Garden art has made its way indoors at the American Craft Council Show this weekend at the Baltimore Convention Center.

Furniture, sculpture and accessories specifically made for outdoor use will be included for the first time in the show's 34 years.

"We're always looking out for designated categories of work that might peak the interest of our attendees," said spokeswoman Bernadette Boyle. "Many people only think of craft as something to adorn their bodies or inside their homes."

Seven artists and their outdoor work have been added for the show's new direction, including Woodbine's Edward Kidera, who makes garden bells out of recycled oxygen cylinders and fire extinguishers.

"I like spending time outside and my hobby is landscape gardening. Sculpture outside seems natural to me," he said. Kidera's work -- he also makes whimsical mailboxes -- sells for anywhere from $100 to $2,800.

Joyce Barker-Schwartz knew her handmade rugs could survive outdoors when she accidentally left one out all winter. The rug was fine, but it killed the grass underneath.

"I tested them for a year in all kinds of weather," said the Philadelphia artist. "I would say they are fine, just don't use them on the grass."

The rugs are hand-woven on equipment of her own design, hand-painted and then sealed with a water-based outdoor acrylic finish. She uses a special backing, like fabric used on ships, to prevent mold and mildew. Her rugs are made to order and cost from $75 to $100 per square foot.

The other garden artists include:

• Sara Drower of Wilmette, Ill., whose hand-painted quilts, pillows and wall hangings are inspired by the garden.
• Fumihiko Mochizuki of Maine, who creates high-fired stoneware items, including bird baths.
• David Sleightholm of Sleightholm Arts in Hampstead, who creates metal sculptures, furniture and railings that can be displayed outdoors.
• Virginia McKinney of Gatlinburg, Tenn., a mixed media artist who creates sculptures and vessels from stoneware, clay and hand-forged fabricated steel.
• Peter Handler, who creates outdoor carts and indoor furniture inspired by garden themes.