Nova Scotia artists say more shoppers are buying local

Artists in Nova Scotia say more people are "thinking local" when it comes to Christmas shopping, and it's giving local artisans an economic boost.

The Halifax Crafter's Society is expecting thousands of shoppers to attend its 10th annual Christmas market this weekend, which is being held at the Olympic Hall in Halifax.

Ceramic artist Anna Bald sells her wares exclusively at the market, and said she has noticed more people appreciating local products.

"I think that people want to get out of the shopping habits that they have," she said. "It gives you an opportunity to spend less and buy better quality."

The Halifax Crafter's Society market allows only vendors who sell handmade goods. The idea is to connect artists directly with consumers.

Artists have to compete in order to get a space. All of the vendor's work has to be judged and approved before the show.

When the market began 10 years ago, there were just a handful of vendors. Now, the market has grown to 75 tables.

Eighty per cent of the market is made up of vendors from Nova Scotia, but some artists have come from as far as Ontario to sell their wares.

Shoppers say part of the appeal is the chance to meet the people behind the product. Heather Sadkowski makes it an annual tradition to attend the craft fair.

"You get to meet all the local artisans and get some unique gifts that you couldn't get in some of the big box stores," she said. "And so I find it's a lot more sentimental and [there's] better quality."

Textile artist Owen Brush said it takes 15 hours to spin alpaca wool into yarn and knit it into a scarf. Thanks to the buy local movement, his time is well spent.

"The local food movement is big," said Brush. "And I think that has led a lot of people to start thinking about clothing and other products."

Admission to the Halifax Crafter's Society Christmas market is free.