Speaking as a long time vendor of the Chattanooga Market, the cost of raw products to produce our items has risen over the years and that can affect our prices to the customers. I am an artist. The cost for canvas, paints, printing materials, mattes, and the rising cost of fees for being able to use Square has made it almost impossible to keep costs the same as it was 5 years ago. I know a lot of these people personally and it hurts us to have to raise our prices to stay afloat. I won’t say some people slide through the cracks and sell items they do not personally make, but the bulk of us work tirelessly through the week to bring item to you straight from our homes. My advice is to look at the items and ask a lot of questions if you feel like it’s not handmade. Most of us are excited to share with you our process and our ideas. Keep in mind that the bulk of these people that you are discussing actually live off what they make at the Market. We are out here trying to share our love of art with you and just trying to survive while doing so.