When people try to buy local, they think most often of things they eat. But what about other merchandise? Does it all have to come from China? Walking around a local craft show this weekend, I was set to pondering the value of buying things made by people who live near me and who, in most cases, I know.
(A confession up front: My husband was one of the exhibitors, so I have good reason to think craft shows are great. But as swell as I think he is, I won't promote him here.)
I bought soap for my sister from people who live within 15 miles. A table runner for her, too, from someone who lives within 20 miles. For myself: a jacket (made within 25 miles) and earrings (made within 40).
To be sure, many of the materials likely came from farther away. But I don't want to make this complicated. For me, it was enough to know they were made nearby and by hand, not some giant piece of machinery.
Right now --and through the fall -- is big craft show season throughout the region. Maybe I'll see you at one of them.
GreenSpace - her column about how to reduce your carbon footprint in everyday life - appears every other Monday in Health & Science.
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