You already know the value of American craft; that’s why you’re in the business you’re in. But what about the general public? Do the people in your area really understand what American craft is all about?

American Craft Week, a new initiative organized by Craft Retailers and Artists for Tomorrow (CRAFT) and Craft in America, hopes to improve craft’s recognition across the country. The national celebration, Oct. 1-10, will bring together individuals, retailers and organizations in recognition of how handmade objects improve our daily lives and contribute to the national aesthetic and economy.

The idea is that there is strength in numbers—if craft lovers join together, it’s easy to improve the national visibility of handmade works.

Anyone (artists, retailers, collectors, etc.) is invited to participate in this 10-day celebration. Participation fees start at just $25. Among the ways you can help? Promote American Craft Week on Facebook or Twitter, develop a special promotional item to entice customers, write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper or display an American Craft Week banner. Click here for more information.