December 8 to 10, Friday 6 to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm, Toronto

This year I will be participating in this event for the first time, opening my home to show my own work and that of two guest artists. It's a mini studio tour with two studios... and two Karens!

A welcome change of pace from the madness of the malls and big-box stores, the Holiday Show lets shoppers visit a cozy home studio where they can browse at their leisure to find beautiful, one-of-a-kind gifts handmade by local artists and artisans.

Karen Franzen will once again open her ceramics studio at 3 Wembley Drive. Her guests are painter Fred Franzen (yes, they’re related), jeweller Berna Kilic, and artist Helen d’Souza.

My home is at 43 Robbins Avenue, a short walk away from Karen Franzen’s. My guests will be jeweller Kate MacMillan and fibre artist Sandra Pim.

This is a great opportunity to meet the artists and artisans face-to-face and learn about their work while enjoying  some yummy treats. Knowing the story behind a piece made by one these talented creators will make it all the more meaningful if you purchase it as a gift -- or for yourself.

Those who visit both studios will be entered in a draw to win a basket of homemade goodies. In addition, there will be a raffle to raise funds for the local food bank.