The results of the economic and geographical research of the sector of handicrafts as exemplified by two model administrative regions Prebaikalia (Slyudyanka Irkutsk region) and Tunkinsky (Republic of Buryatia) are presented. The date are based on the expeditionary pilot thematic survey conducted within the frame of the research "Economic and geographic conditions of self-organization and self-development of the territorial communities". Development of traditional crafts in the region is considered as one of the important factors in improving the recreational specialization of the region.