Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc.

Many shops along the roads into Cherokee sell mass-produced items with a Native theme. Qualla Mutual is a member co-op, and the work sold here comes from enrolled tribal artists. The shop says it has the largest collection of authentic Native American arts and crafts made locally by co-op members, with more than 3,000 handcrafted items in a range of styles and prices.

• Baskets: river cane, white oak and honeysuckle baskets, including traditional double-weave rivercane work
• Pottery and carvings: hand-built pottery, woodcarvings and masks, plus stone carvings
• Textiles: quilts and fingerweaving
• Jewelry: beadwork, copper, silver, leather, feathers and stones

Prices reflect the time and skill involved, so a fine basket costs real money, while smaller pieces like beaded jewelry are easier on a budget. Ask the staff about the maker and the technique. The co-op's website profiles dozens of its artists, so you can read about them before or after your visit.

• Address: 645 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719
• Phone: 828-497-3103
• Hours: April through December, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., seven days a week. Winter and holiday hours differ and are posted on the website. Call before a January or February visit.

The shop is in Cherokee's cultural district, close to the Museum of the Cherokee People and Oconaluftee Indian Village.

Go before or after the museum so you have context for what you are looking at. Set aside at least 30 to 45 minutes to browse, and longer if you are shopping for a gift worth keeping. If you are buying a piece to ship home, ask the staff how they package fragile pottery and baskets.

Treat the shop as a gallery as well as a store. Ask before photographing artists or pieces, and let the staff guide you on care for natural materials like river cane.

Learn more at the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual website.