Manchester Craft & Design Centre – which is home to 30 of the most talented independent artists, makers and designers in the region – is getting ready to welcome shoppers back into its Victorian market building from December 2nd.
Like many small businesses, the studio community at Manchester Craft & Design has been hit hard by the unpredictable events of 2020. But in periods of lockdown, the makers have enhanced their online presence, and taken part in an Instagram PopUp as well as offering their pieces through the Centre’s gift voucher scheme.
But now, the Northern Quarter-based Centre is looking forward to giving its loyal customers the opportunity to browse and buy beautiful, unique and meaningful Christmas gifts for their loved ones once again. As a completely COVID-safe environment, the Centre will be open every day in the run-up to Christmas, until 17:30 on Christmas Eve.
And the choice is wide-ranging. From knitted cushions, ceramic homeware, pewter creations and impressive lighting features, to one-of-a-kind pieces of jewellery, woollen scarves, and handmade leather bags and purses to suit every pocket size – customers will be spoilt for choice.
One maker, Katherine Lees, creates decorative features for the home, from bold looking ceramic pots, bottles, vases, and planters to wall pieces all printed with images of birds, octopuses, butterflies and bees. The use of silk screening printing allows each and every vessel to be completely unique, making for a beautiful gift.
A collection of the other makers create gorgeous jewellery. For example, Clare Hillerby carefully crafts personal pieces of jewellery incorporating old ephemera such as handwritten notes, postcards and photographs into ‘line of fragments’ necklaces. Another maker, called Charlotte Verity, is inspired by light to combine precious metals, handmade glass components and faceted stones into jewellery, and Ella McIntosh uses contemporary pewter to create a range of gifts influenced by the urban landscapes of the North.
“We were so saddened to close at the beginning of November when the national lockdown began, but have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure Manchester customers are able to enjoy the Christmas shopping experience in-person once again.
This year, we’ve all come to realise the value of friendships and relationships we hold dear. So, with Christmas around the corner, why not show someone you care with an extra special present that also supports independent creatives from the grassroots Manchester community? Give handmade this Christmas.”
(Kate Day, Director of Manchester Craft & Design Centre)
Shoppers can buy from MCDC’s makers at the Centre on 2nd December from 10:00 until 17:30 up until Christmas Eve or online here.
