We would love to take this chance to highlight some of the amazing vendors and products available at ‘Makers Market’ in Ganges, the new artisan gift store in the old Love my Kitchen location. We opened July 1st, and we’ve been filling the space with a huge range of items for every price point and every kind of shopper. You’ll find a mix of Salt Spring makers alongside off‑island artisans, which means there’s plenty you haven’t seen before. These photos are just teasers from a few of our local vendors — come in, explore, and see what our makers are making.
Our featured artisans this week are as follows:
Wood Creations by Ross - Ross McLeod
All items on sale at Makers Market made by “Wood Creations by Ross” are crafted here on Salt Spring. Nearly all products are all one-of-a-kind pieces with only a few duplications of smaller items, no mass production.
The process starts with sourcing local wood such as arbutus, maple, and various fruit woods like apple and plum. Then the drying process starts, which can take quite a few months. Once ready, a given piece of wood will tell the story of what it could become. After turning or shaping it, it is finished using a mixture of beeswax (from Ross’ bees) and mineral oil for food-safe products.
Recently Ross has started exploring using more exotic woods such as koa from Hawaii and hickory used in kitchen utensils…..
“I look forward to you visiting Makers Market and viewing my work.” - Ross McLeod
Island Soap Co. - Tamara Wesley
Island Soap brings the spirit of Salt Spring into every bar — handcrafted, small‑batch soaps made with natural ingredients and island‑inspired scents. Their products are gentle, beautifully made, and a favourite among locals looking for something both practical and artisanal. If you love supporting makers who keep things simple, natural, and rooted in the island, Island Soap is one to check out.
Freeloaders Pet Goods - Gloria Jansen and Jesse Fox
Freeloaders Pet Goods brings fun, handmade charm to Salt Spring’s four‑legged community. Their treats and accessories are crafted with care, designed to keep pets happy, healthy, and spoiled in all the best ways. Locals love their playful style and practical quality — a perfect fit for anyone who wants to bring home something special for their furry freeloaders.
The Salty Witch - Valerie Louvet
Trained as an herbalist and reflexologist, Valerie creates organically-grown botanical products such as teas, bath salts, massage bars and salves. These products are traditional and earth-centred and they promote women’s health. Each purchase helps to fund women’s menopause care at the “Our Gathering Clinic” on Salt Spring.
Salt Spring Sketches - Clive Seabrook
Salt Spring Sketches captures the island in a way locals instantly recognize — hand‑drawn greeting cards, postcards and art prints featuring beloved Salt Spring landmarks in a classic sketch style. Each piece feels familiar yet fresh, offering a timeless snapshot of island life. If you love artwork that celebrates home, this maker is one to check out.
