Once a year, just before the holidays, the creative members of our bike community come out to display their wares. Now in it’s sixth year, BikeCraft has become a staple of Portland’s calendar of bicycle events.

This year’s venue, Sandbox Studio, proved to be a great, close-in location. The hand made merchandise fit right in to the old warehouse space. With fifty-two venders, the space worked well, giving everyone, including the shoppers, room to breath. Many people, including myself, took several laps around the event before making purchases. There was something for everyone. If you were in the mood for repurposed items, you could head over to Rejuiced Bikes and Rubber Revolution. If you needed something clever to warm up your winter commute, then the Helmuffs from Gigi’s Handywork had your cold ears covered. With all four of Portland’s bag makers–Black Star, Blaq, North St. and Truce–and few from out of town, you would have been hard pressed not to find your perfect bag. Local crafters like Sara Collins of Lost and Found displayed ornaments, jewelry and other items for that special someone.

All in all, it was a great time. There was a living room set up, complete with couches, popcorn, and a TV showing movies from Filmed By Bike. There was delicious food and drink, and about halfway through the first day we enjoyed an amazing performance by a gentleman playing a trike-mounted piano.

Great people, great crafts and great entertainment: who could ask for more? I know I can’t and I am certainly looking forward to next year!