From time immemorial, humans have practised trades to meet their needs and express their vision of beauty. On April 29, Canada Post will pay tribute to the people who carry on this time-honoured tradition by issuing a new set of eight low-value definitives.

The stamps depict the skills of an artistic woodworker, a bookbinder, a decorative ironworker, a glassblower, a weaver, a quilter, a leather worker and an oyster grower.

The last person differs from the other tradespeople featured through his association with the sea and the food sector. He practises a trade that relies on old oystering techniques long used in North America.

The other trades combine the practical with the esthetic, and sometimes share techniques or materials despite the different nature of the finished products. Glassblowing and decorative ironwork both rely on fire; binding and leatherwork use leather; weaving and quilting work with textiles. All these trades require patience and perseverance.

Some tradespeople have opened museums to highlight their skills and introduce the general public to the origins and current trends in their trade.