown Tigard Street Fair

It’s possible that you’ve never heard of Tigard, Oregon, before. If that’s the case, then you likely haven’t heard of the Downtown Tigard Street Fair, either. This, though, could be the crafts fair in the Pacific Northwest you and your family have been searching for.

The Tigard Street Fair is smaller than, say, the Oregon State Fair. That’s good news for families who are wanting a more rustic, neighborhood-friendly arts and crafts fair this autumn.

This charming arts and crafts fair is happening on September 8. You and your family still have time to register and prepare for a quaint little getaway.

Art In The Pearl

Perhaps you want to attend a large crafts fair without the wild attractions of the Oregon State Fair. If you are able to travel around the area of Portland, Oregon, you have a great option. You should consider taking your family to the Art In The Pearl Festival.

This festival happens each year over Labor Day Weekend. If these dates and this location is something your family could handle, don’t miss out. Art In The Pearl boasts of some of the most varying and talented craftsmen and craftswomen in the area.

This weekend-long event is completely free to everyone who attends. If you and your family are looking to save some cash, this is the festival for you.

This festival in Portland has even been named one of the ten best arts and crafts festivals in the United States. Don’t let you and your family miss out.

Ocean Shores Arts and Crafts Festival

Not everyone wants to travel to Oregon for an arts and crafts fair. If you’re looking for more options within the Pacific Northwest, have you thought about Washington? There are sure to be some fall festival options in that area, too.

Consider visiting Ocean Shores, Washington, if you and your family get a chance to this fall. They also will be holding an arts and crafts festival over the Labor Day weekend.

Once again, admission to this fall festival is free to the public. If you and your family can make the trip, this festival is sure to be worth exploring.

Olympia Harbor Days

Perhaps your family would like an autumn arts and crafts festival that is more sophisticated. If so, you should look into attending Olympia Harbor Days.

This festival is also held over Labor Day weekend, so you should start preparing if you want to attend. This festival is definitely worth your time and money.

Not only will there be arts and crafts to view, but you and your family might get a different kind of show. Imagine getting to watch the World’s Largest Vintage Tugboat Race. This festival could make timeless memories that your family will be sure to cherish.

Explore the Pacific Northwest for More Than Fall Crafts

Taking your family to an autumn craft fairs is rewarding in more ways than you might initially expect. Fall craft fairs and art displays can entertain everyone. Plus, outdoor festivals are a great chance to get your family active and geared up for the rest of the holidays.

If you and your family are looking for more things to explore than crafts, though, you’re in luck. The Pacific Northwest has a variety of adventures to entice everyone in the family. Continue your research on our blog to learn about all the exciting things to do in the Pacific Northwest.

Artist & Craftsman St Helens Debut

Artist & Craftsman Store Front

A great addition to the down town area, Artist & Craftsman Supply in Downtown Tacoma is now open! Art lovers won’t have to make that commute to Seattle any longer to get the pro-artist supplies they need. Located on St Helens Ave, Artist & Craftsman Supply is open from 9am to 7pm Monday through Saturday and 10am to 6pm Sunday. These experts have everything painters, sculptors and crafters need.

A Space to Create Art

Artist & Craftsman Paper Selection

Opening their doors November 2016, Artist & Craftsman arrived with a reputation in the art community for quality professional art supplies. Their Seattle Location is known for it’s astounding inventory and size. However the Tacoma location has a more Historic feel. A flood of abstract rainbow colors fill the room along with decorative light features. The Artist & Craftsman team has done an amazing job of restoring the Wagner Motors Building without losing the integrity of its classic 1920’s design.

Although every artist has a speciality and Michael Rives, the Manager of Artist & Craftsman is there to help artist cultivate theirs. I spoke with Kat one of the friendly staff members as she was adjusting upcoming events on the store cork board. She explained that Artist & Craftsman is a place for artist to dive into their passions. Moreover Kat was adamant that if there was a specific tool or item an artist wanted and Artist & Craftsman didn’t carry it in store, they would be able to order it for their customers or help them find it. The friendly staff isn’t the only draw to this stellar art store. Artist & Craftsman also host events, and are beginning to organize classes for the 2017 year.

2 Must See Demos

Artist & Craftsman Spray Paint

You don’t need an excuse to visit Artist & Craftsman but this month there are two Free Demos hosted in store that are a must see. Mark your calendar for Saturday February 4th 1pm to 4pm for the Yupo Paper Demo. Yupo Paper is a type of polyurethane synthetic paper. This paper is actually 100% recyclable. Another feature is that Artist can manipulate their work with water. This awesome paper is amazing for creating watercolor type images, soft textures, and depth.

The second event this month is on Sunday February 12th at 1pm. Artist & Craftsman will be hosting Marabu and demonstrating new products. Celia Buchanan will be leading the demonstration.

There are many more events to come which are listed on the Artist & Craftsman Facebook page and website. Tacoma residents are fortunate to live in a city full of art. Let February be a month to begin creating, painting, crafting and framing. Let’s express ourselves and get inspired at Artist & Craftsman!

Clever Neighbor Holiday Showcase

Santa always gets it right, but he seems to get ample assistance from his Elf brigade. Luckily Clever Neighbor has come to the rescue. On Saturday, December 17th, Clever Neighbor held its Holiday Showcase at Tacoma’s Historic Gower Mansion. We hosted many of Tacoma’s hidden holiday gems. From stocking stuffers to presents under the tree Clever Neighbor has you covered at the Holiday Showcase.

2016 Holiday Showcase Vendors

Harts & Pearls

AH Lip and Body Butter

Bicycle Soap Company

We are in love with Bicycle Soap Company, their artisan collection of fair trade luxury soaps are rich with essential oils and Shea butter. Bicycle Soap Company believes in fair trade, they only use Shea butter from Global Mamas a Non-profit in Ghana that empowers and supports women entrepreneurs. As a result Bicycle Soap Company will nourish your skin when you begin your holiday detox.

Joyful Letter Shop

Joyful Letter Shop is a great addition to our hand crafted fun. Featuring wood sliced ornaments, signs, and decorations Joyful Letter Shop crafts warm decor while waiting for reindeer. These made to order signs and ornaments come in multiple sizes with unique phrases. However, Joyful Letter Shop also creates custom burlap banners and moleskin notebooks if your tree has just the right amount of ornaments.

Stephanie James

Don’t forget the wreath! Wreaths are a classic Holiday Symbol or center piece and in the Pacific North West. Stephanie James has a beautiful collection of Holiday Wreaths. These wreaths are made with traditional fresh greens and set the tone for winter wonderland by featuring miniature holiday scenes. Stephanie makes custom pieces or you can choose from a variety of traditional holiday favorites.

Lisa DeVries – Scentsy Independent Consultant

Fresh Pine isn’t the only fragrance at our Clever Neighbor Holiday Showcase. Our Scentsy consultant Lisa DeVries has just the right combination of fragrance to bring warmth and cheer. These wick-less candle warmers are perfect for any room in the house, and can change with the season. Be sure to stock up before family, friends and neighbors stop by to open presents!

Sanford & Daughter

Our Holiday Showcase wouldn’t be complete without a little bling for the new year. Sanford and Daughter has a truly unique jewelry line that cannot be duplicated. With over 100 years of exposure, Tacoma’s Old City Hall copper tiles have been transformed into bracelets, earrings and necklaces and are a truly unique piece of Tacoma’s History. Sanford and Daughter has taken up-cycling to a new level by creating stunning statement pieces that have an incredible story behind their creation.

LuLaRoe by Rachelle Tichy

Paring your new statement piece with the perfect outfit will be a piece of pie this year. Fashionable, comfortable and affordable, has there ever been a better combination? Lularoe doesn’t think so. Their line of stylish clothing gives Lularoe consultants the opportunity to live their lives and set their own schedule. This pop-up boutique is the perfect solution for the trendy fashionista in your life. These modern but classic dresses, skirts, sweaters, shirts and more will have your family wishing for more surprises under the tree.

Don’t wait this year! Get all the unique and thoughtful gifts at your Clever Neighbor Holiday Showcase this weekend. Finding the perfect gift from Local Tacoma based artists and crafters just got better, we’re here to help.

-With Holiday Cheer, your friendly Clever Neighbor!