Crafting One of a Kind changes
For some of the more than 800 Canadian artisans selling handcrafted items at Exhibition Place, the annual winter craft show is an opportunity to educate consumers and give back to the community
More than 800 artisans from across the country — including 200 new exhibitors — will showcase their talent and connect with like-minded artists and shoppers at the winter edition of the popular craft fair, for 10 days beginning Thursday, at the Enercare Centre at Toronto’s Exhibition Place.
For some makers, the show is more than an opportunity to grow their businesses. It’s also a place to educate consumers and give back to their communities. The theme this year is “Together,” says show director Janice Leung. “Community and connectivity have always been at the heart of what we do at One of a Kind. Being amongst this community of makers, I am continuously fascinated by their journeys. It is encouraging to see people whose work is their life, and whose passions are contagious,” she says.
First-time vendor Christian Marcello owns Team Plover, a company that makes dog collars and leashes and uses the funds to help rescue unwanted dogs.
For every product Team Plover sells, Marcello commits to transporting one pet in need to a rescue centre or new home. Building awareness is an important aspect of his work, and he sees the One of a Kind show as an ideal place to do just that.
“I’ll have the opportunity to tell many people about our mission at Team Plover,” he said.
Here are five new artisans to the show with a desire to make a difference.