Boo! Bet you didn’t expect to hear from me so soon, well ’tis true I have ventured out of my normal monthly schedule to share a little something with you. As you all know my column is about all things needlecraft on Etsy and I thought it would be rather remiss of me if I didn’t put together some news about Etsy Made Local 2016. If this is the first you’ve ever heard of it let me take a few moments to fill you all in. Following on from the success of last year, Etsy Made Local is back and now bigger than ever, spreading across the UK to 25 different locations. Etsy have teamed up with local crafting, collecting and artisan communities to put together an inspiring collection of Christmas markets this weekend (2-4 December). It’s a great way to champion local talent and provides a perfect opportunity to meet and support creative communities on your doorstep.
Speaking of doorsteps, it just so happens that not too far from my own is one such event and this year I’m lucky enough to be taking part, I’ve even got a fancy banner and everything! My local Etsy team, ‘The Portsmouth & Southsea Consortium’, have put together a two day event at the historic Square Tower, there’ll be amazing work from knitters, jewellers, illustrators and of course needle crafters who include the wonderful Gingerthread House, Dead Pretty Things and Whimsarium. The wonderful co-founder of the team Tom Jeram-West has this to say:
“If you’re going to buy a Christmas present for someone, buy handmade and buy independent. Our Etsy Made Local market gives you the perfect opportunity to do just that – and to meet local makers, finding out about their inspiration, determination and hard work, and why they’re more ethical and sustainable than the high street alternative!”
I really couldn’t agree more, massive virtual round of applause to Tom for both this and going above and beyond to put our event together. As I’m sure you all know, there are so many talented makers out there pursuing their passion and producing incredible unique and important work. So let’s all celebrate this at the weekend by taking part in Etsy Made Local – if there isn’t a market close to you, why not use the location filter on Etsy and see what gems can be found nearby. Events like this are the perfect opportunity to show your support for the ‘Just A Card’ campaign I’ve mentioned in the past, even a purchase as small as a card can make a huge difference to small creative businesses. Until we meet again my friends I shall wish you well and…..happy shopping!
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Jessica Taylor aka Loadofolbobbins is a Textile Artist and Illustrator based by the sea in Portsmouth. At her happiest with a needle and thread, with a passion for genealogy she often explores old photographs in her Textile art. With her fingers in many creative pies she loves to experiment with new techniques, creating illustrated and stitched goodies for her Etsy shop.
