The ninth annual Arts and Crafts Sale raised about $13,000 to support community programs, including Out of the Cold, a volunteer program that serves the homeless.
Hosted by the Toronto East Rotary Club, the event was held Nov. 17 at Eastminster United Church, at 310 Danforth Ave.
Over 40 diverse artisans were there selling handmade jewelry and pottery, paintings, photographs and more. There was also live music, refreshments, prize draws, and face painting for the kids.
“It’s one of our main fundraisers,” said Karen Somerville, organizer of the sale and a member for 10 years.
Oksana Kulczycky, a graphic and okku designer, tries to keep her products earth-friendly.
“Okku design is a handmade art activity where eco friendly, plantable seed cards and gift tags are made in post-consumer paper,” she said.
Kulczycky was selling the cards and other paper products made from recycled paper. She also displayed her blue-and-white, silk-and-bamboo, organic, cotton-blend scarves.
“I dye the scarfs in natural indigo and prepare them by folding and clamping them to get the patterns,” Kulczycky said. “As it’s taken out, it’s a bright yellow-green. The indigo oxidizes the colour and it slowly turns dark blue.”
She repeats the process several times.
Kulczycky likes the idea of people thinking of environmental and earthly ways they can incorporate in their everyday lives.
“I hope my work inspires people to just think twice before throwing something away,” Kulczycky said.
Jewelry maker Holly Weber was there on Saturday to sell her hand-made products.
“I’ve always loved jewelry,” she said. “I used to work in the jewelry industry for a little while, so I enjoy it.”
Weber, who usually crafts her products in her dining room, produces all kinds of jewelry.
“Some take a couple hours, some take 10 or 15 minutes,” she said.
