Page 28 - 2022 Digital Guide

Artisan Trail

Outdoor recreation is a heavy hitter in this area, that is for sure! But that doesn't mean
that everything we have to offer is outdoors related. When enjoying the indoor
amenities of Crawford County, one fantastic option to focus on is the local artists and
artisans. Artisans and artists are across the county that is for sure, but one location that is
a must-see is Earth Wind and Wire Studio and Rock Shop in Cambridge Springs.
Featuring handmade jewelry, wire art and home décor, and with space available for local
artists and vendors to showcase their work as well, Earth Wind and Wire is a fun way to
see many local artists in one stop. One local artisan you might see in only two shops
throughout the county is Frank Stofan. At his shop, the potter's house, in Saegertown,
Frank is busy making his amazing pottery pieces with his own wood-ash glaze. You can
also see his work at the new French Creek Framing and Fine Arts store, further down
the road in Meadville. Not only can you find Crawford County's own Frank Stofan
pieces at French Creek Framing and Fine Art, but you can find that perfect piece for you
home or office. Including wood art, locally made candles, framed wall art, mosaic
accent mirrors and more, French Creek Framing and Fine Art has something to bring
back to your home to remember your visit to Crawford County. Just across the street
(literally), is the Market House. The Market House is the oldest continuous use market
structure in PA. Still adhering to the ancient tradition, farmers and local craftsmen still
present their good for sale at the Market House. Inside the Market House not only are
there great local produce, a bakery, and two restaurant kitchens, but also beautiful pieces
by local artists and artisans. One local artisan you can find in the Market House is Nancy
Under the Steps. Her unique applique pieces can be framed or turned into a pillow or
blanket. Nancy Under the Steps features local scenery including iconic buildings and
flora, and she has also published several children's books on Allegheny College and
Conneaut Lake Park. If you hop back across Market Street, home to both French Creek
Framing and Fine Art and the Market House, you will find it also home to Indigo
Boutique & Botanica and The Apothecary at Indigo. These two connected
storefronts are home to some amazing handmade tea mixtures and among other locally
sourced items, hand made Malas. Coming from a religiously neutral, safe place,
Indigo's handmade malas help guide and enhance mindfulness spiritual practices. Not
only can you find different types of art in great shops across the county, with seasonal
craft shows galore, sometimes you could find them all at one location! Among many
craft shows in Crawford County, showcasing the amazing talent in Northwestern PA,
Al's Melon's Farm Market and Greenhouse is always great about hosting several
craft shows throughout the year. As the shows are scheduled, we feature them on our
events calendar so be sure to frequently visit that page. As you plan to visit these
wonderful locations, featuring great artists and artisans, remember, this is just one
avenue to start your journey on what you could call an “Artisan Trail” of your own.
Crawford County is home to many great artists and artisans – come see for yourself!