Cool Crafts at the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival
For over 30 years, Sugarloaf Crafts Festival have brought some of the country’s most talented crafters, artists and artisans to the area. And this weekend at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia you can see and purchase the works of over 250 of these talented artists.
The types of crafts range from hand-made purses and home décor to intricate and ornate jewelery and glass pieces to gourmet foods. And for a sampling of some of the more unique vendors, check out the one-of-a-kind whimsical stoneware ceramic monsters at Claymonster Pottery, limited edition sand casted sculptures from Desrochers Studios and hand-crafted jewelry boxes created from recycled or reclaimed wood by Natural Renaissance. And don’t miss the large number of handmade clothing and fashion.
The festival also features 11 different interactive demonstrations featuring master craftspeople providing an overview and demo of their specific craft. The demonstrations include artisans showcasing their specific craft, including papermaking, pottery making, woodturning, mobile sculpting, metal working, bowl carving and several more.
Some of the the artisans received their training in art schools or college, others by the traditional way of apprenticing for a master craftsman, while others are self-taught.
Live piano and guitar performances, plus a children’s puppet show are also part of the show. And check out the unique 15-foot tall grandfather clock.
Sugarloaf Crafts Festival — Dulles Expo Center, 4368 Chantilly Center, Chantilly, Virginia (map)
Dates and Hours – Friday – Sunday, January 28-30, 2011. Friday & Saturday – 10:00-6:00, Sunday – 10:00-5:00.
Tickets – $9.00, get a $1.00 off coupon or $7.00 online. Children under 12 are free.
Nearest Metro Subway Station – Vienna/Fairfax-GMU – Orange line, then a 9-mile cab ride.
Parking – Free parking if available at the Expo Center.
Images – courtesy of SCF.
