8 Things NOT to Say to an Artisan

The next time you go to a craft fair, artisan fair, arts and crafts fair, etc., there are a few things that you might want to avoid saying to the artisan. These are all true. Awkward, but true. I swear. Please don't follow suit, just buy your bag/mug/hat and move on with a smile and hearty thank you.

• I saw the same thing at Target the other day.
• Why is it so expensive?
• YOU made that? (told to my dear friend and fellow artisan June Gonzales of Rising Sun Earthworks)
• You know what you should make that everyone would want to buy?!
• I have a great idea for you.
• Can I give you some advice?
• Why won't you make __ custom product? I'm sure it would be easy for you.
• I could make that myself

Artisans are their own biggest critics, trust me. We have enough insecurities without being compared to Target, and we probably already have an idea list a mile long for new products. Ask us questions about our process. Shower us with compliments. Comment on the weather. Say nothing. Even better, buy something!