Tight Knit

Registration Open

2011-10-08T08:43:00.002-04:00

Yes, folks REGISTRATION is now OPEN for the WINTER MARKET!

Please, please bear with us while using this horrific site as we are currently building a new home for Tight Knit.

Thanks!

Rachel & Zhenelle

Whistle & Sing

2011-08-12T16:50:00.001-04:00

The sun is sure to shine this Saturday and to make your morning brighter, don't miss Liv Carrow performing with us from 11:00am to 1:00pm on River Street in downtown Troy!

You'll also find these awesome vendors lining the street just past the monument:

Willow Glass
My Scentsations
Bear's Nest Studio
Handmade by Jody
T&J Soaps
Hoop Bunny Hula Hoops
Fresh Prints Clothing
Natural Elements
Baskets by Joyce Flower
Ice Age Design
Busy Bee Boutique
Adeline's Daddy

See you there!

A shady spot

2011-07-16T08:44:00.000-04:00

Tight Knit will make what is hopefully its final move of the summer today to a lovely, shady spot on Broadway between 2nd & 3rd Streets in downtown Troy, in the Monument Square neighborhood. We appreciate everyone's patience and support as we worked through all the kinks with the City of Troy, the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market and the downtown businesses. It's so rewarding to be a part of such an incredible community!

A few of the treasures in store for you at this morning's market:

Jenny's Dresser Drawer

Natural Elements

Euphoria Gourmet Soap & Body Products

Marcus Kwame Anderson Art & Illustration

Rockabye Birdie

And we are so pleased to have OLD FRIEND from Hudson playing live for us and our new friends in the late morning!

New digs

2011-07-08T22:39:00.002-04:00

Tight Knit will move to the heart of the Antiques District on River Street in Troy this Saturday - you'll find us just at the junction of 1st and River Streets, beyond the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market (who move their summer location to Monument Square).

View Larger Map
The move could prove temporary as the two markets work out the finer details of our downtown situations, but we'll post any updates here!

We have another stellar line up of vendors, some joining us for the first time this summer! Among others:

Off the Hook by Brooke

The Candy Thief

Fresh Prints Clothing

Pom Pow Arts

Joyce Flower, The Basket Lady

Windfall Designs

And more live music, this time of the electronic variety, with Todd is New Each Moment at 11:00am! Get crafty with the cool kids!

Small packages

2011-06-29T19:20:00.000-04:00

You know what they say about good things and small packages, right? Tight Knit might be a bit reduced in size this 4th of July holiday weekend, but one thing is for certain - our selection of vendors will not disappoint!

Hoop Bunny Hula Hoops

Adeline's Daddy

T & J Soaps

Livvy Lou's Boutique

AleeBird Jewelry & Watercolor Prints

Willow Glass

And more! Look for us in our temporary location at the junction of Front & River Streets in Troy, just before the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market. Exciting news regarding our summer home to be announced soon. See you Saturday!

Tight Knit hearts Bear Grass

2011-06-29T18:58:00.000-04:00

Bear Grass, aka Katie Hammon, brought her beautiful music to the market this past Saturday. Boy, are we smitten! If you want to hear more, check out the sounds here.

Better yet, you can see Bear Grass live this Sunday at Valentine's Music Hall (17 New Scotland Avenue in Albany). The show is at 8pm, costs just $7 and will feature The Loom (Brooklyn), Archeology (PDX) and Dolfish (Columbus, OH).

Tight Knit @ Art on Lark, June 11th

2011-06-10T09:07:00.001-04:00

Find many of your favorite Tight Knit vendors at the 15th annual Art on Lark festival presented by the Lark Street BID in Albany! Saturday, June 11th from 10:00am to 5:00pm, Art on Lark is Albany's premier arts festival and the 2nd largest street festival in upstate New York! The event will host hundreds of artists, musicians, dance and theatre performances, one-day art installations, and much more!

And next week, Tight Knit will join the Troy BID once again for the 8th annual River Street Festival! Check back for more details!

(Due to these happenings, Tight Knit will not host a market in Troy's Riverfront Park until Saturday, June 25th.)

Market opens Saturday, June 4th!

2011-05-22T16:33:00.000-04:00

Tight Knit's 3rd annual summer open air indie art and craft market opens the first Saturday in June and we couldn't be more excited!

We have a great variety of artists and handmade crafters lined up for the day, many of whom will be joining us for the first time ever. We were really blown away by the number of new applications we received this year, not to mention the happy buzz around the summer market and the community spirit it has inspired. Our dearest wish for Tight Knit has always been to see it grow into a close collective of independent, creative makers and doers and well... our wish has honestly come true!

So just to highlight a few of the totally awesome talents you will see when you visit us on opening day, we'll have:

Blackbird and Peacock

Design It Together

Jewels by JaimeLynn

Patricia Barden Designs

Revel

And last but certainly not least, we will have the sweet sounds of Aaron & Donna from SCIENTIFIC MAPS with us from 11:00am to 12:00pm! Come say hi, buy something neat and tap your little feet!

See you there!!!

Here comes the sun!

2011-04-03T11:46:00.004-04:00

We are happy to announce our official call for vendors for the 2011 Summer Market Season. We are accepting applications now through May 10th right here at www.tightknit.org!

The Tight Knit Summer Open Air Market runs every Saturday in June, July and August from 9am - 1pm in conjunction with the fabulous Troy Waterfront Farmers Market. We feature unique handmade items by some of the areas most talented creative artists and crafters! Do you know someone who should be joining our ranks?

Please spread the word to all of your crafty friends, co-workers and relatives! We look forward to seeing all of our old friends and new.

Help revitalize Downtown Troy!

2011-01-20T14:15:00.002-05:00

Black Friday is upon us!

2010-11-21T20:00:00.014-05:00

Come one, come all to the 3rd annual Tight Knit Black Friday Handmade Holiday Shopping Extravaganza this Friday, November 26th during Troy Night Out! The Frear Building will once again bustle with three floors of vendors selling unique and artfully crafted gifts from 5:00 to 10:00pm.

Laura Glazer of Hello Pretty City (airs on WEXT 97.7 Sunday nights from 8-10pm! does not disappoint!) will treat us to a live radio show to kick off this year's event. And Aaron & Donna of Scientific Maps will strum and sing for your toe-tapping pleasure!

Who can you look forward to seeing? Here's a small sampling of the goodies we have in store for you:

Kleio's Belly - Handcrafted Goods & Gifts

The Botanic Studio - Gardens under Glass

Tomato Can Studios

Cappywanna - Quirky Crafts

Jewels by Jaime Lynn

Off the Hook by Brooke

Willow Glass - Fused & Dichroic by Dee Tilotta

The Frear Building is located on the corner of 3rd & Fulton Streets in historic downtown Troy. Park in the Uncle Sam's Parking Garage and make your way to the entrance left of CVS - up the elevator to the 2nd floor. You can also find us on the Troy Night Out map. Or, looks for the signs! See you there!

Registration for Winter Market & Holiday Event Open Now!

2010-10-22T12:33:00.002-04:00

The seasons have changed, and it's time to don your handmade hats and scarves and join us for another series of Tight Knit Winter Market Saturdays!

Tight Knit will once again join the incredible Troy Waterfront Farmers Market indoors at the Uncle Sam Atrium in Troy beginning Saturday, November 6th. You'll find a sampling of the best handmade craft and artisan vendors in the Capital Region right there on the second floor from 9:00am to 1:00pm.

This winter's Market Saturdays season runs weekly from November 6th to February 12th, excluding the Christmas and New Years Day holidays.

Registration is open now! Don't delay! Space is limited.

Registration is also open for our 3rd Annual Black Friday Handmade Holiday Shopping Extravaganza! Tight Knit will fill the Frear Building in downtown Troy with wonderful artists selling their handmade goods for you to buy as gifts for your friends and loved ones! Beat the big box! Skip the mall! Support local artists and keep your dollars in our community.

Hope to see you all soon!

Follow us on Twitter!!

2010-08-03T18:34:00.004-04:00

Hello Friends, Shoppers & Vendors!!

Please take a second to join us on Twitter! Stay up to date with quick updates, exciting news, changes, happenings etc! Our twitter followers will be eligible for exclusive sales, promo items and giveaways!!

www.twitter.com/tightknittroy

Don't forget to stop by and see us this Saturday at Riverfront Park in Downtown Troy. We are set up behind the Farmers Market right along the river!

"Let's keep our dollars in our communities and grow together!"

Rachel & Zhenelle

A friend in need.

2010-06-23T12:17:00.014-04:00

Dear friends,

Erin Colligan, a beloved member of the Troy community, avid cyclist and talented stylist at Indigo Organic Salon on River Street, was struck by a motorist on May 24 while riding her bike through the intersection of Hoosick St. and 6th Ave.

Erin suffered serious injuries including 4 broken ribs, a broken shoulder blade, 2 fractured spinal processes and a broken clavicle which required a steel plate to surgically repair the bone, found to have snapped out her neck, protruding the skin. Thankfully, Erin was wearing her helmet - found to have cracked in half when her head hit the pavement - which saved her life.

Erin is the mother and primary caregiver of her 2 daughters, Betsey - age 3 and Riley - 8 mos. As a result of these injuries, Erin will not be able to care for her children for 8+ weeks while she recovers. She will also not be able to return to work as a stylist during her busiest season of the year given this recovery time. The financial toll on this family will be immense.

WAYS TO HELP:

- Donate Money: Tight Knit has set up a donation link for friends and fellow community members to contribute funds in support of Erin during this tremendously difficult time. Erin has a mortgage to pay and children to feed and with no income, life is truly very hard right now. Please give in any amount you can - all donations made through the link below will go directly to Erin and her children.

- Raise Awareness: A bike ride en masse is currently being organized and will take place in the streets of Troy later this summer. Please stay tuned for details on time, location and how to sign up. "Share the Road" t-shirts, designed by Don Naylor Art & Design, will be sold during our Saturday market to raise additional funds for Erin.

- Share the Road: If you are a motorist, please be conscious and respectful of cyclists on the road. The same laws that apply to drivers of motor vehicles also apply to riders of bicycles in New York State. Reduce speed when encountering cyclists. Don't tailgate, especially in bad weather. Give cyclists space and yield to them when they have the right of way. Pass with care. Have respect. BICYCLES ARE VEHICLES. SHARE THE ROAD. Had a motorist not taken the right of way from Erin, she would never have been hit.

THANK YOU!!!

Here we go!

2010-06-10T18:51:00.006-04:00

Already heading toward our second Market Saturday of the summer season! Our first morning in Riverfront Park was a great success and the shoppers bustling by to and from the Farmers Market give us good vibes for things to come.

This Saturday we have a terrific assortment of handmade crafts to satisfy everything from your sweet style to your sweet tooth! Here's just a few of the wonderfully talented vendors you'll see:

Willow Glass - Fused & Dichroic Glass Jewelry & Home Decor

Sweet Sue's - Candy & Treats

Off the Hooke by Brooke - Chic & Cozy Children's Accessories

Ali Herrmann - Original Artwork & Jewelry

Come on over! We'll be set up in our shady spot from 9am to 1pm. With all of the graduations and weddings sure to overwhelm your calendar this June, why not give something extra special? Give handmade!

New summer location announced!

2010-05-10T13:26:00.009-04:00

That's right, Tight Knit will pop up in a new location this summer! Market Saturdays, kicking off June 5th, will now take place in Troy's lush and lovely Riverfront Park from 9am to 1pm, right next door to the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market on Front Street.

Park in the Uncle Sam Parking Garage, cross over to Front Street, and drop in to our incredible market of handmade, heartmade goods crafted by Capital Region artists before your weekly jaunt to the Farmers Market to stock up on gorgeous, fresh and local produce! You can't miss us! You shouldn't miss us! See you soon!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!!

2010-04-23T09:21:00.003-04:00

Thanks for your patience, dear friends!! OUR SUMMER MARKET REGISTRATION IS OFFICIALLY OPEN!!

Please visit the REGISTER page to sign up!

If you have any questions please email us at info@tightknit.org

Happy Making!
Rachel & Zhenelle

BACK IN ACTION!!!

2010-04-21T20:39:00.004-04:00

Hello all you fabulous friends and craftsters!!! Where have we been all your life, you ask?? Well, one of us is pregnant for the first time and the other has a new job and a new house!! Funny how life hands you so much all at once.

As if these things aren't exciting enough for us, we can't WAIT for Tight Knit to start up again!!! We have completed our vendor registration and it will be available to you on the site on Friday, April 23, 2010.

We have some changes taking place this year and some exciting ideas in the works. We will have more to share soon. Don't forget to come back on Friday to fill in your registration!

It will be an absolute joy to see you all again. We look forward to meeting all of our new vendors and shoppers as well. It will be a beautiful Summer Market!!

With Affection,

Rachel & Zhenelle
Tight Knit

Hello, Spring!

2010-03-21T11:49:00.002-04:00

Well, well, well... signs of life! We realize we've had a weak pulse these last few months, but we assure you that Tight Knit is still going strong!

We had a fantastic winter season from November to February, and will be back this summer for Market Saturdays in June, July & August. Summer registration will open in early April, so please keep your eye out for updates via email and the site.

In the meantime, shake those winter blues and get making your warm weather goodies. Think Spring, or even better, think Summer! See you soon, sunshine!

The more, the merrier!

2009-12-11T15:22:00.003-05:00

We have a packed market tomorrow, Saturday, December 12th! You're sure to find something for everyone on your list, so come on down!

Willow Glass by Dee Tilotta - Fused & Dichroic earrings, pendants, beads and more!

Art by Sarah Jane - Mixed media collages incorporating fabric, paper, vintage magazines, photos, stitched together on the sewing machine!

Euphoria - Gourmet Soaps and Body Products!

re:Vision Design - Fun & funky home goods, jewelry and more made entirely from recycled or repurposed materials!

Jewels by Jaime Lynn - Gorgeous jewelry made with sterling silver and gemstones!

The Olde Bagge - Handmade fabric bags, aprons and children's clothing!

Custom Adornments by Andrea N. - One of a kind jewelry handmade with vintage beads and gemstones!

Artwork by Eileen McTiernan - Prints, paintings, etchings and handmade greeting cards!

Lua Cheia Jewelry - Incredible jewelry at incredible prices, featuring natural seeds and berries from the South American rain forests!

Olivia Royale - Handmade hats and knitwear, as well as works from artists in the Art and Found collective!

Nadine Medina Designs - Organic jewelry with hints of nostalgic whimsy!

Stacy Pettigrew - Handmade herbal products including tinctures, salves and teas, as well as the amazing resource Toolbox for Sustainable City Living!

Petra in a Bag - Unique handbags with a European flair and quality!

Dandelion Jewelry - Eco-friendly and fair trade designs!

Goldie Ashe - Toasty, cozy and striking hand-knit mittens and fingerless gloves!

Mary Pat Crevatas - Handmade flameworked glass beads, vessels and sculpture!

Ellen Kazolias - Unique hanging mirrors made with salvaged wood and wood scraps!

Pink Crocodile Designs - Preppy bags, gifts and baby items!

Tomato Can Studios - Lovely prints and original artwork!

MoJo Woodworking - Exquisite hand-carved wood cutting boards!

Don Naylor Art & Design - Clever tee shirt designs by a clever fellow! Get your TROY hoodies here!

Handmade by Jody - Knitted scarves, hats and hand-wear (ask about the cupcake hat!), along with handmade jewelry!

Wowzers!!!

2009-11-20T23:47:00.003-05:00

We can SQUEEEEZE in 4 more vendors!!!! If you've been thinking it over now is your last chance!! If you have a friend who makes something ultra cool send them our way! We don't want to waste any space or be without any talented creator!! Join nearly 50 FABULOUS vendors, Hundreds of community-supporting SHOPPERS, 3 totally RADICAL musical performances and little ol' us for the Tight Knit Holiday Event!!! Black Friday, November 27, 2009 5pm-10pm!! Check the website for more details! www.tightknit.org

LAST CALL FOR VENDORS!!!

2009-11-18T22:39:00.003-05:00

We have just a few spots remaining for artists/artisans wanting to sell their handmade wares!!!
BE A VENDOR AT THE TIGHT KNIT HOLIDAY EVENT!! The Holiday event is held in the beautiful, historic Frear Building in Downtown Troy!! Last year was a blast and HUNDREDS of shoppers came out to show their support for local artists!! Live Music and Great Art & Craft!! REGISTER NOW!!! Check it Out! www.tightknit.org

Who's at the market this week?

2009-11-11T16:22:00.017-05:00

Minty Fresh Fusions

The Whimsical Design

Olivia Royale

Lua Cheia Jewelry

The Olde Bagge

Willow Glass

Little Fish Like Green

Remember, we have new vendors each week so be sure to pop over and check out the goods! All handmade items crafted by local folks. Look for the Tight Knit banner on the 2nd floor!

Winter Market begins tomorrow!

2009-11-06T21:08:00.000-05:00

REGISTER NOW!!! New Site Up!!!!

2009-10-14T22:36:00.004-04:00

Hello Friends!! We are BEYOND BEYOND EXCITED to announce that our brand new website is up!!! Please visit us at www.tightknit.org and REGISTER for our Tight Knit WINTER MARKET. The Winter Market will be held from November-February in the Troy Atrium. All details can be found on our site.

As always, thank you so much for your patience and, above all, your support. We just adore you all!!! We can't wait to see you soon! Rachel & Zhenelle

Tight Knit Winter Market Announced!

2009-09-30T20:09:00.009-04:00

Happy Fall, friends! We have good news!

Tight Knit will proudly join the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market indoors in the Atrium starting Saturday, November 7th through Saturday, February 27th!

The Atrium is located at 4th & Broadway in lovely downtown Troy.

Stay tuned for more information on how to be a vendor, and why to be a shopper!

A Monumental Market!

2009-07-16T13:13:00.019-04:00

The July 18th Market Saturday may just be the best one yet! Tight Knit will be joined in Monument Square by the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market, which is moving up to the streets to accommodate the annual Troy Pig Out kicking off at 11am in Riverfront Park.

The market activities will begin at 9am and run till 2pm - come for the shopping and stay for the Pig Out!

River Street between Fulton and 1st will be closed off to give the Farmers Market some room to spread out, as well as 2nd between State and River, and Broadway between 3rd and River. Parking is available in the Uncle Sam's garage or any of the open streets surrounding it. Early birds will get first pick!

Celebrate your Independence! Buy Indie!

2009-07-06T15:51:00.010-04:00

Well, hello July! Our first month of summer markets is behind us, and with a nice little break for the 4th of July we are now ready to jump back in for another Market Saturday this week! In the spirit of the season, be sure to give your dollars good homes in the pockets of talented, crafty, local artists.

Declare your independence! Buy indie!

TIGHT KNIT MARKET SATURDAY JULY 11th

featuring

The Posh Piglet

re:Vision Design

Ripenstitch Handmande Handbags

Mary Elise Bolam Embroidery

Handmade by Jody - Jewelry & Knits

Jewelry by Tiffany Nelson

Danica Lichtig & Petra Jacovicova - Jewelry & Handbags

Brooke Taney & Courtney Holland

Bagges by Charlie

Ex Libris Handmade

Jess Fink Comics, Art & Caricature

Alotalux by C. Carnevale

Twinkle Studios - Luxe Modern Jewelry

Pottery by Jessica Caccamo

Artwork by Ali Herrmann

Designs by Sarah Jane

Lua Cheia Jewelry

Willow Glass

Jewels by Jaime Lynn

Don Naylor Art & Design

Off and running!

2009-06-09T12:01:00.030-04:00

It's been a busy few weeks for us, pulling everything together for the first Tight Knit Market Saturday on June 6th. We're happy to say it was a success! A beautiful day with a steady stream of enthusiastic visitors. We can't wait for this Saturday!

Here's a peek at who you'll see this week!

TIGHT KNIT MARKET SATURDAY JUN E 13TH

LIVE MUSIC BY RESTYS!

Wendy Osterhout Jess Fink

Willow Glass Jessica Caccamo

Michelle Fish Tiffany Nelson

Ragamuffin Designs Ex Libris Handmade

re:Vision designs Ali Herrmann

Ripenstitch The Posh Piglet

And more!!!

Vendors! Vendors!

2009-05-14T21:39:00.005-04:00

Are you a CRAFTSTER?? BE a Vendor and sell your handmade wares!! Tight Knit is an indie Art/Craft Event based in Historic Downtown Troy, NY
Registration for the 2009 Spring/Summer Open Air Market is now open!!!
Hurry, Registration ends May 31!!!
Set in beautiful, victorian downtown Troy, NY.
Just 2 hours north of nyc.
Special rate hotel accommodations for out of town vendors and shoppers!!
www.tightknit.org

Tight Knit mention in today's Times Union!

2009-05-05T13:05:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Times Union Deputy Business Editor, Eric Anderson, and Elizabeth Young of the Troy Downtown Collaborative for this mention in today's Times Union!

Troy plans 'Market Saturdays'

Just 2 more weeks to register!

2009-05-04T22:12:00.003-04:00

Vendor registration for this summer's Tight Knit Market Saturdays will close on Sunday, May 17th - get your spot while the gettin's good!

We've got a few really affordable options to offer folks. Check it out!

1 Saturday - $35

4 Saturdays - $120

8 Saturdays - $195

11 Saturdays - $250

You pick the Saturdays that work for you! Sign up now at http://www.tightknit.org

In other news, everyone's favorite band the RESTYS will be playing at the June 13th market! Stay tuned to find out who else you might see (and hear!) this summer.

Welcome back Tight Knit vendors!

2009-04-29T22:11:00.009-04:00

You'll see some familiar faces in Monument Square this summer! We're happy to welcome these folks back, and look forward to a season of crafty fun!

Ali Herrmann - Original Artwork

Kristen Lehouiller - Ripenstitch

re:Vision Design

Jody Morin - Handmade by Jody

And lots more confirmed vendors - to be announced later in May!

Registration is open now until May 17th - secure your spot at this summer's Market Saturdays today!

VENDOR APPLICATIONS UP!!!

2009-04-13T01:49:00.004-04:00

Vendor Applications are now up on the website! www.tightknit.org !!

Please be sure to read the FAQ's link, on the register page, before filling out the vendor application!

Thanks so much for your patience, we are so excited to hear from everyone!

Please feel free to email us with any questions. info@tightknit.org

Happy Appy!!

Rachel & Zhenelle

The New Market

2009-04-07T13:07:00.004-04:00

We are thrilled to inform all of our supporters of the plans for this season's Tight Knit! The spring/summer '09 Tight Knit will be an outdoor market in Downtown Troy every Saturday in June, July and August! We are headed to a very important meeting tonight to speak with City Officials and some great Troy organizations regarding our vision for Troy's Market Saturday's. We look forward to sharing all of this news with you as soon as possible.

We appreciate your patience with the opening of our Vendor Applications. We had hoped to have them available yesterday but the process of preparing all details for our outdoor market is large. We want to be sure we have answers to all of your questions. We expect to have all info and applications online by this coming Monday, April 13th.

In the meantime if you have any questions please feel free to email us at info@tightknit.org

Thank you all so much!

Rachel & Zhenelle

Spring Fever

2009-03-04T18:28:00.002-05:00

Hello again to all of our wonderfully talented friends and crafters. This is a heads up that details of our upcoming events will be posted very soon. We know many of you are preparing your schedules for the summer market season so we will be providing all details for Tight Knit as soon as possible. We are so excited to see you all again and thank you for the tremendous amount of positivity you have spread. We have received so many emails from crafters who heard what a success the F/W08 Tight Knit was and are anxious to be a part of it!

We truly encourage people in this economic climate to keep your art and craft at the forefront. It does so much to inspire positivity in your community, neighborhood and all those around you.

More Info to follow soon!

Thanks!

Updates

2008-12-09T21:36:00.002-05:00

The week following Tight Knit has been utilized tying up loose ends and organizing. More than anything though we are making plans and moving forward. We have so many exciting projects in the works and wish we could tell you about everything right now!...All in due time.

We have more photos coming soon also!! Our website media page will be updated this week.

Also, we have added the "FOLLOW" option to the blog to make it easier for you to keep up with our news postings. If you haven't already, click the "follow this blog" button on the top of the right hand column!

We will have more coming soon!

Thanks!

Look at all of these great photos!

2008-12-02T14:28:00.003-05:00

Photo by almost foodies. Wares by The Candy Thief
Some terrific examples of the kinds of crafts showcased at Tight Knit last weekend. So pretty!

Almost Foodies' Tight Knit Photo Set

Tight Knit in the Troy Record!

2008-11-30T12:28:00.006-05:00

Photo by J.S. Carras
Photo by J.S. Carras

Thanks so much to Tom Caprood and J. S. Carras for this wonderful article in the Sunday paper.

Crafts market offers gift alternatives

Tight Knit Day Two, bursting with joy

2008-11-29T20:03:00.004-05:00

Wow. The second day did not disappoint. It was so nice to be next door to the Troy Waterfront Farmer's Market - everything just felt so open and fresh and inviting, and the events linked arms in such a perfect way. There are good things happening in Troy.

Rachel and I extend deep, honest gratitude to the people who made this event possible. David Bryce generously volunteered the amazing space inside the Frear Building in support of the arts in Troy, and the striking presence of the venue was the foundation on which we built an inspiring assembly of artists and craftspeople. We cannot thank him enough.

The vendor response for Tight Knit was truly a best case scenario. So many talented, enthusiastic, supportive people came together this weekend and not only did they present to the local community a significant shopping alternative, a chance to "shop outside the Big Box", but they also created this organic, positive energy that is the very essence of Tight Knit. By definition, we are:

tight-knit

adj 1: Closely and firmly integrated.

2: Formed or united into a whole.

This, I think we've proven. We couldn't have done it without:

Adriana Aguilar, Ali Hermann, Antoinette Indge, Bill Furlong, Carol Parker, Casey Dwyer, Christine Vermilyea, Colleen O'Connor, David Ozmon, Debbi Pallas, Dee Tilotta, Emily Armstrong, Erika Klein, Heather Snogles, HelenMary DeSimone, Jess Fink, Jessica Neitzel, Jody Morin, John Visser, John Yost, Kelsey Gnoinski, Kristen Lehouiller, Linda O'Neill, Marissa & Amanda from re:Vision, Mary Garcia, Matthew Ezzo, Michael Kronau, Michelle Fish, Molly Bingham, Nadine Medina, Nicole Miers, Paul Hoagland and his accompanying potters, Pilar Conde, Sarah Gabler, Scott Hronich, Shelle Sucharski, Stephanie Lupoli, Thomas Kirsch, Tobi Saulnier, Tom Alberico, and Wendy Osterhout.

Our good friend Breanna, who also tabled her beautiful photographs and greeting cards, came through with photo coverage of the event and we will post some images as soon as we can. Thanks, Bre!

And another huge thank you to the Restys - Ira Marcks, Maura Bress, Misha Rabinovich, Matthew Moorman, and Marc Coudert. We missed them today; the iPod was just not the same.

We'll be updating the blog regularly and are already planning the summer event. If you tabled, shopped or just wandered in to explore, please let us know what you thought! We were so happy to see you all.

Tight Knit Day One, a complete success!

2008-11-28T23:59:00.002-05:00

I cannot fully describe to you the absolute joy of seeing crowds of smiling faces at tonight's first ever Tight Knit indie event. People were amazed. The response was overwhelmingly positive, from the moment folks stepped off the 2nd floor elevator to their gracious and wholly supportive words of encouragement as they left us with newfound treasures in hand. The sound of the Restys' banjo strumming, accordion pumping, full throat singing filled the space with an incredible energy, and truly set the tone for the entire evening. We cannot thank them enough for volunteering to perform for us. They are as much a part of Tight Knit as the vendors who made this whole thing possible. Oh, the vendors - what a wonderland they have created.

I can only imagine that tomorrow will rival tonight's success. We hope to see you there!

ps. Did you see us on the 11 o'clock news?

Tight Knit features 45 unique, inspiring vendors!

2008-11-24T11:11:00.011-05:00

Well, registration is now officially closed and we are working madly toward this Friday's event. Tight Knit will feature 45 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to home goods to fine art.

Curious who you'll see there? Check out these links! We'll add more as we get them from our confirmed vendors. Start your shopping list now!

Jess Fink - Caricature, Comics & Illustration
Willow Glass - Fused & Dichroic Glass Jewelry & Home Goods
Creations by EMKPAINTER
Fabric Arts by Pilar
Lua Cheia Fashion Jewelry
Ali Herrmann - Original Artwork & Jewelry
Memories Created - Christmas Craft Variety
Dave Ozmon Photography
Mama V's Soap
Fashion Designs by Jessyka
Voluptuous Vegan Goods
John W. Yost Photography
Holistically Heather Vegan Goods
Ripenstitch - Handmade Handbags by Kristen Lehouiller
Unencumbered - Resin & Polymer Clay Jewelry
T.J. Kirsch - Comics & Minicomics
Handmade by Jody
The Candy Thief - Fiber Arts
re: Vision Designs
Clay Slapper Pottery
Lloyd Spear Beekeeper - Honey & Beeswax Candles & Ornaments
Nadine Medina Designs-Handmade + Custom Jewelry
Cinderloop Clothing-Wearable, Versatile pieces

FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!!!!

2008-11-20T12:15:00.001-05:00

I received an email today asking if the event was open to the public to come in and buy things!! YES!!! That is the final piece that makes this whole event come together and work! We have nearly 50 wonderful vendors wanting to come out and show their wares...but we need the shopping public to come out and buy these beautiful handmade items!!

Please remember to spread the word: THIS EVENT IS FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!!!

We'll see you there!

www.tightknit.org

Rachel & Zhenelle

BACK, UP AND RUNNING!!

2008-11-20T11:57:00.001-05:00

Thursday 11/20/08 12:00 Noon

We have finished with our update!! You can now visit the website to register.

www.tightknit.org

We have only 10 tables left!! Please, if you are really wanting to register, do it quickly!!

TRYING TO REGISTER!!??!

2008-11-20T11:32:00.000-05:00

THURSDAY 11/20/08 11:30AM

1st and 2nd Floor's SOLD OUT!! 3rd Floor Filling quickly!!

We are updating our BUYNOW button on our website to allow for more tables to be registered. You may get an error page while we update! Please come back in 1 hour! We will be fully functioning again with more tables available!! Thank you sooooo much!! Make sure you come back!!

You can email us with any questions or to make sure the BUYNOW is back up and running! info@tightknit.org

Thanks!!

Rachel & Zhenelle

Vendors Galore!!

2008-11-18T21:00:00.000-05:00

We are ecstatic at the number and variety of vendors that have signed up for Tight Knit! Currently, Tight Knit has over 40 wonderfully talented and diverse makers!!

We have had such a huge push, in the last week, with people emailing us with questions...that we've decided to extend the deadline for Registration to Monday, November 24th! We are going to try to welcome as many vendors as we can by that time. So, if you know someone who was thinking about vending, please tell them to hurry up and get it in by Monday!! This is going to be such a fun event!

LAST CALL FOR VENDORS!! Registration due by 12 Noon, Monday, November 24th, 2008!!

We can't wait to see what you've made!

2008-11-14T18:03:00.000-05:00

I had a really energizing and encouraging meeting this morning with Lauren & Jeff from Albany's Grand Street Community Arts Center. (Zhenelle is away in Sunny San Fran until Saturday) Magically, the hand-embroidered stars had aligned and we were all wanting a tangible push for the indie arts community at the same time!

Much the same as Tight Knit, Give Handmade seeks to encourage consumers to buy Handmade this holiday season. With so many reasons to do so, they highlight 3 great ones: You will be giving BETTER GIFTS! You can FEEL BETTER about spending your money by supporting your local arts community. It's BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT of course!

Beyond the excitement of Tight Knit and Give Handmade working so harmoniously together, Zhenelle and I, along with Jeff & Lauren and the rest of GSCA, look forward to the momentum we've gained from our new connection! We are aware of a grassroots movement and a (r)evolution which highlights a community awareness and sense of caring and responsibility. Forget the tired same old sweatshop using, unequal paying, mega conglomerate big box stores this season and SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT MAKERS!

Feel empowered?! Then sign up for a table at Tight Knit and Give Handmade. Give Handmade will take place the first 2 weekends in December!

Thanks Lauren and Jeff for reaching out to make a strong connection.

Hooray for friends at Tight Knit!

2008-11-12T11:09:00.000-05:00

We are so happy and lucky to announce that at Tight Knit's Friday Event (November 28th, 2008) we will have LIVE CARICATURES BY JESS FINK!!

And LIVE, AMERICANA/INDIE FOLK, MUSIC by THE RESTYS!!!

What an awesome night we will have!

Register a Table at Tight Knit now!

2008-11-12T10:49:00.000-05:00

Don't miss your chance to market your wares Friday & Saturday, November 28th & 29th at the first ever Tight Knit Indie Event in Downtown Troy!

What can you sell? Anything you make! For Example:

*Zines

*Books

*Comics

*Scarves

*Sweaters

*Handbags

*Paintings

*Prints

*Sculptures

*Pottery

*Jewelry

*Baked Goods

*Candles

*Photographs

*Ornaments

*Clothing

*And everything in between!

Registration is open now through November 20th-don't delay!!

www.tightknit.org

Historic Frear (Event Location!)

2008-11-08T00:24:00.001-05:00

The glass dome is stunning.

The marble and cast iron staircase.

Zhenelle ponders the best way to organize vendor tables...

PARTICIPATE!

2008-11-06T18:43:00.000-05:00

If you see our flyer out and about please pick some up and pass the word!