There is a burgeoning movement afoot, a return to the art of making things by hand. A growing group of aware and committed people are seeking out high-quality handmade goods, and New York City is at the forefront of this renaissance.

This book takes the reader into the studios of master artisans in fields such as glassblowing, masonry, and wood carving as well as hatmaking, embroidery, and calligraphy. It provides the ultimate sourcebook for objects with real character—whether for renovating the home, re-creating a look from the past, searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, or restoring a beloved antique. The reader will discover hidden gems such as hand-turned ceramic bowls, tables made from a single piece of wood, baskets fashioned from rare black ash, and hand-blocked wallpaper. The tradespeople profiled here have reached a level of expertise attained only through years of practice. These professionals are obsessive about quality and are driven by a profound passion for their work. Most of them toil in obscurity and normally can be found only through word of mouth—until now.