Goodies from the Peter's Valley Craft Fair

Being a native of Sussex County, NJ, it's a wonder that I've never been to this craft fair before.  Peter's Valley Craft Center is a non-profit art center offering classes and workshops for both adults and children in a variety of mediums including ceramics, jewelry, photography and glass. Located near the Delaware Water Gap in Layton, NJ, attendees can even stay on the grounds of this beautiful rural area while they take longer workshops.  The annual craft fair is held at the Sussex County Fair Grounds because it's so large, and I was blown away by the quality and quantity of work.

The majority of goods there were pottery, jewelry, knits, and photography, with a few others crafts thrown in there.  Though I couldn't take photos at the event, I did restrain myself to buying a few things.

This first one is an adorable plate from Natures Nest Pottery, featuring Russian nesting dolls, that I went loco for and had to have.

Gorgeous colors

Awesome detailing

I picked up a few of these whimsical brass ornaments from Aurna Enterprises.  They have a zillion and there all adorbs.

Verdigris finish like the Statue of Liberty

And lastly, one of these beautiful leaf bowls from The Clay Cellar pottery.  I can't reveal which one, since it's a gift for someone who reads this blog!

Image via theclaycellarpottery.com

Be sure to mark your calendar for next years fair! Until then, check out a few more of my favorites from the show.

Diarama-esque shadow boxes from Working Birds Studio

Everything from the artists at the Potters' Guild of New Jersey

Lawn decor from Iron Art Studio

Gorgeous stones in the jewelry of Hudson Valley Goldsmith
  

Philadelphia International Flower Show

The Philadelphia International Flower Show is totally where it's at for people who like literally anything flower related.  One part expo, one part county fair, and one part market, this event is a cocktail of color and inspiration.  Held in the enormous Philadelphia Convention Center, there seems to be an endless stretch of things to see, from 1000 square foot displays to tabletop flower arrangements.  20 year old prize winning cacti mingle with front yard gardens and botanical illustrations.  Unfortunately you're not allowed to walk into any of the displays, which takes a pretty high level of restraint. To say you're overstimulated is an understatement.    

Enough with the clever prose, it's time to get to the pictures.  I apologize upfront for the low quality; all the "mood lighting" actually makes the room fairly dark and it's incredibly crowded.  This is only a small sampling, click the link at the end to view the full album.  Feast your eyes...

A store window display in an old card catalog

A jungle scene composed entirely of pressed flowers!

Botanical illustration of an orchid puts my water colors to shame. 

I love this color palette of white, pink, and peach.

Indoor waterfall.  Probably the largest display in the show.

Magenta and orange orchids

Down the isle.

 See the rest of the photos here.

All About Downtown Festival pics

There were some great and unusual crafts at the All About Downtown Street Fair.  I was able to snap some photos of a few of my favorites and I'm sad I wasn't able to take more.  This only shows a small portion of all the artists, so apologies to the vendors who were missed!

Stylish reusable tote bags from Bag The Habit.  They fold up into adorable zipper pouches.

Little clay monsters fromTimid Monsters.  Each one is different and they can live in little jar habitats.  

Channel some 80s video game style with prints and matching stuffed animals from Fluffy Goodness (they have a fun website too!).

 

Printed gift tags from Sophia Design Shoppe.

Graphic skull pillows and "powered by veggies" tee by Ula Nice, plus Healing Herbs tea towel (I adore tea towels).

And lastely, Damaged Wear showing some local pride!

Upcoming craft fairs in Jersey City

If you live in Jersey City, NJ you know that one thing the town can't seem to get enough of is street fairs. At times these events are just an excuse to blast remixes of Gasolina under the guise of honoring a Saint or nationality.  But often times, the vibrant and active local art community will put on a great street fair.  You can always expect really unique handmade indie crafts, live music, and tasty snacks from local food trucks.  There are two such festivals right around the corner.

Coming up this Saturday, September 17th, is the first annual All About Downtown Street Festival.  Move info is available on their facebook page.

Right on it's heels is the annual Fourth Street Arts and Music Festival held on October 1st.  

The craft fair portion is hosted by Not Yo Mamma's Affairs as part of the JC Artist's Studio Tour.  More info at 4thstreetarts.com.  Unfortunately, I'll be out of town for this one, but if you live in the area you don't want to miss it!

Know of any great craft fairs coming up?