Frequently Asked Questions

When are the Shows?

The Handmade Market is the second Saturday of the month, noon to 4 PM from October to April.  We are off from May to September. Go outside!

 How Much Does It Cost?

The show is free for shoppers and open to the public.

Prices for the 2023/2024 season are $36 for a 4 foot.  Prices are reviewed at the beginning of each fall season.  I do my best to keep prices low.

What is Your Cancellation Policy?

While I understand that emergencies occur, please do not book a space unless you are sure you are available for the show.  Filling cancellations is time consuming for me and results in interested sellers having to sit on a waiting list while you hold a space you are not going to use.

All cancellations will have to be through me.  I will maintain a waiting list and I will do my best to find a replacement from the waiting list for cancellations. If I find a replacement, I will issue you a refund according to the following schedule.

More than 30 days notice: Space fee minus $10 = $26

More than one week but less than 30 days notice: 50% refund = $18

Less than one week but more than 48 hours: 25% refund = $9

Less than 48 hours notice: No refund regardless of if I am able to fill the space.

No Shows: No refund and a new application will be required to book future dates.

Do You Have a Waiting List for Sold Out Shows?

If you would like to be added to a waiting list for a sold out show you must first complete an application and be accepted.  You can then email heather@handmadechicago.com with the dates of the shows you want to be waitlisted for.  Each show has its own waiting list so you must specify the show dates.  Please don’t request being on the waiting list unless you plan to keep the date open.  If I offer you a space and you decline or don’t respond, you will be removed from any other month you are waitlisted for as well.   The waiting list is used for cancellations.  There is no way for me to know if I will get cancellations for any given show.  

Where Can I Park?

There is free street parking on Western and Augusta. Many of the side streets are permit, so check signs before parking. Sellers can unload at the corner of Cortez and Western and then park nearby.

How Many Customers Come to the Market Each Month?

We count on sellers to help us advertise and spread the word about each show which helps us keep the space fees low.  Sellers are given postcards, posters, social media materials, and promotional emails.  On a slow day we have 150-200 shoppers, on a busy day we have 350-400.

I Have a Lot of Merchandise.  Can I Book More than One Space?

We have a limited number of spaces. Each seller can book one space per show.

How Do I stay Up to Date?

Sellers can receive updates when new shows become available and shoppers can get reminders for our show dates through our newsletter.

How Does Set Up Work?

Detailed set up instructions are sent a month before the show date.  Set up begins at 10:30 am.

What Should Sellers Bring to the Show?

  • Table & chair

  • Lights and extension cords or candles, as the interior is quite dim

  • If you’re in spots 28, 29, or 30 you will also need duct tape for your extension cord so no one trips

  • Display trees, dishes, etc.

  • A mirror

  • Business cards

  • Cash box/storage and change for customers

  • Credit card reader