I was there during a lull in June, so it was very quiet. There are two relatively small galleries, beautifully curated, as well as an extensive gift shop that functions as a little mini museum of the work of artists alumni and instructors affiliated with the Craft center. A beautifully designed space, friendly staff. I would've liked a little bit more information or an artist statement/bio along with the gorgeous works on exhibit. read more

Appalachian Center For Crafts - The architecture of the building itself is impressive, and the works on display show intense mastery of the arts - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Smithville, Tennessee

Before the COVID'19 era, my Mom and I took a glass blowing workshop here. It was so cool! We stayed nearby in some basic but clean cabins. The instructor was patient with each student's pace. Safety guidelines were clearly outlined. And although we were taught how to design two different types of glass pieces, we were free to create our own designs. Mom and I each made our own glass art pieces and also made one together. This was such a cool, uniquely memorable experience! Currently the gallery is open to 6 people at a time if people are qearing masks and also operates as an online gallery. read more

Appalachian Center For Crafts - Glass blowing tools and workspace - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Smithville, Tennessee

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We love this place, whether heading To the lake for the weekend, or just checking out the craft gallery or workshops and artistic demos. We used to come each spring for their sale of the students sale and have found some "treasures" to bring home. This was our first visit during the fall. At first we were sad that there weren't super discounted student art pieces to buy, but then we Had a ball doing some of the hands on workshops. Together, my husband and I made our very own blown glass ornament to add to our collection. And husband got to try wood turning which, oddly enough, we had a connection to the teacher so that was additionally fun. We always enjoyed looking at the art in the galleries. The store has some really nice pieces but mostly we feel like they're more money than we want to spend for a casual purchase. Take the time to walk around their grounds and check out the art hidden all over the woods. There are some short hiking trails but we haven't had good enough weather to appreciate those yet... Another time, perhaps. When the kids were little they really enjoyed the crafty things they could do during the spring open house from stamping on metal to making copper candle holder things and Clay play. They really enjoyed watching the blacksmiths and the glass blowers do their thing read more

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I hadn't been here in over 20 years, and now that I have a daughter and have moved back into the area, attending the annual Celebration of Crafts festival was fun. Thank goodness it was sunny, 65 degrees and breezy. It made this festival very pleasant to visit. Artists had everything from pottery to blacksmith crafts displayed. Students from TTU were in the various classrooms demonstrating what they are trying to get their degrees in at the University (www.tntech.edu/craftcenter). In a state park that offers boating, lodging, hiking, fishing and various other things to do, the Appalachian Center for Crafts is a nice break of the beaten path. The location sits upon a ridge that overlooks the Caney Fork River. And if you're hungry, the Redbud Cafe is open Mon-Fri 8:00-2:00. Bathrooms, art gallery and gift shop are all available. read more

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