6 Best Handmade Goods in Austin
Artisans of the Eastside
Words by Deven Wilson Photo by Eric Morales
Look deeper into the community across I-35, under the flock of
construction cranes, and next to favorite bars and eateries, and a colorful world of creators can be found.
Eastsiders excel well beyond the booming food scene and are leading the directional divisions of the city in creating goods for locals, tourists, Texans, and the world to clamor for. Beyond the typical, denizens are designing furniture, ceramics, clothing, tapestries, and essentially every artisanal good imaginable.Â
Helm Boots
Putting a confident foot forward in men’s shoes, the Helm team sought out a means to make high-quality footwear for Austin, in Austin. Part of the community since 2009, they build boots to endure in a city forever on the move forward. Putting their customers into their signature white-lined boots, Helm stitches together a greater care for what Austinites wear on their feet.Â
helmboots.com | 1200 E 11th St., Ste. 101
FibrousÂ
Ellen Bruxvoort takes a modern look into the traditional art of tapestry weaving and explores its place as installation art. After finding success in reviving this ancient art, Fibrous opened its doors to act as a center for women and nonbinary creators to express themselves through weaving. Offering a cornucopia of home goods, hats, teas, and all sorts of decor, it’s impossible to not find a unique piece to take home.
fibrous.co | 1023 Springdale Rd.
Karacotta Ceramics
Bridging the chasm between what’s possible and aspirational, Karacotta brings a world of magic into ours through their one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces made for everyday life. Artist and founder Kara takes the mystical forces of nature and, over the course of several days, creates unique, functional, and beautiful pieces. Their dishware and jewelry come straight from their creative visions and enchant all those lucky enough to come across their offerings.
karacotta.com | 1023 Springdale Rd.Â
Tawa Threads
Tabria, the founder of Tawa Threads Co, set out to make tapestries, scarves, bandanas, and even propagation stations to give people creations that conjure up a sense of sentimentality. Setting out to help diversify, educate, and inspire their community, Tawa Threads brings a sense of connection to neighbors.
tawathreads.com
Zilker Belts
Importing the craftsmanship of Argentina to Austin, Zilker Belts brings hand-stitched patterns inspired by the popular gaucho style to do far more than simply hold up pants. Weaving into the community, their belts and dog collars uplift local nonprofits as their way to give back to the home they love.Â
zilkerbelts.comÂ
Wadadli Naturals
Washing the Eastside with Caribbean influences, Wadadli Naturals shakes up the skincare game with natural solutions. Taking the founder’s training as a chemical engineer for eight years and the cultural traditions found in the Caribbean, Wadadali fills the void in melanated skin care. Wadadli takes advantage of the natural benefits of skincare by forgoing the harsh chemicals often found in beauty aisles.
wadadlinaturalsco.comÂ
