'Sophisticated, diverse' crafts to be sold at holiday exhibition

COLUMBIA — Every year, hundreds of Missourians gather to attend the Columbia Weavers and Spinners Guild's Weaving Holiday Exhibition and Sale. The exhibition, now in its 19th year, will take place this weekend at the Boone County Historical Society Museum.

Coordinator Paula McFarling said the exhibition was started to make the group more visible in the community and to encourage appreciation for handmade items.

Jenny Chicone, who has been involved with the event for 15 years, said the number of people attending has increased over the past decade as the work of the members has evolved.

"I think our sale has become more sophisticated and diverse as time has gone on because we've learned more techniques and different ways of doing things that is reflective of the items at our sale," said Chicone, whose handmade baby blankets and kitchen towels will be for sale.