Hebden Bridge: A Crafty Valley

I’ve talked about Hebden Bridge’s crafty credentials before. It’s a creative community of designers, makers, writers, musicians and artists and is a real inspiration to visitors, and all who live and work here. So I thought I’d write a round up of all the crafty goings-on that make the town what it is, from craft supply shops and galleries to creative workshops and the town’s varied programme of events. I hope it inspires your next visit and craft project!

1. Word of Mouth | Crafters unite and browse in the one stop shop for all your art and craft essentials. They host art and craft workshops for all ages and abilities, and also offer alterations and repairs on clothing and soft furnishings.

Find them: 38 Hangingroyd Lane, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire HX7 7DD

2. Crafts Afloat | Fancy getting your craft-on in a narrowboat? Moored on the Rochdale Canal in Hebden Bridge is the Crafty Snail Studio where you can indulge your crafty flair from textiles and mosaic to printing and decoupage. All aboard!

Find them: Visit them on Facebook to find their current mooring location.

3. Ribbon Circus | A fantastic haberdashery and craft supply shop that is now situated pride of place on Hebden Bridge’s busy Market Street (look out for the bunting-adorned window display!). Discover yarns and wools, ribbon and beads, sewing supplies and so much more. Oh and they do workshops too!

Find them: 18 Market Street, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire HX7 6AA

4. The Quilt Cabin | Calling all quilt makers! You’ll be in fat quarter heaven here with all the fabrics, sewing accessories and patterns you’ll ever need. Take a look at their workshops priced from only £5!

Find Them: 24 Albert Street, Hebden Bridge, HX7 8AH

5.  Print Fair at Hebden Bridge Town Hall | Celebrating the North’s print making talent (and that’s a fine bunch of folk), this is sure to be an inspiring day offering you the chance meet the makers in person as well as purchasing a dandy print or two.

Find Them: At Hebden Bridge Town Hall, St. George’s Street, HX7 7BY on Saturday 23rd May 11am to 4pm FREE ENTRY

6. WI Rag Market | Not only is it the perfect spot to pick up bargainous fabric and accessories, it’s a vintage haven full of curiosities. Bring lots of change, delve into the WI produce and book stall and look out for Deborah Simms from the Great British Sewing Bee! Can’t make the Spring market? Keep an eye on their Facebook page for future events.

Find Them: Hebden Bridge Town Hall on Saturday 16th May 11am till 4pm (£1 entry)

7. Northlight Studios | Featuring a year round event programme and visual art and craft courses for beginners and professionals. Take a look at their varied summer programme here.

Find Them: Valley Road, HX7 7BZ

8. Beyond Measure | Online shop selling ‘beautiful things for folk who make’. Home to this ceramic dog pincushion and other high quality sewing and craft goods; this online space has officially been bookmarked!

Find Them: Online!

9. Hebden Bridge Handmade Parade | If you’re looking for a carnival-like atmosphere then don’t miss the annual parade featuring jaw-dropping handmade puppets made by the community and professional puppet makers. Featuring carnival artists, musicians, stilt walkers and performers too, the handmade parade is a treat for all the senses and a great family friendly event.

Find Them: Sun 7th June starting at Victoria Rd from noon.

10. Artsmill | An exhibition and studio space which has featured the work of Picasso, Paula Rego, Frank Auerbach, Bridget Riley, Goya and Quentin Blake amongst local artists. Look out for workshops, lectures, poetry and music events too.

Find Them: Linden Mill, Linden Road, HX7 7DN

11. Julia Ogden | How could I not include the all-inspiring painter, printmaker and teacher Julia? If you’re looking for bespoke wedding stationery, screen prints inspired by nature or fancy trying one of Julia’s workshops or craft parties (for adults and children), look no further!

Find Them: Burlees House, Hangingroyd Lane, HX7 7DD and online

12. The Egg Factory | This open plan space is a hub for creatives to learn, collaborate and work together. Their workshop calendar is pretty special too. Fancy making a Pajaki, anyone?

Find Them: The Egg Factory, Windsor Works Adjacent Unit, HX7 8JX

13. Craft Galleries | Not so crafty but a lover of contemporary craft, art and jewellery? Visit Heart Gallery, Element Jewellery, Calder Gallery, Hat Therapy and the rather splendid, Snug Gallery.

Find Them: Market Street

And there’s plenty more where that came from!

P.S Want to know more about Hebden Bridge? Take a look at the Quick Guide to Shops in Hebden Bridge too. More posts coming soon!

♥