Both braided and hooked rug-making will be demonstrated at the Vermont History Expo, along with many other crafts and artisanal works.

The 2014 theme for Vermont History Expo is “Artists and Artisans: Vermont’s Creative Heritage.” Visitors can see two centers of crafts at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds on Saturday and Sunday, June 21 and 22—one next to the grandstand and the other on Antique Hill.

Vermont Historical Society’s Expo coordinator, Amanda Gustin, explains, “Artisans and crafters will demonstrate skills that have been passed down for centuries! You can watch these artists at work and purchase their wares if you wish. The artisans will be demonstrating all weekend, but we’ve also scheduled special times for them to show off their skills, as you can see on our website: vermonthistory.org/expo.”

Also on the fairgrounds for the weekend, the Vermont Department of Tourism and vermontvacation.com will present the history and artistry of Vermont State Craft Centers—these centers represent the best of crafts in Vermont. At Vermont History Expo, visitors can see an exhibit featuring Vermont’s Studio Craft Movement and the variety of contemporary craft available today. View short films featuring the inspiring work of some of Vermont’s State Craft Center artists and artisans. On Saturday, talk with Jamie Townsend (contemporary painted wood sculpture) and Sue Carey (needle-felted animals and birds) and on Sunday, George Ainley (Windsor Chairs) and Christine Mix (illustrator).

Other demonstrations include lace making, weaving, basket making, hooked and braided rug making, pottery, woodcarving, timber framing, window glazing, spinning, and sign painting. There is also a working blacksmith and print shop on Antique Hill.

The Vermont History Expo will be held from 10am to 5pm at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds on June 21st and 22nd. Find out more by calling (802) 479-8500 or see the full schedule for Saturday and Sunday online at vermonthistory.org/expo.