How to Shop in Venice - Venice: A Travel Guide to Murano Glass, Carnival Masks, Gondolas, Lace, Paper and More - page 6

There are two good reasons for buying Venetian works in Venice. The first is that you
are more likely to get greater value by buying from the source. The second—even more
valuable in my opinion—is that you are more likely to make a connection with the person
who made it, and that will become part of an immersive travel experience that you will
carry with you forever.
2. Who made it?
Buy directly from the maker whenever possible. It's your best guarantee that you will go
home with a high-quality, handmade item at the best possible price. The added bonus of
getting to know the maker of a carnival mask, for example—and perhaps even watch it be-
ing made—is invaluable.