Michigan has been one of the worst hit states in the present economic crisis, with the Big Three Automakers in trouble things could get worse before they get better. As companies and jobs continue to leave the state, there is less revenue coming and that affects everyone, even the people who are still employed. As a response to this crisis, the state of Michigan is supporting a move to promote cottage industry and make arts and crafts a way to supplement state commerce. Crafting businesses help support the local economy in many important ways: first, those crafters who have their own businesses make money for their families; secondly, the crafters purchase materials locally which supports craft supply businesses and their employees; thirdly, people will travel in from other states to attend craft shows and that will add to the revenue of restaurants and hotels in Michigan, not to mention the sales tax which helps support the state government. Starting their own small business is a smart move for crafters in Michigan since it gives them control over their own financial circumstances. One of the best ways to overcome the threat of a bad economy is for individuals to take accountability for themselves, so they no longer have to rely on the auto industry or any other particular industry to sustain their lives. Staying on top of craft trends can help a crafter in Michigan to make money no matter what else is going on in the world—there is always something that people want or need that is in demand and if you can fill that need you will continue to make money. Crafters and cottage industries have always had a strong presence in Michigan, but they have the opportunity to make an even stronger impact in the future. Crafters who achieve great success may even be able to hire employees which will create the much needed jobs in the state in addition to the increased revenue their crafting businesses can attract to Michigan. There are numerous craft shows in Michigan each year and Michigan's crafters are also turning to online sales to supplement their income and to bring more out-of-state dollars into the state. The future is as bright as the people in this state choose to make it and it looks as though Michigan's crafters are choosing to make it bright.