Our Story

What we do ...

Fatto a Mano offers stylish antiques from Italy as well as artisan-crafted accessories. On our trips to Italy, we find antique furniture and décor at markets and auctions as well as from our trusted dealers. We are always on the hunt for rare and unusual antiques, but also practical pieces that can keep your home organized in style. We pride ourselves on being able to offer a variety of furniture styles, from rustic to elegant, Baroque to Neoclassical, Farmhouse to Mid-century Modern. We also offer an eclectic mix of antique and vintage décor including lighting, original artwork, mirrors, and religious art.

Fatto a Mano works directly with a variety of artisans in Italy who continue their craft using centuries-old techniques. The artisan products we offer include cutlery from Scarperia, ceramics from Montelupo, glassware from Venice, olive wood items from Tuscany, and crystal from Florence.

How it all got started ...

Fatto a Mano was started by husband and wife team Massimo Mallamace and Heather Dempsey in 2009. Inspiration for starting Fatto a Mano came while the couple was living in Tuscany and remodeling their family’s 500-year-old farmhouse, Podere Erica.

During the remodel, Massimo used the skills he developed from his many years as a stonemason restoring some of the finest villas in Florence. Heather and her mom Jan Dempsey searched antique markets, auctions, and antique shops across Tuscany to find the perfect pieces to complete the restoration of the farmhouse. Heather found the search and acquisition of antiques challenging, sometimes frustrating, but exceptionally satisfying, and of course, fun!

During that time, Massimo and Heather developed a shared passion for antiques. While Heather is fascinated by the history and style of antiques, the materials used and construction of antiques is what captivates Massimo. While in Florence, the couple informally apprenticed with an antique dealer. Massimo learned about restoration techniques while Heather delved into the historical background of Italian antiques as well as the business end of the antiques trade.

In 2009, Massimo and Heather opened a small shop on Union Street in San Francisco. Shortly thereafter, they were showcasing their antiques at the now-closed Collective Antiques in San Mateo. In 2014, the couple moved the shop from Union Street into a large warehouse in San Francisco’s Design District and launched the online store. In 2016, Fatto a Mano relocated to sunny San Rafael in Marin County. 

After five years in San Rafael, we have made the difficult to decision to close our warehouse showroom, but not to worry, you will be able to find us at the Chelsea Antiques collective in downtown Petaluma and, of course, online. 

Find Fatto a Mano at Chelsea Antiques
Chelsea Antiques, located in downtown Petaluma, is a well-respected collective that has been in business for 31 years! It is home to a couple dozen dealers who offer a vibrant mix of vintage finds and antique treasures – found objects, farmhouse tables, garden furniture, vintage lighting, original artwork and so much more!

We have been dealers at Chelsea Antiques for the past five years and being part of the store has afforded us an invaluable opportunity to stay connected to local retail customers. We now have two large spaces full of authentic and stylish vintage and antique finds.

Chelsea Antiques is located at 148 Petaluma Blvd. N, downtown Petaluma. The store is open everyday 10am to 5:30pm.