By Jennifer Maerz
San Francisco has no shortage of artsy craft fairs, but when I first heard about West Coast Craft, I knew we were dealing with something different here. The inaugural event, which takes over Fort Mason this weekend, Nov. 16 and 17th, focuses on makers who use high grade materials — wood, textiles, leather, metal, and paper — so the fair itself merges the worlds of design, craft, fashion, furniture, woodworking, and home decor. You’ll find some of the bigger names in town (Taylor Stitch, Gravel and Gold, The Workshop Residence, Western Editions) alongside a diverse crew of Left Coast creatives.
The WCC folks shared with me a huge photo file of the goods that will be on display this weekend, and there will be some seriously beautiful works of art on offer. I sifted through images of woven necklaces and wall hangings, ceramic lamps and tableware, wooden tables and framed art, and bags for the beach and ones made just to light up your day with bright colors. With more than 150 vendors setting up at WCC, looking through all the associated products made made me feel inspired at how strong the handmade movement has gotten, and how much the community has diversified beyond the stereotype of “cutesy” things.
I’ve selected a couple of my favorite goods being sold this weekend for this slideshow, but you can browse more yourself at West Coast’s Tumblr page. I’m gonna get there early on Saturday (doors open at 10 a.m. both days and stay open until 6 p.m.). There will be plenty of food, drinks, and good tunes (from DJ Andy Cabic) to keep you entertained while you browse.
