"Made in America" this holiday season

Pomfret, Conn. (WTNH) - Lots of folks are trying to buy "Made in America" products this holiday season, well the clothing at one local store is not only Made in America, it's actually handmade right upstairs in a studio.

The studio is where Camille Benjamin creates her clothing, weaving her own designs displayed in her Hazelwood Gallery, which proudly boasts "Handmade in America" right out front.

The Pomfret shop isn't only about her though.

"This is Ed Branson and he's a Massachusetts artist," said Benjamin, who showcases the works of 150 craftsmen and women from all across the country.

"We have to know the work is very high quality so it's gonna hold up," said Benjamin. "We have to like the people."

She knows most of craftsmen and women personally and that is what gets her excited about promoting their work to visitors to the quiet corner store.

Benjamin says people are pleased to see the handmade American products in her store.

"They stop, they're so grateful," said Benjamin. "They're really happy. We have people come in just because of that sign.

Benjamin says it's not just how she makes a living, it's a philosophy she lives by, buying from local shops instead of big box stores.

"Even if all their parts aren't American made," said Benjamin, "it's a small shop and we know it's employing people in America."

While some items can set you back a few thousand dollars folks at Hazelwood Gallery want to make sure handmade in America items are accessible to everyone.

"At least half of our items in the shop are under $100 and I would say probably a good third of them are under 50," said Craig Ungerman, Hazelwood Gallery.

In addition to having their works for sale, the artists themselves are also on display in parts of the store, that way folks who are buying the items will know exactly who made them in America.