'Unique handcrafted goods, direct from the maker'

The emphasis, at these events, is on original and contemporary work, with a strong 'up-cycled' theme. Giving the opportunity to meet the designer makers in person and buy unique handcrafted goods of gallery quality.

As well as talented craftspeople selling their work, some demonstrate their skills and others encourage the public to 'have-a-go' and try a new craft.

2024 EVENTS:

Friday 18th & Saturday 19th October

- The Garden Rooms at Tennants, Leyburn

Designer Makers Market was established in 2013 by textile artist Kathryn Guy. Frustrated by a lack of good quality, genuinely handcrafted events in the North East she decided to do something about it and organise some.

Participants are 'handpicked' and offer a good mix of mediums. The events always attract customers who appreciate the uniqueness of the products and the time that has gone into making them.

WHAT THE MAKERS SAY:

"Thank you for giving me the opportunity to have a stand at the Designer Makers Market. It really was a great experience and definitely a learning curve in terms of selling direct to customers rather than my past experiences online and through galleries! Realistically this is the beginning of my journey into trying to support myself financially solely through my art. I still have a long way to go and a lot to learn, but taking part in this event was a big step in the right direction, and I am very optimistic about future events and fairs that I now feel more confident in approaching and applying for. The most positive aspect for me was talking to the other artists and makers at the event, and I already have a potential magazine feature just from talking to somebody who was at the Witham on Sunday!”

Jessica Grady - Embellished Textile Art

"Had a lovely day meeting potential customers, receiving brilliant feedback and best of all being asked to sell my work in a lovely shop.” 

Beverley Holmes-Wright (Stitching For The Soul)

"A fabulous and well organised event, in a lovely venue with top notch exhibitors and delightful customers. I had a super day! Thank you!"

Kate Bowles

WHAT THE CUSTOMERS SAY:

"It was absolutely great, it was a pleasure to walk around and see true creativity at its best. Looking forward to the next one."

Lynn Varley

“The glamorous venue provided a stunning back drop to a market place of unique and beautiful creations. The event also showcased the handmade nature of the goods on sale beautifully by having hands on demonstrations taking place. Kathryn Guy, the organiser, hand selects sellers. This is instantly apparent in the diversity and quality of the goods on sale.”

Samantha Jennings of Made by Mummy Markets (Blog)

“I would like to congratulate you - I have attended many such events around the country but this one was particularly good, with lovely surroundings and very classy merchandise. I shall certainly be watching out for the next one.”

Jan Christie

“I was very impressed with the Show and the great standard of work. Lovely, talented makers too and I enjoyed my conversations with them. It all looked great and a perfect venue.”

Christine Wallace

"It was great to come to the Makers’ Fair yesterday at the Witham - what a talented and inspiring group of makers!

Michèle Ayres - van de Geest

We are always on the lookout for new artists and designer/makers to take part. So if you think your work would fit the criteria please contact us.

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