Craft NI

Armagh Craft Fair 2024
2024-05-25 10:30 - 16:30 (Europe/London) | The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, 9 Market Street, Armagh, BT61 7BW
The Armagh Craft Fair returns on May 25th! A great opportunity to see and purchase contemporary and traditional craft, see craft demonstrations and enjoy hands on experiences. The programme includes exhibitions, stalls, creative workshops, talks, music and entertainment.
A highlight will be the children’s FREE drop in crafts and art experiences – a wonderful day out for the entire family!

August Craft Month 2024
2024-08-01 10:00 - 2024-08-31 17:00 | Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
The highly anticipated month-long celebration of Irish craft has officially launched! This year’s August Craft Month brings together an array of talented makers hosting nearly 300 events with representation in almost every county on the island of Ireland.
August Craft Month celebrates a rich craft heritage with artisans keeping ancient traditions alive and new talented makers bringing real vibrancy to the scene.
With events taking place across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, August Craft Month provides unique opportunities for people to get involved as well as supporting makers by buying products and learning more about their work.
Supported by Design & Crafts Council Ireland and Craft NI, the annual celebration is once again part of an island-wide summer programme.
There is a packed itinerary of nearly 300 eclectic events, with craft disciplines including ceramists, textile makers, glassblowers, designer-makers and more all available across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

For events taking place in Northern Ireland, please click here. For events taking place in the Republic of Ireland, please click here.
All August Craft Month events are run independently by the event organisers. For questions regarding any events please contact the event organiser directly.

August Craft Month Exhibition Maker Talk with Juliana Cavaliero and Samantha Rhodes
2024-08-01 15:00 - 16:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
You are warmly invited to join us for a talk from the two guest judges of our August Craft Month exhibition, at 3pm on Thursday 1st of August at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast.

We’re delighted that Juliana Cavaliero from renowned contemporary gallery Cavaliero Finn will speak about her career in contemporary craft, as well as more generally how craft makers and artists can successfully engage with galleries – a must-do for any maker seeking to explore stockists or gallery representation for their work. Established in 2004, Cavaliero Finn aims to curate works from emerging, mid-career and established contemporary artists, focusing on heirloom pieces, led by originality and craftsmanship. Julianna, along with partner Debra Finn, also works with museum curators, industry, interior designers and art directors, supplying work for homes, businesses, museums, film sets and shoots.

Also meet Samantha Rhodes who leads Bluecoat Display Centre in Liverpool, a regional craft hub and beacon for contemporary British craft. Established in 1959, Bluecoat exhibits and sells work by over 250 studio-based artists working across the disciplines and offers workshops and classes on site. Samantha also drives an impressive outreach programme, bringing the benefits of making to vulnerable groups through partnerships with charities and healthcare providers. Bluecoat has had a long relationship with Liverpool Irish Festival and this partnership has enabled a number of makers from this island to connect with audiences in the north west of England over several years.
We’re fascinated to learn more about this successful hub and delighted to have Samantha and Juliana as guest judges to select the five prize winners in our August Craft Month exhibition this year.

Please feel welcome to take a break and join us at 6pm for the opening of Craft NI Gallery’s August Craft Month exhibition ‘Reaction’. Find out who this year’s prizes winners are, meet some of the participating makers and see how they responded to the exhibition brief.
Find out more about the Reaction Exhibition Opening, here.

Opening Night: Reaction | 2024 August Craft Month Exhibition
2024-08-01 18:00 - 21:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Craft NI are delighted to announce the launch of ‘Reaction’, the August Craft Month 2024 exhibition.
The opening reception will take place at Craft NI Gallery on Thursday, 1st August at 6pm. Featuring some of the best in contemporary craft, the annual August Craft Month Exhibition aims to celebrate and profile excellence in Northern Irish craft.
This year, applicants were invited to respond to the theme of Reaction, looking to what reactions between materials made it possible for their body of work to come to life, is there a particular technique that they found fascinating? Or was their response found exploring their creative process, ‘reacting’ to events and influences in the environment?
We’re excited to share how this year’s participants responded to the theme!

Exhibiting makers include: Anne Butler, Caitlin Murphy, Cara Murphy, Carla Pennie McBride, Celine Traynor, Cora Cummins, Corinne Price, Eleanor Wheeler, Fang Zhao, Hugh Cummins, Irene McBride, Jackie McMaster, Janice Gilmore, Joel Smyth, Karena Ryan, Karl Harron, Kathleen Walsh, Maya Todd, Natasha Rollinson, Pennie Metcalfe, Claire and Karen Gibson from Red Earth Designs, Ruth Osborne, Sarah Cathers, Stuart Cairns and Sue Cathcart.

This year, Craft NI are joined by special guest judges Juliana Cavaliero from renowned contemporary gallery Cavaliero Finn and Samantha Rhodes who leads Bluecoat Display Centre in Liverpool, a regional craft hub and beacon for contemporary British craft, who will give a talk at the gallery before the opening at 3pm. Find out more about the talk here.

At the opening this year’s guild prizes will be awarded, for which Craft NI are particularly grateful to the former Guild of Northern Ireland Designer Makers (The Guild) who gifted a legacy gift for the development and promotion of the craft sector in Northern Ireland.

Open Studio Event: Alison Lowry, Alistar-R, Rene Mullin and Curlew Cottage Design
2024-11-23 10:30 - 2024-12-01 17:00 | Newtowncrommelin
A rare opportunity to visit four designer/maker studios not normally open to the public – visitors will have a chance to see their making processes of glass, jewellery & printmaking! Bring some friends and browse their unique, handmade work, and don’t forget to look out for something special in the seconds sale. There will be coffee and cake available at all studios.
Please note the participating studios and opening times:
Alison Lowry
Opening Times:
Saturday 3oth November
10:30 – 3:30
36 Comber St, Saintfield, Co Down
BT24 7AZ 07747033454
mail@alisonlowry.co.uk
www.alisonlowry.co.uk
Curlew Cottage Design:
Opening Times: Thur 28th Nov
6-9pm. (Fri closed), Sat 30th Nov
10-5pm, sun 1st Dec 10-opm.
ZU Aromon Koad, Killylesgh.
joanna@curlewcottagedestgn.co.uk
www.curewcotos.edestgn.co.uk
Rene Mullin:
Opening Times: Thurs 28th Nov
6-9pm, Fri 29th Nov 6-2pm
Sat 30th Nov 10-4pm, Sun Ist Dec
10-8pm (no public loo available)
12 Audleystown Road, Strangford
Co Down, BT30 77LP
rene@placed.ie www.placed.ie
Alistair-R
Opening Times:
Sat 23rd Nov
(all day by appointment only)
Sat 30th Nov – 10.30-5pm
Sunday December 1st 11:30. – 4pm
142 Listooder Road, Saintfield, Co. Down BT24 7LB
07788757070
robbie@alistairr.co.k
www.alistairr.co.uk

Drinks, nibbles and discount night at Steensons
2024-11-28 06:00 - 20:00 | Steensons, Bedford House, Bedford St, Belfast, BT2 7FD
Steensons would like to invite you for an exclusive evening – enjoy 20% off their stunning collections, accompanied by festive drinks and delicious canapés. It’s the perfect opportunity to find a special piece or start your festive shopping in style.
(stock items only – T&C’s apply; on the night exclusive 20% discount on spends over £250)

Adam Frew Christmas Open Studio
2024-11-30 10:00 - 15:00 | Adam Frew Studio, 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, BT51 4AS, United Kingdom
Adam Frew will be having his annual Christmas Open Studio on Saturday November 30th from 10aam – 3pm. There will be a wide range of pots for sale and also some festive nibbles – a lovely opportunity to meet other craft lovers too!

Open Studio Winter Event
2024-11-30 11:00 - 2024-12-01 16:00 | Patricia Millar Ceramics Studio, 20 Isle Road, Bushmills, United Kingdom
Ceramicist Patricia Millar will open the doors of her studio to the public November 30th – December 1st, 11am – 4pm!
Stop by for mulled wine, pots and demos throughout the day – you might also find that perfect gift!

Christmas Belfast Potter's Market
2024-12-06 10:00 - 2024-12-07 21:00 | 2 Royal Avenue, 2 Royal Avenue, Belfast, United Kingdom
Following the success of the previous Belfast Potter’s Markets, the date for this year’s Christmas market has been announced: The Christmas Belfast Potter’s Market will take place December 6th (5pm – 9pm) and 7th (10am – 5pm) at 2 Royal Avenue, Belfast!
Come along for some festive music and enjoy browsing and shopping – over 40 potters will have their creations on display in the centre of Belfast.

Adam Frew - Midsummer demonstration evening
2025-06-18 19:30 - 21:00 | Adam Frew Studio, 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, BT51 4AS, United Kingdom
Adam Frew will be holding his annual midsummer demonstration evening at his studio in Aghadowey on Wednesday, 18th June from 7.30 – 9pm. Join in and enjoy a relaxed evening of watching Adam throw pots as well as decorating. Tea, coffee and home baked treats included. £20, booking necessary.

August Craft Month
2025-08-01 08:00 - 2025-08-31 17:00 | Island of Ireland, Island of Ireland
Established in 2021 and organised by Design & Crafts Council Ireland and Craft NI – the two national bodies for craft in Ireland – August Craft Month is an all island celebration of Ireland’s unique craft sector!
This year’s fantastic August Craft Month programme brings together an array of talented makers hosting over 300 events across the island of Ireland. With the kids off for summer, friends coming to visit or planning staycations for the whole family, there has never been a better time to do something different. From creating your own suncatcher, to sculpting a clay puffin, August is the month to put craft and the joy of making on your radar! That pottery class you’ve always wanted to take? Now’s the time! Whether it’s the excitement of trying your hand at the throwing wheel, catching inspiring exhibitions with friends, seeing makers in action in their studios or finding free activities to occupy the kids during the holidays.

Head over to www.augustcraftmonth.org to browse and book events, and follow @augustcraftmonth25 on social media for all the latest news and updates.

Open Night at The Boat House Gallery
2025-11-21 17:00 - 21:00 | The Boat House Gallery, 60 Causeway Rd, Bushmills, BT57 8SU, United Kingdom
Stop by the Boat House Gallery on Friday, November 21st, 5 – 9pm for a festive evening and soak in the warm, creative atmosphere! A great evening to enjoy live music, browse for works from local makers and see Adam Frew’s live demo at the potter’s wheel!

Crafted on the Coastline
2025-11-22 11:00 - 15:00 | The Courthouse, 75 Main Street, Bushmills, BT57 8QB, United Kingdom
Stop by for a day of creativity at The Courthouse Bushmills with Crafted on the Coastline, a celebration of craft and artistry from makers across the Causeway Coast and Donegal.
On Saturday 22nd November, 11am–3pm, discover a vibrant exhibition featuring nine talented makers, each bringing a unique perspective and skill. The exhibition includes a Mini Makers section, where children of all ages can take part in drop-in creative activities – free, fun and no booking required, all within the same space as the makers.

Made in AND: Pop-Up Christmas Shop
2025-11-27 18:00 - 20:00 | North Down Museum, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT, United Kingdom
The Made in AND Christmas Pop-Up Shop returns to the North Down Museum!

Featuring twinkling lights, live music, and craft demonstrations, it’s the perfect evening to start the holiday magic and get a sneak peek of all the beautiful items available. Discover a beautiful selection of handcrafted gifts and artwork made by over 25 talented local artists and crafters.
Whether you’re shopping for a unique present or simply soaking up the seasonal spirit, this is the perfect place to find something special for your loved ones.

'Cakes to Clay' - talk by James Watson
2025-11-27 19:00 - 20:30 | F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio, Banbridge, BT32 3NB, United Kingdom
F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio invite you to a talk by James Stanley Watson, ceramic artist and winner of The Great Pottery Throw Down 2025 on Thursday 27 November 2025.
James Stanley Watson is a Northern Ireland-based ceramic artist known for his expressive, story-rich creations that blend imagination and craftsmanship. After discovering pottery just four years ago, James’ creative journey led him to the nation’s screens as the winner of The Great Pottery Throw Down 2025.
A former cake maker and performer, James brings a deep sense of play, narrative, and human connection to his work. His ceramics often explore themes of memory, transformation, and the joy of making – with his signature ghosts becoming beloved symbols of warmth and whimsy.
Event cost: Members £5, Guests £10, Students £5
Please call the gallery on 028 4062 3322 to book your place. 7pm for tea/coffee, talk starts at 7.30pm

The Tedberry Market
2025-11-28 16:00 - 2025-11-30 18:00 | Down Royal Racecourse, Gravehill Road, Lisburn, BT27 5RW, United Kingdom
Don’t miss this exciting Christmas market, showcasing over 150 handpicked vendors which include craft makers such as Moneyvart Ceramics, Mud Ireland, Blackheath Pottery, Bough and Burr Furniture and Natasha Swan Ceramics to name but a few.

Enjoy the lively atmosphere, get acquainted with local craftsmen and just relax in a pleasant company. Tickets must be bought in advance and are limited.
The opening times are: Friday, 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

General Admission: £8 Includes entry for one adult, access to all vendor areas, and live entertainment.
Child (2-16): £4 Entry for children.
Under 2’s: FREE

Pottery Studio Open Weekend
2025-11-29 10:00 - 2025-11-30 16:00 | Belfast Ceramics Studio, Unit 10E Owen O'Cork Mill, 288 Beersbridge Road, Belfast, Antrim, BT55DX, United Kingdom
The holiday season is on its way – join the Belfast Ceramics Studio for their Christmas Open Studio days! Stop by for a cozy, creative afternoon filled with festive cheer, pottery fun and handmade pieces that make the perfect gift.
Visitors will be able to try their hand at the potter’s wheel, make Christmas decorations while enjoying refreshments, and browse a Pottery Sale by Studio Members.
Free to attend, no need to book.
OPENING TIMES:
Saturday 29th November 10am – 4pm
Sunday 30th November 12noon – 4pm.

Christmas Art & Craft Fair with North Down Craft Collective
2025-11-30 10:00 - 16:00 | WWT Castle Espie, 78 Ballydrain Rd, Comber, Newtownards, BT23 6EA
North Down Craft Collective returns to the charming setting of Castle Espie for their annual Christmas market – stop by to meet local artists and makers and shop their beautiful, handmade craft pieces – from textiles to ceramics, paintings to prints, and plenty more in between.
Over 30 artists and makers will be showcasing their work making your Christmas gift buying a pleasure this year!
Enjoy festive music, treats from the Kingfisher Cafe and your chance to meet the makers.
Admission to the fair is free of charge (normal charges apply to visit the wetland area)

Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre
2025-12-05 16:00 - 2025-12-06 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
For a unique shopping experience, join the makers and artists of the Creative Peninsula as the annual Christmas Fayre makes a welcome return to Ards Arts Centre!

Be inspired to purchase the perfect, unique, handcrafted Christmas gift in the opulent festive setting of the Georgian and Sunburst galleries of Ards Arts Centre.
All work has been handcrafted and designed by the professionally practicing artists and makers of Ards and North Down.
There will be seasonal live music, complimentary gift wrapping and festive refreshments.

OPENING HOURS:
Late Night Shopping: Fri 5 Dec, 4pm – 8pm
Small Business Saturday: Sat 6 Dec, 10am – 4pm

Vault Christmas market
2025-12-06 11:00 - 2025-12-07 17:00 | Carlisle Memorial Church, Carlisle Circus, Belfast, BT13 1AB, United Kingdom
The Vault Christmas Market is once again returing to the beautiful Carlisle Memorial Church in North Belfast. Over the course of a weekend, the former church will be filled with 60+ stalls selling high-quality jewellery, gilded glass & stained glass, ceramics, macramé & crochet, homeware and so much more.
The Vault Christmas Market is also a fun weekend out with friends and family, with music refreshments and the regular walkabout performers, elves and of course ‘The Santa You Deserve’ aka ‘Bad Santa’ causing havoc, or snoozing in a corner. And new this year is the Godzilla Santa Grotto – it has to be seen to be believed (and explained).

Portview Christmas Market
2025-12-19 18:00 - 2025-12-20 16:00 | Portview Trade Centre, 310 Newtonards Rd, Belfast, BT4 1HE, United Kingdom
Portview Christmas Market returns to Portview Trade Centre on the Newtownards Road, showcasing a great range of local makers of craft, jewellery, ceramics, vintage and so much more. This is a family-friendly event which will also have local DJs and hospitality available.
Please note the following opening hours:
Friday Night December 19th 6 – 10pm
Saturday December 20th 12 – 4pm.
