This is an article written by Gerri Jo that was published today on Etsy Storque. Thanks Gerri!

In a state that boasts some of the coldest temperatures in the US and where a typical winter day involves trudging through a foot of snow, it becomes obvious why Minnesota is home to so many wonderful artists and crafters. Helping to support that talent as well as crafters that live beyond Minnesota’s borders, the No Coast Craft-O-Rama has gone from a small affair to one of the largest craft shows in the Midwest in just three years. This year’s show features over one hundred vendors (including over forty etsians!) and is expected to draw a crowd of over 8,000 shoppers.

So how did this little craft show become one of the largest in the Midwest? What goes into making a large craft show so successful and run smoothly? Kristen Himsl (kristenmary.etsy.com), member of Crafters Local 612 and cofounder of No Coast, was kind enough to take a moment out of her busy crafting and promoting schedule to answer some questions.
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2007 Vendors Announced!
Yay! My favorite time of the year — when we unveil all the talented and inspiring folks who will join us at the No Coast Craft-o-rama. This year we had a record number of applicants, which always is a bittersweet feeling. We see so much amazing work, but can’t possibly squeeze everyone into the space.

What we ended up with this year is a great mix of crafters we’ve known for years like Run Amok, and some new faces, like Sketchbook. We even invited some crafters from far away places (that have coasts!) like Charlie and Sarah from New York.

It’s going to be a great time, and I am seriously impatient to start shopping!