Two weekends ago we visited the Richmond Craft Mafia’s Spring Bada-Bing craft show at Plant Zero. It felt similar to their Handmade Holiday event from December, so we wanted to share highlights from this local, handmade-focused market. We didn’t leave with as many items as last year, but we did buy three things we adored. Read on for a tour of the vendors and what caught our eye.
When we first stepped into the show space, a print by Matt Butler greeted us. The piece made us both smile—Sherry thought of a fellow bacon-loving blogger, while I just wanted breakfast—so we knew the day was off to a good start.
Matt Butler creates hand-carved linocut prints and painted shoes with a playful, tongue-in-cheek sensibility. Although we didn’t commit to the bacon art, we lingered over a charming “Whale Love” print that drew us in.
One of the most clever booths belonged to Articipe, who turns family recipes into cheerful, custom artwork. Bring a handwritten or typed recipe and she transforms it into a colorful piece—an idea that felt perfect for gifting or preserving a beloved family treat.
We’re big fans of state-themed art, so Jennifer Allevato’s embroidered state hoops immediately caught our attention. She offers any state in her Etsy shop, so you can pick a piece that represents where you live or love.
Nearby, The Runny Bunny displayed ceramic creatures assembled from mismatched heads and bodies—playful, surreal figures ranging from garden gnomes on bird bodies to refined torsos topped with rabbit heads. The booth attracted a crowd; every piece was a conversation starter.
Given our recent experiments with planting succulents, Terrariums by Rich were irresistible. His layered, lush glass gardens included tiny figurines for a whimsical touch and a grand centerpiece terrarium that was particularly impressive.
Modern June showcased a fun chalkboard rooster decal—a fresh take on a traditional chalkboard that could add character to a kitchen or entryway.
Moonlight Bindery displayed bound books made with Lego covers, ranging from small wallet-sized journals to larger notebooks using the classic big green baseplates—a playful, nostalgic use of familiar bricks.
Sherry admired hand-stamped silver utensils from Milk & Honey Luxuries—perfect for sentimental gifts—while I was amused by whimsical forks stamped with phrases like “nom nom nom.”
There were also plenty of body and bath products. Whispering Willow offered beautifully displayed organic soaps—consider using a thin slice of tree trunk as a soap dish for a natural, rustic touch.
We enjoyed revisiting familiar makers. Silver Tree Art displayed colorful Wisdom Cards, and Tasha McKelvey had her delicate nesting bird bowls, each smaller bowl holding one fewer egg—a sweet, thoughtful detail.
We also caught up with Karyn of KShonk Designs and admired her sparkling jewelry in person. And Inedible Jewelry’s cheeky pieces—like pork chop cuff links—brought lots of smiles.
Lazymuse Productions returned with new crocheted pieces, including a delightful cacti display and quirky knitted toys shaped like rats, zombie fingers, and fortune cookies. Their colorful, tactile booth was a favorite.
Funnelcloud Studio showcased more prints we loved, continuing the show’s whale-themed vibe—maybe we’re entering a whale phase.
Zou Zou’s Basement, who had sold us a pink rabbit print at the holiday show, displayed a lovely ostrich (or emu) print in a palette we adored.
Turnerbot’s handmade robots caught Sherry’s eye with their glazed, beady eyes and unique personalities—each one crafted slightly differently, which made them fun to browse.
Lucky Accessories offered colorful enameled penny necklaces—one of which nearly came home with Sherry. Their previous pea-pod necklaces were a hit, and these continued the streak of bright, wearable art.
So what did we actually bring home? The reveal: a cheerful trio of crocheted cacti from Lazymuse Productions.
We bought three cacti—each about $10—with the middle one roughly 7″ tall. We planned a modest $30 budget and managed to stick to it. Now they brighten our office window ledge and require zero watering, so no spilled dirt or sad, drooping plants. They’re the perfect, low-maintenance touch of cheer.
The Spring Bada-Bing was a wonderful showcase of local makers and creative ideas. Have you visited any craft fairs or art markets lately? Did you bring anything home?
Psst—The winner for this week’s giveaway has been announced.