Story and photos by Kim Restall     |         November 20, 2009

The Sooke community made a strong showing in their support for a show that (according to the organizer's website) professes to be “one of the oldest and best shows on the island”.

This year the All Sooke Arts and Crafts show seemed to live up to that claim, selling out of tables and boasting over 60 vendors plus waiting list. The show at Sooke Community Hall on Shields Road started tonight Nov. 20 (1-8 pm), and will continue through the weekend (Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 21 and 22, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) .

The hall was decked out in Christmas favourites such as trees, wreaths, lights and Santa’s sleigh. Similarly adorned were the tables which beautifully displayed each vendor’s unique wares. On Friday afternoon, crowds of about 40 people strolled up and down the aisle to view a wonderful array of gift ideas and edible treats.

There were certainly the “old favourites” some might expect at a craft show, such as knitted dolls, baby clothing and hats, jewellery, wooden toys and edible treats but there were also some unique additions in the way of decorated eggshell ornaments, Tugwell Creek honey, photography, stained glass art and much more.

Downstairs the show continued as smaller groups of about 10 or 15 people browsed even more crafts, baked goods and a concession to feed appetites worked up from a long day of crafting and shopping.

The show is organized by the All Sooke Arts and Crafts (ASAAC) Association. The local club aims to help artists and crafts persons to develop their skills and promote the sale of their products through local public events. Local artists are given the opportunity to sell their products as well as gain exposure in the community.

The ASAAC uses donations from the show to support many local non-profit organizations such as the Sooke Lioness Club, Hospice, Sooke Canada Day, local schools, children’s programs and others. The club welcomes new members to attend their meetings which are held at the Seniors’ Centre every third Wednesday of the month (excluding the summer months).

The 2009 ASAAC executive includes Lynn Allaire, president; Ettie Catto, vice president; and Carol Blyth, membership. Show convenors were Catto (slated to be vice-president for 2010) as well as Shelley Davies and Rob Davies (who moves up to being president for the 2010 show).  MM


Kim Restall is an avid craft show enthusiast and enjoys arts and crafts in her spare time.