Artisans, Galleries & Guilds
In a world of “me-too” items and mass-produced “stuff,” take time to celebrate the beauty of handmade arts & crafts.
From baskets and brooms to quilts and pottery, handcrafted items once served a strictly functional purpose here in the mountains. Thankfully, the old ways live on in North Georgia, which has become a haven for talented artisans who celebrate both form and function in endlessly creative ways. Along the Trail, you’ll find not only shops and stores, but also studios and galleries where you can watch skilled artisans whittle, paint, sew, cast, weave and carve.
Be sure to check the Happenings page and the Events Calendar for upcoming craft fairs, festivals and other fun outings.
Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
Rotating Exhibits • Gallery • Gift Shop • Art Supplies • Festivals • ClassesThe Art Center is home to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (BRMAA), a nonprofit, member-based arts organization providing multidisciplinary arts education, artist guilds and one of the largest fine arts gallery experiences in North Georgia. BRMAA hosts two annual arts festivals: the Spring Arts in the Park festival over Memorial Day weekend and the Fall Arts in the Park festival the second weekend in October. Located in the Historic Fannin County Courthouse, The Art Center houses seven galleries, two resident artist studios, three classrooms, a dance studio, an art supply station and a kiln studio. Stop in to view the artwork, take a class or enjoy a festival — then become a member and be a part of The Art Center canvas! Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Campus Gate Art Gallery
Gallery of Student ArtworkThe Campus Gate Art Gallery hosts exhibitions by nationally recognized professional artists, the annual Juried Student Art Exhibition and two Senior Thesis Exhibitions. Each exhibition has an opening reception where guests can meet and mingle with the exhibiting artist and discuss the artwork with them. The gallery hosts a wide variety of exhibitions throughout each academic year ranging from contemporary mixed media installations to traditional arts and crafts. The gallery serves YHC students, local residents and regional residents as an excellent source of cultural enrichment. All exhibitions and opening receptions are free and open to the public. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Canoe
Handcrafted Jewelry • Designer BagsCanoe is a lifestyle brand of high-end bags and jewelry made right in Blue Ridge, Georgia. You can visit the retail store in downtown Blue Ridge, find selected items in stores around the country or shop online. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Coopers Creek Pottery
Handmade Pottery • Knives • EarringsNestled in the depths of the Appalachian North Georgia Mountains, our pottery is quintessential to providing a deeper meaning to our lives. Be it testifying in the truth of the Word of God and living a life that exemplifies the beauty of something handmade from the earth, our goal at Coopers Creek Pottery is to bring glory to our Father. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Creekside General Store
Handmade Furniture • Wood-Turned Bowls • Pottery • Local Jams & Jellies • Jewelry • Fabric ArtJust like a bustling general store from days gone by, Creekside General Store is bursting with just about everything a fan of homemade and handcrafted could dream of. That includes hand-thrown pottery, wood-turned bowls, barnwood frames, handmade knives, unique gemstone jewelry, and handmade soaps and lotions. Stop in to find the perfect outdoor rocking chairs, porch swings and tables, as well as unique chainsaw art, whimsical birdhouses and other wood crafts. Local furniture maker David Jones’ beautifully carved screen doors add the perfect rustic touch to your home or cabin. Locally made also means great things to eat — check out the wide selection of jams, jellies, chow-chow and honey. In addition to locally-made items, Creekside General Store carries plenty of made-in-the-USA items — Corinthian Bell Chimes, Signature Tumblers, Yankee Candles and more. They also have souvenirs, T-shirts and lots of other gift items. Look for Creekside General Store just east of Hiawassee, Georgia, on Hwy. 76 East. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Crooked Creek Farm
Natural Bath & Body SuppliesVisit this small store for all-natural bath & body products made on a small farm in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Or shop online for goat milk soaps, body butters, sugar scrubs, bug-off sprays, bath bombs, essential oils and aromatherapy jewelry. You’ll also find these folks at the Union County Farmers Market during the season! Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Fishbone Gallery
Pottery • Dinnerware • Mosaics • FlowerpotsLocated in beautiful Blue Ridge, in the north Georgia Mountains, Fishbone is a haven for locally made art in a booming mountain art town north of Atlanta. Home to Betty Wassmer Ceramics, Fishbone Gallery features the original creations of this noted ceramicist. Betty Wassmer creates one-of-a-kind designs using dishwasher safe, lead free glazes. Her colorful styles have graced homes and tables across the USA, and have been featured in numerous publications and art events. Each piece is lovingly decorated in a unique style that has become Betty’s trademark. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Gilmer Arts & Heritage Association
Gallery • Gift Shop • Exhibits • ClassesShare this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Green Willow Soap
Artisan Soaps • Sugar Scrubs • Lotions • Soy CandlesHandcrafted artisan soaps for a wonderful experience bathing. Check out our body mousse, sugar scrubs, solid body lotions, perfumes, colonge & soy candles. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
High Country Art & Antiques
Fine Art • Folk Art • Clay Sculpture • PotteryWelcome to High Country Art and Antique, a charming, eclectic North Georgia art gallery in the heart of historic downtown Blue Ridge. Situated on the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour and a half north of Atlanta, we offer an excellent selection of traditional and impressionist fine art, folk art, photography, pottery, jewelry, sculptures, antiques and collectibles. Whether you’re looking for fine oil paintings, acrylics, pastels, or a unique piece of pottery, sculpture or jewelry, most likely we have something you’ll like (and, our folk art is guaranteed to make you smile). Please take your time to enjoy our web site and come back often as we are continuously adding art to the site. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Jerry’s Mountain Furniture
Rustic Wood Furniture • Custom OrdersJerry and Charlotte Sisson have been in the mountain home business for over forty years. After retiring from the home building business, Jerry slowed down to run a unique pawn and trading store on Aska Road. Building some rustic benches for use at his store has now turned into a thriving enterprise. Jerry’s one of a kind creations are magnificent. If you can draw it or articulate what you want, Jerry and his team of builders can produce it for you. Have you ever noticed that there is this one spot you need something, but manufacturers pieces just don’t fit. Let Jerry create a piece that you will be proud of. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Lardworks Studio at Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm
Glass & Fiber • Alpaca Jewelry & ProductsWarm fuzzy alpaca combined with cool hard glass! Have you heard of slow food? Well this is slow art. We breed, raise and shear our own alpacas. The fiber is then hand dyed and felted to create unique wearable art. Most pieces are accented with hand sculpted glass beads made right here in our studio. Nuno felting is our specialty. Each piece starts with our hand dyed silk and yarns. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Mountain Hope Pottery & Sculpture
Dinnerware • Unique Pieces • Unusual SculpturesGrowing up in Blairsville, GA, I watched in amazement as my grandmother created pottery in her little shop. Today, I use her same potter’s wheel and kiln to create pottery of my own, as well as hand formed sculptural pieces. Inspired by my grandmother and educated in Savannah, I received a Bachelor of Art in Ceramics while living on Tybee Island. It was there that I used my wheel on the front porch while listening to the ocean’s waves crashing. Thankfully, I’ve been able to return to ‘my mountains’ and to my grandmother’s pottery shop to start Mountain Hope Pottery & Sculpture. I love the feeling of clay in my hands and the act of creating something useful, beautiful, and meaningful to all. Using mountain clay to create pottery is a special way to help folks take home their own piece of the mountains and remember the peace and hope found here. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Mountain Oak Pottery
Handmade PotterySheryl Holstein has been studying pottery from accomplished potters through the John C. Campbell Folk School since the fall of 2002. She began creating pottery under the name Mountain Oak Pottery, and is continuously learning new and different techniques for throwing and glazing. “When you live high in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, there isn’t a better place to work than your own back porch.” Sheryl has set up her pottery studio over-looking the very mountains that give her artistic inspiration every day. Pottery Can Be Purchased in GA at: North Georgia Diamond, Blue Ridge Mtn Arts Assoc., Jumping Mouse Beads and ChamberHouse gifts. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Artworks Gallery & Gifts (Mountain Area Regional Arts & Crafts Guild)
Gallery of 50+ Local ArtistsShare this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Multitudes Gallery / The Coop Around Us
Glass Art • Jewelry • Art Gallery • Garden CenterMultitudes Gallery in Blue Ridge, Georgia, features the art of hand blown glass. We represent over 75 nationally and internationally known glass artists from all over the United States. In addition, we feature the work of regional artists in jewelry, ceramic pottery, iron work, photography, wood working and oil/acrylic/watercolor painting. Come discover the vibrant art being created in and around our authentic North Georgia mountain town, Blue Ridge. We are constantly looking for new works of art to fill our gallery and bring in new items almost every week. Be sure to visit us often and share in our new discoveries. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Mountain Heritage Handcraft
Handcrafted, Sustainable, Regional & Indigenous ArtworkLocated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the beauty of nature surrounds us. At Mountain Heritage Handcraft, the work is sometimes sculptural, sometimes functional and often original in design. Brooms and baskets are handmade the old-fashioned way, originating from and inspired by Mother Nature’s palette. Check the website for classes and events. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods
Hand Engraved Bamboo Fly Rods • ClassesWilliam “Bill” Oyster is a full-time career bamboo fly rod maker with a workshop in one of the south’s most authentic mountain towns (Blue Ridge, GA). Each Oyster Bamboo Fly Rod is intensely hand crafted. Bill is the only professional bamboo fly rod maker in the world who personally hand engraves his own rods. The performance and aesthetics of each rod is truly remarkable. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Pouting Cow Folk Art
Local & American-Made Folk ArtPouting Cow Folk Art is a small gallery shop in Ellijay that features wonderful works by local and regional artists. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Rountree’s Furniture & Décor
Custom Design Furniture • Screen DoorsRountree’s is a Furniture & Home Décor store specializing in mountain home furnishings since 1980. Known as the area’s “One-Stop Shopping” resource, many have furnished their house or cabin from top-to-bottom all in one trip. If you are starting from a vacant cabin or home, looking for “just the right piece” to finish off a room, or upgrading or changing the theme, Rountree’s can help. Rountree’s specializes in quality, real-wood/solid-wood furniture, country pine furniture, Amish furniture, and log furniture. Additionally you will be impressed with the complete line of furnishings including Rustic Lodge, Country, Cottage, Traditional, and French Country. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you with your selections. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Sleepy Hollow Enterprises
Handmade Whimsical Gnome HousesArthur Millican Jr. is a former Disney artisan now relocated to the small community of Blairsville, in the beautiful North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains. His working experiences include years at Disney as an artist and model maker, and later consulting and design services for Dollywood, Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch and many other commercial parks and real estate developments world-wide. His passion is designing and producing whimsical and enchanting fairy houses, fairy doors and related items. From his new 2,500 sq. ft. woodworking studio, he creates hand crank toys called Automatons and captivating fairy houses from birdhouses to large garden shed or children’s playroom sizes. No two pieces are the same; Art gleans materials from festivals, resale shops garage sales and the like, then uses this material in the design. A bottle cap make make a hat for a gremlin or other figurine, a large old teapot just might turn into a fairy house, complete with front door, porch, windows and whatever else Art’s imagination can come up with. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new […] Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Sundance Gallery Gifts
Local & American-Made Arts & CraftsThe works of American craftsmen and artisans is the focus at Sundance Gallery. Here, owner Julie Willer has created an amazing collection of made-in-America pottery, woodcraft, glass art, jewelry and more — with many of the items crafted right here in the North Georgia and North Carolina mountains. Gorgeous (and functional) hand-thrown pottery ranges from oversize soup mugs and mini omelet makers to colorful decorative bowls and platters. Stunning, handcrafted jewelry takes advantage of everything from recycled copper and dichroic glass to reclaimed metal from shotgun shells. Plus, you’ll find hand-fired ceramic beads and distinctive crochet jewelry, all made in Blairsville. There’s also local gourd art, socks, hats and other wearables — plus plenty of soaps, candles and other good-smelling things! Be sure to stop in the charming garden shed adjacent to the gallery, where you’ll find an incredible array of garden accessories, lawn flags, bird feeders, weather vanes and porch decor. Sundance Gallery Gifts is located across from Alexander’s store in Blairsville and is open Monday-Saturday, 10 am-6 pm. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in […] Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Sunrise Grocery
Seasonal Produce • Honey & Sorghum • Hams • CheesesSunrise Grocery is a little country market with something for everyone! First open for business in this picturesque setting in the early 1920’s, we are one of the oldest businesses in Union County — and we can sure tell some stories about our colorful past! Our customers come roaring up on the shiniest of Harley’s and some really hardy ones pedal their way to Sunrise Grocery on mountain bikes. We have gassed up the most beloved battered pickup trucks and the fanciest Mercedes sedans. Some folks have been coming here all their lives, and some of our visitors will only pass this way once. Whether young or young-at-heart, there is something for everyone at Sunrise Grocery! Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Talking Rock Pottery
Gallery • Studio • Supplies • Classes • PartiesTalking Rock Pottery offers Paint your own Pottery from $5 and up. No appointment necessary! We also carry Pottery supplies-clay, glaze, hand tools. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
The Mountain House
Custom Furniture & DecorJerry and Charlotte Sisson have been in the mountain home business for over forty years. After retiring from the home building business, Jerry slowed down to run a unique pawn and trading store on Aska Road. Building some rustic benches for use at his store has now turned into a thriving enterprise. Jerry’s one of a kind creations are magnificent. If you can draw it or articulate what you want, Jerry and his team of builders can produce it for you. Have you ever noticed that there is this one spot you need something, but manufacturers pieces just don’t fit. Let Jerry create a piece that you will be proud of. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Whimsy Flower Farm
Local • Fresh • LovelyWhimsy Flower Farm is a family-run farm in located in Blairsville, Georgia. They grow more than 70 varieties of annuals and perennials, including 50 colors of dahlias. Call, email or visit the farm store (April through October), or stop by the Union County Farmers Market to pick up a bright bouquet or to chat about our wholesale delivery for florists. Whimsy can also provide flowers for your wedding or other special event. Whimsy Flower Farm is located on Lower Track Rock Road in Blairsville, GA. Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Whistle Tree Pottery
Handmade Pottery • Classes • Parties • GalleryWhere Creativity Comes Alive! Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Share this:Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)