The Black Forest Community Center was jam-packed with goods and shoppers at the 48th annual Black Forest Craft Fair in early November.The Black Forest Craft Guild sponsors the fair, and all crafts are organized by items, not the artisan who makes them. Guild member Mary Addington said the method allows them to maximize space. ìIf we had booths, we wouldnít be able to fit it all in,î she said. As soon as an item is purchased, a member gets another item from the back to restock the table.Items such as handmade scarves, blankets and knitted hats were available for purchase, along with fresh baked goods replenished throughout the day. Many members work in a variety of mediums, and Kathy Pavek joked that she took a ìbreak from baking.î Instead, she sewed for the event, offering goods like towels, table runners and blankets. Guild members were required to work at least three shifts during the fair if they had items up for sale. The Black Forest Craft Guild received 15 percent of the profit from a sale for the craft fair expenses, such as rental and advertising costs, Addington said. Laura Augustine said at 12:30 p.m. on Friday there was a line out the door.The guild has two craft events per year; the next one is scheduled for May 2 through May 5.
