There’s something about a Saturday at The Windmill Farm and Craft Market that just pulls you in. The air feels lighter somehow—filled with the smell of harvest delights, the sound of laughter, and that sense that you might just find something wonderful if you follow your curiosity. I wandered in with a cup of coffee in hand, ready to see what “handcrafted” really means here in the Finger Lakes.
The first sound that caught my attention wasn’t music or chatter—it was a bell. Not a jingle, but a deep, familiar tone that carried on the breeze. I followed it straight to The Fingerlakes Bell Company, where a collection of graceful, weathered bells hung like a chorus of memories. The artisan explained that before cars ever rolled through our towns, these waters were full of boats—and bells were their voices, calling across the lakes to signal homecomings, departures, and danger. Each bell he makes carries two tones, designed to echo those same sounds. They’re handcrafted right here in the region, and over time they develop a patina that makes every one unique. I left that booth feeling a little nostalgic, imagining those soft chimes drifting across Keuka Lake.
A few steps later, a splash of color drew me into Messy Girl Pottery in Building 1. Potter Kathy Miller was at her table, laughing with visitors while shelves around her bloomed with bright mugs, bowls, and wine cups. Each one seemed to have its own personality—some speckled, some glazed in joyful, sun-washed hues. “They’re made to be used,” she told me. “Dishwasher, microwave—go ahead, make them part of your day.” I ran my fingers along the smooth rim of a teal mug and thought how nice it would be to start my mornings with something handmade, something real.
From there, I wandered to Hoover’s Turning Design, where the scent of freshly polished wood met me at the door. It’s impossible not to pause there—rows of bowls, vases, and cutting boards glowed with rich tones of cherry and maple. Every curve seemed to tell a story of patience and precision. Alongside the woodwork were soft quilts folded neatly, adding warmth and color to the display. I watched as a family admired a hand-turned vase, the light catching in its smooth grain, and thought how beautiful it is to see people connect with something made by hand.
My final stop of the day was Designs by Darlene, newly settled into her bright corner of Building 1. Her gallery was alive with energy—color spilled from every wall, each piece layered and textured in its own way. Darlene paints with Alcohol and India ink, Cold Wax, Encaustic, Watercolors, Collage, Acrylics—you name it. Every piece is an original, and standing there surrounded by her work felt like stepping into a kaleidoscope of creativity.
As we chatted, she told me this was her fifth year at The Windmill, and she’s just moved into this new space to showcase her art. Between her home studio and her gallery at Cheshire Union, she somehow finds time to teach classes, too. “It’s all about sharing the joy,” she said with a smile. “Stop by and say hi anytime!”
By the time I left, my coffee was long gone and my bag was a little heavier—one small bell, a mug that made me smile, and a heart full of appreciation. There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when you spend a day among makers—the kind that reminds you how creativity connects us, one handcrafted treasure at a time.
The Windmill
