What is Well Made?

Well Made is the Science Museum of Virginia’s artistic craft maker event. The festival brings together artisans, crafters and creators from across the state to showcase and sell their products. With more than 100 booth spaces available, Well Made will celebrate and demonstrate hand-made items of all shapes and sizes. Makers who wish to sell their wares are welcome to bring a robust supply so guests can purchase crafts to take home.

What type of products will be featured?

Well Made will feature a variety of handmade products: furniture, jewelry, candles, soaps, clothing, bags, paintings, glass work … the possibilities are endless!

When does Well Made take place?

Friday, September 26, 2025, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. for selected artisans and Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. for all artisans.

Where does Well Made take place?

Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220

Will every exhibitor be selling products?

We ask that all exhibitors showcase the interesting techniques, materials and designs that go into unique craft items, but they are not required to offer on-site sales.

What is the exhibitor fee?

  • Based on the information provided in the exhibitor application, the selection committee will determine if an exhibitor will have an indoor booth space or an outdoor booth space. Indoor booths will be open both days of the event: Friday, September 26, 2025, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Outdoor booths will only be open Saturday. Indoor booths are $150 each and outdoor booths are $75 each.
  • Spaces are limited. If selected as an exhibitor, all fees will be due June 1, 2025. We are offering an early bird rate for an outdoor booth space ($50) and an indoor booth space ($125) if the exhibitor pays in full by May 16, 2025.

How do I apply?

Artisans, crafters and creators interested in exhibiting at Well Made can apply online on the Science Museum’s website or email [email protected] to request an application.

Who is on the selection committee and what are they looking for?

The selection committee is composed of a panel of experienced artists, show producers and former crafters. Selection is based on quality and skill in workmanship; original, creative, unique and relevant ideas; attractiveness of display; and the number of applicants in each category.

What is the difference between the Friday and Saturday events?

Friday's event will offer VIP guests a first glimpse at the products in a reception-style setting with food and drinks. Saturday’s event is open to the general public and will have more of a maker festival feel.

What are the set-up and clean-up times for exhibitors?

Set-up times will vary based on location. More information can be found in the exhibitor rules and regulations.

What if I am selected as an exhibitor, but have to cancel?

  • Exhibitors can withdraw from the show until July 1, 2025, for a full refund. In order to officially withdraw from the event, exhibitors must submit a written and signed request to [email protected]. This will ensure that exhibitors remain in good standing for future event participation.
  • If an exhibitor withdraws after July 1, 2025, all fees will be forfeited.

Will the Science Museum maintain a waiting list in case of exhibitor cancellations?

Yes, a waiting list will be maintained until July 1, 2025. After that time, the exhibitor list will be finalized so we can complete final preparations.

Where can I find a full list of Science Museum exhibitor policies?

Potential exhibitors should read all rules and regulations prior to submitting an application. Upon acceptance into the event, exhibitors will be provided with a detailed list of Science Museum policies.

Where is the loading area?

Depending on the location of the artisan’s booth, the load-in area will be either the back of the Dewey Gottwald Center or the Terminal Place parking lot.

Is parking available?

Yes. The Science Museum has a four-story parking deck and two secondary surface lots on the east side of the building. There is also free street parking along Broad Street, Leigh Street and DMV Drive.

Where can I find accessibility information?

Accessibility information is available on the Science Museum’s website.

Will the Science Museum be open during Well Made?

The Friday evening portion of the event is a ticketed event for VIP guests. Science Museum exhibitions, labs, etc. will not be open that evening. The Saturday event is open to the general public and the entire Science Museum will be accessible to guests.

Is Well Made a family friendly event?

The Saturday event is open to the general public. The Science Museum will invite guests of all ages to come experience the craftsmanship while learning more about how products are created and produced.

Are pets allowed inside the event?

The Science Museum only allows service dogs.

Will food and drinks be available for purchase?

The Science Museum café will be open and there will be food trucks located in the Well Made event area.

Can I bring food or beverages to the event?

Exhibitors may bring a personal cooler with food and drinks to be kept at their booth.

What if there is inclement weather?

Rain or shine, the festival will go on! Outdoor exhibitors should plan accordingly for weather situations.