October 5-14 is American Craft Week, which aims to celebrate American craft makers. Lynchburg is home to countless crafters and small shops. This week is the perfect opportunity to pay them a visit! Here is just a small selection of the local artisan crafts available in our city.
Lynchburg Community Market
Not only is our market one of the oldest community markets in the nation, it’s home to some of the most charming local artisan booths in the city. Every Saturday morning, all year long, shoppers can browse fresh produce, purchase artisan foods and admire the goods produced by local crafters and artisans. Experience everything homemade—from small batch roasted coffee to jams and jellies to jewelry. Just be sure to bring enough reusable bags to hold all of your purchases!
Bowen Jewelry
Bowen Jewelry Company has been supplying Lynchburg with handcrafted pieces since 1933. Their knowledgeable staff will help you custom design an engagement, anniversary or wedding present for that special person in your life. On top of creating custom pieces, Bowen also has a large collection of estate jewelry, so you can give new life to an old piece.
Oxide Pottery
Located on Main Street, Oxide Pottery is home to a pottery studio, as well as a retail store where three local artisans are featured. Oxide produces a varied selection of handbuilt and wheel thrown ceramics and uses lead-free glazes that are dishwasher and microwave safe. (As a bonus, you can even take classes taught by their artisans at the Academy Center for the Arts!)
Scene3
Scene3 Boardshop was founded in 2001 and, not only do they have access to purchase over 350 skateboard brands, but they care about repurposing old and broken skateboards. Over one million skateboards are thrown away each year. When boards are returned to Scene3, even if they didn’t originally come from the store, shoppers are given a $5 credit. Those recycled boards are then made into jewelry, keychains and more.
Spearman Artisanry
Everything at Spearman Artisanry meets strict standards for mindful, ethical merchandising. All of their goods are either fair trade or made in the USA by artisans. In fact, the owner sources all of the items in their shop directly from the artists. Items featured include jewelry, clothing and accessories, each with their own unique flair. The boutique recently finished refurbishing a beautiful building on Main Street after outgrowing their booth at the Community Market.
Beeswax Candle Company
Located on 13th Street, Beeswax Candle Company specializes in small-batch, hand-poured beeswax candles. Each one is made with 100% pure domestic beeswax and cotton or natural plant fiber wicks. Candles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the shop sells candle accessories and pillars as well.
The Conscious Mercantile
The Conscious Mercantile specializes in gift items made by small shops across America. The storefront is full of endearing cards and quirky items that are sure to make the recipient smile. You may even find yourself a gift while you are there!
Artisan Trail
The City of Lynchburg and the Counties of Amherst, Appomattox and Campbell have partnered with the Artisan Center of Virginia to create an Artisan Trail for the enjoyment of our Central Virginia visitors. Be sure to visit the galleries, watch live theater and more throughout the year!