Deadline: 31 May
There is a palpable energy that comes with the final countdown to Handmade Oxford. With the 2026 festival at Waterperry Gardens now just weeks away (12–14 June), the team at Handmade in Britain is busy curating what promises to be the most exceptional celebration of contemporary craft to date.
However, for a handful of designer-makers, the story of this year’s festival is not yet written.
Due to a late release of space during the final curation phase, a small number of table and gazebo positions have unexpectedly opened up. This is not a mass call for entries; it is a rare, targeted invitation for individual makers, collectives, or organisations to join a highly selective lineup.
If you have ever watched a packed festival from the sidelines, wondering what it feels like to sell directly to 10,000 engaged collectors and buyers, now is your moment.
Why Exhibit at Handmade Oxford?
Now in its 6th edition, Handmade Oxford has outgrown its reputation as a ‘local craft fair’ to become a landmark date in the UK’s contemporary craft calendar. Set within the stunning gardens of Waterperry in Oxfordshire, the festival offers something increasingly rare: a summer atmosphere with serious commercial opportunity.
The Audience
This is not a browser’s market. The visitors who walk through the gates are loyal Handmade in Britain followers, professional buyers, museum shop curators, and craft enthusiasts who come ready to invest. For three days, you are not just selling work—you are building a reputation.
The Credibility
Few events offer the prestige of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Award, where selected works are sold in the museum’s shop. New for 2026, the festival has also introduced Awards in partnership with The House Directory, alongside continued collaboration with The Society of Designer Craftsmen. Exhibiting here places your work in front of industry gatekeepers.
The Connection
Live demonstrations are actively encouraged. Visitors don’t just want to buy a ceramic vessel or a woven scarf—they want to watch you throw the clay or operate the loom. This direct engagement creates stories that sell.
What’s Available & What It Costs
The remaining spaces are limited and will be allocated selectively. Options include:
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Purpose-Built Shell Scheme Stand (marquee): £415 + VAT per m² (min. 1.5m x 1m).
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6ft Trestle Table (supplied, marquee): £535 + VAT.
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Space Only (your own gazebo): £90 + VAT per m² (under 9m²) / £80 + VAT per m² (9m²+).
For Artisan Food Traders:
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6ft Trestle Table: £480 + VAT
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Pitch Only: £85 + VAT per sqm (min. 2m x 2m)
Key Dates:
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Set-up: Thursday 11 June 2026
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Public Days: Friday 12 – Sunday 14 June 2026 (VIP entry 9:30am / General 10am–5pm)
Who Should Apply?
The curators are looking for designer-makers across a broad range of disciplines: Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery, Fashion & Textiles, Furniture & Wood, Metalwork, Sculpture, Mixed Media, Prints and Stationery.
Crucially, they are looking for work that resonates with a discerning audience. If your making is thoughtful, your finishing is precise, and your story is authentic, you belong in this conversation.
How to Take the Final Step
This is the last call before the gates open. Once these spaces are filled, the door closes for 2026.
For more information and to apply, follow the link HERE.
For immediate queries, contact:
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Alis Clement (Events Manager) – 07593 654 006 / alis.clement@handmadeinbritain.co.uk
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Cat Lorimer (Sales & Customer Relations) – 07538 550 382 / cat@handmadeinbritain.co.uk
Do not wait until 31 May. Apply today.
Handmade Oxford 2026. Waterperry Gardens. 12–14 June. Be part of it.
