Craft

In a historical sense, particularly the Middle Ages and earlier, the term is usually applied to people occupied in small scale production of goods, or their maintenance, for example by tinkers.

The skill required by their professions and the need to be permanently involved in the exchange of goods often demanded a higher level of education, and craftspeople were usually in a more privileged position than the peasantry in societal hierarchy.

Some crafts, especially in areas such as pottery, woodworking, and various stages of textile production, could be practiced on a part-time basis by those also working in agriculture, and often formed part of village life.

[4] Other scholars working on craft skill focus on observational learning and mimicry, exploring how learners visually parse the movements of experts.

The beginning of crafts in areas like the Ottoman Empire involved the governing bodies[specify] requiring members of the city who were skilled at creating goods to open shops in the center of town.

These people slowly stopped acting as subsistence farmers (who created goods in their own homes to trade with neighbors) and began to represent what we think of as "craftspeople" today.

The Arts and Crafts Movement originated in Britain during the late 19th century and was characterized by a style of decoration reminiscent of medieval times.

These fairs often feature handmade items such as jewelry, pottery, textiles, woodwork, and home décor, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship of independent artisans.

Additionally, some craft fairs emphasize sustainability by promoting eco-friendly materials and upcycled goods, aligning with the growing interest in ethical consumerism.

In cultures where professional careers are highly prized, there can be a shortage of skilled manual workers, leading to lucrative niche markets in the trades.

Shoes are repaired by a skilled shoemaker ; here he evaluates a pair of shoes with a customer watching.
Japanese potter at his wheel (1914)
Street handicraft: here a skilled metalsmith in Agra , India sits between scooters in a commercial area making careful observations in the practice of his trade
Stained glass window, The Hill House, Helensburgh , Scotland