Volunteers Welcome At Craft Center’s Annual Holiday Exhibition & Sale

BROOKFIELD — Each year since the mid 1970s local friends and supporters of Brookfield Craft Center have donated their time and expertise at what has become the region’s largest exhibition and sale of fine handmade craftwork.

This year the center’s volunteer coordinator and registrar, Dee Wagner, and gallery director Judith Russell are hoping  many new volunteers will enlist and discover the fun and enjoyment of working at the center during the holiday season.

Volunteers can earn hour-for-hour credit toward classes at the center, and can do some holiday shopping of their own while at the center. The event draws holiday shoppers from across the tri-state region to the center’s  circa 1780 historic grist mill on Route 25, where three floors of handmade designer gifts are on display.

Volunteers help with all aspects of the sale, which directly support the exhibiting artists and the center’s educational programs.

According to Muffie Green,  BCC’s volunteer program coordinator, “Our volunteers do it all, from unpacking and inventory work to sales and wrapping. Without them, we’d be lost.”

The event is expected to attract over 15,000 visitors from across New England.The sale continues until December 31.

Shoppers can explore thousands of unique artful gifts on display, many of which are one-of-a-kind, and all of which are made by American artisans.

Work by more than 300 artists including potters, jewelers, woodworkers, glassblowers, leather workers, quilters, clothing designers, and many other modern-day makers of fine craftwork offers highly creative gifts of lasting value.

 Elegant, functional artwork for the home, office, and wearable art for the body are hallmarks of this major holiday season event.

The center’s volunteers assist customers with advice and information about the handmade items and their makers.

The event is well known for providing an enjoyable, leisurely (un-mall-type) shopping experience with highly personalized service.

The event is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from noon to 5 pm. Admission is free.

Brookfield Craft Center is at 286 Whisconier Road (Route 25), just east of the four corners intersection with routes 7/202.

For information about the sale, volunteer opportunities or to sign up for a work shift or two, call 775-4526 or visit                             BrookfieldCraftCenter.org.