Mini Maker Fair 2015

This was my first time going in, therefore, wasn’t sure what to expect in spite of doing some minimal reading about the festival in general on-​line. This is the second one, therefore, I am sure that whatever kinks they had were worked out.
Although it’s a bit of a trek to the venue I do appreciate the space ’cause if it was tiny and congested I can see this being a pain more than an enjoyment.
I like how this was more like an adult science world and less about a craft fair. There were different topics and mediums that were presented in spite of the over saturation of the 3D printing booths that seemed to have made up of 20% of the festival.
The sections were well organized from independent artists, schools, hands on work and some other DIY crafts (how to) etc. This made it easier to navigate and be organized especially for someone like myself whom gets lost easily.
Everyone in the booths that I talked to were friendly with the exception of that one booth who was unclear on his branding (reviewed that guy).
Cost was $ 17 for a single day ticket. Not sure if I would pay that much for a single day (got in free from Unilocal which is awesome). I would’ve honestly have paid around $ 13 — $ 15. There are some things that could be improved and added to make me consider the $ 17 price range, however, the large cost is more to do with the venue than the actual exhibitors inside which is understandable. Rent for most venues in the area is high.
Outside there were just a bunch of food trucks and some demos but not much.
I would love to have seen a glass blowing demonstration, maybe an ice sculpture artist doing a live demo?
Another thing that would’ve made it cool is having set classes that you have to pre-​register for in order to participate during the fair such as an adult sewing class seminar to make a tot bag and or shirt. This would be free on a first come first serve basis on the condition that you pre-​buy the material directly from the vendor conducting the workshop or buy at the fair from the vendor. I know that tot bags are becoming a huge thing. The same could go for other classes of different mediums using the same registration model. Make your own silk screened bag from concept to image to print? Charge $ 10 and bring your own bag. How about a button making booth… enough said.
There was enough hands on things to do but taking this to the next level would’ve been awesome as noted above.
Having this fair as a 3 day event with the options of the above suggested seminars, lessons and DIY projects instead of the 2 days would also encourage customers to be more open minding in considering the purchase of a weekend pass.
My personal highlights: Scoring a vintage Care Bear, playing with the spiralgraph, Johnny Pops and all the 3D models.