Made by hand

CEBU, Philippines – Dubbed as "Mini Maker's Market Cebu," the occasion brought different crafters, hand-maker supply concessionaires, and crafting hobbyists and enthusiasts together - drawn by a passion in the making of handmade creations; apart from sharing what they know of their respective crafts.

From handmade soaps to fashion accessories, whimsical statement coffee mugs to handmade fabric toys, the crafts fair - which was held in the Anthill (Alternative Nest and Trading Hub for Indigenous/Ingenious Little Livelihood) Fabric Gallery on October 25 to 26 - also featured a selection of leather-bound notebooks and other leather-based items, home and kitchen essentials crafted from wood, a selection of fashion accessories made from "up-cycled" materials, fashion accessories made with terra cotta, and more. Anthill Fabric Fallery is located along Pedro Calomadre St. corner Acacia St.

The "makers" fair also hosted a series of workshops and activities throughout its two-day run - including basic needle felting, holiday stamping, brush calligraphy, and paper flowers and card making workshops.

Demonstrations delving into the making of handmade terra cotta earrings, "Crocheting an Owl Basket" sessions, and an interactive do-it-yourself fabric bouquet session were also part of the fair's highlights.

As the first "makers" fair of its kind to be held in the city, "Mini Makers' Market Cebu" was more than the typical fair-and-bazaar events Cebuanos are familiar with - going beyond presenting the typical revue of graphic tees, street fashion-themed clothing, imported floral dresses and "faux-tribal" fashion accessories that are often encountered in such events.

Organized by Anthill and Craft MNL - a Manila-headquartered community of makers, designers, crafters and entrepreneurs that specialize in the organization of small fairs, craft gatherings and workshops - the organizers of "Mini Makers' Market Cebu" is set on hosting more crafts and "makers" fairs in the coming days, following the success of its flagship run.

More information and updates on upcoming "Makers Market" events is available by liking www.facebook.com/CraftCEB.