I’m not writing this to complain about anything; I just wanted to give my perspective on something.

It makes me kind of sad that some of our businesses in town and some members of our chamber of commerce don’t see the value of our hometown crafters. We bring a very special and unique flavor to our town.

It takes time, sometimes many hours or days to complete our craft. Personally, I’m not selling a souvenir or trinket; something that can be purchased in a store anywhere in Southeast Alaska. I make handmade embroidered potholders from used jeans purchased at our local thrift stores and rummage sales.

Travelers have had multiple opportunities to visit gift shops in Juneau and Stika and still have Ketchikan to visit. The tourists I have talked to are seeking something made in Alaska by an Alaskan.

My potholders are made with passion and thoughts of who will buy one. My hope is that when they return home, they will look at this unique gift and a warm memory of Wrangell will be cemented into their memory. They will think about our state and our town and the warm people they met there.

Crafters aren’t selling just an item; we are selling our love and our passion not just for our craft but for the state and community we love.
I hope my thoughts will open a door to a positive relationship with our businesses.

Kathy Watkins