There's something about a homemade item that tugs at the heart strings. Handmade usually means unique and heartfelt and is often of a higher quality than mass produced items. And with Christmas just around the corner, how would you like to stock up on handmade Christmas presents?
The
Handmade Expo is one of Queenslands largest homemade markets. With more than 100 stalls to peruse, you'll find a huge selection of wares on offer - everything from handbags and clothing to art work and candles, country crafts to dolls to sweet treats. And the brand new Gourmet Fresh food section serves up delicious fare like cupcakes and corn on the cob, as well as offering fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, ice cream, preserves and loads more.
In addition to the retail opportunities, the Handmade Expo, operating in conjuction with the
Queensland Pioneer Steam Railway, also offers steam train rides. The train leaves Bundamba Racecourse and takes patrons on a trip to Box Flat and back. Tickets are $9.00 for adults and $5.00 for children and concession holders, and can be purchased at the markets entrance. Plan your trip by viewing the timetable
here.
The Handmade Expo began in 2008 and was founded by three friends whose passion for homemade buys spurred them into creating a one stop shop for like minded customers. In the past two years the markets have grown in size and popularity, now including outside stalls to accomodate the demand.
If you're a crafty creator and would like to host a stall at the markets, visit the Handmade Expo blog to fill out an
application form. Stall prices range between $40 and $120, depending on the position and permanency of the site, and this price includes the site, public liability insurance and inclusion in all Handmade Expo advertising and literature. All items on display must have been handmade by the stall holder. For full guidelines, see
here.
The next Handmade Expo will take place on 16 October from 8am until 2pm at
Ipswich Turf Club (
Brisbane Road, Bundamba.) Entry to the markets is free and there is also free parking on site.
Preview some of the stall holders:
Elizabeth Jean Jewellery
Krap Katchers nappies
Meant to Be scrapbooking supplies.
