The Appalachian Center for Crafts will host its annual Holiday Festival Saturday, showcasing skills and learning techniques.
Program Manager Ashley Lusietto said the festival gives residents a chance to learn about art while making handmade gifts for loved ones this holiday season. Lusietto said the event also supports local artists and craftspeople.
“A handmade item is made by a person, by a crafts person or an artist,” Lusietto said. “Someone who spent time on it or learned a skill to make that item so its something to be treasured, something that can be passed down for generations.”
Lusietto said participants will work with artists in studios in the craft center in areas such as wood-turning, glassblowing and dying scarves.
Lusietto said the center tries to select crafts that do not require a long time to complete.
“We always offer a glass-blown ornament workshop, and other workshops we think are festive this time of the year,” Lusietto said. “A workshop where somebody can make something in three hours. Whatever they might make might be a nice gift to give to somebody at work, even to keep for themselves.”
Lusietto said the festival has expanded over the years, as the center has started selling art. Classes can cost anywhere from $50-$70 and early registration is encouraged.
“It’s meaningful in terms of what an individual can get out of it,” Lusietto said. “But also as an opportunity for people to be together and celebrate the holidays together by making something handmade.”