Furniture by Peter HandlerMore than 225 artists will exhibit and sell their  handmade furniture, jewelry, clothing, home décor and more at the 2010 American Craft Council Show, March 11-14, at the Cobb Galleria Centre.

The categories of art for show and sale include Basketry, Ceramics, Fashion Accessories, Fashion Wearables, Fiber Decorative, Furniture & Lighting, Glass, Jewelry, Kaleidoscopes, Leather Non-Wearable, Leather Wearable, Metal, Mixed Media (including a doll & puppet grouping), Musical Instruments, Paper, Stone, Toys & Puzzle and Wood.

“The variety and quality of work at the American Craft Council Show keeps me coming back year after year,” said Decatur resident Linda Kirkland. “Over the years, I have purchased and collected wearable art, jewelry and decorative pieces and am excited that I can find unique items for a price that fits my budget.”

Many artists are designated as GreenCraft Artists, meaning that all or a portion of the work is made from recycled materials and/or sustainable processes. This year, for the first time, the Craft Show adds two new categories: Lawn & Garden art and AltCraft. Show patrons will find signage in each artist’s booth that distinguishes their work as befitting these categories.

This year, the Show partners with Callanwolde Fine Arts Center to program its Artist Demonstration area, where patrons can watch as Callanwolde-affiliated artists and teachers demonstrate techniques and give attendees an opportunity to try their hand at various forms of art; kids can create and take home a piece of art they make, too!

Craft enthusiasts wanting an early opportunity to meet featured artists and buy their works before the show should plan to attend the Preview Party on Thursday, March 11, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Cobb Galleria Centre. Tickets for the Preview Party are $75 in advance ($85 at the door) and can be purchased at www.musuemofdesign.org. Proceeds from the Preview Party jointly benefit the Museum of Design Atlanta and the American Craft Council.

Craft Council Show on Friday, March 12, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, March 14: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission is $13 for one day, or $20 for a two-day pass. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Special Friday evening admission is $5 after 5 p.m. American Craft Council members and those who join the non-profit organization at the show ($25 annual membership fee) are admitted free all weekend. To preview the show and to purchase tickets online (for a $2 discount) visit www.craftcouncil.org/atlanta.

Collin Kelley has been the editor of Atlanta Intown for two decades and has been a journalist and freelance writer for 35 years. He’s also an award-winning poet and novelist.