The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair in Spinningfields

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is back for its fifth year this weekend (Thu 4 – Sun 7 Oct), showcasing the best designer-makers in the country. Don’t be put off by memories of poorly woven baskets and wonky clay pots at your local WI fundraiser; craft has come a long way over the years and some of the UK’s most promising young designers are now opting for a DIY approach. Quality-controlled, sustainable and ethically traded, the craft movement has a lot going for it in a world newly wise to the downsides of mass production. A panel of judges has selected exhibitors from a record number of applicants to ensure that the full range of media gets a look in. Sculptural hats, delicate glass ornaments, and chunky silverware feature alongside quality handmade ceramics and wearable textiles, though the main draw has to be the jewellery. From the playful, tactile resin brooches of Edinburgh-based Carla Edwards to more high-end designers working with precious metals and gemstones like Ros Millar and Emily Thatcher, there’s something for all tastes and wallet sizes. The continuing trend for minimal, Scandi-style design is evident in the range of wood and furniture on offer, and for those with a liking for arm candy, the luxurious yet minimal leather-crafted bags from Wolfram Lohr are a real highlight.

Thu 4 – Sun 7 Oct, Spinningfields, Various times from 10am daily, Various prices, http://www.greatnorthernevents.co.uk/