Handmade in a Hectic World

Are you frustrated with the quality of mass-produced goods? Do you find yourself reciting the mantra that if you "want it done right then you better do it yourself?" If so, you are not alone. I found myself wishing I could build a dishwasher!

After completing a home renovation several years ago, we purchased new appliances for the house. Most of the appliances were 20 years or older and were still working, with the exception of the washing machine.

So off we went to purchase a new washer and dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator, and stove. Within the first year the washer, refrigerator and dishwasher broke. Most of the repairs were covered under warranty.

But the washing machine tore my clothes to shreds and the dishwasher warranty only covered the part - not the labor. There was even a surcharge on the labor since it was a "high-end" part!

As a retired engineer, I get very frustrated with the quality of manufactured goods, which appears to have decreased as companies have shipped manufacturing overseas. You have probably bought a T-shirt in which the seam was not sewn properly. Or perhaps you bought a pair of pants only to have the button fall off the first time you wore it.

If these things frustrate you, what can you do? Return items and contact the manufacturers. That's always my first line of action. But you can also enter the world of handmade.

You may have ventured to local craft shows and seen artisans selling their work. Now there are online venues in which you can purchase everything from custom wedding dresses to furniture to gorgeous jewelry from artists around the world.

See the story behind the creations. Appreciate the talent and time that went into creating the item. Handmade doesn't necessarily mean cheaper. In fact, often it means you will pay a higher price. But the buyer has the satisfaction of knowing that the item was created by the seller's hands.

Where can I find handmade? First of all, you can make it yourself! If that's not for you, attend some of the local craft and art shows.

Many shops and boutiques in the area carry handmade items by local artists. You can also enter the online world of handmade. Have you heard of Etsy? It's like Ebay for crafters - and more!

You will find gorgeous handmade items as well as vintage wares and supplies. Another fantastic handmade venue is Artfire. Some local handmade artists belong to Cleveland Handmade. You can even find handmade items on Ebay and Craigslist.

Be careful, these sites can be addicting! But you will know that the items you are buying are made by hands and under watchful eyes.