What to name your party

[BlindSquirrel]

I'd like to host one of these, but I kinda wish I didn't have to use the word "craft." That word in the title of an activity-- I think a lot of people would associate it with a children's event. I know I do.

In fact, I'd like a way to have it be adults only, but someone always hauls their kids along so you're kind of stuck. Any way to discourage this in the way of wording?

Any suggestions?

[julieincharge]

Hi there,

You bring up a good point here. People will bring their own associations and experiences to this word, like any word. One reason we chose to include the powerful word "craft" as part of the overall name of this happening is that to us it does encompass so many things we believe in -- handmade, creativity, community, making things together.

I believe that anything that is to made or produced with care, skill, or ingenuity (as the dictionary also says) is crafted, and important, and worthy of global celebration. At Etsy, we host regular Craft Nights in Brooklyn, Europe, and beyond (http://www.etsy.com/storque/search/title/craft-night/) and we also have a tech blog called "Code as Craft." (http://codeascraft.etsy.com/) So, yes, computer programming is craft, so is wood working, glass blowing, weaving, photography, painting, sculpture, curation, and on and on. And, true, a child's first stab a painting an Easter egg is called a craft too. I actually went to art school and earned a degree in Craft. In academia, a popular debate was craft vs. Craft (lo-fi "craft beaver" type craft vs. fine Studio Craft) and art. vs. craft. These are age-old debates, and volumes and volumes have been penned about them. Regardless of personal or academic feelings on these hot topics, I admire all of these pursuits and I can't wait to see what happens at our second annual Craft Party locally all across the globe.

And, the Craftifesto (http://www.etsy.com/transaction/13026446) by Cinnamon Cooper and Amy Carlton (who started the Chicago DIY Trunk show) sum it up pretty well:

"Craftifesto: The power is in your hands!

* Craft is Powerful: We want to show the depth and breadth of the crafting world. Anything you want you can probably get from a person in your own community.

* Craft is Personal: To know that something is made by hand, by someone who cares that you like it, makes that object much more enjoyable

* Craft is Political: We're trying to change the world. We want everyone to rethink corporate culture and consumerism.

* Craft is Possible: Everybody can create something."


I hope you'll join us in celebration of handmade in its diverse and myriad forms, and I encourage you to define your Craft Party however you see fit! In addition to a title for your event, a lot can be gleaned from the accompanying content you share about your event (description, photos, and the like).

Cheers,
Julie

P.S. I hope this doesn't sounds like a rant... This is just a topic I am very passionate about!

[julieincharge]

I forgot to say, if you'd just like adults at your event, could you just say "Adults only, please"?

[BlindSquirrel]

Thanks for your input Julie.

[Former_Member]

@BlindSquirrel we host Crafter-noons in Miami every month and have mostly adults. We do let everyone know what activities are more kids friendly, but we mostly only have adults

[Former_Member]

To be honest, it's kind of insulting to say "but someone always hauls their kids along so you're kind of stuck". Some parents, especially today, don't have much of a choice. But you can always put like a minimum age limit such as "15 and up" if you're concerned.

[BlindSquirrel]

Of course there's a choice. If a babysitter can't be arranged, then stay home with the kids.

[SunshineJewls]

I agree, I'd love to have a different title. It won't be adults only but it will most likely be a large outdoor event and I'd love to encourage people to come and participate and shop at vendor booths as well as do crafts, etc.

I'd love to have a name without "craft" in it... such as Etsy Spring Fair, or something along the lines.. any other suggestions?

[Former_Member]

perfectly said Julie!

[Former_Member]

Wonderful Julie!