I love Etsy. As we've reported before, it is sort of like eBay for handmade arts & crafts, where they charge a small listing fee and take a percentage if you sell anything. DIY fanatics sell everything from knit coasters shaped like orange slices to miniature pewter bird charms.

Recently, the Etsy folks have opened up a space called Etsy Labs in Brooklyn, New York. They hold cool events and classes, like a recent supply swap for crafters. Every Wednesday at 4pm, they have an Afternoon Tea Party meet-up where you can check out the facilities and meet other crafter enthusiasts. Trunk shows are scheduled on the last Friday of every month from 6-8 pm. This month's trunk show, on July 28th, is called "Trashion", and will feature fashion and accessories made from - not surprisingly - trash, and recycled and repurposed materials.

For those aspiring to sell their wares on Etsy.com or those who are already on their way, Etsy Labs has various classes on subjects of interest to arts and crafters, from Screenprinting (7/21-7/22) to Intellectual Property Issues for Artists (7/28).

Check out the site for the latest information on dates, prices, membership requirements, and available spaces.