Manchester Craft & Design Centre welcomes the festive season with handmade gifts, workshops & an inspiring new exhibition

Manchester Craft & Design Centre, the Northern Quarter’s home of craft, community and contemporary making, invites guests to revel in inclusive yuletide spirit with its annual transformation into a warm, glittering hub of independent studios, seasonal workshops and thoughtful artisan gifts.

Across two floors of jewellers, ceramicists, textile designers, illustrators and more, visitors can browse a vibrant array of handmade pieces created on site by MCAD’s resident makers across a sprawling treasure trove of one-of-a-kind finds, perfect for anyone hoping to give uniquely thoughtful gifts to their loved ones this Christmas.

Throughout November and December, MCAD rolls out its full festive workshop programme, offering the chance to get hands-on with luxury wreath-making, fused glass decorations, pewter ornaments, gilding and beginner Kintsugi, the ancient Japanese restoration method that celebrates the beauty of imperfection.. Led by expert makers including The Bud and Pot, Helen Tiffany, Ella McIntosh and Amelia Jane Gilding, the sessions range from seasonal crafts to heritage decorative arts, with all materials and tools provided. Whether you’re keen to try something new or looking to craft personalised gifts, each workshop provides an inspiring introduction to making in the heart of the city.

Music lovers can also enjoy a special free performance from the Hallé Ancoats Community Choir on Sat 6 Dec (2.30pm–3pm), who bring modern and traditional carols to the courtyard outside the Centre.

Running alongside the festive season, the major exhibition Makers Make 2038 is free to visit until Wed 24 Dec. With Manchester committed to becoming a zero-carbon city by 2038, the show explores how MCAD makers are embracing more sustainable methods and materials in their studios. Featuring work by over twenty resident makers – from jewellers and ceramicists to textile and glass artists – the exhibition explores how creativity can play a role in shaping a greener future. All works are available for purchase, with staff on hand to share insight into each maker’s practice.

As always, Fred’s Café is with comforting seasonal dishes, great coffee and winter treats for an ideal pit-stop between workshops and browsing.

If you’re unsure where to begin among the abundance of studios and winter events, MCAD’s gift vouchers can be used across workshops, studios and Fred’s Café, offering a convenient way to support independent makers while gifting friends and family a creative experience of their own.

For full details on workshops, exhibitions and booking, visit the Manchester Craft & Design Centre website.