Academy of Handmade Toasts the Best of Etsy and DIY in DTLA

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As the capital of many things, the City of Angels enjoys a gamut of awards ceremonies, from glamorous star-studded shindigs to film fashion fêtes to decidedly more, uh, adult affairs. Prize-filled parties aren't exclusive to the entertainment industry, and two local craft enthusiasts are toasting their own scene's top talents with the first-ever Academy of Handmade awards this month in Downtown's Art Share LA.

Founded by creatives (and Unique Space tenants) Sharon Fain and KC Cooper Sears, the ceremony will spotlight tons of Etsy artists and makers, including a host of regulars at LA indie marketplaces Unique LA, Renegade Craft Fair, the upcoming Eastside Handmade and more. In addition to shining a light on the top artists in categories like ceramics, needlework, metals, upcycling, edibles, woodwork and more, local nominees include global-inspired brand Wolfie and Parachute Market merchant/Arts ReStore pop-up vendor Ermie in Best of Textiles and witty stationery fave Julie Ann Art in Best of Paper.

Into it? Get the rundown on the full list of awards and nab tickets ($35 to $75) to the ceremony here.
· Academy of Handmade [Official Site]
· These Hand-Drawn Holiday Cards Are Cooler than Hallmark [Racked]
· 10 Stylish Finds at Indie Market Eastside Handmade Next Sat [Racked]