The Difference Between Handmade & Artisan-Made

When it comes to shopping for unique and high-quality items, you may come across terms such as "handmade”, "handcrafted" or "artisan-made." While these terms are often used interchangeably, they do have distinct differences that are worth acknowledging.

Handmade

Handmade items are simply items that someone has put together by hand and is supposed to mean that the person does not use machinery or automation in their process. Recently, however, this term has also been used when describing items that have been assembled by hand or even designed using digital software, printed, and added to an already made object by hand. This means that every piece is unique and individual, as slight variations are bound to occur due to the human touch. Handmade items can be made by anyone, regardless of their level of expertise, and can be created in a wide range of materials, from textiles to pottery to woodworking.

One of the main benefits across all of these terms, handmade, handcrafted, and artisan-made, is that the items are often created with great care and attention to detail. The creator takes the time to carefully shape, mold, and manipulate the materials, resulting in a product that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Handcrafted

Similar to handmade, handcrafted means someone has put something together by hand but, today, it really does mean "by hand" (no digital designing or printing). The artist putting this type of item together will draw, sculpt, and shape their creation until it fits the look they want it to have; machinery is not involved in making the final product.

Artisan-Made

Artisan-made items, on the other hand (no pun intended), are also crafted by hand, but they are typically made by skilled artisans who have honed their craft over many years. Artisan-made items often incorporate traditional techniques and are created with a level of skill and precision that is difficult to replicate without years of practice. These items are often created in smaller quantities and can be considered luxury or high-end products.

One of the main benefits of artisan-made items is the level of expertise and attention to detail that goes into each piece. Skilled artisans are able to create products that are not only beautiful but also functional and durable. Artisan-made items are often considered to be heirloom quality and can be passed down from generation to generation.

The main difference between handmade, handcrafted, and artisan-made items is the level of skill and expertise involved in the creation process. While handmade items can be made by anyone, artisan-made items require a higher level of expertise and dedication to the craft. Handcrafted and artisan-made items can also be more sustainable and eco-friendly, as they do not require the use of machinery or energy-consuming equipment. Each of these products can be unique and of high quality, but handcrafted and artisan-made items are typically considered to be more luxurious and exclusive. 

Made By Her only has handcrafted or artisan-made items listed in our marketplace. Every item listed in our vendors' online booths has been hand-shaped or hand-drawn in some way and usually by women who have been practicing their skill, one way or another, for years. We know you can get just about anything from anywhere these days but we pride ourselves on bringing you nothing but the highest quality, artisan-made products... and they're all made by talented female artists.

In conclusion, when shopping for handmade, handcrafted, or artisan-made items, it is important to consider your budget, your personal style, and the level of skill and expertise that want to have gone into creating the product you're purchasing, either for yourself or for a loved one as a memorable gift. Whether you choose a handmade item crafted with care from any of the many marketplaces that exist today or an artisan-made product made with precision from Made By Her, both options offer a unique and special touch to your home or wardrobe.

Want to shop truly handcrafted and artisan-made items and support small, woman-owned businesses at the same time? Then come shop the Made By Her Online Artisan Marketplace and shortcut to elevating your every day style!