Crocheted toilet paper cozies? Popsicle-stick bird houses? Homemade jellies? Not at the Spring Bada Bing. No way, no how. It’s billed as “The BOSS” of All Craft Shows. Instead, visitors will find fresh and unique designs in jewelry, pottery, children’s clothes, accessories, artwork, apparel and more. Need a pincushion? There’s one shaped like a squid. Love sushi? How about a lifelike replica that you can adore but not eat?

Dawn Anderson, one of the founders of the Richmond Craft Mafia, says the Spring Bada Bing isn’t just about showcasing independent artists and designers. It also illuminates craft as part of the DIY tidal wave that has Americans everywhere getting out their glue guns and buying backup pinking shears. Just turn on the tube. You can grab a hammer and bang along with Ty, bite with Nigella, or make dirt with Martha. Like the TV-created DIY stars, the Richmond Craft Mafia does it all themselves, hoping to rub out mass produced craft, art and accessories.

“Independent artists and designers from around the country will be attending this event to offer not only their handcrafted wares, but also to help educate shoppers about a growing movement in America,” says Anderson. 

The Do-It-Yourself (DIY) movement has been a shot in the arm for micro-businesses like those owned by Craft Mafiosi, according to Anderson. Shows like the Spring Bada Bing provide an outlet for indie craftsmen, as well as a means to connect them with DIY-minded audiences.

“With modern crafters uniting for events like the Spring Bada Bing and other indie craft showcases, the Richmond Craft Mafia hopes to bring enlightenment to the public and encourage people to help the DIY movement affect the country in a positive way,” notes Anderson. Better yet, she says, DIY has provided businesses like those owned by the Craft Mafia with viable options for making a living through craftsmanship.

A new era in crafting has begun, according to RCM. Stoked by the Internet, the DIY movement fuels a growing craft culture that provides an alternative to mass-produced, high quality items that stock the shelves at department stores. Looking for an I-Pod case so distinctive that no one would even think of boosting it? Bennie and Olive (www.bennieandolive.com) has many, all made from vintage books, and they cost about the same as a cheap bottle of wine. Want to make a statement? Try Kate Black’s Bad Buttons (www.badbuttons.com) i.e., “Che killed people, you trendy douchebag” or “Well behaved women rarely make history.” Sloppy baby? Get him a lucky bib from Fort Cloudy (www. fortcloudy.etsy.com). Need a Tee? How about one that says, “I Like to Eat Cake and Smoke Cigarettes” from Seibei (http://seibei.com)?

Whatever your fancy or whim (it is that kind of show), with 50-plus exhibitors, something at the Spring Bada Bing will surely woo your wallet right out of your pants. But you might want to leave your mother at home. Traditional country craft may still have its place, but not at the Spring Bada Bing. Big Pussy won’t be there, but Tony approves.

www.richmondcraftmafia.com

Website:
http://www.richmondcraftmafia.com/spring.htm