Shop Local And Support Area Artisans In Elk And Cameron Counties

As the holiday season approaches in November 2025, the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region is encouraging shoppers to consider local artisans and makers. This month, the 'Maker of the Month' feature highlights several shops across Elk, Cameron, and Forest counties instead of focusing on one individual. These shops offer a range of handcrafted goods for residents and visitors.

In Elk County, the Elk County Council on the Arts (ECCOTA) Gallery in Ridgway represents over 50 artists. The nonprofit gallery sells paintings, jewelry, pottery, and woodwork. Purchases at ECCOTA support arts programming and cultural events in the area. The gallery includes hand-crafted silver pieces from Blue Eyed Silver.

In Cameron County, the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce and Artisan Center is located on main street in Emporium. The center features work from more than 70 regional makers, including woodcraft, fiber art, and specialty goods. It serves as a retail space and a community gathering spot. Local artisans include Nelson Haas, who makes walking sticks, and Mountain View Sheep Farm, which produces sheep’s milk soap.