11/25/2024: “17th annual craft market happening in Flint this weekend” Mid Michigan Now
“Flint Handmade is hosting their 17th Annual Craft Market this holiday weekend.”
9/27/2024: “Flint Handmade hosts Halloween Craft Market at Flint Farmer’s Market” The Flint Courier News
“Flint Handmade is hosting their Halloween Craft Market THIS Saturday, September 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. -4 p.m. in the Ramsdell Room at the Flint Farmers’ Market.”
6/11/2024: “Flint Handmade hosts 3rd annual Flint Pride Coloring Party ” Mid Michigan Now
“Flint Handmade was ecstatic to host the community for its 3rd annual Flint Pride Coloring Party at Tenacity Brewing.”
2/2/2024: “Find your perfect valentine’s gift at Flint Handmade’s Valentine Craft Market” Mid Michigan Now
“Still looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? This weekend is your chance to find that perfect gift for your special someone at the Valentine Holiday Craft Market. Flint Handmade is hosting their Valentine Holiday Craft Market on Saturday, February 3.”
1/15/2024: “Flint Handmade leaves hats & scarves in Downtown Flint for those in need” Mid Michigan Now
“Flint Handmade spent its 2024 MLK Day of Service leaving 100 hats and scarves at various downtown Flint locations, including the Flint MTA, the YWCA and more.”
11/25/2023: “‘Special place in my heart’: Flint Farmers’ Market celebrates small business with craft market” MLive
“Talia Dunn and her daughter Dayani Dunn, both of Flint, sold candles near the back of the market’s Ramsdell Room at the free admission event hosted by Flint Handmade.”
09/14/2023: “Explore your own community this fall” The Davison Index
“Throughout the season, there are plenty of craft markets and fairs that pop up in our area. One I look forward to each year is the Flint Handmade Halloween Craft Market at the Flint Farmers’ Market, which will be hosted this year on Sept. 30.”
01/30/2023: “Need a Valentine’s Day gift? Flint Handmade Craft Market has you covered.” MLIVE
“The craft market will feature 20-plus local artisans with handmade goods, available in time for gifts for loved ones before the holiday.”
11/25/2022: “Flint Handmade to host 15th annual Holiday Craft Market” MLIVE
“Flint Handmade is hosting its 15th annual Holiday Craft Market to help people with their shopping needs in downtown Flint.”
09/23/2022: “‘One of a kind’ items available at local craft show” WNEM 5
“The founder of Flint Homemade, Crystal Pepperdine, said what you can find at the big chain stores is nothing like what you can find at the market.”
09/23/2022: “Halloween Craft Market coming to Flint Farmer’s Market” Mid-Michigan NOW
“Flint Handmade is so excited to be kicking off spooky season on the last Saturday in September”
09/22/2022: “Flint Handmade to host Halloween Craft Market at Flint Farmers’ Market” MLIVE
“The Halloween Craft Market will feature over 20 local artisans with unique, modern handmade goods such as home decor, vintage-inspired jewelry, hand-poured candles, natural bath and body products, sweet treats and much more.”
04/29/2022: “Hand-poured candles, vintage-inspired jewelry and more highlight Flint Handmade Spring Craft Market” MLIVE
“Looking for vintage-inspired jewelry? Or how about hand-poured candles? Even uniquely crocheted and knit items or unique Flint-inspired greeting cards? There is a one-stop-shop for all of that on Saturday, April 30.”
04/28/2022: “Flint Handmade’s 15th annual spring craft market happening Saturday” ABC12
“Flint Handmade will host its 15th annual spring craft market at the Flint Farmers Market on Saturday.”
04/12/2022: “Flint Handmade Celebrates 15 Years of Craft in Flint, Michigan” Craft Industry Alliance
“To help draw attention to the creativity that’s alive and flourishing in Flint, Pepperdine founded Flint Handmade, a non-profit organization that creates inclusive pop-up art and craft events for local residents.”
02/08/2022: “Celebrating 15 years of Flint Handmade” Flintside
“Fifteen years ago, Crystal Pepperdine was a young artisan on a mission to expand creative, artistic opportunities in the Flint community. Now, the organization that started as a vision, is celebrating 15 years of impact and service.”
02/04/2022: “Flint Handmade to host Valentine’s craft event at Flint Farmers’ Market” MLive
“The Valentine’s Craft Market will feature over 20 local artisans with unique, modern handmade goods such as vintage-inspired jewelry, hand-poured candles, natural bath and body products, wood signs, knit and crocheted items, greeting cards and much more, according to a Flint Handmade news release.”
12/02/2021: “UM-Flint Alumni Gift Guide 2021” UM-Flint Now
“Handmade gifts are extra special this time of year. But what about gifts that are handmade in Flint? Check out Flint Handmade, an organization founded by Crystal Pepperdine ’03, MPA ’05. Flint Handmade is a nonprofit organization that encourages creative expression and artistic entrepreneurship through handcrafting in Flint and Genesee County.”
11/30/2021: “Flint Handmade to host holiday craft market this Saturday” The Flint Courier
“The artisans haven’t been unable to participate in events for some time because it just hasn’t been safe to host them,” Pepperdine said. “We think it’s important to support our local artisans. They’re small business owners. We encourage people to shop small, shop local and shop handmade for the holidays.”
11/26/2022: “Flint Handmade to bring holiday craft show to Farmers’ Market this weekend” The Flint Beat
““People can expect a lot of holiday cheer at the Holiday Craft Market,” said Crystal Pepperdine, Executive Director of Flint Handmade. “Our artisans have been working hard to create beautiful, festive displays of their handmade goods to welcome the community back to our in person events.”
11/23/2021: “Flint Handmade to host holiday craft market this Saturday” MLive
“We are thrilled to be back in person this year!” Crystal Pepperdine, executive director of Flint Handmade, said in the release. “We can’t wait for shoppers to visit us at our new location in the Ramsdell Room at the Flint Farmers’ Market. We’re also so excited for our new VIP Early Bird Shopping Hour!”
1/7/2021: “Flint creatives get creative during pandemic” Flint Beat
So the non-profit developed themed care packages of bundled goods from more than 25 local artisans. People can choose from a list of different bundles like “Coffee Lover,” “Self Care,” and “Flint Foodie,” place the order online, and have the packages delivered for free anywhere in Genesee County.
1/5/2021: “How local artisans helped keep people warm this winter” Flint Side
In 2020, Operation: Warm Up Flint had more than 500 items donated by approximately 20 artisans.
12/30/2020: “Flint Handmade Yarn Brigade Helping Community Stay Warm This Winter” The Gander
Since its formation in 2011, YB has crafted and donated a total of 1,901 handmade scarves, hats, and ear warmers for those in need across the city for Operation: Warm Up Flint.
11/24/2020: “Small Business Saturday: Show Love for Your Local Knitters at Flint Handmade” The Gander
With the support of volunteers, The Yarn Brigade and their “Operation: Warm Up Flint,” knits hats, scarves, and ear warmers for the community. The winter weather gear is placed all over Flint along with a sweet note encouraging anyone who is cold to claim it.
2/8/2020: “Find unique gifts for your sweetheart at Valentine’s Mini Market in Flint” ABC 12 (Video)
The 6th Annual Flint Handmade Valentine’s Mini Market is happening Feb. 8.
11/13/2019: “Ladies Night Out event planned at Crossroads Village” NBC 25 (Video)
Grab your shopping buddies and head to Crossroads Village to start the holiday season.
10/19/2019: “Seasonal decor shopping and more made easy at Flint Farmers’ Market Saturday” ABC 12 (Video)
Support local artisans by purchasing handmade items at the 4th annual Halloween Mini Market inside the Flint Farmers’ Market atrium Saturday.
9/21/2019: “Flint Handmade at Flint Maker’s Fest Saturday” ABC 12 (Video)
Fun at the Flint Farmers Market
8/16/2019: “Hayley Randol and Crystal Pepperdine talk about meeting through the arts and crafts community” Archive StoryCorps (Audio Recording)
Friends and colleagues Hayley Randol (33) and Crystal Pepperdine (37) talk about meeting through the arts and crafts community, the impacts their efforts have had on the Flint community, and the friendships that have formed because of their group, Yarn Brigade.
7/26/2019: “Free event for kids can have them feeling like royals in Flint” NBC 25 (Video)
Flint Handmade will wrap up its Summer Art and Craft Street Fair series on Saturday, July 27.
6/21/2019: “Free, family fun with Flint Handmade” NBC 25 (Video)
Flint Handmade has free events planned for the next six Saturdays, June 22 through July 27.
6/8/2019: “3rd annual Flint Fiber Festival happening today at Crossroads Village” ABC 12 (Video)
Do you love knitting or crocheting? If so, Crossroads Village in Genesee County is the place to be today! The 3rd annual Flint Fiber Festival is happening there.
4/27/2019: “Flint Handmade Spring Craft Market happening today” ABC 12 (Video)
Flint Handmade is hosting their annual Spring Craft Market today at the Flint Masonic Temple.
4/25/2019: “Flint Handmade’s Annual Spring Craft Market returns Saturday” The Hub Flint
“We were so excited about the momentum around our post Thanksgiving Small Business Saturday event last year that we decided to host multiple Small Business Saturdays throughout 2019 to coincide with our craft markets,” says Pepperdine.
4/9/2019: “High tea and a good time, Flint de-stressing event” NBC 25 (Video)
The free, monthly de-stressing event is happening at Tenacity Brewing in Flint.
4/9/2019: “Mike’s Favorite Passtime, Coloring” Mike Woolfolk Tweet
Our good friend Crystal Pepperdine from @FlintHandmade is back with my favorite pastime- COLORING!!!! @nbc25fox66
2/15/2019: “Enjoy your ‘crafternoon’ with Flint Handmade” NBC 25 (Video)
“It’s an opportunity to finish any U.F.O.s you have around the house — UnFinished Objects,” joked Flint Handmade Executive Director Crystal Pepperdine.
2/9/2019: “Small Business Saturday: Valentine’s Edition” ABC 12 (Video)
Flint Handmade has brought together a number of vendors for the 5th Annual Mini Market happening in downtown Flint from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday.
2/1/2019: “Flint Handmade, bringing crocheting to a new generation” WNEM 5
“This isn’t your Grandma’s craft show, or this isn’t your Grandma’s craft,” said Crystal Pepperdine, with Flint Handmade.
1/18/2019: “Flint Handmade Leaves Scarves for Homeless Downtown – The Good News” Cars 108 WCRZ
A little bit goes a long way, especially in the winter.
11/24/2018: “Small Business Saturday: Local owners say small businesses are the heart of downtown Flint” ABC 12
“Small Business Saturday is so special because it’s an opportunity to support local businesses in your community,” Crystal Pepperdine said.”
11/21/2018: Small Business Saturday in Flint: Shop 125 local entrepreneurs in 3 stops Flint Side
“Small businesses have been growing year over year in Genesee County, and there’s definitely been a surge in entrepreneurship and people really grasping onto the start-up movement,” said DeAndra Larkin, group vice president for the Flint and Genesee Chamber of Commerce.”
10/30/2018: Costumes, crafts, candy for kids Tuesday in Grand Blanc NBC 25
“Kids are invited to come out for a costume story time session in Grand Blanc.”
9/22/2018: Coloring, Cereal & Cartoons with Flint Handmade ABC 12 (video)
7/21/2018: Today at Flint Farmers’ Market: crafting to help local pets in need of a forever home ABC 12 (video)
“Flint Handmade is doing their part to help out on National Craft for Local Animal Shelters day.”
7/16/2018: Altered Art with Flint Handmade: Tearing up Books at Totem The Hub Flint
“Creativity is one of the aspects of life that gets into our humanity … there is something about working with your hands and creating something new and beautiful in the world,” says founder of Flint Handmade, Crystal Pepperdine.
06/09/2018: 2nd annual Fiber Festival happening today at Crossroads Village ABC 12 (video)
04/21/2018: Flint Handmade hosting 11th annual Spring Craft Market Saturday ABC 12 (video)
Short video excerpt discussing the Spring Craft Market.
03/24/2018: First time pajama story time event happening in Grand Blanc Tuesday ABC 12 (video)
R&B Used Books is having their first monthly family read-aloud with storyteller Miss Shelley, followed by crafts with artisans from Flint Handmade.
11/25/2017: Happening today ABC 12 (video)
Small feature on the 11th Annual Holiday Craft Market
11/13/2017: Here’s what’s going on this week – MLive
Small feature on Ladies Night Out at Crossroads Village.
10/16/2017: Flint Handmade hosts spooky fun Halloween Mini Market – Flint Beat
A wonderful spotlight of the vendors and activities from the Halloween Mini Market this year.
9/20/2017: Fall decore on a budget – The CW 46 (video)
Crystal and Leslie Toldo talk about decorating for fall on a budget.
8/16/2017: Flint Handmade Coloring Party & Book Fair – ABC12 (video)
Crystal talks with ABC 12 about the Barnes and Noble Bookfair and Coloring Party.
September 2017: Book fair with a twist! – NBC25 (video)
Crystal talks with Leslie Toldo about the Barnes and Noble Bookfair and Coloring Party.
8/24/2017: Flint Handmade stitches together a network of artist entrepreneurs – Flint Side
Today she is at the Flint Farmers Market talking about the work of Flint Handmade, which comes in all shapes, sizes, and styles in every imaginable medium. Flint Handmade is a nonprofit organization encouraging creative expression and artistic entrepreneurship in Flint and Genesee County.
8/24/2017: Calling Crafters: time to swap your supplies – NBC25
Happening this weekend, Flint Handmade is sponsoring a craft supply swap.
8/19/2017: HAPPENING TODAY: Flint Handmade’s Bubbles ‘n Snacks event in Goodrich – ABC12 (video)
Crystal Pepperdine with Flint Handmade talks about the Bubbles ‘n Snacks event being held today in Goodrich with ABC12’s Mark Bullion.
7/15/2017: Flint Handmade’s Street Fair continues today at Farmer’s Market – ABC12 (video)
Crystal took an opportunity to stop by and talk about the Street fair and vendors that will be there.
6/17/2017: Flint Handmade kicks off 3rd annual Art & Craft Street Fair – ABC12 (video)
“Flint Handmade is kicking off a summer filled with art, food, music and more! The Art & Craft Street Fair runs June 17 through August 12.”
5/20/2017: Happening Today: Flint Handmade hosts a coloring party – ABC12 (video)
“Over 60 vintage and handmade vendors from Mercantile Fairs will setup shot at Crossroads Village in Flint. Crystal Pepperdine stopped by the studio to tell us all about it.”
5/03/2017: Flint Handmade demonstrates ‘crafty’ Mother’s Day gift ideas – The CW 46
“Crystal Pepperdine for Flint Handmade stopped by to show us how to make something thoughtful and creative”
4/25/2017: Local craft nonprofit celebrates 10 years – NBC25 (video)
“It’s a big milestone for one local nonprofit…its 10 year anniversary!”
4/22/2017: Annual Spring Craft Market happening next week – ABC12 (video)
“Flint Handmade is hosting their 10th Annual Spring Craft Market on Saturday, April 29.”
3/18/2017: Fling Handmade Craft Swap Day happening April 1st – ABC12 (video)
“Crystal Pepperdine with Flint Handmade talks about the organization’s annual craft swap day happening April 1st.”
3/13/2017: Pass the petite pie please – NBC25
“Tomorrow marks Pi Day! Of course, Flint Handmade is celebrating by making pie…a very small pie.”
2/18/2017: Flint Handmade ready for yoga and crafts – ABC12 (video)
“If you are on a track to get in tune with your mind, body, and spirit, this could help.”
2/3/2017: Free Flint event offers locally hand-made Valentines Day gift ideas – NBC25
“For Valentine’s Day, we encourage you to show your kids, your parents, your friends, really anyone, that you love them and want to spend time with them,” said Pepperdine.
1/12/2017: Calling all quilters – NBC25
Crystal Pepperdine of Flint Handmade says if you join the group your efforts will help support two area non-profits working to make positive change in the community.
12/6/2016: Crafts and Cocktails – NBC25 (video)
“If you aren’t in the Christmas spirit just yet, we’re about to get you there. Flint Handmade has some holiday events to get you more into the season.”
11/27/2016: Dozens of vendors gather for Flint Handmade Holiday Craft Market – Mlive
“The event encourages shoppers to buy from local businesses and give handmade gifts, said Crystal Pepperdine, the executive director of the Flint Handmade Holiday Craft Market.”
11/26/2016: Flint Handmade Holiday Craft Market promotes small businesses, local owners – ABC 12 (video included)
“At the Masonic Temple in downtown Flint there was a unique, handmade item for everyone on your gift list.”
11/10/2016: McFarlen to host craft fair – Grand Blanc View
“The Genesee District Library is excited to partner with Flint Handmade for the 3rd Annual Book Lovers’ Craft Fair,” said Kelly Flynn, Community Relations manager for GDL. “Our patrons love everything book-related, and we love our patrons. It’s a perfect match.”
11/8/2016: DIY Success in Flint – Heart Flint Podcast (podcast)
“If you could spend everyday doing what you love, what would you do? On this episode we bring you the story of Crystal Pepperdine, a Flint, Michigan resident who turned her crafting hobby into a full-time career.”
10/26/2016: PUMPKIN PROBS! with NBC25 News – NBC25 (Facebook)
“PUMPKIN PROBS! This morning Flint Handmade is showing us creative ways to decorate our pumpkins this Halloween.”
10/26/2016: Creative Pumpkin Decorating – Kristen Aguirre NBC25 (Facebook)
“Flint Handmade in studio showing us some creative ways to decorate our pumpkins this Halloween! I did a little carving this weekend, myself. See my witch below and post a pic of your pumpkin”
10/22/2016: Flint Handmade supports local economy at Flint Farmers’ Market – Fox 66 (Video)
“At the Flint Farmers Market, a group uses their hands to earn a living and in some cases the results are quite popular.”
10/22/2016: Flint Handmade hosts make-and-take crafting at Flint Farmer’s Market – ABC 12 (Video)
Crystal Pepperdine stopped by ABC 12 to give a demo of the Flint Handmade Halloween make-and-take craft.
10/10/2016: NBC 25 Coloring with Crystal– Kristen Aguirre Tweet
“Just call us Picasso! Thanks @FlintHandmade for stopping by @NBC_25 this morning! #ColoringParty @AhmadBajjeyWx @mikewoolfolk @leslietoldo”
10/10/2016: NBC 25 Coloring with Crystal, Kristen’s Finished Product– Kristen Aguirre Tweet
“My coloring masterpiece is complete! #FlintFWD @FlintHandmade #artist”
10/10/2016: NBC 25 Coloring with Crystal, Working Hard– Kristen Aguirre Tweet
“Thanks to @FlintHandmade for helping us de-stress this morning with some coloring…sigh @mikewoolfolk @AhmadBajjeyWx @NBC_25 #relax”
10/10/2016: Coloring craze hits Vehicle City – NBC 25
The NBC 25 morning crew get busy coloring with Crystal Pepperdine.
8/21/2016: Glass Painting Event Happening at Sloan Museum – ABC 12 (video)
Crystal Pepperdine talks about how the glasses are made and the partnership with the Sloan Museum.
8/12/2016: Paint Your Own Glass and Drink From it Too – NBC 25
“We see them everywhere…those wine glasses decoratively painted. But there’s a problem, they can be expensive. Which is why Flint Handmade is showing you how to make one yourself.”
8/12/2016: Flint Handmade Glass Painting– Kristen Aguirre Tweet and Video
Crystal Pepperdine and Kristen Aguirre have some fun on Twitter talking about painting glasses.
7/7/2016: Tour Dozens of Genesee County Landmarks, Venues, Attractions for $1 – MLive
“New this year includes a stop at the Flint Handmade Summer Arts and Craft Street Fair where local artisans sell handcrafted wares, including jewelry, garden art, purses and pottery on First Street between Stevens and Wallenberg streets near the Flint Farmers’ Market.”
11/12/2015: GDL, Flint Handmade to Host Book Lover’s Craft Fair – The Burton View
“This fair is especially unique because all crafters will have a selection of book-themed goods, such as notebooks made from vintage board games, magnets and coasters featuring literary quotes, comic book collage canvases and much more.”
7/16/2015: Hip to be Flint: Soul Art of the Street Goes Viral – The Burton View
“Flint Handmade is thriving, relentless, industrious, and a vital social mechanism.”
6/18/2015: 5 Things to do in Genesee County – MLive
The Flint Handmade Art & Craft Street 5 makes the top 5 things to do in the county this week!
04/30/2015: 5 Things to do in Genesee County – MLive
The 8th Annual Fling Handmade Spring Craft Market makes the 5 things to do in the county this week!
4/9/2015: Spring Craft Market Coming May 2nd – The Burton View
“Flint Handmade has plentiful assortment of programs and workshops that bring together people from all walks of life in celebration of area creative union and exposure of the vastly varied talents sprouting into state-wide recognition and beyond.”
4/9/2015: Hip to be Square, BEE There – The Burton View
“Whaley Historic House Museum and Flint Handmade have paired together to present an Old- Fashioned Quilting Bee Workshop Series every third Saturday of every other month in 2015, and for interested readers the next opportunity to become a part of the buzz-worthy trend of renewal and much gratification is just around the corner.”
2/12/2015: SUPERGala: 100 Years of Charity Matters – Burton View
“We are just a local-based organization. We try to use local talent. It just made sense,” Bailey said of seeking the artistic creations and warmth of pairing with Flint Handmade.”
2/10/2015: Get Crafty this Valentine’s Day – NBC 25 (video)
Crystal Pepperdine and Kristen Aguirre getting crafty.
1/22/2015: SOUL Much Fun February at the FIA – Davison Index
“On Valentine’s Day Flint Handmade is hosting a themed free art fair at The Flint Farmer’s Market…”
12/16/2014: FLINT: Farm Fresh……. – DETROITDVOTION Blog
“The room is simple, understated, what a cool place to hold an event like this; tables are arranged into wide aisles, successful shoppers are loaded down with bags, the holiday spirit is palpable.”
11/29/2014: Local vendors featured by “Flint Handmade” (video) – ABC12 News Team
“The eighth annual Holiday Craft Market in downtown Flint was another chance to keep your money local.”
11/13/2014: Pep in Downtown’s Step: Old Souls Revive City Streets – The Burton View
“Crystal Pepperdine is one of the young adults involved in this movement, spearheading numerous progressive projects with great success.
She works full-time in her paid career at Priority Children, advocating for improved public policies and other important social caus- es. She also works full-time with her unpaid position with Flint Handmade and numerous other outreach arts and volunteer projects within the city.”
11/6/2014: Book Lover’s Craft Fair at library – The Burton View
“The First Annual Book Lover’s Craft Fair is one of many passionately cultivated events brought to fruition by Pepperdine and her crew of innovative artists in Genesee County. Her organization has been a powerful force in the revitalization of downtown Flint in the past decade, joining the arts community with the whole one.”
10/30/2014: Carousel of Creativity: Parks alternative spin on ladies night – The Burton View
“In regards to why McMillan paired with Flint Handmade for the event, she said, “They are a positive movement in Genesee County. It is beautiful. The products are so well-made too. It felt right to marry the group with the village.””
10/16/2014: It Takes a Female Village: Create or Shop at Ladies Night Out – The Burton View
“Flint Handmade has been driven to nurture the creative expression and support of the local handmade economy. The group has been a strong force in informing the public about the value commercially, socially, and artistically of the creation and exposure of purchasing products made in a non-mainstream fashion.”
4/4/2014: Flint Handmade hosting craft supply swap – MLive
“On the day of the swap, crafters should bring whatever supplies they have to share–ranging from yarn to fabrics or any other crafty materials–that will be sorted into appropriate bins by volunteers.”
3/5/2014: Whaley House twist to women’s history March 8 – East Village Magazine
“Local crafters, many from Flint Handmade, will be working on their current projects in addition to the display of embroidery, crochet and quilting work.”
1/1/2014: Flint Yarn Brigade hits the bar for drinks, conversation and some mittens – MLive
“Knitting might not seem like the first thing you’d expect walking into The White Horse Tavern or Churchill’s Food & Spirits — their two bars of choice — but for people such as Foreman, it’s something she’s been seeking for years.”
12/2/2013: Christmas shoppers avoid Black Friday lines for homegrown items at Annual Flint Homemade Holiday Craft Market – MLive
“Christmas shopping season is officially underway after Thanksgiving, and hundreds of Genesee County residents opted for a trip to a fair in downtown Flint on Saturday to find gifts for loved ones.”
6/9/2013: Downtown Flint’s Lunch Studio turns to community to secure its future through online donations – MLive
“(Crystal) Pepperdine said that since then, The Lunch Studio has hosted about a 100 Flint Handmade events, including craft markets, workshops and supply swaps.”
11/28/12: My First Show Experience! Flint Handmade Holiday Craft Market– Before It’s News Blog
“Overall, I felt like it was a good first show. I made a lot of new contacts, which is great since I’m kind of a shy person in real life.”
11/24/12: Motherboard pendants, yarn Pokeballs among handmade gifts at Flint Handmade’s annual winter holiday craft sale – MLive
“There’s a backlash against techy gifts made by machines in favor of “funky, modern, indie, hip, eclectic” gifts made by a real, thoughtful and creative person.”
3/21/12: Downtown party will benefit local arts organizations – MLive
“The Greater Flint Creative Alliance, Flint Handmade, Art at the Market andVSA Arts of Genesee County will also be hosting parties and auctions, collectively auctioning off more than 1,000 pieces of art.”
12/1/11: Flint Handmade’s Holiday Craft Market pushed more than $17,500 through the local economy this year – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade hosted its 5th annual Holiday Craft Market downtown on Saturday, with more than 60 vendors and a spike in turn out as the event has now grown into using the Masonic Temple.”
11/25/11: Who needs Black Friday? Head to Flint Handmade’s Holiday Craft Market for Small Business Saturday – The Flint Journal
“Shoppers at the [Flint Handmade] Holiday Craft Market can feel good knowing they are supporting the small businesses of local crafters.”
9/8/11: Flint Festival of Quilts preview: How quilts have come to be an artistic staple in the city – The Flint Journal
“We can tell stories about who in our family made the quilt, who it was given to originally and how it was passed on through the generations. With this exhibition, [Crystal Pepperdine, director of Flint Handmade] hopes to highlight the fact that quilts provide a very tactile and everyday way of connecting families across generations.”
8/30/11: See what new arts and culture programs will be introduced to Flint, thanks to the ShareArtFlint program – The Flint Journal
“Grants from the Greater Flint Arts Council to individual artists: … Crystal Pepperdine, $4,450 for “Flint Handmade SkillShare,” a series of Saturday workshops in downtown Flint designed to reintroduce participants to the domestic arts and crafts of American cultural heritage. ”
7/18/11: First ever Buckham Alley Fest draws nearly 2,000 people to downtown hotspot – The Flint Journal
“Guests at Saturday’s event could enjoy any of the 10 local acts that took to the two stages, art and Flint Handmade’s Craft City, as well as some of the good eating and friendly faces like at The Torch Bar and Grill.”
7/15/11: Buckham Alley Fest preview: How it all began and why it’s here to stay – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade will set up a “Craft City” area for guests to browse. The first 25 shoppers will also receive a free goodie bag.”
7/14/11: Check out ‘Craft City’ at the inaugural Buckham Alley Fest this weekend – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade is taking over the sidewalk next to the Rutherford Parking Structure during the Buckham Alley Fest this Saturday for what they call “Craft City.” Craft City will be a fully contained DIY community within Buckham Alley Fest, open for the duration of the event, 6 p.m. to midnight.”
7/11/11: Entertainment in a tough economy: Flintstones talk about how they keep busy on a budget – The Flint Journal
“Tamra also said the Flint Handmade’s craft and art fairs, held a few times each year, are also a great place to take the family and watch artists at work while listening to live music.”
7/8/11: Lunch Studio brings California style to Flint – The Flint Journal
“One thing that contributes to the restaurant’s ambiance is the onsite Flint Handmade store. The company, which makes logo merchandise, jewelry, paper goods and knitted and crocheted items, among other things, has been inside The Lunch Studio since 2010. ”
7/5/11: 5 reasons not to miss the Buckham Alley Fest – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade will set up an entire “Craft City” area for guests to browse. The first 25 shoppers will also receive a free goodie bag. ”
4/20/11: Local crafter gives her top three tips on how to join in on the Earth Day celebrations around town with Flint Handmade – The Flint Journal
“To give a local spin on getting the most of Friday’s push to promote environmentally-friendly actions, Crystal Pepperdine of Flint Handmade has three tips on how to have some green fun around town with the group. ”
4/10/11: Explore the Flint area’s arts scene – The Flint Journal
“Over the years, several alternative art venues have emerged, including The Lunch Studio, 444 S. Saginaw St., home to Flint Handmade; The Good Beans Cafe in Flint’s Carriage Town district, featuring local bands and the Flint City Theatre; and Woodside Church, 1509 E. Court St., originator of the Jazz Vespers.”
4/3/11: ‘Upcycling’ the focus Flint Handmade craft lab Sunday – The Flint Journal
“Scrap fabric and old milk caps served as supplies at a Flint Handmade event centered around the idea of upcycling.”
3/30/11: Free CraftLAB at Flint’s Lunch Studio will help locals tune into their creative side this month – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade will teach locals how to create an upcycled wrist pincushion at the next CraftLAB workshop. ”
3/23/11: Artistic legacy Tom Nuzum’s death brings extra meaning to the Cool City Art Auction – The Flint Journal
“The pieces will be available for bid at one of the city’s largest fundraisers in the arts scene. Buckham, The Greater Flint Arts Council, Art at the Market Gallery, Creative Alliance, Flint City Handmade and, new this year, Very Special Arts will auction off local, donated work in a night of art, live entertainment, drinks and hors d’oeuvres.”
3/12/11: Best ways to get in on Flint’s art scene for free – The Flint Journal
“There are certain groups around town that are known to hold events and activities open to the public as well. Check out Flint Handmade, housed at The Lunch Studio downtown.”
2/11/11: The heart of Flint: Valentine’s Day brings a weekend of romantic possibilities – The Flint Journal
“And, if you still haven’t scooped up a one-of-a-kind gift and you’re looking for a special something that screams love for your valentine and your city, visit the Flint Handmade Shop inside The Lunch Studio.”
2/6/11: Craft supply swap hosts record turnout in downtown Flint – The Flint Journal
“More than 100 people showed up to trade craft supplies at The Lunch Studio, 444 S. Saginaw St. This was the fourth swap Flint Handmade has hosted, and only around 40 people attended their last swap, which was previously the highest attendance mark. ”
12/31/10: Flint Handmade workshop finds a use for those leftover holiday cards – Booth Mid-Michigan
“Flint Handmade is hosting a Paper Globe Ornament Workshop from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 2 at the Lunch Studio craftLAB, 444 S. Saginaw in downtown Flint. ”
12/5/10: Buy gifts that give back this Christmas – The Flint Journal
“If you took part in Flint Handmade’s recent Holiday Craft Show, for example, you know all about this kind of gift-giving and the rewards. It sure makes for some unique and oftentimes one-of-a-kind gifts.”
12/1/10: Flint Handmade offers the perfect solution for old, broken crayons — and just in time for the holidays – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade will host a free “Crayon-Making Workshop” this weekend, from noon to 3 p.m. at The Lunch Studio in downtown Flint. ”
11/17/10: Do some shopping at Flint Handmade’s Holiday Craft Market next weekend – The Flint Journal
“The [Flint Handmade]Holiday Craft Market will feature variety of modern handmade items such as jewelry, soap, paper goods, purses and bags, children’s toys, candles and other pieces from more than 50 independent local crafters. ”
10/27/10: Stop in The Lunch Studio for a free craft workshop with Flint Handmade – The Flint Journal
“Flint Handmade is a group that begin in 2007 to promote the local handmade economy and environment in Flint by organizing and promoting craft markets, offering opportunities for social crafting and creative expression and educating the community about both the personal and commercial value of handcrafting.”
9/22/10: Learn Yudu screen printing with Flint Handmade’s free demonstration – The Flint Journal
“As part of [Flint Handmade]’s craftLAB held at The Lunch Studio in downtown Flint, they’ll teach guests how to make screen print designs on fabric.”
9/2/10: Colorful creations: Quilts capture attention at several locations around Flint – The Flint Journal
“The handmade movement in general is often already very environmentally aware because we are producing locally, which limits the amount of pollution and strain on the environment,” said 28-year-old Pepperdine, who founded Flint’s team of handcrafters in 2007. “But it also really encourages people to think green when creating new pieces.”
04/30/10: 2010 Spring Craft Market – 360 Main Street
“Having several downtown locations each housing a nice little group of wonderful artists makes for several fun mini-shows. It’s certainly different that any other show I have done in the past,” says Lori O’Connor, a new vendor to the event, who sells photography-based designs as Basement Art Creations. She applied for the show after hearing “excited chatter” from other crafters. The show’s reputation for variety and originality appealed to her. “My work is a little bit quirky. I seem to do much better with a decidedly ‘unique’ sort of crowd that tends to enjoy and prefer the indie type of shows, like this one.”
4/28/10: Annual Spring Market Craft to be held this Saturday in downtown Flint – MLive
“The [Flint Handmade] market will feature a variety of handmade items such as jewelry, clothing, art, purses and bags, paper crafts, toys and home decor from over 60 indie craft vendors. ”
3/26/10: Cool City Art Auction a great intro to art world – The Flint Journal
“The new addition is Flint City Handmade, a collective of Flint-area crafters and artisans that will add custom jewelry, clothing and traditional art to the selection of paintings, photography, sculpture and more on display.”
03/23/10: Financial Plus Cool City Art Auction – 360 Main Street
“In the past [Cool City Art Auction] has been primarily artwork, but it’s our goal to introduce the community to craft,” said Pepperdine. “The items we’ll have are artistic, but useful—bags, jewelry, home decor and other items that are functional and beautiful and creative.”
02/20/10: Flint Handmade Encourages Creative Economy – East Village Magazine
“Flint Handmade prides itself on being welcoming and diverse. Members includes stay-at -home parents, professionals and students. “
12/7/09: Shoppers and crafters: What did you think of Flint Handmade this weekend? – The Flint Journal
“Bloggers and Twitter users updated throughout the event about the vendors and items for sale at The Lunch Studio, Brown Sugar Cafe, Crim Fitness Foundation and Raspberries Rhythm Bar in downtown Flint ”