Throughout the Mountain State, you can find incredible artisan-made goods that have been inspired by the state’s iconic beauty. Whether you’re looking for the perfect piece of pottery or an accessory that showcases your love for the state, you can find it just around the corner. Stop by any of these places for an artisan-made item that you’ll treasure forever:
1. Allegheny Treenware
Allegheny Treenware produces beautiful wooden kitchen utensils made out of quality West Virginia hardwood that will last for years. Visit their farm in Thornton and tour their workshop where they create over 170 different hardwood kitchen utensils. On display in their show room in a historic log cabin you can view their work that has earned both first place and “Best of Show” at the Mountain State Arts and Crafts Fair in Ripley. Visit Allegheny Treenware’s website or visit them in person to purchase spoons, measuring cups, dough scrapers, tongs, spatulas, serving utensils and more for that special touch your kitchen is missing.
2. Gauley River Pottery
At Gauley River Pottery, you will find unique pieces of pottery inspired by the beauty of the Mountain State. Visit their studio in Mount Lookout and see their beautiful glazes for yourself. In fact, they have developed four combination glazes that capture the beauty of West Virginia. Their signature glaze “Gauley Green” is inspired by the Gauley River, and this glaze cannot be found anywhere else. See them in action at their studio throwing, trimming, adding handles and adornments, waxing and glazing. You can purchase their unique mugs, bowls, plates, pitchers, vases and more at their studio or online.
3. Tamarack
What started out as a simple vision to promote the Mountain State’s image has now become an attraction that draws half a million visitors annually. At Tamarack, explore specialty products, delicious foods, performances and hands-on workshops that are all unique to West Virginia. While you’re there, pick up a special artisan-made item such as metal, apparel, jewelry, wood and glass that you’ll love for years to come.
4. Base Camp Printing Co.
Founded by a sister duo, Base Camp Printing Co. creates one-of-a-kind products using a process identical to a print shop back in the day when cast-iron printing presses were state-of-the-art technology. Base Camp Printing Co. specializes in making unique posters, invitations, stationery and business cards. Order online or stop by their charming store in Charleston to pick up one of their products that showcase the Mountain State.
5. Monk Made Goods
Shop for incredible artisan made leather goods at Monk Made Goods. Monk Made Goods is a small, one-man shop in Morgantown that uses the highest quality leather and the same process leather artisans have used for centuries. At Monk Made Goods, find the perfect wallet, pouch and accessory that has been made with an abundance of care and attention to detail.
If you are a lover of all things artisan-made, stop by the next Handcrafted Cooperative on Sept. 2 in Morgantown at the Morgantown Marketplace. The Handcrafted Cooperative is a seasonal retail market dedicated to handmade items that have been created by talented artisans from the state. This is the perfect place to pick a special gift no matter the occasion.
What’s your favorite artisan-made product?