Spring is all about rebooting and refreshing—everything from your wardrobe to your home decor. Since its humble beginnings in 1975 (as a craft show of 80 exhibitors), the One of a Kind Show has expanded with a second annual event, the Spring instalment. As the largest consumer craft show in North America, you’d best prepare for a weekend of unbridled crafting fanaticism. Whatever your craft of choice—be it artisanal candles or millinery—you’ll find it here in spades. Here are our picks for 5 things to do at the One of a Kind Spring Show 2014.
A slew of (read: 450) artisans
This spring, the show has welcomed even more participants, bringing its impressive total to 450 talented artisans. Pick up some all-natural facial masques from Artifact Skin Co., admire the delicate glasswork of Cocorico Studio’s Karina Guevin, or pick up a pair of geometric diamond studs from White Feather Designs.
Thunderbird Marketplace
New this year, the Thunderbird Marketplace (sponsored by Miziwe Biik) is highlighting Aboriginal design through the work of 12 vendors. Expect sculpture, leather accessories, gold and silver jewellery, visual art and even porcupine quill work.
Tonight Only: Late Night Shopping
For this evening only (Mar. 27), stroll the marketplace well after the sun goes down. From 5 to 11 p.m., enjoy free coat check and free parking, door crasher prizes between 6:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., and grab a drink from the bar (5 to 10:30 p.m.). Tunes will be provided by DJ Eric Ling.
Seminars and Fashion Shows
For those who could benefit from a bit of guidance in navigating the array of vendors, stop by the One of a Kind Main Stage for their seminars and fashion shows. Watch as stand-out clothing and accessories strut to life on-stage, and don’t miss the Covet Garden team outlining their favourite conversation pieces from the show on Mar. 30 at 1 p.m.
One of a Kind Etsy
Your subconscious has no doubt been affected by those Etsy transit ads on your sleepy morning commute—now, you can finally act on the urge to purchase hand-crafted goods for yourself or, if you’re feeling generous, your significant other. Best of all, you can get a clear sense of the items you’ve been coveting, rather than squinting at your computer screen.
One of a Kind Spring Show, Direct Energy Centre (Exhibition Place), on until March 30. Tickets are $12 for adults.
