There are dozens of types of handicrafts in Wisconsin. Every community has artisans specializing in various ethnic styles: Norwegian rosemaling, for example, is a flowery, colorful, painted trim artwork. Unique are the creations of the Amish and the Hmong. A large contingent of Amish families, famed for their quilting, crafts, bent-hickory furniture, and outstanding bakeries, live in the southwestern and west-central sections of Wisconsin.

Hmong crafts include storycloths, which recount narratives visually, and exquisite decorative paj ntaub, a 2,000-year-old hybrid of needlework and applique, usually featuring geometric designs and, often, animals. These quilts and wall hangings require more than 100 hours of work. Some Amish and Hmong young women are synthesizing their quilt styles into wonderful bicultural mélanges. Hmong artisans are often found at craft fairs and farmers markets. Amish wares are found both in home shops throughout southwestern Wisconsin and in a few stores.