Locally Made

Hand-crafted. In Elkhart County, Indiana, it’s more than a buzz word, it’s a mission statement. Strip malls and big box stores are for other places. Here, craftspeople turn their visions and dreams into reality.

Little shops and bigger markets cover the county. You may come with an idea of what you’re looking for, but the adventure is in tracking it down and much of the satisfaction is meeting the maker and learning about your new, locally made personal treasure.

Everything Under One Roof

Davis Mercantile has a long history and is home to some of the finest handcrafted products you’ll find. From Mountain and hammered dulcimers at Simple Sounds to a cabinet company, there is lots to explore throughout the four levels of retail housing over 20 shops. Make sure you save time for a ride on the hand-carved 1906 Dentzel Carousel while you’re here.
If you want a lot of little shops in one big area, the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market is the place for you. Local vendors pack in with the fruits of their labor. Some have handmade soaps. Others offer custom porch signs. Maybe you’re looking for a handmade quilt to cuddle under this winter. You may find it here. There’s also handmade jewelry, custom log furniture, or lace patterns and runners to give your home a touch of elegance from a bygone era.

Shop rural retailers - from hand-stitched quilts to hardwood furniture and cabinetry - just outside of Nappanee are the Countryside Shoppes.

Specialty Purveyors

Add a sweet touch to your lifestyle by checking out B Honey. Most of the products here are made on-site. You’ll find natural skincare mixtures, beeswax candles that smell amazing, Apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup—all locally made products that make excellent gifts or souvenirs you’ll actually put to good use.

Over in Goshen, Found is quite the find! Spread out over three floors, Found has opportunities to discover hand-crafted art, exotic jewelry, icons, and more. Locally made items include artworks from members of the family-owned business.

Also in Goshen, Goertzen Pottery offers pottery you can’t find elsewhere, which means your friends can’t easily go out and copy you! The wood-fired works of art range from simple bowls to Insta-worthy steins, all from potters producing on-site.