You may come to Chattanooga for its mountains, rivers, and trails, but don't overlook its hidden gem – the arts and crafts community. Many artists call the city home and have developed a thriving scene that includes a range of places and events. When you come to town, don't miss your chance to see what the city's diverse and talented artists have to offer!

KaitMakes Markets

Photo by Kennedy Ham/A table of KaitMakes' merchandise, all available to shop on her website

Kait Willow, better known as KaitMakes, is Chattanooga’s embroidery magician. In addition to running her own customizable embroidery business full-time, Kait also hosts her own eclectic pop-up markets that highlight the labors of love created by a range of local artists. Events such as her annual Galentine’s Social event or garden parties bring together our community of local creators. Ranging from a build-your-own-bouquet flower truck to Pepper Palm's custom perfume bar, Kait’s markets create an immersive and supportive experience for shoppers! Themed photobooths are hand-made by The August Sisters, two sisters and creatives who are Chattanooga locals, are just one of many booths you must stop by at a KaitMakes Market.

The August Sisters’ jewelry collection available at a pop-up KaitMakes market. Available to shop here.

Local’s Only

Locals Only Gifts & Goods on the Northshore serves as Chattanooga’s one-stop shop for all things local and crafted by Chattanoogan artisans. Offering a selection of local coffee beans, artwork by Cluster Funk Studio, and bookish jewelry from Marshall & Rose, Locals Only’s inventory and business practice centers local artists who serve as a face for the Chattanooga arts community. They provide a space where customers can discover new local businesses and support the artists. Hand-sourced and locally made,  the “Buy Local” movement is an initiative to put money back into the community and uplift Chattanooga’s creatives while offering quality and unique products!

Locally made goods such as Forman Pottery ceramics.

Verre Noir on the Northshore has quickly become a bewitching sanctuary for luscious plants, perfumes, an abundance of teas, and all things witchy. Verre Noir’s selection of local artists ranges from vintage curation and oddities by local Cloche Craft & Relics to artwork by Girl Almighty Art; artists inspired by darker, stranger themes! Verre Noir also offers a line of natural and organic products for both hair and body by Natty Naturals. You can find unique, upcycled jewelry made by Sayuri Designs or custom-arranged bouquets created by Verre Noir’s sister store, Joli Jardin.

Attendees waiting for Verre Noir’s first annual Night Market.

Verre Noir’s commitment to supporting local artists runs deeper than its in-store selection. Verre Noir’s Night Market event brings together the Chattanooga Community with an array of over thirty different local vendors. Night Markets happen on the last Friday of each month from 7 to 10 PM, with something for everyone to enjoy! Flash tattoos by local artists, permanent jewelry with Love, EROS, tarot readings, and a live Dungeons and Dragons game are only a few of the booths. You can explore Verre Noir’s website or Instagram for more information on the next Night Market and see a preview of the theme and the vendor lineup. To learn more about local farmers markets, antiques, and other local shopping opportunities, be sure to check out our full guide to Chattanooga's thriving maker and market scene!

Support Chattanooga Artists & Buy Local!

Whether you are coming to Chattanooga for the hiking trails or for the rich cultural heritage, the arts and crafts scene will captivate and wow you with the vast talents of Chattanooga artists. Don’t miss these local creators at frequent pop-ups or small businesses around the city, and don’t forget to shop small, y’all! Learn more about local farmers' markets, antiques, and other local shopping opportunities.

A 🎶 Note about the author and Visit Chattanooga's partnership with UTC

This blog was written by a student in Exploring Chattanooga, a Communication class at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. These students are helping document, define, and share the diverse cultural experiences scene that can be found in the Scenic City. Find more student-written blogs about local cultural experiences here.