In winter the field sleeps. The farmer doesn't. He goes to the workshop.

What They Do

Furniture (tables, chairs, cabinets — for spring sale). Harness (repair, new). Baskets. Tools (handles, sharpening). Buggies (repair, paint). Everything there's no time for in summer.

Economics

40% of income for many Amish farms comes from crafts, not farming. Winter is production time. Spring is selling time. A $2,000 table made in January sells in May. Waiting is part of the business.