Adams Carroll: BikeCraft V has come and gone. More than 50 talented crafters and artisans rolled their wares into Sandbox Studio. They shared handmade jewelry, prints, bike accessories, apparel, and much much more. A huge turnout kept the vendors busy and the large, light-filled warehouse bustled with action all day long.
In the midst of it all, a cleverly-named holiday choir, “The Bike Chorale”, (comprised of BTA staffers and enthusiastic bystanders) came caroling, singing classic seasonal tunes with lyrics altered to address climate change and the joys of winter cycling. (No word yet on whether caroling is part of the BTA’s aggressive new advocacy strategy.)
a highlight of the day.
(Photo © Adams Carroll)
Jonathan Maus: Other musical interludes included the strumming magic of Halley The Harper (who arrived by bike of course) and the electronica creations of the Rejuiced Bike Concepts’ mini-mobile-sound-bike.
With all those great sounds, the real music to my ears was the chatter of many happy people. Most of our vendors (and many attendees) said this was the best BikeCraft yet — and I’d wholeheartedly agree. The space offered plenty of breathing room to wander and enjoy each table’s offerings. Even Portland Mayor Sam Adams seemed to have a great time, chatting up visitors and vendors alike.
Families were everywhere this year. I noticed a lot of little ones running around and plenty of babes in arms (not sure if making this event non-alcoholic had anything to do with it). Next year, we’ll have a supervised, activity-filled play place for the kids.
And how about those vendors! I have never been so impressed with the creativity, diversity of offerings, and the quality of what people brought to sell. One vendor that sticks out in my mind is Geoff Franklin from Walnut Studio. Geoff brought a selection of gorgeously hand made leather bike accessories that kept his table buzzing all day long.
His leather u-lock holster is simply marvelous; and how about his ingenious leather shoulder pad/frame gripper? I think we’ll be hearing a lot more from Walnut Studio in the future. Nice work Geoff!
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Natalie Ramsland’s Smittens gloves were a big hit once again. She almost sold out of them (watch for Mayor Adams to soon be styling in a pair in a bike lane near you). Another surprise hit was Curtis Williams from 3bags. Curtis is new to Portland but I’m glad he’s here! He makes some very solid pannier/backpack combo bags. Lots of pockets, waterproof, great colors and fabric. Can’t wait to see more from him.
I could go on and on about the excellent goods people shared (stay tuned for more profiles of locals making bike-themed goods — I just can’t get enough of this stuff!). For reference, remember we’ve got a full list of all vendors from BikeCraft V (including web links) here.
Major thanks for making this possible go to our Intern Extraordinaire Jonathan “J.R.” Reed. J.R. took the reins of this event, and, working with Elly Blue and volunteer coordinator Becky Morton, set a new standard for BikePortland events. We also relied on the generosity and partnership of the following companies:
- Sandbox Studio, our gracious host (thank you Lucinda!)
- BikeRacker
- Twenty Four Seven
- The Clackamas County Democrats
- Q19Greening
- Voodoo Doughnuts
- Ken’s Artisan Bakery
- Noah’s Bagels
- New Deal Distillery
If you missed out on Saturday, stay tuned for more BikeCrafts. We’ll be organizing several vendors for Pedal Nation’s Bicycle Show coming to the Oregon Convention Center April 11-12.
Check more photos in the Photo Gallery or sit back and watch the slideshow below (some photos taken by Adams Carroll):
Photos – Adams Carroll and Jonathan Maus