Super Duper Fair

Fantastic commission opportunity!!

2012-01-25T12:59:00.001Z

An exciting new commission for designers, product designers, artists and makers. Have you ever fancied designing, developing and manufacturing Blackpool inspired products ready for sale? Now is your chance!

We are looking for expressions of interest from three artists, designers or creative enterprises who would like to be considered for Project Object.

Project Object is seeking artists who will engage with Blackpool’s historic collections and built heritage to design a range of quality products inspired by the seaside resort which will be sold in the Grundy Art Gallery Shop and the Tourist Information Office Shop.

Blackpool Council has in its possession a wealth of materials which we hope will inspire contemporary and innovative design in a range of products and to be sold at different price ranges suitable for most pockets, and can range from more ‘mass produced’ products to bespoke and limited edition ranges.

We will be appointing three artists for Project Object, to undertake four weekly design sessions with the community each, and then to develop their work into saleable products.

For more information and to request an application, please email kerry.hunt@blackpool.gov.uk
We look forward to your ideas!

Sort your craft out!!

2011-12-14T12:24:00.001Z

On the 30th of November FYCreative organised for Kirsty Almedia to talk to a group of crafters and deisngers about their future and marketing.

Here is a Kirsty music video....

FYC recruited makers and designers through the Super Duper Fair and invited them to a one-off session with Kirsty working through all the issues around running your own craft business. Issues around marketing online, where to sell your things, how to focus and structure your time and that business cards are the shop window to your business.

The workshop had a very positive atmosphere with business plans written up for the future. A very inspiring and motivating session! Thanks to Kirsty and Alice for a very insightful day of learning and planning!

Fancy joining a knitting club??

2011-12-12T10:02:00.002Z

To contact the library for more information please call 01253 478080.

Central Library
Queen Street
Blackpool
FY1 1PX

Craft fairs galore

2011-11-28T14:44:00.000Z

If the Super Duper Fair got your desire to find exciting handmade Christmas gifts going then there are plenty of local fairs coming up.

Cracking Craft Fair in Poulton

Retrospective Events in Cleveleys

Fill your Christmas stockings!

Super Duper Success!!!

2011-11-21T12:15:00.002Z

Well Saturday's Super Duper Fair was a huge success. Over 2,000 people visited the fair, starting their Christmas shopping early. All 60 stalls were selling beautiful handmade things; treats for the home, tummy, and wardrobe. It was hard to keep track of all the compliments about the quality and range of the items for sale and once again the presentation of each stall was a delight and really brought the Winter Gardens to life.

A big thank you to all the makers and designers, to Penny Black and Chord In The Act for entertaining us all day with their music, Linzi Cason for her wonderful photobooth and Aunty Social for providing a lovely activity for people to join in with. A special thank you to Winter Gardens for having us and being so accommodating.

Can't wait for next year!

I have a selection of photos from the day on the blog but if you would like to see more please click on this link...

Super Duper Fair maps for the 19th of November 2011

2011-11-16T09:59:00.001Z

Fairy goodness!!

2011-11-12T19:32:00.000Z

Looking for that extra special Christmas tree topper? Get your handmade fairy from Mrs. Marmalade's stall at the Super Duper Fair.

Super Duper Fair has been upgraded...

2011-11-08T17:04:00.001Z

As the Floral Hall glass ceiling is still under repair Super Duper has been upgraded into a beautiful area of the Winter Gardens called the Grand Vestibule located off Victoria Street, which has been recently restored.

More Super Duper things to buy for Christmas...

2011-11-07T12:20:00.002Z

Soapure - lots of handmade smellies for your loved one or an indulgence for yourself.

Bootique - felt brooches among lots of other delightful accessories to brighten up any outfit.

Nellie & Elsie - this old French travel card needle case is one of many story inspired textile and embroidered things to wear and use.

Bonker*s Clutterbucks Ltd at fair!!

2011-11-03T15:16:00.001Z

16 days to go to the fair and we thought it would be nice to introduce some more of our amazing stallholders and their incredible handmade things.....

Bonker*s Clutterbuck’s Card modelling kits (aka BON-KITs) come with a 3D model to construct from pre-cut card, a selection of freestanding characters and the suggestion of an adventure. Where the adventure goes is up to you!

The models are designed to be either left blank or coloured in, embellished and assembled by anyone age 6 to 106 and can be displayed or played with. Very young children may require some adult assistance with construction. The models are both challenging and fun to make and make an ideal activity for a family Crafternoon!

There stall will have plenty more things to buy and a selection of vintage treats too.

Things to buy at the fair

2011-10-17T14:55:00.001+01:00

Artist, Julie Bull, from Tales from the Welsh Wood creates hand embroidered Folk Art illustrations with a retro feel. You can by items like this badge at the Super Duper Fair on the 19th Nov.

Feast your eyes and tastebuds on these delights. Pick up some sparkily and delicious cupcakes from Felicity Wolohan's stall at the fair this year.

Super Duper interviewed YiYing, the creator of Noodoll

2011-10-08T12:42:00.004+01:00

SD: You created the Noodoll characters during your MA, how did you go about turning those ideas into a business?

YY:Noodoll was spotted by a company in my MA degree show and they helped me to start the 'Noodoll' brand because they loved the concept so much!

At that time I had no clue about starting a brand or running a business (I still find it hard to switch my brain between a designer and a business woman nowadays), I learnt so much from the company I was working with, from production to trading, I really appreciated to be given this opportunity to learn.

After my contract ended with them, I started my own company, threw every penny I had earned from my book royalties to it, followed my instinct and vision to continue the Noodoll brand.

The journey has been hard, been up and down; but it's been fun, it's true to my heart, and it's totally worth it. I may beocome a millionaire soon, but it's so fun and I love it everyday.

SD: Are there any tips you would give to other designers on how to get their high quality products into concepts stores, boutiques and museums?

YY: Be original, don't compromise on quality; look into details, and be consistent (keep a strong heart) when it comes to sell!

SD:What is your biggest seller?
YY: Our mischievous monster gadget holders! They are our silliest but funniest friends.

SD: How important is social media marketing to the success of the business?
YY: We are learning every day about social media as it changes and evolves so quickly! So far I'd say it's not showing big impact in our small business but we love meeting new people out there and be ready to accept new exciting things, to exchange feedbacks, therefore social media is going to play a part in our business.

However, I feel stronger about the old traditional way to get ourselves known, through trade shows, through letters (yes we still send letters). What's better than a face to face smile and hand-shake?

SD: Why do you think people love to buy high quality and well designed things?
YY: Because they deserve it :)

Grundy Art Gallery is now selling a range of Noodoll in the shop.

Melancholy prints at Super Duper Fair

2011-10-03T15:38:00.005+01:00

Two AM Press will be at the fair this year, really looking forward to seeing some beautiful printed things from this stall.

Lisa Wigham, the artist, also has an exhibition opening on Friday the 10th of Oct at Supercollider, FYCreatives, Church Street, Blackpool. Preview Fri 7th Oct 6-8pm.

Wigham employs a quietly playful and poetic use of language, used to present narratives that prompt reminiscence. Through essence, reduction of information and fragments, narratives are teased from juxtapositions allowing for association between object, site and memory.

Promises to be a very interesting show. For more info click here

Winter Hats at the Super Duper Fair

2011-09-19T09:57:00.001+01:00

Zena Herbert of Sea of Dreams, makes these beautiful hats and fascinators for all occasions and seasons, which will be at the Super Duper Fair on the 19th of Nov.

If keeping your thinker warm and stylish throughout the chilly months is not enough of a reason to buy a Zena creation, then how about these top five reasons:

1. As a disguise - you don't need to be famous or a spy for this one.
2. Calling names out of a hat - always a must when in charge of a raffle.
3. Hide the bad hair day!
4. Magic trick - you may need to perform with a rabbit or a dove at the drop of a hat.
5. Collecting money - you have a penchant for singing on a street corners and now can make a bob or two.

Super Duper Fair in Splender

2011-09-13T12:08:00.001+01:00

Enjoy these beautiful images of the newly refurbished Floral Hall and Rotunda in the Winter Gardens. The Super Duper Fair is going to look very splendid indeed, surrounded by the restored ornate decoration.

Embrace the wetness with these designs....

2011-09-08T15:46:00.001+01:00

A comforting reminder of our very British weather by one of our Super Duper Stallholders, Debbie Greenaway Illustrations

Giddy-coloured weather symbols is always a favourite with jewellery. This design comes from Kitschensink, who will also be at the fair in November.

This little treat is by Lil Sonny Sky, spotted on Folksy. Reminiscent of the Moomins, I feel.

A super printing weekend in Sept....

2011-09-08T10:19:00.001+01:00

Ever wanted to try your hands at printing on a real press? For £145 pounds you could spend a whole weekend in Castlefield learning the technique of monoprinting and drypoint.
This course is running really soon so don't miss out on a place, check out the Hot Bed Press website for more....

Shoes to dance and dig in!

2011-09-05T13:48:00.002+01:00

Green Shoes are styled to suit each individual foot and all the materials and production methods are ethical.

"Ethical production is at the heart of our business philosophy. Everything at Green Shoes is hand made for you from the finest materials by our team of designer makers in Devon.

Green Shoes Resole & Repair service is an economical and eco-friendly way to get many more miles from your Green Shoes. We can even resole and stretch our children's footwear so they grow with your child!"

"Wearing Green Shoes is more than a fashion statement. It is a refusal to endorse the global system of brand name mass-produced shoe-manufacture. We are shoemakers with attitude, and make no apology."

For their 30th Birthday they are creating an exciting hand sewn Vintage Range, can't wait to see what they will look like.

Old Rock Factory studios - Blackpool

2011-08-09T09:46:00.001+01:00

There is a new studio group in Blackpool with space available for artists to fill. The spaces are in the Old Rock Factory at second floor level on lower Deansgate – opposite Steals, at the Abingdon Street end of the alley, access between Brighthouse and the Christian Bookshop.

Studios are priced at £75 per calendar month.Studio 2 is 184ins x 120 ins.

For information contact Robin Ross on 07715 047777 or at robin@robinross.co.uk

Robin is looking for new artists, potters etc. The studios already hold as residents two printers, a photographer and the Aunty Social group.

Blackpool through the camera

2011-08-08T09:58:00.001+01:00

Tony Ray-Jones, Blackpool, 1963

NMeM/Science & Society Picture Library

Over the last century many of the most prominent European photographers have photographed Blackpool, including Ian Berry, Alfred Gregory, Peter Marlow, Martin Parr, Tony Ray-Jones, Chris Steele-Perkins and Homer Sykes. But how do their photographs taken on the Promenade, at the Pleasure Beach or on the sands differ from the thousands that have already been taken there before?

The current exhibition at Grundy Art Gallery, Mass Photography: Blackpool through the camera, has been curated by German video artist, Nina Konnemann. Konnemann has selected images of Blackpool taken by recognised artists, Blackpool's own archives and material discovered on the internet site Flickr.

The exhibition runs until the 5th of November. For more information, click here.

Exquisite tailor-made suits in Lancashire

2011-07-22T15:59:00.002+01:00

What a treat for the fellows! I met the hands behind these suits at a wedding fair and loved the quality and attention to detail! Here is what they have to say about their company....

Every man needs a tailor and Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring is part of the new wave of bespoke outfitters aiming to revive the lost art and pleasure of handmade clothing.

Founded by Jonathan Walker and Neil Aitkenhead, and located in the heart of Lancashire’s stunning Ribble Valley, Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring is an expression of their own desire to respect age-old traditions whilst adding a gently subversive new detail.

The look and feel often harks back to the golden age of bespoke gentleman’s wear whilst being constructed entirely around you. Need an oversize pocket in your overcoat for an iPad? Want a nifty little buttoned tab on your trouser leg to stop it snagging on your bike chain? Whatever you want is fine by us.

Pure luxury!

Fashion, textile and photography workshops

2011-07-14T16:16:00.002+01:00

If you are aged between 16 and 24, you can sign up for one of a selection of free workshops with leading artists and designers at the Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston on Saturday the 23rd of July from 2-5.30pm. Be creative, meet new people, and pick up some great experience for your CV.

Outline of Event:
2pm - Welcome and sign in
2.30-4.30pm - Workshops sessions
4.30-5.30pm - Refreshments

Workshop options include:
- Fashion photography and styling with Gavin Fernandes
- Fashion illustration with Vicki Wheeler
- Textile printing with Michele Pouncey

It's free, but places are limited. To book, or for more info call 01772 905414 or email c.alexander@preston.gov.uk

Folksy tells Super Duper about their passion for the handmade...

2011-07-06T12:11:00.002+01:00

Sarah Waterhouse, General Manager at Folksy, was kind enough to answer a few quick questions about her experience at Folksy, her understanding of the handmade boom and what we can expect from Folksy in the future. Sarah is also a very talented textile designer and sells her collection of printed accessories and home textiles on Folksy. I bought some for my Sister back in March and they are lovely!

SD: How long have you worked for Folksy?

SW: I took over as General Manager in November 2010.

"I will be managing the day to day running of the site but will also be taking Folksy forward by working on site improvements, planning new projects, building partnerships and increasing our PR and marketing." (Extracted from Folksy blog)

SD: What is your favourite thing about working for Folksy?

SW: Every day is different as my job as manager is so varied. I am involved in every area of the site and not only deal with the day to day running of Folksy but I also get to create exciting new projects to take Folksy onwards and upwards.

SD: Do you make things yourself?

SW: Yes, I'm a textile printer and have a shop on Folksy. I started my business 4 years ago and have been selling on Folksy since 2008.

"I’ve been selling (and spending!) on Folksy since 2008, my shop is Sarah Waterhouse Textiles (previously Plain Jane Textiles) I sell fabric, home textiles and accessories and everything is hand printed in my little studio in Sheffield. I also run a non-profit organisation in Sheffield called Craft Candy which promotes Craft in Sheffield and encourages craft businesses by offering support, advice and opportunities." (Extracted from Folksy blog)

SD: Why do you think handmade things have become so popular in recent years?

SW: I think people care more now about where an item is made and who has made it. Handmade items by their very nature become a more treasured item and are less likely to be thrown away. A connection to the maker is very important too as being able to talk to the artist about how an item has been made gives it an added importance and makes it more special.

SD: What does the future of Folksy look like?
SW: Very exciting! We have lots of projects on the horizon and will be making some major improvements to the site over the next 6 months, we cant wait to share them with you all.

2011-06-29T14:54:00.000+01:00

Deadline for Super Duper Applications is the 1st of July 2011. Don't forget to put it in, or you could miss out on a great day, selling your handmade products to lots of Christmas shoppers in the Winter Gardens.

CALLOUT FOR SUPER DUPER STALLHOLDERS

2011-05-18T14:39:00.006+01:00

Grundy Art Gallery’s Super Duper Fair is back and we are set to be even bigger this year.

EVENT DETAILS
Fair venue: Winter Gardens, Blackpool, FY1 4RW
Stalls located: Floral Hall, Winter Gardens
Fair date: Saturday 19th November 2011
Fair times: 10am – 5pm (Set up from 8am and vacated by 6pm)
Stall price: £20
Stall space: 6ft table (with 2 chairs)
Fair details: This Christmas fair will showcase handmade things you can wear, use, admire, eat and give as gifts.
Fair promotion: The fair coincides with the Blackpool Illuminations Christmas Lights Switch On and will be part of Visit Blackpool’s publicity brochure for the event. Promotion includes viral and blog marketing in the build up, press releases to local and regional press including Radio and T.V. Flyers for the event will be disseminated widely across the Fylde and North West.
Fair Extras: Alongside the 60+ stalls there will be music by a folk band, activity corners and artist projects.
Fair surroundings: The Winter Gardens was built in 1878 and is one Blackpool’s finest buildings. Recently renovated, the Floral Hall is elegant and steeped in history. This particular weekend in November, the Winter Gardens will be home to the British National Dance Championships and in the evening of the 19th Englebert Humperdinck will be performing a sell out tour! Super!

---------------------------------------------------------------

HOW TO APPLY FOR A STALL
Please contact Kerry Hunt, Grundy Art Gallery to request an application form.
Kerry Hunt, Education Officer, Grundy Art Gallery, Queen Street, Blackpool FY1 1PX or email on kerry.hunt@blackpool.gov.uk

• The deadline for applications is Friday the 1st July 2011.
• You will receive notification shortly after if you have been successful in getting a stall at this year’s event, at which point we will ask for the stall payment of £20.
• Good Luck!

film about upholstery

2011-05-11T14:48:00.003+01:00

If you have a spare 5 mins watch this lovely film about Spruce from the Etsy blog. They are a furniture design company in Austin Texas. Next time you pass a sad, tired looking chair in a second hand shop you'll have lots of ideas of what you could do to cheer it up.

Exhibition at FYC

2011-05-09T10:06:00.002+01:00

Image: Noel Clueit, RED YELLOW BLUE, 2011

PAINTING SHOW is the current show by Supercollider at FYC and you guessed it, its about painting. Its concerns lie in language rather than physicality and actions. The title of the exhibition is deliberately reductive, designed for both reading and misreading, placing painting in a space for discussion and dialogue.

PAINTING SHOW has been conceived to create a space in which the audience is invited to consider and discuss how, what and where painting is today in the face of an evolving, increasingly complex and multifaceted visual culture.

PAINTING SHOW brings together the work of Kevin Schmidt, Anthony Shapland, Noel Clueit and Tom Ireland.

Exhibition runs until 29th of May 2011
FYCreative, 154-158 Church Street, Blackpool
http://www.supercolliderhq.org.uk/

Sewing Cafe in Manchester

2011-05-06T15:21:00.002+01:00

The Ministry of Craft are launching Manchesters first sewing cafe where you can go down, rent one of their sewing machines by the hour and grab a cup of tea. It is based on the idea that is sweeping across Europe from Paris (image above of The Sweat Shop in Paris).

Wouldn't it be lovely to have a Sewing Cafe in Blackpool!!

Watch the film below for an idea of what it would be like, I know it is in French but still very interesting.

Callout for Stall Holders

2011-04-27T14:22:00.000+01:00

Ladies' Pamper, Surprise and Accessorise Evening

Introduction

The Mayor’s Fundraising Committee are offering local businesses, artists, makers and craftspeople the opportunity to showcase their services and sell their products at a unique event for women in the Town Hall. We are particularly keen to hear from people supplying the following the following products and services: jewellery; hats; handbags; scarves and accessories; bath products; cosmetics; crafts; bespoke or quirky gifts; greetings cards; nail technicians; fake tattoos; hairdressing; cupcakes. We are also open to suggestions…

We provide: a table, chairs, access to a power supply, the opportunity to network with other companies, and around 120 women (18 – 80 years) keen to buy your products/services!
You provide: a high quality product or service, flexibility and good humour, and a donation to the Mayor’s Charity!

Background
The evening is primarily intended as a fundraiser for the Mayor’s Charity, this year supporting Blackpool Young Carers. It is the last event of the fundraising calendar.

The Event
Our main partner for the event is Debenhams, who are organising a fashion show mid-way through the evening. There will be live music and refreshments in the form of wine and canapés. A raffle will take place towards the end of the evening. At least one room will be dedicated to the stalls with guests encouraged to browse the stalls throughout the evening.

Timetable for the Evening
6pm - Get in and set up for organisers and stallholders
7 – 7.30pm - Guests arrive, met by music and a glass of fizz. Encouraged to browse stalls
8pm - Fashion Show starts in Council Chamber (performance by Blackpool’s ‘Pop Idol’ winners.
8.30pm - Interval and Music – another opportunity for people to browse stalls.
9pm - Fashion Show ends. Guests encouraged to browse stalls
9.40pm - Raffle Draw, and thanks to everyone who has contributed – announcement of funds raised. Opportunity for last minute purchases!
10.00pm - Event finishes
10.45pm - Complete clear up and debrief.

Marketing and Ticket Sales
Posters, A5 Flyers and E-flyers have been produced advertising the event, distributed primarily through Council and community networks. Over 30 tickets have already been sold. A press release will be produced for local press and media next week, with confirmed partners named. A programme for the evening will be produced with your business listed. Photographs will be taken on the night and it is anticipated that the local press will also produce a feature.

INTERESTED?
Contact: Polly Hamilton
polly.hamilton@blackpool.gov.uk or ring 07554 438753.

Please provide the following information:-
The Name of your Company:
Description of Products/Services:
Technical Requirements: (eg – size of table)
Your Name, Contact Telephone Number, Email Address, Business Address.
How much you are offering to donate to the Mayor’s Charity

We can’t guarantee you a place but if we can’t use you this time, we will bear you in mind for future events.

There will be an opportunity to check out the space, BY ARRANGEMENT, on Friday 6 May between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.

Music Festival in Salford

2011-04-21T16:22:00.002+01:00

Sounds From the Other City new music festival unites the cream of the local scene with the planet's finest musicians and club nights for a sonic extravaganza. Now Wave, Comfortable on a Tightrope, High Voltage and Hey! Manchester are some of the city's hottest promoters hosting stages at this event which takes over Chapel Street, Salford from 3pm to midnight on Sunday, May 1.

Previous years have included landmark shows by Bo Ningen, Egyptian Hip Hop, The Ting Tings, and Marina and The Diamonds. The full line up will be announced soon, but will include 78 live acts on 13 stages as well as art installations, karaoke, spoken word performances, happenings and piles of fine booze and food.

Venues taking part include the Old Pint Pot, St Philips Church, Islington Mill, The Crescent, Rovers Return and lots more! Critically acclaimed and insanely good fun, SFTOC is a celebration of the finest new music, for just £18. Line ups subject to change.

Click here for the latest news

Opportunity for Women in Business

2011-04-21T11:21:00.003+01:00

Ladies' Lifestyle Fair, 22nd May, 10-4pm, The Villa Wrea Green

One of the events at the Fair is the Dragon's Lair, the opportunity to win coaching and services worth hundreds.
Women, setting up in business/recently established/established in business and planning to expand their services, can enter the Lair.
They will explain their business idea and vision to the dragons, answer any questions and will receive feedback and advice from them.
They will not receive money. The dragons will vote on who is going to win the prize.
The event is free to attend and there is no charge to enter the Dragon's Lair.

Click here for more info....

Gorgeous Wallpapers

2011-04-18T16:17:00.002+01:00

Two amazing wallpapers of taxidermy birds and circus animals. Although slightly on the pricey side, with rolls at £250 from The Shop Floor Project, you know you are in for a treat with these Daniel Heath designs. For more...

Spring Fair in Preston!!

2011-03-03T12:20:00.000Z

Dresses, Boots, Bags, Cupcakes, Vintage Dresses, Cotton Bombers, Checked Shirts, Handmade Jewellery and Sewing Demos. Sounds like a lovely day out for just a pound! See you there!

The Continental, Preston (more info)

spring craft fair in Sheffield

2011-01-14T13:11:00.000Z

Craft Candy Spring Fair - apply for a stall

2011 Christmas Super Duper Fair

2011-01-14T12:13:00.005Z

Hello makers and craft enthusiasts, what do you want for Christmas 2011?

Grundy is thinking about a third Super Duper fair for Christmas time this year and we want to know your ideas for what exciting and special things we can offer at the fair this time alongside stalls of lovely things.

The fair will hopefully include lots more stalls then 2010's Super Duper in the park and we are hoping to hold it indoors this time!

We want to know if you have any ideas or suggestions to include in the fair this year. This could be anything but think low cost! All ideas will be welcomed. Please send your ideas in an email to kerry.hunt@blackpool.gov.uk

Looking forward to reading them!

Kerry

a royal patchwork opportunity!!

2010-12-21T10:13:00.001Z

An opportunity to work for Blackpool Arts Service on a very special patchwork project....

The Commission
To create a textile artwork / quilt to be sent as a wedding present to Prince William and Catherine Middleton. The artist should use one or more techniques such as appliqué, patchwork, print etc and work with community groups to design and create a unique wedding quilt which reflects and celebrates Blackpool and its vibrant history and culture.

Project Aims
1. To create an opportunity for the groups consisting of people age 18 years and above to work with an artist in a creative and innovative way.
2. To create an opportunity for traditional skill sharing and intergenerational work.
3. For the groups to feel a sense of pride and ownership of this project and become cultural ambassadors for Arts in the town.

Engagement
Community involvement is central to the development of this project. The artist will receive support from the Arts Engagement Manager with accessing local communities to deliver consultations / workshops / training and other engagement methods.

We would also like a blog to be created to show the development and progress of the work and to be used as an engagement tool.

If you would like to know more and receive the full information pack, please email Clancy Mason, Arts Engagement Manager on clancy.mason@blackpool.gov.uk or telephone 01253 478266. Application deadline is Friday the 21st of January 2011.

vintage christmas fair in lancaster

2010-12-03T09:23:00.000Z

Saturday 4th December: 11am - 6pm
The Storey Gallery and Not Just Vintage UK are collaborating to deliver a vintage and handmade festive market. This one-day event will bring together the old and the new, providing an opportunity for contemporary artists, designers, makers, and vintage enthusiasts to sell their wares.

Twenty five stalls are available in this amazing Victorian gallery space, creating a unique festive shopping experience – a place where members of the public can purchase objects, or even experiences, they could never get on the high street. Unique gifts, festive decorations ….

The stalls will include work from artists, makers, designers and sellers who are keen to do something a little bit different, and approach a selling fair with fresh ideas.

Doors will be open from 11am until 6pm.
For more information, please ring: 01524 509008

The right course for you...

2010-11-03T16:37:00.003Z

If you were inspired by Kirstie Allsopp's Homemade Home last night, then here are some courses for you to get started.

Curtain Courses in Cheshire

Craft workshops in Clitheroe

Craft workshops in Manchester

Craft workshops in Cheshire

Sewing workshops in Manchester

Shop in Poulton looking for handmade things to sell....

2010-10-18T09:47:00.001+01:00

Call out to makers.

There is a new shop opening up in Poulton Le Fylde and they are looking for handmade things to stock their shelves with.

It would be on sale or return basis. Send your images and or website links to: emma2601@hotmail.com

Emma will get back to you if she is interested in your work and to answer any questions you might have about the shop.

Good luck!

Wordpool opens in Blackpool tomorrow

2010-10-01T13:20:00.002+01:00

Hello Creative People,

Wordpool, Blackpool's fourth annual festival of words and literature, begins in Blackpool tomorrow (Saturday the 2nd of Oct). Kicking off the week ahead there will be Wordfair in the Post Office with stalls selling craft connected to words. Performances, raffling off the knitted poem and plenty more. It all starts in St. John's Square at 11.30am. Don't miss out!

tweet tweet...

2010-10-01T12:01:00.003+01:00

Opportunity at UK Handmade

2010-09-30T15:52:00.003+01:00

UK Handmade is growing daily, as is their reputation as the hub of the creative community in the UK. To maintain this growth and continue to provide interesting and useful content, whilst providing a platform to showcase the work of UK-based hand-makers, they have a team of dedicated individuals who run the UK Handmade Blog (showcasing handmade products, interviews with UK-based designers/artists/makers, business advice and tips, craft profiles, events, lifestyle and inspiration articles, cartoons, give-aways and book reviews) and the Made in the UK blog (dedicated to showcasing tutorials by UK-based makers).

They are looking for a committed, organised and efficient individual to lead the Made in the UK blog contributors team as Made in the UK blog editor.

The duties include:
*Revitalising and co-coordinating the contributors team.
*Ensure that the Made blog is updated regularly (at least weekly) with tutorials.
*Editing/proofreading all blog posts and ensuring they follow the blog style sheet.
*Working with the UK Handmade blog editor and teams to co-ordinate linked blog posts.

This post is voluntary for the time being, but they are able to offer an incentive package to the successful candidate.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please email info@ukhandmade.co.uk with your CV and a covering letter outlining why you would like to be involved with UK Handmade.

A super smashing young photographer

2010-09-21T09:44:00.002+01:00

Photographer, Laura Anthony, has been busy putting together an excellent exhibition for her Silver Arts Award. Laura is 16 years old and has independently organised a solo show of her 'random' images at the Solaris in Blackpool. The photographs explore landscapes, emotions, objects, portraiture and things she has happened upon.

The exhibition runs until the end of September and all works are for sale, just £19.99!! Pop down and support her first show and while you are there leave a comment with her work.

Chester's Literature Festival

2010-09-14T13:59:00.005+01:00

Get yourself along to the Chester Literature Festival

visit this amazing cave of vintage wonders...

2010-08-27T14:26:00.001+01:00

Photograph by Beth Evans

The Land of Lost Content in Shropshire is full to the brim with 20th Century memorabilia which as been collected by Stella Mitchell in the last thirty five years. The museum consists of 14 rooms displaying hundreds and thousands of things from a bygone era.
Your visit will be full of nostalgia and bewilderment. Let us know what you think if you visit.

Call out for stallholders at Wordfair

2010-08-17T14:00:00.002+01:00

Wordpool 2010 is looking for people who make beautiful things that include words in some way for our Wordfair Oct 2nd at The Old Post Office in the centre of Blackpool.
Stalls £10
Contact Lynne Pattinson, Arts Development Officer on lynne.pattinson@blackpool.gov.uk

vintage treats for your garden

2010-08-16T21:23:00.003+01:00

I have been pottering in my garden this weekend, enjoying the summer while it is here, and felt I was missing some vintage touches.

There are lots of great website and online shops but, I have found a lovely one dedicated to vintage gardens, with victorian terracotta pots, gorgeous wooden trugs and old watering cans. Mabel & Rose is based in the Cotswolds and well worth a look.

Click Here

Win a Gold Lomo Camera!!

2010-08-11T21:35:00.001+01:00

You can win a Gold Lomo LC-A+ Camera on the Projects page of Urban Outfitters. There is lots more things to get involved with on there too. Click here for more.

FYCreatives are looking for exhibitors

2010-08-11T16:43:00.003+01:00

FYCreatives are on the look out for more creative people!

If would like to get your FYC business membership click here to find out more. You can get help, advice and support, use their facilities for meeting clients and hot desking. They can also help with setting up a new business. Find out much more on their website www.fycreatives.com

Having the perfect stall

2010-07-29T10:22:00.004+01:00

Folksy has a great article giving advice on craft fairs.

"WOW!… That’s the sort of reaction most of us would like to hear as someone spots our craft stall. If you have spent time and effort creating beautiful handmade items for sale, allow enough time to plan your display and do justice to your hard work. A display should compliment and highlight your work – here are a few of the most important factors to consider:"

Click here to read more.

2010-07-26T09:57:00.003+01:00

The Liverpool Design Festival was launched in November 2009 as a new annual design and contemporary craft festival in Liverpool.

In 2009 the Festival incorporated, in its first year, over a dozen events in Liverpool city centre and wider Merseyside area and nearly 8000 people visited or participated in exhibitions, workshops, debates and talks and the Festival saw hundreds of designers from across the UK showcase their work.

The 2010 Festival, building on the success of the previous year’s events, celebrates and promotes quality design, encouraging an appreciation of craft and design by the widest possible audience, providing opportunities for participation, particularly by young people, in design and artistic appreciation whilst also supporting new and emerging practitioners.

The Liverpool Design Festival will run from the 18th November to 27th November 2010.

What a pretty shop window!!

2010-07-24T16:11:00.002+01:00

I discovered this pretty shop on a side street in Preston. It was next door to a lovely deli, opposite Pizza Express and Forum which does tasty fish finger sandwiches!

It was closed when I found it but what an exciting shop window! I can't wait to make a trip back to Preston to pop in and have a look. Click here for their website.

Super Duper Fair Publicity from 13.07.10

2010-07-23T13:02:00.002+01:00

Blackpool Gazette Article on Super Duper Fair from their 13.07.10 edition of EVE (look at page 6) Click here to see.

Grants for Crafts

2010-07-23T10:05:00.001+01:00

Above: Artwork by Helen Musselwhite

The David Canter Memorial Fund

Call for applications for craft awards in the disciplines of paper, calligraphy and lettercutting.

The David Canter Memorial Fund offers awards to give financial assistance to those working in the crafts. Grants, which usually range between £500 and £1,000, are available to those who have finished their formal training, and are working full or part-time in the UK, but need funds for special projects such as setting up a workshop, buying equipment, or for research and travel.

Click here to read more...

Super Duper Success!!

2010-07-19T10:35:00.003+01:00

A big thank you to the stallholders who braved the rain and travelled fair distances to be at the Super Duper Fair yesterday. It was a fantastic day and the fair looked amazing! Comments from visitors were extremley positive, in particular picking up on the quality of the handmade things and each stalls beautiful presentation. Thank you as well to the visitors that came to peruse and spend their pennies. We had over one thousand people visit our fair and they came from far and wide too, one couple came from Fife!

If you were there yesterday, I hope you have dried off and are enjoying your very special purchases.
I have selected a few images from the day to give you a flavour of the fun we had. Enjoy.

fair on today!!

2010-07-18T07:34:00.004+01:00

The Super Duper Fair is taking place today from 12-4pm at Stanley Park (near the bandstand).
There will be lots of beautiful handmade things for sale, so ignore the summer drizzles and come down for some wholesome shopping.

rain rain go away....

2010-07-15T11:30:00.006+01:00

..... no worries, we will be in these beautiful marquees from
North West Capri Marquees Bring on the sunshine!

Amazing vintage weekend!

2010-07-14T19:24:00.008+01:00

Vintage at Goodwood
Vintage music, film, fashion, art, dancing, comedy and so much more. It is a lush line up of acts playing over the weekend, including; the legend Sandie Shaw, Martha and the Vandellas and the Noisettes. Love their website! They have loads of events and workshops like how to make bunting, knitting, making 50's and 60's clothes. They even have a fair! The accomodation available is a very nice touch. You can stay in a gypsy caravan, PodPads, BellPads, yurts and they are all amazing.

The weekend begins on Thursday the 12th of August and ends on the Monday.

Get your tickets now!! Click here for the Vintage at Goodwood website

Grundy's super duper exhibitions

2010-07-12T13:07:00.009+01:00

Above: Brian Griffiths, 'Beneath the Stride of Giants', 2004. wood
Collection The Saatchi Gallery, London. Commissioned by Camden Arts Centre, London
Extra Ordinary
Blackpool has an important history of sideshow and fairground entertainment, which showcased the exotic, the amazing and the bizarre. With a resurgence in the popularity of such entertainment in recent years Extra Ordinary purposefully sets out to embrace this culture, looking at magic, horror, clairvoyance and spectacle, but removes its focus from the exotic to include artworks that find the extraordinary within the mundane.
The exhibition brings together artworks formed from everyday objects, or familiar routines and experiences repositioned to become absurd or magical. It includes Brian Griffths' 'Beneath the Stride of Giants', a vast maritime vessel, part real part mythical, constructed of salvaged furniture and discarded material.

Above:'Adam' being transported from London to Blackpool, 1939.
Image courtesy the Local and Family History Centre, Blackpool Central Library
Jacob Epstein and Blackpool
Jacob Epstein’s carving ‘Adam’ was first shown in Blackpool during the 1939 summer holiday season. During this time Jacob Epstein was a household name, synonymous with the negative opinions aimed at modern art. His works of Biblical subjects incorporating nakedness and sexuality were sensationalised by the press. The showing of 'Adam' was to be the start of a fascinating relationship between Epstein’s work and Blackpool that would stretch to 1961.
Jacob Epstein and Blackpool looks back at these showings through a selection of the press coverage that was generated at the time to revaluate the events and reveal that they were not the freak shows at the fairground they have been branded by art critics and commentators in recent times, but a story of the clash between Modernist high art and popular culture.

For more information on these exhibitions, please follow this link: Grundy Art Gallery/Exhibitions

Supercollider Exhibition

2010-07-12T13:01:00.006+01:00

The New Zero by Yaron Lapid at Supercollider from 17th July - 1st August.
The New Zero is an expanded project which uses both traditional photographic techniques and video to interrogate and examine the role of photography in relation to our understanding of the world and its ability to assemble and disassemble layers of history.
The project centres around Lapid’s 1999 discovery of several envelopes on the floor of a newly demolished photographic studio in Jerusalem. The ambiguous envelopes contained hundreds of black and white photographs and negatives.
For The New Zero Lapid has developed and reprocessed the found material, creating an atypical ‘family album’ across separate methods of presentation.
(Text adapted from an original text by Gaia Tedone)
supercollider / contemporary art projects
2ND FLOOR / 32 Clifton Street / Blackpool / Lancashire / FY1 1JP
HOURS: SAT / SUN 11 AM - 2 PM (or by prior appointment only)*
*currently supercollider does not open on week days. Regrettably there is no disabled access at this time. Please accept our unreserved apologies for any inconvenience and/or offence caused. It is not the intention of supercollider to exclude anyone.

Get 'Knitty Gritty'

2010-07-05T13:24:00.006+01:00

Do you knit? Are you part of a knitting group?
Would you be interested in knitting squares with letters of the poem 'Why?' by John Siddique Poetry, for Blackpool's fourth annual Wordpool literature festival in October? (The knitted squares will be assembled into a giant blanket and acutioned off for charity.)
What is needed? Knitting or crochet groups or individuals who can commit to producing a line from the poem by mid September. This could be an opportunity for a textile/craft group to form in your area or for existing textile groups to work with others.
Why Get Involved?
• This is a great opportunity for residents of Blackpool to get involved in the exciting Wordpool Literature Festival
• Meet other people in Blackpool with similar interests.
• The finished piece will be auctioned off for a worthwhile cause.
• Knitting is the new rock'n'roll!
• It's a great way to teach others our great heritage of knitting.
For more details or to sign up contact:
Clancy Mason
Tel: 01253 478266
Wordpool

Mary Mary, quite contrary, how does your shop look now?

2010-06-29T20:42:00.010+01:00

Above image from Patchwork Harmony blog.

Mary Queen of Shops is a BBC 2 series sending Mary Portas, a leading retail marketing expert, into run-down independent shops on the UK's tired high streets. The shop she was rescuing on last night's episode, was an interior home ware shop in London with stock dating back to the 70's and 80's.

The furniture was cheap and tacky and the home accessories were vulgar and would not look out of place coming from the back of Del Boys three wheeler. As with all these 'makeover' programmes there is a degree of breaking them down to build them up again. "It's all about the confidence" to quote Gok. Mary did her fair share of brutal critiquing which made me cringe a little, not half as much as the son wearing his dressing gown to a meeting with the 'high priestess of home' from Elle Decoration Magazine though!

The couple got there in the end, learning what was stylish and fashionable all over again, sourcing vintage furniture and home wares from an antiques fair and being taught how to restore them. The results were lovely and I really wanted a piece from the shop!!

The shop changed it's name from Under the Moon to 37 Old London Road, check out it's website. What a turn around, from stocking psychedelic chandeliers to now stocking knitted cushions by Donna Wilson (I love her rain scarves!!) and Catherine Hammerton's very special wallpaper and textiles.

The programme just proves that there is defiantly room on the high street for handmade, vintage and bespoke things to fill your home and lifestyle.

Watch the programme here

Super Duper Facebook Group

2010-06-28T15:06:00.015+01:00

There is a real buzz happening about the Super Duper Fair and I am getting very excited.
There are now 95 members on the official facebook group for the fair and we want more!!
Please join and invite your friends. Spread the super duper word.
Super Duper Fair - Facebook page

Super Duper Fair Stallholders

2010-04-09T14:53:00.038+01:00

We are delighted to have 35 super duper stalls booked for the fair on Sunday the 18th of July.
Below is a list of all the stallholders and by clicking on their names you can have a sneaky peak at their handmade things.

Me&Yu
Amber Marie
Natalie Jayne Handbags
Hello Memo
Kitschensink
Claire Bursnoll
Drift Away Interiors
Wanderland Boutique
Nerjit Dhol
Maneggi
Jacqui Sharples
Yee Ting Kuit Lisa Marie Pelosi
Bryan and Luzaan Wright
Helen Parry
Selina Wolohan
Paula Chew
Boz Phillips
Elizabeth Jackson
Iain Byrne Photography
Poppy Sparkles
Kathleen Fawcett
Samantha Taylor
Joseph Travis
Soapure
Flying Duckie
Purple Schmurple
Anna Findlay
Quite Contrary Crafts
Element Images
Malachy Wolohan
Chantelle Charnley
Amanda Hunter
Alison Baxter
Emma Beardsworth
Debbie Greenaway

Last Chance to Book a Stall

2010-04-05T15:10:00.010+01:00

Thanks to all the creative people who have registered for a stall, we are thrilled with the repsonse and can't wait for July now!

There are just two stalls left to book! Please see the post below to find out how to do this.

2010-02-25T16:24:00.029Z

Sunday the 18th of July 2010

Stanley Park, Blackpool from 12 to 4pm

This summer fair will be a super duper opportunity to sell and promote your handmade work to a new audience.

We are looking for creative people making jewellery, fashion, art, books, illustrations, prints, photography, home wares, knitted items, ceramics, textiles and much more.

Stalls are £10

The fair will take place alongside a musical event on the bandstand in Stanley Park, featuring Troubadour and Andy Stones. Their acoustic folk, blues music is the perfect accompaniment to a summer’s day fair. The marquees will be located near to the park’s boating lake and beautiful Art Deco café.

For more information please contact Kerry Hunt on 01253 478170 or email on kerry.hunt@blackpool.gov.uk

To book a stall, please send an email with your contact details, an image of your work (jpeg which you are happy to use in the publicity of the event) along with a brief description of what you make and a link to your website/blog/myspace etc.

Super Duper Fair 2009

2010-02-25T15:38:00.013Z

O what a lovely day!

The sun was really shining down and the fair looked great. Colourful bunting hanging from the marquee and the sweet, rhythmical sounds of John Morrow in the background.

Lots of people came along to peruse the stalls and buy super duper handmade things. They even played a game of giant snakes and ladders and created a handmade musical instrument in the glorious sunshine.

I was overwhelmed by all the lovely comments from the public and the stallholders. Can't wait for next year!

Thank you to all those who helped to organise it and to all those who came along on the day.