Shopper tries to support artists at craft show, finds venue overrun by AI signs and drop-shipped items

A Michigan shopper said a local craft show intended to support handmade work felt overrun by AI-generated signs and drop-shipped items. Posting to Reddit’s r/Anticonsumption, the attendee estimated about 30 vendors, with at least 20 selling goods made with generative AI or items purchased rather than created by the sellers. They described seeing “drop shipped squishes” and 3D-printed products and noted leaving after getting food from the only truck without an AI sign. Other commenters compared experiences, saying some events vet vendors while stricter shows can demand portfolios and limit marketplace presence to genuine makers.