Visit the Derbyshire Makes website
Inspired by the county’s significant making and manufacturing heritage, unique landscape and the artists, craftspeople, designers and manufacturers who call Derbyshire their home, Derbyshire Makes will explore innovation, creativity, design, craft, skills and manufacturing, all through the lens of making.
Taking place over 3 years, this programme of making-related events and activities begins with an annual free festival in the spring of 2025, from Friday 28 March 2025 to Sunday 27 April 2025 across the following 6 towns:
- Bolsover
- Chesterfield
- Cromford
- Glossop
- Heanor
- Swadlincote
In each town there will be creative sessions, walks, talks, exhibitions, a roving workshop on wheels, and a mass making project all about designing, making and showcasing textile-based creations - led by Alex Murphy, Derbyshire resident and recent contestant on the BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee.
People from across Derbyshire and beyond are all invited to be a part of it: families, young people, adults and retirees. Come with your nan, or your newborn. Make your mark, make a mess, and make a difference – because Derbyshire Makes needs you to make it special. For full details visit Derbyshire Makes.
Climate change and sustainability
Derbyshire Makes is committed to exploring ways to address urgent issues of our time including climate change, environmental sustainability and reducing the impact of our programme in terms of its carbon footprint.
Through our 3 year cultural programme we are looking at our connection with nature and working with artists and audiences to think about what nature means to them.
Wherever possible, we're working with Derbyshire artists and suppliers. We're also promoting local active travel plans and the use of recycled materials to audiences through our marketing and communications.