Faire Play: Handmade Market Chicago

Earlier this month, B-bops and I braved the cold and snow venturing to the Handmade Market in Chicago, which is hosted every second saturday at The Empty Bottle. What a fine city we live in! So many craftastic opportunities. We were not disappointed with our little trip, and I discovered some fun new craftspeople! But I don’t mean to rub this in your face, seeing as how you probably couldn’t come. Luckily for you, I’m about to take you on a virtual visit to the Handmade Market by introducing you to my 6 favorite booths!

So after you grab a beer from the bar (or your fridge), let’s hop on over to Rar Rar Press‘s table for some chuckle-inducing letterpress. I actually recognized some of these cards, because the creator Rebecca is a Columbia alum and sells her work at ShopColumbia. So, if you ever find yourself visiting the Windy City, you can giggle with your gals in person at pick up a card sans shipping.

Next, we’re gonna mosey on over to Pajaro Negro where April shows off her hand-painted plaster sugar skulls. Now that is some show-stopping artistry!

If skulls aren’t your thang, then let’s keeping moving to Broad Street‘s table, which is full of rustic, flea-market charm and some glitzy surprises.

Ooooh, I really love this piece! You too? Do you think I should get it? You’re right. Let’s keep looking and come back to it before we leave! You’re such a good shopping buddy.

Mmmmm! These look yummyz. BUT DON’T EAT THEM! Alewyfe has fooled us with their organic soaps and bath bombs. Yeah, I’d bathe with that ball of cookie dough.

Now here’s something pretty! Organic beauty products by Bonnie? Yes, please. I think I’ll get one of the tinted lip balms. Have you found anything you like yet?

If not, I think this next table will put a smile on your face before we leave. Anna Todaro‘s got some prints and accessories with enough color and whimsy to lift your spirits.

Spock hopes you had a pleasant shopping experience. Please come back again. And live long and prosper. Obvs.