SALT LAKE CITY -- Rather than spend hundreds of dollars shopping, a lot of people are taking to DIY (Do It Yourself) crafts.
It’s a trend that has turned Salt Lake City into “Craft Lake City,” a two-day event held at the Gallivan Center on Friday and Saturday.
“It’s a good opportunity for people who want things that aren’t just typical, normal, the norm,” said Gibbs Rainock, who attended with his family.
Since it began in 2009, the event has grown from approximately 70 vendors to more than 200, allowing craftsmen from all over the state to put their talents on display.
“The world is my Lego set,” said Timm Paxton of Timmland Studios, who opened a booth for the first time this year.
“I make a lot of things out of a lot of different stuff. It’s almost like a challenge,” Paxton said. “I’ll see something on the ground. There’s something, a piece of garbage, or someone else will find something, and then I’ll see if I can think of 20 things I can do with that.”
In contrast to past years, the fair has expanded to more than just one night. Shoppers can continue perusing the stands from noon-10 p.m. on Saturday.
“I’ve seen some pretty cool earrings and some pretty cool paintings,” said Sarah Whibey.
Historically run by volunteers, Craft Lake City was recently recognized as a nonprofit organization and could bring on full time employees in the future.
“It’s lot of like-minded people and great artists,” said vendor, Cody Kirkland. “Some of our employees have booths here as artists, so it’s cool.”
For more information about the festival, visit their website.
