On Saturday, April 30, 2011 the Designers Downtown Market will once again create a stir in Glenwood South where designers, artists and craftspeople from the Triangle and beyond flock to showcase their handcrafted goods at this open-air market. The market is held in the parking lots of Ornamatea and Purple Armchair (500-600 block of N. West Street
The Designers Downtown Market has a wonderful mix of goods ranging from pottery, artwork and jewelry to rugs and the most adorable children’s clothing and accessories you’ve seen yet. The one thing they all have in common is that they are handcrafted by the artists themselves, or through cottage industry methods, and support not only the local economy, but help vendors support themselves doing what they love to do.
Shoppers can come and enjoy a slice of pizza or the new cinnamon rolls from Klausie’s Pizza Truck, among other delectable edibles while seeking out the perfect Mother’s Day gift (or something for themselves!) while soaking up the creative spirit that abounds during this innovative market.
What began as a “crafter’s flea market” in 2005 has evolved into the Designers Downtown Market and one of the best local shopping markets in the area. The Designers Downtown Market has gone from a home-grown market specializing in craft supplies, one-offs and handmade goods into a larger, more upscale market with more of a focus on handcrafted goods. The energy amid the parking lot is infectious as vendors arrive before the sun rises, ready to set up and greet customers. “It’s kind of like a little secret, a place to find your new favorite necklace or a purse you never knew you needed,” says Michele Little, founder of the market. “It’s full of surprises.” Because all the goods are handcrafted you’re not going to see the same things from market to market, even with the same vendors. Many items are one-of-a-kinds, and creative minds love to branch out and try something new. Plus, being situated in the parking lot of Ornamentea, a hotbed of creativity itself, is enough to inspire vendors to try their hand at a new skill (soldering, anyone?)
Beginning at 9am on April 30 (raindate is May 1) more than 40 crafters, designers and artists once again converge in the parking lots in the 500 – 600 block of N. West Streets in Raleigh. The Designers Downtown Market offers a local shopping experience that happens just five times a year. For more information see www.designersdowntownmarket.com.
The Triangle Explorer 