North West Craft Network: Festive Networking Social

We’re doing something different this December.

Join us at Manchester Craft and Design Centre for the North West Craft Network’s Makers’ Festive Social.

This creative networking event is the perfect opportunity to meet other makers, curators, craft educators and funders. It’s a great way to build connections, learn about opportunities and support, and talk about all things craft.

This informal event will open with a welcome from the Network’s Network’s Co-Chairs Donna Claypool and Deborah Simms, followed by the opportunity to chat over drinks and nibbles, check out the Makers Make 2038 Exhibition and browse the studios and workshops of the resident artists.

You can also take a moment to make Christmas cards to take home and share your thoughts on what you would like to see from future events and how we can further develop the Network.

Please feel free to come by yourself as there will be plenty of opportunities to meet likeminded artists and creatives and NWCN members will be on hand to welcome you.

When: 4pm - 7pm, Wednesday 10 December 2025

Where: Manchester Craft and Design Centre, 17 Oak Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 5JD

Who: North West Craft Network members and anyone interested in joining, such as:

• Craft makers and artists
• Museums, galleries and independent curators
• Socially engaged craft artists
• Students
• Voluntary and community craft practitioners
• Craft educators
• Funders
• Craft festivals and events

Refreshments will be provided. This includes a variety of snacks and a range of soft and alcoholic drinks. Let us know about any dietary requirements when you book your tickets

Price: Free

Please book your place to avoid disappointment.

Whether you’ve just started your craft career or have years of experience, we’re really looking forward to welcoming you.

Please help us to spread the word to other Craft artists and organisations in the North West, the more the merrier!

Venue information

Getting to Manchester Craft & Design Centre by Public Transport

MCDC is situated in the heart of the Northern Quarter on Oak Street.

• The nearest Metrolink stations are Shudehill (a 4-minute walk) or Market Street (a 5-minute walk).
• The nearest train stations are Manchester Piccadilly Train Station (a 12-minute walk) and Victoria Train Station (a 9-minute walk).
• Piccadilly Gardens Bus Station is a 6-minute walk.

For more information on public transport, check out Transport for Greater Manchester.

Access

For access and visiting information, please visit the Manchester Craft and Design Centre website.