Where to buy

Craft can be purchased in a wide variety of ways and venues. Below is a guide to help you know where to go and what to look for when you buy:

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  - Craft Fairs: Fairs provide ideal opportunities to buy around the country. However the quality can vary widely from one fair to another, so it is good to read up in the press or discover through word-of-mouth what to find where. Events are often annual, having developed over a number of years. See listing
  
  - Galleries: Contemporary craft galleries are situated all around the country and often focus on specific disciplines or local makers – they also often run subject-focused exhibitions. Many aim to highlight the best in contemporary craft across the country and some offer work from makers overseas. The types and styles of work on display will depend on their ethos and gallery focus. See listings

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  - Boutiques, craft and design shops: Independent retailers offer their own perspective and ethos, and also often show what they consider the latest or best in design, offering work in a variety of media, from one-off and manufactured design to fine art and craft. See listing
  
  - Museum and gallery shops: Many museums and galleries ensure that they retain a recurring focus of craft activities, and this is often reflected in their retail areas, which offer hand-made work as well as design objects. See listing
  
  - Pop-Up Shops: The Pop-Up shop is a new retail trend, perhaps related to the rise in exhibitions held by independent curators, collectives and graduating student groups outside the usual galleries, for example in unoccupied buildings. This allows a retailer to create an interesting temporary sales venue in an empty shop, say. With no long-term commitment to a lease, there are obvious financial advantages, and there may be an added buzz for visitors.

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  -”Auction Houses“: offer opportunities for collectors to pick up high-value collectable pieces. Specialist subject-focused sales or even a house clearance can provide the opportunity to purchase a collectable piece. Keep an eye on sale catalogues or auction websites for listings.
  
  -”Internet“: As the high street suffers from the credit crunch, sales on the internet continue to rise. The rise in independent on-line retailers, combined with established shops and galleries presenting work for sale on their websites, means that buyers from all around the world can source and buy British craft. The internet also provides a great source of information on makers, new work, and finding where to see and buy work.

Crafts Council Directory