Crafts

The term Craft is commonly referred to as the product of artistic expression created with ones own hands.

Scroll down for links to:

  • Training
  • Manitoba and National Crafters
  • Grants and Funding
  • Awards
  • Craft and Trade Resources

Traditional and handicrafts are popular among consumers and are usually sold in shops and at a variety of organized events such as craft fairs and tradeshows.

Crafters not only achieve fulfillment through the creative process, but they are highly technical artists and have a strong knowledge of their equipment. Modern Crafters gain retail and business planning skills in order to market and sell their product using computers and developing websites.

There are 56 independently owned and operated craft retail stores throughout Manitoba. There are 28 stores in Winnipeg alone.

Many Crafters begin learning their trade as early as high school. Studio workshops are places for Crafters to practice and develop a portfolio. Universities offer programs for more intensive artistic training, managing, bookkeeping, purchasing and advertising.

Examples of Types of Crafts and Crafters Jobs:

  • Ceramics and Glass (glass blowing, pottery)
  • Fiber Crafts (quilting, lace-making)
  • Flower Crafts (bouquets, arrangements)
  • Furniture Assembler (finisher, inspector)
  • Leatherwork (carving, stamping)
  • Mixed Media (beading, scrap booking)
  • Metal Crafts (blacksmith, jeweler)
  • Needlework (embroidery, knitting)
  • Paper Crafts (decoupage, origami)
  • Retail Marketing Program Manager
  • Stone Crafts (carving, mosaics)
  • Studio Teaching
  • Wood Crafts (carving, woodworking)

Artisan: Also called craftsman, is a skilled manual worker who uses tools and machinery in a particular craft.

Decorative Art: Different from fine art, decorative art is intended for ornamentation purposes and interior adornment.

Folk Art: Follows traditional techniques from specific geographical areas including handicrafts and ornamental works.

Guild System: An association of skilled crafters and artisans practicing a particular craft.

Portfolio: A portable collection of an artist’s work used to represent and show their skills and particular style. A portfolio is often made up of photos and samples of work.

"Let a human being throw the energies of his soul into the making of something and the instinct of workmanship will take care of his honesty" - Walter Lippmann