Craft NI

'Surface matters'
2025-01-23 10:00 - 2025-02-15 16:30 (Europe/London) | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
‘Surface matters’ is group exhibition by the Loft Artists, a professional collective of artists based at The Mill, in Bishop Mills, Portaferry.

The exhibition will feature works by Sara Brown, Owen Crawford, Sally Houston, Kate Rebbeck, and Cecilia Stephens responding to the title of Surface Matters. The work showcased will be an outcome from developing the artists interpretation of the local environment, history, and heritage.
By use of richness in colour, forms and mark making, the artists aim to connect to the viewer, to challenge our contemporary relationship with our land and sense of place.

Impressions of nature
2025-01-21 19:00 - 2025-03-18 21:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
Experiment with the many different techniques of printmaking with nature, with Ruth Osborne.

In this 8-week printmaking course with a nature theme, participants will be introduced to, and experiment, with a series of printmaking processes and will create artworks on both textiles and paper.
Processes covered will include Monoprint, Gel Plate Printing, Lino and Cyanotype.
All sessions are suitable for beginners. All materials supplied

Please note, this course will take place over 8 weeks; no class Tuesday February 4th.

Winter Paper Bird Workshop With Adele Pound
2025-01-18 10:30 - 12:30 | Rowallane Garden, Off Crossgar Road, Saintfield, BT24 7LH, United Kingdom
Join local artist Adele Pound on a paper birding making workshop in National Trust’s Rowallane Gardens!

Participants will learn simple paper cutting and folding techniques to cut and assemble a paper bird decoration following instructions and demonstrations. There will be a couple of designs such as a Robin and Male Bullfinch to choose from. Participants may make more than one bird if time allows.
Adele studied fine art, painting at Winchester School of Art where she dismayed her tutors by insisting on painting wildlife. The inspiration for all her work is the natural world. Central to this is her ongoing practice of drawing from life. Whether making field trips to Strangford Lough to draw wintering birds through a telescope or clipping magnifiers to her glasses to study insects in her garden, she still insists on drawing wildlife.
Suitable for adults as participants will be using modelling knives to cut out the shapes. Scissors can be provided if needed.

In Praise of Shadows
2024-12-12 10:00 - 2025-01-18 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
A solo exhibition by Maya Todd, ‘In Praise of Shadows’ is an evocative exploration of the interplay between fibre and form, where the boundaries of textiles are pushed to create three-dimensional sculptural shapes.

This exhibition showcases the delicate and ethereal qualities of linen and Irish wool, materials chosen due to their importance in local heritage.
Through the meticulous construction of these textiles, the artist captures and casts shadows that continuously shift and transform, creating a dynamic relationship between light and form. The result is a captivating dance of shadows, inviting viewers to contemplate the transient nature of light and the subtle beauty of crafted textiles.

Pots for tots - Plum pudding dish
2024-12-07 10:30 - 12:30 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Get creative with your little ones and make a truly personal Christmas dish for your family table. Have some clay fun as you slap, tap and roll the perfect serving dish for your Christmas treats.
£28 includes one adult & one child.

Christmas Woodcarving
2024-12-07 10:00 - 16:30 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
An introduction to the traditional craft of woodcarving with Steve Ryan where you will be guided in the creation of your own Christmas-themed carving. Each participant can choose from different designs including a Santa, Christmas tree and snowman.
All tools and wood are provided for the duration of the workshop.
No prior experience is necessary, this workshop is suitable for beginners and those already with some skills in carving.
As sharp tools are used, sturdy boots or shoes must be worn – not open-toed or low-cut footwear. Safety gloves will be provided but if you have you own tight fitting safety gloves feel free to bring them along.

Tiffany glass series | Christmas angels
2024-12-07 10:00 - 13:30 | Flowerfield Arts Centre, 185 Coleraine Road, Portstewart, BT55 7HU, United Kingdom
In perfect time for Christmas, choose whether your Christmas angel will fly or refract light as you make your own halo hanger or mirror candle base. Tutor Eleanor-Jane McCartney will lead you through the techniques to complete your unique tiffany angel piece – designed, created and completed on the day. Please note, closed toe footwear must be worn for your own safety.

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.

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!

Sew Your Own Christmas Decorations
2024-11-30 10:00 - 16:00 | Crescent Art Centre, 2-4 University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
This workshop will give instructions on sewing techniques, pattern pieces and assembly required for your own bespoke Christmas Tree decorations! The sewing workshop will cover the skills required to make beautiful handmade decorations. You can work with hand sewing or, if you own a sewing machine and want to bring this along, there will also be patterns and materials available for those who prefer to sew on their machine.
All materials you will need are included in the cost of this workshop.
Tutor Bio
Katie Harte is originally from Dublin but has been creating and teaching in Belfast for over 10 years. With a background in material science she loves investigating materials and fibres. She is currently a freelance knitter for Hope Macaulay while also working on her own designs in both sewing and knitting.

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!

Christmas Artisan Market
2024-11-29 11:00 - 2024-12-01 20:00 | Castle Ward, Castle Ward, Strangford, Downpatrick, BT30 7BA
Castle Ward will host its Christmas Artisan Market from 29th November to 1st December!
Held in the theatre space and Stable yard, this market offers a great opportunity to pick up unique, locally crafted Christmas gifts and enjoy delicious seasonal treats. The atmosphere will be festive, with a vibrant mix of products on offer—from home décor to artisan foods. On 29 November, the late-night opening lets you shop under the glow of twinkling lights, with the Mansion fully dressed for the holiday season.
Please note the opening times below:
29 Nov, 13:00 – 20:00
30 Nov & 1 Dec, 11:00 – 17:00
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Screenprinted Garlands - Experience AND 2024
2024-11-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Seacourt Print Workshop, Old Ulster Bank Building, Main Street, Bangor, Down, BT20 5AF, United Kingdom
Time to get inky with screen print at Seacourt Print Workshop and make and assemble your own handmade garland, perfect to string up on a wall, or gift to a loved one. During this workshop you will learn the basics of screen printing under the guidance of local artist Imogen Donegan.
Come along and enjoy some print mindfulness – and of course leave with a unique Christmas garland.
Things to note
Basic materials including inks and cartridge paper will be provided.
Wear something you don’t mind getting inky, or bring an apron – however there are some at Seacourt to borrow too.
No open toed shoes please. Over 18 yrs only.

Twilight Christmas Shopping
2024-11-28 18:00 - 20:00 | North Down Museum, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT, United Kingdom
To launch this year’s Pop-Up Christmas Shop, North Down Museum is hosting a Late-Night Christmas Shopping event.

Join in for an evening of twinkly lights, music, artists demonstrations and shopping. The museum will be festively decorated, the museum café will be open serving food and drink and visitors will be able to explore the museum and purchase unique gifts in a completely different way!

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)

Open Studio Event: Alison Lowry, Alistar-R, Rene Mullin and Curlew Cottage Design
2024-11-23 10:30 - 2024-12-01 17:00
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

Macramé: The Art Of Knots
2024-11-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Crescent Art Centre, 2-4 University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NH, United Kingdom
Join artist and tutor Alison Pascoe of ASTRL Fibres for this deep dive into the craft practice of Macramé: The Art of Knots.
Sharing the methods used in her own practice, Alison will guide you through the fundamental skills of macramé. Over the course of the day you will explore basic to advanced macramé knot techniques and develop your skills with the following topics:

Tools and Equipment
Understanding Materials
Measuring Formulas
Basic to Advanced Knots
Knot Pattern Variations
Finishing Techniques
Aftercare

This course is suitable for absolute beginners and for those interested in further developing their macramé skills.
The cost of the course includes the provision of practice materials and the use of necessary tools and equipment, along with the materials needed to complete one macramé wall hanging to take home with you.

Christmas Green Man Workshop
2024-11-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Conway Mill, Top floor Conway Mill, 5-7 Conway St., Belfast, BT13 2DE, United Kingdom
Join Anna Donovan on the top floor of Conway Mill where she has her studio for a day of festive ceramics making. Using stoneware clay create a festive green man pressmoulding, had modelling decorated with slips and underglaze.
Price includes all materials, firings and pieces will be glazed by Anna and ready for pick up before Christmas.

ASTRL Fibres Making Space: Seasonal Decoration Workshop
2024-11-14 18:30 - 20:30 | ASTRL Fibres Studio, 412 Woodstock Road, Belfast, Antrim, BT6 9DQ, United Kingdom
‘Making Space’ is a series of workshops that will encourage participants to think with their hands, embrace a willingness to play, allow themselves the space to be creative and find connection in the act of making.
During this workshop with Alison of ASTRL Fibres, participants will learn how to handcraft a beautiful pair of seasonal decorations to take home. Over the course of this 2hr session, Alison will guide them through a series of beginners knotting, coiling, stitching and macramé techniques using a variety of natural and recycled textile materials, all over a wee cuppa and some sweet treats.
This workshop is suitable for those looking to try a new handcraft and no previous experience is required. The session will be seated in a relaxed, inclusive and full access setting. This session is open to ages 12+ but children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please note, this workshop will also take place on December 3rd.

'Brilliant Generations' Christmas exhibition
2024-11-07 18:00 - 2024-12-31 17:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Craft NI’s 2024 Christmas selling exhibition ‘Brilliant Generations’ will open November 7, 6 – 9pm at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast, and run until December 31st!
This year’s Christmas exhibition will showcase the impressive creations of our local designer-makers and aim to inspire discerning shoppers with new, exciting work: whether it is jewellery that sparkles, ceramics with an innovative twist, new exciting work in textiles or wood, Craft NI Gallery are looking forward to sharing their newest creative endeavours with you!
‘Brilliant Generations’ will encompass key messages about what Northern Irish craft has to offer, and hint at the emotions associated with finding the perfect festive gift: awe at the skills and creativity of our local makers; the thrill of discovering a unique handcrafted gift; and the wonder of (re)discovering something new and exciting about craft (and craft makers) Northern Ireland.

Big Bauble Showcase
2024-11-07 10:00 - 2024-12-30 17:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
The Big Bauble Showcase is a yearly staple at Craft NI Gallery, featuring a wide range of unique handmade baubles, in limited ranges or one-offs. The event is a highlight for visitors who come back each year to add to their collection.
Stop by to admire and pick up a meaningful gift – these unique designs in porcelain, felt, enamel, textiles or hand blown glass are sure to impress!

Aspire: Ventures in Craft
2024-11-07 10:00 - 2024-11-28 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
Stop by the Ards Arts Centre and see a group exhibition by Homo Faber Fellows 2023: Claire Mooney, Jackson Byrne, Richard Butler, and Noel Donnellan; artists who recently completed an internship ran by the Michelangelo Foundation.
This exhibition explores themes of sustainability, links to the land and the transmission of traditional craft skills in the contemporary field.
The Homo Faber Fellowship enabled this group to develop their practice and work alongside master artisans. This show celebrates the learning, development and collaborations which took place throughout this time. From photographs, drawings, and tests to final outcomes, this show is a window on their learning process while showcasing craft to a new audience.

The Knitting & Stitching Show Belfast
2024-11-07 10:00 - 2024-11-10 17:30 | Titanic Exhibition Centre, 17 Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DU, United Kingdom
Craft NI are delighted to partner with the Knitting & Stitching Show, one of the leading consumer textiles exhibitions in the UK, who are making their debut Belfast Show at Titanic Exhibition Centre from the 7th-10th November 2024 !

Visitors can expect inspiring textile art galleries, a wide range of enjoyable and practical skills workshops, free talks & demos, interactive features, as well as over 100 of the leading specialist craft suppliers.

Craft NI will have a stand so stop by and say hello – featuring a selection of Northern Irish textile artists and their wonderful work, and of course signposting and answering any questions about Northern Ireland’s vibrant craft sector!

Those interested to attend can book their tickets HERE and avail of the CNI24 discount code for £2 off standard admission tickets (not valid on Two-Day or VIP).

Please note, the show ends at 5pm on Sunday.

Intergenerational Connection
2024-11-01 11:00 - 2024-11-29 17:00 | R-Space Gallery, 32 Castle Street, Lisburn, BT27 4XE, United Kingdom
In this exhibition, scientist and artist Dr Lynne Hocking presents handwoven sculptural objects that give physical form to data and concepts related to genetics and ancestry.
These works were created as part of an innovative project focusing on ancestry research and bringing together art, craft and science. Hocking’s research highlighted that the last seven generations of her family were involved with the weaving trade. Following this discovery, she produced artworks that represent the “weaving women / powerhouses” of her family, working with the same materials: jute and flax/linen, and incorporating data on their shared genetics.
Dr Lynne J Hocking is a scientist-turned-handweaver, who previously worked in the field of human genetics. Her textile practice is research-based and experimental, with a particular interest in genetics/ancestry, social history, bioacoustics and environmental/climate data; and the applications of digital technology to craft practice. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and is held in the permanent collection of Aberdeen Art Gallery, UK. She is based in Scotland.

Events:
Artist Talk – 1 November, at the opening. ‘Presenting Intergenerational Connections’
Artist Talk Online – 13 November, 6pm. ‘Family Ties: unpicking and re-weaving his-/her-stories’
The Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am-5pm

Pumpkin Painting and Pizza
2024-10-30 15:30 - 17:30 | Mud Ireland, 72 Main St, Moira, BT67 0LQ, United Kingdom
Join Josh from Mud Ireland for a Pumpkin Painting class followed by a pizza party! This class is perfect for those who want a cute Halloween activity that is perfect for all ages and abilities.
The first 1.5 hours of the class is dedicated to painting a ceramic pumpkin. Participants will receive a quick demonstration at the start of the class with tricks and treats on how best to decorate it. After the painting class, pizzas and a soft drink will be supplied, followed by some time to browse the shop area and pick up a memento of the experience.
The pumpkin will be ready 4 weeks after your class to collect.
As it’s Halloween fancy dress is encouraged! Aprons are available however the paint does wash out if it happens to get on your clothes.

The workshop will run at the following times: 12pm; 3:30pm and 7pm.

Samhain animal spirits mask-making workshop
2024-10-29 13:30 - 15:00 | Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, 24 Main Street, Limavady, BT49 0FJ, United Kingdom
Did you know that the practice of dressing up for Halloween harks back to the ancient Celts? Every Samhain, Celtic Druids would dress in animal skins to confuse and ward off the returning spirits when the veil was thin on Halloween. Join tutor Linda Mulholland for a chance to reignite this ancient tradition by creating your very own animal spirit mask! All materials provided.

Kids Scary Paper Halloween Masks Workshops
2024-10-26 14:00 - 16:00 | Millenium Court, 2 William Street, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 3NX, United Kingdom
Come along and make a paper collage mask with tutor Susan McKeever – this workshop is suitable for all ages, families, teens, adults. What type of mask will you make – Mummers, Monsters, Witches or Cats?
All materials will be provided
Suitable for age 6+ . Children must be accompanied by an adult who can assist them with using scissors.

Mug decorating workshop
2024-10-26 11:00 - 12:30 | Blackheath Pottery, The Blackheath Pottery 112 Killeague Rd, Blackhill,, Coleraine, BT51 4HH, United Kingdom
Step into the enchanting realm of pottery by personalizing your very own mug in an engaging and cozy class with Babs Balshaw from Blackheath Pottery . Participants will:

Receive a handcrafted porcelain cylinder crafted by Babs to unleash your creativity.
Explore a variety of colored slips for painting, along with paper stencils, stamps, and cutters.
Add a handle or create a unique sculpture inside your mug – the possibilities are endless!
Enjoy a complimentary hot drink from our cafe (dietary requirements can be accommodated).

Once your piece is complete, it will be fired, glazed, and ready for pickup two weeks later. Worldwide shipping is available for an extra fee.

This class is open to all ages. For children under 10, please mention it during checkout for additional clay and a lower table setup if needed. Limited to 10 participants.

Please note upcoming dates:
October 26; November 16 & 23rd; December 7.

Halloween Lantern Workshop
2024-10-26 10:30 - 12:30 | Flowerfield Arts Centre, 185 Coleraine Road, Portstewart, BT55 7HU, United Kingdom
Little Halloween fans will have the opportunity to design and make creepy Halloween clay lanterns using air dry clay which means they can take it home, paint it and let it dry naturally – just in time for spooky celebrations. Tutor: Fiona Shannon.
This workshop is suitable for ages 8 to 12yrs.

Bewitching Bazaar - Halloween Craft Market
2024-10-26 10:00 - 2024-10-27 16:00 | Castle Ward, Castle Ward, Strangford, Downpatrick, BT30 7BA
The Bewitching Bazaar Craft Market will take place on beautiful grounds of Castle Ward – set against the atmospheric backdrop of this historic Georgian estate, the market is a great opportunity to browse an enchanting selection of pieces handcrafted by talented local artists. Stop by The Studio to see resident glass artist Ann York Smyth’s selection of spooky seasonal gift ideas, as well as the work of ceramicist Charlene Rooney.
Food will be available to buy throughout the day; families can also embark on the Halloween Trail, packed with surprises, and get hands-on with Halloween crafts. Please note, this event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
