South Carolina’s creative spirit is thriving, with local artisans and makers harnessing the unique essence of the area—from locally sourced materials to heritage crafts—to bring their imaginative visions to life. Stop by the galleries, booths and workshops of these small business owners to buy a truly special memento from your vacation.
BR Design Co.
Charleston-based sisters Carlene Browner and Cassandra Browner Richardson handcraft eye-catching earrings of all varieties, from patterned polymer clay studs embellished with dangling brass palmetto charms to hand-sculpted statement pieces textured with Art Deco patterns.
Ellison James Designs
From dreamcatcher-like hoop earrings to braided bracelets to tasseled necklaces, Preston Bolles uses ultra-soft leathers in a spectrum of neutral colors to create her modern bohemian accessories in Rock Hill.
Motherland Essentials
“Tub Tea” botanical bath soak, soothing lotion bars, hydrating mist enriched with vitamin E and colorful blocks of essential oil-scented soap are just a few of the natural skincare products handmade by Andrea Davis in Summerville.
Reaves Woodworks
From kaleidoscopic knife handles to charcuterie boards embedded with a vein of vibrant rainbow-colored stripes, Larry Reaves transforms discarded skateboards into works of functional wood art from his workshop in Columbia.
Table Rock Tea Company
Founded by Steve and Jennifer Lorch, this artisanal tea company in Pickens specializes in green, black and oolong varieties, grown and hand-picked in the Cherokee Foothills. Take a farm tour for a closer look.
Gullah Sweetgrass Baskets
At Charleston City Market, don’t miss the booth of Corey Alston, who uses time-honored techniques to masterfully weave heirloom-quality baskets made of sweetgrass, pine needles, bulrush and palm.
Little Red Barn Pottery & Art Gallery
Pull over on Highway 278 in Barnwell, where you’ll find an old general store converted into the studio and gallery of master potter Liz Ringus, known for her functional stoneware and Raku-fired pottery.
Explore an array of works by local artisans and makers at the South Carolina Artisans Center in Walterboro.
Arts & Crafts Fairs
Find one-of-a-kind pieces of handmade art for sale at these annual festivals.
Craftsmen’s Classic Art & Craft Festival
Occurring every August in Myrtle Beach and every March in Columbia, hundreds of talented artists and crafters come to showcase their pottery, jewelry, fine art, glasswork and more. Keep an eye out for live art demonstrations throughout these weekend events.
Indie Craft Parade
In September, peruse handmade gifts and goods in Greenville at this annual pop-up shopping experience, featuring all-things-handmade, from toys and accessories to home décor and artwork.
Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival
Held in the Atalaya Castle at Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet, this juried event in September shows off the talents of professional artists in all manner of media: basketry, clay, leather, photography, watercolor, woodwork and beyond.
Featuring a variety of great stories and exciting trip ideas, the 2021 South Carolina Vacation Guide makes planning your next getaway to the Palmetto State easy. Request your free copy or download the guide today.
