An opportunity to purchase handmade for the holidays has returned to the Folk Art Center, with shopping deals for all customers.

Each year artists of the Southern Highland Craft Guild liquidate overstocks and annual inventory at the Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale. Occurring two Saturdays in December, the 5th and 12th, members will be on hand in the center’s auditorium selling select work 10-50% off retail from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The sale provides artists a market in which they can cycle out remaining 2015 product to begin the new year with a fresh start. This allows many creatives to try out new techniques, and begin their annual production process. For the customer, the sale means great deals for holiday shopping and a chance to connect with the craftsperson. It also provides an exciting, festive alternative to mall and big box import shopping.

Choose from a variety of gift items including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood. Buying from artists supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation.

Nearly 70 artists will be participating over the course of the two sales, with a different group of artists each weekend – so plan on coming to both for best selection! Visit www.craftguild.org for a complete list of exhibitors.

While at the Folk Art Center, don’t miss the Focus Gallery show, “Image Works” and the Main Gallery exhibition, “Solid Roots.” Visitors will also want to shop at Allanstand Craft Shop, the nation’s oldest craft gallery, where they will find premier gifts for everyone on their list, and a variety of handmade holiday decorations from Christmas tree ornaments to wreaths and table arrangements.

If You Go: Annual Guild Artist Holiday Sale at the Folk Art Center, December 5 & 12, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Folk Art Center is located at Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in east Asheville, just north of the Hwy 70. For more information, call 298-7928 or visit www.craftguild.org.